I’m usually skeptical of newer dive manufacturers.
Aeris has been making dive gear for a little over a decade now, but that’s still pretty new when you compare it to SCUBA powerhouses like Scubapro or Mares.
Despite my skepticism, I’m always interested in trying out new gear to see if the new kid in town is bringing anything significant to the table and I was impressed with the Aeris line of equipment - especially their dive computers.
Here’s some information on one of my favorites – the Aeris Epic dive computer.
Aeris Epic Overview
The Aeris Epic dive computer is quickly becoming one of my all-time favorites. This is a wireless air-integrated dive computer that costs less than $800.
That alone is pretty amazing.
I still remember when the owner of the dive shop I was working at showed me a wireless air-integrated computer for the first time. At the time it was next to impossible to find one for under $1300, so $800 is a steal!
Of course, air-integration isn’t the only feature the Epic dive computer has to offer. Here are some more features the fine folks at Aeris included.
Aeris Epic Features
I don’t hide the fact that I won’t even consider a dive computer that’s not Nitrox capable so it should come as no surprise that the Epic dive computer is ready to take on whatever Nitrox mix you can dish out.
This computer can handle Nitrox mixes up to 100%.
The Epic dive computer can also display the pressures of up to three individual tanks. It doesn’t matter if each tank has a different Nitrox mixture; the Epic computer can still track it and adjust your nitrogen tissue load accordingly.
The Epic can even track the air pressure of other divers. If you’re diving with someone who’s using an Epic computer (or at least the transmitter) you can swim within 6 feet (2m) of them and press a button on your computer to view their air supply. It’s a nice feature to have if you want to keep close tabs on your buddy and it’s a great feature to have if you’re an instructor or divemaster leading a small group of new divers.
The Epic dive computer can also download its information to your PC.
If you’re like me, filling out a dive log seems like unnecessary paperwork. The Epic removes the tedium of filling out logs by storing the information of your dives for you to download when you get home.
Aeris Epic - Who Should Buy It?
I firmly believe that every diver should buy a dive computer.
The value you get from increased dive time will more than make up for the price. Whether or not you should buy the Epic depends on the kind of diving you do. Tech divers should definitely consider it since they can make full use of all the features.
I’d also say that recreational divers who dive more than 20 times a year and who make a couple more advanced dives can also benefit enough from the Epic to make the cost worthwhile.