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Best Dive Computer for Beginners (2023 EDITION)

LAST UPDATED:

September 1, 2023

These days, there’s many different brands and models of dive computer available; a lot have been designed with beginner divers in mind by being easy to use and low cost.  

We’ve reviewed the best dive computers for beginners available in 2023. 

We’ll start with the cheapest beginners’ dive computer of all time and review the rest in order of ascending price. 

Only high quality dive computers that are currently in stock are presented in this Diving Squad Report!

Suunto zoop novo dive computer on seafloor next to orange starfish. Original photo.

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BEST DIVE COMPUTERS FOR BEGINNERS - REVIEWS

#1 - BIGGEST SCREEN & CHEAPEST

Cressi Leonardo Underwater Diving Computer

4.3/5

The Cressi Leonardo is the cheapest dive computer available – it’s also been designed especially for beginners. 

The single button interface makes navigating the menu easy and user friendly whilst the 67mm display is bigger than that of any other dive computer making it extra easy to view data. Plus there is a 70 hour logbook which is a decent amount of storage. 

There is a backlight to show current depth, time below the surface as well as mode (air, nitrox, gauge) clearly even in low visibility conditions. 

It’s available in a variety of colors so you can find the right one to match your style. 

We’ve written an entire page of the Best Cheap Dive Computers

CHECK ON AMAZON
READ FULL REVIEW

PROS:

  • Cheapest dive computer out there

  • Huge screen for easy viewing

  • Simple, one button user interface

  • Decent sized logbook

CONS:

  • Quite bulky on your wrist – much bigger than a watch

#2 - SECOND CHEAPEST

Mares Puck Pro

4.1/5

The Puck Pro has large numbers that are easy to read, single button user interface for ease of controls, air, nitrox and gauge modes, a massive 400 hour battery life as well as freshwater and salinity settings. 

However, it’s a shame that the logbook is so small at 35 hours – that’s the second smallest of any dive computer on this list.  

Do note though, that once you are below the surface, you cannot adjust your settings, so prepare beforehand!

It’s much slimmer and more sleek than the Cressi Leonardo; it’s display has a fairly modest diameter of 60mm, which is is partly achieved through using labels around the edge of the case to indicate types of data. 

The addition of the graphic tissue loading bar is also a great extra feature, plus it’s bluetooth compatible for uploading dive log data to a Mac or PC.  

Mares Puck Pro wrapped around white beam of boat. Original photo.
CHECK ON AMAZON
READ FULL REVIEW

PROS:

  • Huge battery life (400 hours)
  • Easy to use single button interface
  • Easy to see large number
  • Bluetooth compatible

CONS:

  • Tiny logbook – 35 hours
  • Can’t adjust settings underwater
  • Still a fairly basic dive computer that lacks features seen in pricier options

#3 FOUR BUTTON INTERFACE

Aqualung I200

4/5

The Aqualung i200 is a small and affordable dive computer with four buttons instead of one; this makes it a little less simple but much faster to navigate through the controls compared to one button dive computers.

In addition to air, nitrox and gauge mode there is also a free dive mode. 

It has a truly tiny dive log of only 20 hours; this is less storage than that of virtually every other dive computer but at least you can easily download dive data to the app via bluetooth connection to free up the divelog. 

With automatic activation upon immersion in water,  a simple user interface and a user changeable battery, it is easy to use for beginners divers. 

This is one of the few dive computers where the whole thing – strap and case are available in different colours. Most other dive computer makes only offer different colours for the strap. 

VIEW ON AMAZON

PROS:

  • Compact size

  • Bluetooth app

  • Four buttons

  • Case available in different colours

CONS:

  • Very small dive log

#4 UPGRADE VERSION OF CHEAPEST

Cressi Goa

4.7/5

Newer and a bit more expensive than the Cressi Leonardo, the Cressi Goa is similar to its predecessor in many ways. It has all the same functions – but it’s smaller and has two buttons instead of one. 

It has a case diameter of just 35mm, which makes it extremely sleek can be worn like a regular watch, which the Leonardo is too big for. 

The new CPU is also a little faster and with greater functionality than that of the Leonardo. 

So to summarise: the Cressi Goa is a slightly improved of the cheapest dive computer: the Cressi Leonardo; the Goa has several minor improvements and costs less than a hundred bucks extra. 

VIEW ON AMAZON

PROS:

  • Third cheapest dive computer

  • Easy and simple user interface with two buttons

  • Extremely compact

CONS:

  • Dive log is only average length

  • Limited edition

#5 MOST DURABLE

Seac Action HR

4/5

The newly released Seac Action HR operates in air, nitrox, gauge and freediving modes and is operated via four well spaced buttons and with a display diameter of 38mm is one of the more compact budget dive computers available. 

It has a logbook memory of 40 hours, which is fairly average – bigger than some and smaller than others.  

However, where the Seac Action HR really excels is durability: the HR stands for high resistance because this dive computer is highly resistant to blows, scratches and corrosion as well as temperature swings. 

It’s also unusual that you can adjust the backlighitng of it’s display screen, allowing you to see it very easily even in pitch dark. 

VIEW ON AMAZON

PROS:

  • Highly durable

  • Can adjust intensity of backlighting

  • Compact

  • Fifth cheapest dive computer

CONS:

  • Seac are not the most well known scuba diving brand

#6 NEW RELEASE

Aqua Lung I300C Wrist Computer

4.8/5

The Aqualung i300 has all of the standard functions a diver needs.: audible alarms, no decompression stop, air / nitrox mode, free dive mode and gauge mode.

A useful feature not found in many other dive computers is the fact that it also retains data when you swap out the battery. 

You can wirelessly interact with you i300 using the latest bluetooth technology using your smartphone device and the free Diverlog+ app. 

It has a chic, modern design and is surprisingly large; more so than the Aqualung I200 as it has a display diameter of 43mm. 

It’s been designed especially for beginner’s: the screen is easy to read, has a powerful backlight and an extremely easy to operate  single button user interface.

CHECK ON AMAZON

PROS:

  • Backlight for easy reading in low light
  • Automatic altitude adjustment
  • Easy-to-use interface

CONS:

  • Only one button makes settings a little slow to scroll through
  • Quite bulky

#7 BIGGEST LOGBOOK

Deepblu Cosmiq

4.3/5

Stylish and modern, the Deepblue Cosmiq dive computer looks a lot more expensive than it really is. I love the bright, high contrast 2.2 inch display, which is extremely easy to read even in complete darkness.

Whereas most dive computers safety stop and rapid ascent alarms consist of a loud beeping, the Deepblu Cosmiq buzzes and flashes when it’s alarm is going off…personally I would find beeping more noticeable and therefore preferable. 

There’s three dive modes: scuba (air or nitrox), bottom timer and free dive. It is operated via two buttons with an extremely easy and simple user interface. 

Unlike other dive computers, you don’t need to replace it’s battery – instead you can charge it with a USB magnetic charging device – it carries a battery life of 7 – 12 hours of diving time.

It also has the longest dive logbook of any dive computer at an insane 160 hours storage space

VIEW ON AMAZON

PROS:

  • Easiest to read crystal clear display

  • Biggest logbook of any dive computer

  • No need to change battery – comes with USB charger

  • Alarm includes buzzer and LED’s lights in addition to sounds

CONS:

  • Alarm only buzzes and flashes – no beeping

  • No freedive mode or off mode

#8 BEST VALUE

Oceanic OCI

4.3/5

The Oceanic OCI Personal Wrist Dive Computer is a superb upper mid-priced dive computer that is sleek, easy to read and has many cool features.

For starters there is an advanced digital compass with north, decline, auto home and reference settings. 

There’s also wireless air integration technology installed so you can see how much air you have left without needing to look at the pressure gauge – you have to buy the transmitter separately though. 

Another cool feature is multiple transmitter capability: meaning you can switch between up to 4 transmitters with different gas mixes for tech diving. You can also use these transmitters to swap dive profile data with your buddy during a dive. 

 

CHECK ON AMAZON

PROS:

  • Integrated compass
  • Air integrated dive computer (an advanced feature but it is easy to understand and helpful to all levels)
  • Buddy check feature (how sweet)
  • Free Diving mode

CONS:

  • 24-hour dive log is a bit limited
  • No user-replaceable battery
  • Backlight could be stronger

#9 TOP SELLER

SUUNTO Zoop Novo

4.7/5

The Zoop Novo has a display screen with a diameter of 56mm, making it the next biggest dive computer screen after the Cressi Leonardo’s.

Unlike the Cressi’s one button, the Zoop Novo has a four button interface which makes navigating the menus and features quicker. 

With 140 hours storage space, it’s dive logbook is also bigger than that of most other dive computers. 

Admittedly, the Zoop Novo is quite bulky. It’s not the sort of thing you’d wear as an everyday watch, which you could use some of the more stylish models  we’ve reviewed for. 

However, it makes up for this by being extremely easy to view data on as well as simple to use, insanely durable and reliable in that it’s very unlikely to malfunction. 

Suunto zoop novo dive computer on seafloor next to orange starfish. Original photo.
CHECK ON AMAZON
READ FULL REVIEW

PROS:

  • Long-lasting battery

  • 5 modes (off, air, nitrox, gauge, freediving)

  • Compatible with PC and Mac

CONS:

  • USB cable bought separately

  • The software cannot be updated

  • The user manual is a bust (online tutorials are a must)

#10 Air Integration

SUUNTO D4i Novo

4.9/5

Sleek and stylish Suunto D4i is sleek enough to wear outside of diving as a watch, coming in a variety of colours. 

It has a built-in dive planner and a dive log storage of 140 hours. The log can then be downloaded onto your PC using a USB cable (both Mac and Microsoft compatible).

The D4i is a fantastic option of mid-range scuba computers on the market. It gives basic, reliable functions with technical options. 

There is also a wireless air integration upgrade option which allows you to view tank pressure, air consumption rate and remaining air time. 

CHECK ON AMAZON
READ FULL REVIEW

PROS:

  • Wireless air integration (optional upgrade)

  • Freedive mode

  • Range of color options

CONS:

  • No user changeable battery

  • Buttons feel small if you’re wearing globes

Diving Squad Debriefing

You might not realize it just yet, but this dive journey is life-changing. It opens up your eyes to an entire world that humans still know so little about.

As you’re drifting through the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean or admiring the rainbowed colored reefs of the Galapagos, it will be difficult not to think how intricately and marvelous life on Earth is.

As explorer Dr. Sylvia Earl said, ”Every time I slip into the ocean, it’s like going home.” The safety and security a dive watch brings its user will get you feeling like the underwater world is yours too in no time.

Related Reads:

Best Air Integrated Dive Computers

Cheap Dive Computer Reviews

Top Rated Console Dive Computers

Support the Squad!

We are part of the Amazon Services LLC Associate Program. If you make a purchase on amazon after clicking a link on Diving Squad, we earn a small commission fee, at no extra cost to yourself. 

We are also part of several other affiliate programs so if you click on a Diving Squad affiliate link that results in you booking a liveaboard, booking accommodation, purchasing insurance or buying a product somewhere else, once more we make a small commission, without it costing you a cent extra. Thanks!

Written by:

Emily Craik

Emily Craik

My name is Emily Craik, I am an ocean lover and dive enthusiast. I did my open water qualification in 2017 in Palma, Mallorca. I was hooked after my first moments of ‘breathing’ underwater. I went on to complete my Advanced Padi course in Lombok, Indonesia. I have been fortunate enough to dive around the world with some of my favorite dives being the blue hole in the Bahamas, drift diving during whale season in Mozambique, and dives around Bali, Indonesia.
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The Best BCD for Beginners (2023 EDITION)

LAST UPDATED:

September 1, 2023

(For info on other types of BCD, check out our main page: Best BCD Reviews).

Squad! At ease for your mission briefing on how to choose the best BCD for beginners.

Get a shitload of this: In addition to different makes of bcd, there’s a load of different types as well!

For example, there’s women’s bcd’s, back inflate bcd’s, travel bcd’s…the list goes on!

In our best bcds for beginners guide we’re going to cover the different types of bcd , with a review of which model we consider to be the best version for beginners of each bcd type.

If you’re a total doob (dive noob), don’t even trip. We’ve also covered the bcd basics like what the hell is it as well as how to set it up and actually use the damn thing.

Best BCD for Beginners

Table Of Content

  1. Jacket BCD’s – Info & Top Pick
  2. Back Inflate BCD’s – Info & Top Pick
  3. Hybrid BCD’s – Info & Top Pick
  4. Travel BCD’s – Info & Top Pick
  5. Women’s BCD – Info & Top Pick
  6. Cheap BCD’s – Info & Top Pick
  7. BCD Setup & Buyers Guide
best bcd for beginners index worried looking scuba diver

Jacket BCD's

The Best Jacket BCD

Cressi Aquaride Pro BCD

CHECK ON AMAZON
  • $$

  • Cressi are of the biggest underwater sport brands in the world.

  • Great Comfort

  • Insanely Durable.

  • Adjustable Shoulder straps & Integrated Weight System
  •  

Cressi have a bulletproof reputation. As a brand, they started very early in the days of underwater sports and remain one of the biggest there today. The Cressi Aquaride Pro reviewed here, is used by most dive centres around the world which is testimony to it’s reliability.

That’s because it’s made from an incredibly tough material, specially designed to withstand daily professional use. On top of impressive durability, you are protected by a warranty that covers problems within a year of purchase.

Amazing comfort is achieved through adjustable shoulder straps, as well as an integrated weight system. The integrated weight system can hold up to 9 kgs (20lbs), which are stored in two large pouches on either side of the diver.

Each weight pouch uses the Cressi pocket lock system to secure the weights and includes a quick-release for emergency situations. On top of that, back trim pockets to help with weight distribution, while a variety of extra pockets and clips make the BCD a rather practical option. You should never run out of space for various accessories such as your dive light.

As Beginner BCD’s go, this is one of our favourite BCD’s out there. Rating: 4.9 / 5

What is a Jacket BCD?

Because nearly all divers learn to dive with them, Jacket BCD’s are actully one of the most common BCD types. They’re shaped like a sleeveless vest, with built-in air bladders surrounding the diver, usually from the front, back, and sides.

This style of Buoyancy Control Device is known for excellent stability, especially in a vertical position. This, along with its ease-of-use and general familiarity makes jacket style BCDs extremely popular amongst hobbyist divers.

While this style is objectively comfortable, some divers do not like the way it compresses one’s torso upon inflation, and prefer less bulky options such as back-inflate BCDs. Click here for a review of the best jacket BCD for beginners in 2019. 

Back Inflate BCD's

The Hands Down Best Inflate BCD of 2019?

Zeagle Ranger

VIEW ON AMAZON
  • $$$

  • Personal Fit System for Ultimate Comfort

  • Made from tough material

  • Integrated Weight System

  • 2 Zip pockets for Storage

  • Heavy

Like the previously reviewed Cressi Aqualine, the Zeagle Ranger performs well on all fronts with its integrated weight system. The main difference is the position of the BCDs air bladders behind the diver.

For ultimate comfort and fit, Zeagle has included their Personal Fit System (PFS). This is a set of adjustable straps that allow you to adjust the BCDs size to perfectly fit your body shape. While the adjustable shoulder straps are seen on many modern BCDs, the sternum strap and stretchy cumberband set this BCD apart.

Made from the toughest materials, and tested in dive schools around the world, this setup is built to last. Furthermore, its customisable setup means that your BCD can evolve with your expertise and experience, eliminating the need to upgrade. Want to dive with a second tank? Easy! Need to improve your BCDs lift capacity with a second bladder? No problem!

With regards to storage, Zeagle has provided 2 zip pockets, large enough for nifty dive accessories such as your dive light. If this isn’t sufficient, you can clip your accessories onto one of the BCDs 6 D-rings. For me these clips are perfect, keeping my gear accessible at all times.

The only real downside of the Zeagle Ranger is its weight. At 3.8 kg (8.4 lbs) it becomes a little cumbersome for travellers, who often opt for lighter models that fold or compress more easily.

Our Rating: 4.7 / 5

What is a Back Inflate BCD?

A back-inflate BCD is similar to a BCD jacket, but has its air bladders located on the back rather than around a divers torso. For divers who feel squished when inflating jacket style BCDs, this is a welcome relief.

By relocating the air bladder, the chest area is decluttered, resulting in a more minimalist setup. This is especially popular amongst freedivers and spearfishing enthusiasts who are accustomed to diving without the burden of so much gear.

However, the main advantage of this type of BCD is the diving position it facilitates underwater. By relocating the air bladders, divers are more stable, floating in a horizontal position, which is often referred to as trim.

By improving trim, you become more comfortable and will improve your aquadynamics. While this comfort comes from a lower centre of gravity, your new streamlined diving position will require less energy and oxygen while diving, ultimately allowing you to dive for longer.

The only downside of such a setup is the floating position above water. While an inflated jacket-style BCDs keep you in a stable horizontal position on the surface, back-inflate versions tend to keep pushing you into a horizontal position, often submerging your face.

This issue can, however, be avoided by slightly deflating your BCD, or shifting your center of gravity backward. With a bit of practice, this is usually not a major problem, but is something to consider. If you are doing many shore dives requiring long swim outs, maybe this isn’t the best option for you.

Hybrid BCD's

Ultimate Hyrbid BCD

Mayres Hybrid

SHOW ON AMAZON
  • $$

  • Lightweight design & foldable backplates = ideal for travel.

  • Durable.

  • Freedom of movement

  • Modular integrated weight system


For the Ultimate Hybrid BCD, we simply love the Mares Hybrid BCD. Like all hybrid BCDs, it combines a jacket-style BCD’s surface stability with a back-inflate BCD’s aquadynamic trim.

Its lightweight design and foldable backplate make it great for traveling. It’s also incredibly tough, using materials strong enough to stand the test of time and then some.

Mares quality guarantees that all the basics are covered, ensuring comfort, practicality, durability, and sufficient storage space.

The straps are adjustable from 3 points, meaning that you can mould the BCD to your body, nice and snug. Underwater, the BCD does not constrict your movements whatsoever. This is because the air bladder is not part of the harness, and the modular integrated weight system is extremely comfortable, giving you sensational freedom of movement.

Our Rating: 4.8 / 5

What is a Hyrbid BCD?

This type of BCD aims to combine the benefits of back-inflate and jacket-style BCDs by combining features from the styles of both.

By making use of air bladders at the back of the BCD, as well as around the torso, hybrid BCDs achieve horizontal stability underwater, as well as vertical stability at the surface.

This means maintaining your aquadynamic trim, while not having to deal with your face being pushed towards the water when you are at the surface. Furthermore, because the air bladders are spread around the back and torso, you will not feel squeezed once the BCD is inflated.

Otherwise, this style of BCD is much like your regular jacket-style or back-inflate BCD, with a variety of different options depending on the model and brand you choose. While some have an integrated weight system, others require weight belts.

Travel BCD's

Diving Squad's No.1 Travel BCD

Oceanic Biolite Buoyancy Compensator

CHECK ON AMAZON
  • $$

  • Lightweight and easy to pack

  • Shoulder and torso adjustment conforms this BCD to the shape of your body.

  • Less bulky air bladders = reduced drag under water.

  • Integrated weight system. 

  • Less Durable than other BCD’s

At just 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs), and with a compact design that is able to fold for easy storage, Oceanic has created a fantastic BCD for traveling divers. 

Insane comfort comes from the Oceanic’s stretchy Bioflex material, as well as the shoulder and torso adjustment systems, which help the BCD conform to the shape of your body. These features help achieve a snug fit, a real necessity for comfort.

This same flexible technology is used with the air bladders, allowing smaller compartments to be used. These less-bulky bladders stretch when inflated, reducing drag and improving aquadynamics.

Moreover, the bladders are located at the back of the BCD, making the Oceanic Biolite BCD a back-inflate style BCD and further improving your aquadynamics.

Keeping up with the latest technology, this BCD includes a 6.5 kg (14.3 lbs) integrated weight system. This comes with an instant quick release system, as well as a 2.3 kg trim weight pocket.

Ultimately, this travel BCD provides ultimate practicality, with almost no sacrifice. At just 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs), and including all the latest bells and whistles, the only sacrifice is an integrated weight system that can hold slightly less weight.

Our Rating: 4.7 / 5

What is a Travel BCD?

The travel BCD niche is relatively new, but has recently exploded with increased amounts of travellers looking to bring diving equipment with them. They are regular BCDs, with small adjustments that make them ideal for the globetrotting diver.

This style of BCD is lighter than its counterparts, losing precious kilograms by substituting steel for plastic wherever possible, and removing the backplate.

The lack of a backplate also makes the BCD much easier to pack, as it is no longer rigid.

However, serious divers using their equipment on a daily basis, such as dive instructors, should steer clear of travel BCDs. Rather invest in more heavy-duty equipment designed to withstand everyday use and abuse.

Women's BCD's

The Best Women's BCD of 2019?

ScubaPro Bella

VIEW ON AMAZON
  • $$
  • Maximum fit and comfort for the ladies!
  • Jacket Style BCD = stability at the surface
  • Integrated weight system
  • Large zipper pockets for storage

As a BCD designed specifically for women, the ScubaPro Bella guarantees a better fit than unisex models, thus maximising comfort. This effect is compounded by the self-adjusting buckle and stretchy cumberband that further helps this BCD morph to the shape of your body.

It is a jacket-style BCD, meaning stability at the surface, as well as familiarity for most divers. However, this means that those who feel constricted by air bladders around their torso may prefer a different option.

Although jacket-style BCDs are associated with an instability at the surface, this  is combated with an integrated weight system that includes space for trim weights.

In total, the integrated weight system can accommodate just under 10 kg (22 lbs) and includes a quick release system for emergency situations.

And with regards to storage, large zipper pockets and D-rings create space for your dive light and any other small accessories. Ultimately this is a solid BCD that will serve you for many years, providing performance and tailored comfort.

Our Rating: 4.9 / 5

What is a Woman's BCD?

Most BCDs are created as unisex products, and can work well for men and female. However, a BCD’s comfort is, to a large degree, determined by its fit.

This is why we strongly suggest that female divers stick to Buoyancy Control Devices specifically designed for their body shape.

A women’s cut is narrower around the shoulders and has a little extra and hip chest space, while the back plates usually have heavier padding. The result, a BCD that will mould around a female body, helping achieve maximum comfort.

Otherwise, female BCD’s are much the same as their male counterparts, with a variety of options and styles available. Read more about womens’ bcds. 

Cheap BCD's

Diving Squad's Ultimate Cheap BCD

Cressi Start BCD

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  • $ – As cheap as a BCD get’s whilst still offering high quality.

  • Made by Cressi – the biggest name in underwater sports.

  • Exceptionally durable

  • Large velcro pockets and D-rings for storage.

  • Simple Setup


In 1946 Cressi founded what remains one of the biggest names in underwater sports today. With such a brand, quality is guaranteed, even with their entry level BCDs such as the Cressi Start.

The idea behind this BCD is simplicity, which translates into affordability, making this the perfect BCD for beginners. New divers will love how straightforward this model is, as well as the fact that it doesn’t require you to fork out an arm and a leg.

Although this model is more affordable than most other options, it will still stand the test of time. This is due to its tough 1000 denier Cordura fabric, which has proved itself much stronger than its nylon counterparts.

With regards to practicality, there are large, velcro storage pockets as well as D-rings to store everything you need. On top of all that, the air pockets are extremely easy to clean because of the inflator twin air filter.

The only downside to this BCD is a lack of integrated weights, but you can’t expect all the bells and whistles at such a low price. Furthermore, a weight-belt easily makes up for this deficiency. Ultimately, this BCD punches above its weight, providing quality at an extremely competitive price point.

Our Rating: 4.5 / 5

What's a Cheap BCD?

When it comes to beginner scuba gear, while you don’t need to spend an arm and a leg on the latest hi-tech equipment, you want to stay well clear of cheap off-brand knockoffs. Ultimately, you will keep this gear for years to come and should purchase with a long-term outlook.

We would suggest you slowly accumulate quality dive equipment, building towards a full set. This would serve you better than investing in a more-affordable full-set of diving gear that will need replacement in a couple years.

Furthermore, you will need to have confidence in your gear, as faulty equipment is dangerous, potentially leading to disaster. Ultimately, this is why we suggest sticking to reputable brands known for long-lasting quality. Read more about Cheap BCDs. 

BCD Setup and Buyers Guide

Happy dude Picking the Best BCD for Beginners

Stellar Buy!

Your first challenge will be to decide on a style of BCD. This is a personal choice, that comes down to your specific diving needs.

These needs are determined by where you dive, what type of diving you do, and any equipment you already own.

Fortunately, the suitability of each BCD style is analyzed throughout this article in the previous sections.

If you already have a regulator setup or have one you are planning to acquire, bear in mind that you’ll need to choose from BCDs that are compatible with it. Otherwise, you are ready to go shopping.

When looking for BCDs, how the item fits is the main consideration. This comes down to how comfortable your BCD is, and if it is the right size. Remember to account for the thickness of your suit when deciding on a size. Furthermore, divers who wear gloves will benefit from bulkier clips, buttons, straps, and releases.

Otherwise, your choice will come down to extra features, affordability, brand preferences, colour, and aesthetics. As long as you remember to prioritise comfort and suitability, you should end up a happy customer.

What the hell is a BCD and how does it work?

What is a diving bcd

"Nurrgh! I'm Dr. ScubyMCDupers and I'm hear to give YOU some much needed Scuba Schooling"!

Very simply dear reader, a BCD is an inflatable device that provides divers with increasing buoyancy as its air bladders are filled with air.

It is a vital piece of diving equipment that allows scuba divers to ascend, descend, or maintain their depth.

While one button causes a sudden burst of air from a diver’s tank to inflate the BCD, another releases bubbles, deflating it.

A correctly weighted diver will have a slightly negative buoyancy, and therefore needs a BCD to prevent himself/herself from sinking like the Titanic.

At the surface, one’s BCDs are inflated, keeping divers positively buoyant. Then, in order to achieve negative buoyancy and descend, they are deflated.

Once divers reach their desired depth, a short burst of air is needed to ever-so-slightly inflate their BCD and achieve neutral buoyancy.

Constant adjustment is then required underwater because as divers venture deeper below the surface, underwater pressure increases. This pressure compresses your wetsuit, as well as the air in your BCD’s bladders, ultimately reducing buoyancy.

At the end of a dive, when it’s finally time to resurface, divers will carefully add air to their BCD until they begin to inch towards the surface. This is done in an extremely controlled manner to avoid decompression sickness.

Other Types of BCD

Best BCD for Beginners Colour

Types of Scuba BCD - More than just Different Colours

Technical BCD's

Technical divers are highly qualified and involved in advanced dives such as cave dives, wreck dives, night dives, and solo dives. These divers require specialized equipment, usually more robust and expensive than regular BCDs.

A hard backplate and inflatable are permanent fixtures of technical BCD rigs, however, the other components are optional extras. Each piece of a technical BCD is detachable, allowing divers to customize their setup to suit every dive’s specific needs.

This type of BCD is generally used by rescue personnel, cave divers, professional underwater cave welders and the-like. It provides ultimate versatility, but requires foresight before each dive, and is therefore not suited to beginner divers.

Don’t worry yourself with such a complex piece of equipment to start off. Rather just enjoy becoming comfortable in the ocean, to begin with.

Sidemount BCD

A sidemount BCD is a type of technical BCD, first used by cave divers. By attaching a tank either side of the diver, they remove the need for two cumbersome tanks to sit on a diver’s back.

By making a diver smaller underwater, the exploration of tight spaces was made easier. Furthermore, this design improves aerodynamics, effectively allowing you to dive for longer.

Again, it would better for beginners to stick with jacket, back-inflate, or hybrid style BCDs.

Diving Squad Debriefing

You should be ready to pull the trigger and invest in your first BCD. There is no outright best BCD for beginners, as each type of diver has specifics need. However, we have summarised the best BCD for any occasion.

While travelers will opt for a lightweight design, women should go for something specifically designed for their body shape. On the other hand, those looking for surface stability should stick with hybrid BCD’s, while others looking for the perfect underwater trim would be better off with a back inflate BCD.

Ultimately, as long as you stick to reputable brands, avoiding the temptation to go with lower-quality, cheaper BCDs you will be alright. Remember that your BCD is a long-term purchase, something you will use for many years to come. Choose Wisely! Diving Squad Out.

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Written by:

Alex

Alex

Scuba fanatic, travel ecstatic and loveable rogue. A rootless divemaster and perpetual adrenaline-junky, Alex holds the esteemed rank of Grand Admiral of the Diving Squad; a title he most nobly awarded to himself. A scuba-junky since 2014, he's dived much of the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Maldives, Red Sea, Ireland, Costa Rica, Nicaragua and Panama. It's hard to say where he'll pop up next for he never settles; forever a leaf on the wind... or perhaps a lone bubble blasted along on the current.