ScubaLab tested seven new dive computers in a head-to-head evaluation. The Shearwater Tern and Tern TX are our Testers Choice for recreational dive computers.

We tested the computers at the University of Southern California Hyperbaric Chamber on Catalina Island, where we put them through a series of simulated dives alongside other computers to gauge the performance of their decompression algorithm.

We also tested computers in the field at Blue Grotto Dive Resort in Central Florida. We evaluated how easy the computers were to set up and how well we could see their screens in different conditions, and how well they presented data during our dives.

The compact, watch-size Tern scored excellent almost across the board. Test divers loved its wrist-friendly ergonomics and brilliant high-resolution color display. The four-button operation is easy to learn, and testers especially liked the one-touch brightness adjustment.

The dive display has a clean appearance and logical organization, with the option to customize data field, change color schemes and activate a Big Numbers mode.

The Tern supports nitrox and freediving by default. The Tern TX adds wireless air integration and a digital compass, providing everything a recreational diver could need.

The compass can be viewed via a dedicated screen or a minimalist overlay. There’s a wealth of secondary data that is easy to cycle through quickly. Test divers also loved the attention-grabbing vibrating alerts, especially at safety stops.

In addition to a sleek design and robust performance, the Tern also includes high-end extras like wireless inductive charging and quick-release straps.

A favorite of test divers, offering excellent performance, the Tern/Tern TX are ScubaLab’s Testers Choice for recreational dive computers.