PERFORMANCE

With so many features packed into such a compact unit, the Mares Matrix dive computer is a wonder. Offering well-marked buttons and an intuitive menu, it ranked the easiest dive computer to program in this category. The model provides excellent screen readability with its reverse color band highlighting no deco data, and it has a very usable tissue loading bar graph and a cool graphic dive profile alternate screen. It also comes with the bar-none best compass in its category. First off, it looks like a compass, so it’s easy to use and it offers a bearing function and simultaneously displays critical data so you can monitor your stats while navigating. Another unique feature is the ICE (in case of emergency) function, which shows personal info, from contact numbers to insurance policies to allergies. The Mares Matrix is powered by a rechargeable lithium battery, so you have to remember to plug it in once in a while. However, it does offer an “Off” mode to conserve battery power.

LIBERAL OR CONSERVATIVE

The Matrix leans conservative, plus provides three altitude settings and two additional safety levels to further increase your cushion.

BOTTOM LINE

The Matrix is a wristwatch dive computer on steroids. It is easy to read, easy to program, and full of advanced data crunching features. Test divers were unanimous in picking it as the Testers Choice in this category.

SPECS

OPERATIONAL MODES Air, Nitrox, Gauge NITROX CAPABILITY 21 to 99 Percent GAS MIXES 3 USER CONTROLS 4 Buttons AIR-INTEGRATED No ONBOARD COMPASS Yes COLOR HIGHLIGHTS Yes PC KIT Included MSRP $700 INFO mares.com