Oceanic OCi Dive Computer Review and Guide

If you’re a regular diver, and you’ve never the Oceanic OCi dive computer, you’re seriously missing out. The Oceanic OCi dive computer is one of the most well-known and reliable dive computers on the market. It’s loaded with all the best cutting-edge features, coupled with sleek aesthetics. There is no question why it is one of the best-selling dive computers ever.

Comparison Table

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The innovative Oceanic OCi dive computer, while not a device for the novice diver, is an exceptional investment for technical divers. It is a high-end dive computer that’s indeed leaps and bounds above the competition. A significant step up from mid-range dive computers, the Oceanic OCi dive computer is not your average piece of diving equipment. A rookie diver can afford an entire diving set-up for this price of this futuristic dive watch.

Let’s take a closer look at this one-of-a-kind dive computer that’s dominating the market.

The OCEANIC OCi Dive Computer

Oceanic has created some great equipment in the past, but this time they’ve outdone themselves. A combination of the OC1 advanced dive computer, and the aesthetically pleasing OCS, the Oceanic OCi dive computer is making splashes in the diving world. Recipient of the 2014 Scubalab Testers’ Choice Award, this versatile dive computer has it all. Powered by Oceanic’s signature dual algorithm, owners of the Oceanic OCi dive computer have the choice of either Pelagic DSAT or Pelagic Z+.

The computer operates on wireless air integrated technology, and divers can choose from free and tech-free dive modes. It works in depths of up to 495 feet. Even more, its extra functions include a countdown timer, daily alarm, stopwatch, lap timer, and alternate time zones.

The Oceanic OCi dive computer is not just a fully functioning diving gadget, its a gem to look at as well. Its industry-leading design is available in five different color combinations. Also, the firmware is conveniently upgradeable for those who desire the most current versions of gear. Switch between four transmitters while you dive, with nitrox mixes of 21-100 percent O2. Furthermore, additional features include data retention, deep stop, an advanced digital compass, declination adjustment, and gauge mode with a run-time.

Specifications

The Oceanic OCi is an all-in-one advanced dive computer with more features than you can shake a stick at. Here is a list of specs that’s sure to drop your jaw if you’ve ever owned another dive computer.

• Advanced onboard digital compass
• Depth display up to 330 feet
• Gauge and free dive modes up to 495 Feet
• Water or push button activation
• Adjustable altitude from 2,000 feet up to 14,000 feet
• Four operating modes including air, nitrox, gauge and free dive
• Convenient backlight
• Dual Algorithm including Pelagic Dsat (Spencer/Powell Data Basis) and Pelagic Z+ (Buhlmann Zhl-16C Data Basis)
• Multiple audible alarms
• Wireless air integration
• A memory capacity of up to 24 dives
• Temperature, time, and date stamps
• Rechargeable lithium-ion battery with 300 hours of dive time
• Alternate time zones
• Upgradeable user firmware
• Owner’s manual

The above list is just a handful of the most impressive specs of the Oceanic OCi dive computer. For a full list of specifications, visit the manufacturer’s website.

Price

It pays to shop around when thinking about purchasing the OCi dive computer, as cost varies greatly from retailer to retailer. The computer costs a thousand dollars. So, make sure to check around before adding this product to your shopping cart.

The OCi dive computer also comes with a 2-year manufacturer warranty, as well as a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. Therefore, if you’re not completely happy with the product, it’s fully exchangeable by an authorized Oceanic Pro Dealer.

How we Reviewed

We scoured the internet in search of all available intel on the Oceanic’s OCi dive computer. Conducting research based on the manufacturer’s product description and specifications, loads of customer reviews from several platforms, owner testimonials, and informational videos.

What we came away with was a crystal clear picture of the product, as well as a keen understanding of customer satisfaction with the OCi. We also spent a considerable amount of time researching the competition to develop a stronger grasp of the current dive computer market.

How Does The OCEANIC OCi Dive Computer Compare?

We wanted to see precisely how the OCi stacks up against the competition. So, we did some additional research and compared it to three popular dive computers from competitors. Here’s what we found.

Scubapro G2 Dive Computer

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The fully customizable G2 wrist-only computer for scuba divers is one of the most versatile products manufactured by Scubapro. It’s equipped with an easy to use three-button user interface and several helper dive-related functions. You have a choice of multiple screen displays, with as little or as much info as you like. It has 485MB of memory and is capable of logging up to 1,000 hours of dive profiles.

This dive computer rates at up to 395 feet, that’s 100 feet less than the OCi. Customizations include light, classic, full, and graphical data presentations. Use this powerful dive computer’s technology however it suits you and your dive the best. The TFT screen uses less energy than many other dive computers, affording you extra-long 50-hour battery life. Also, there are 19 languages to choose from on the G2.

The Scubapro G2 Diving Computer has a 4 out of 5 stars rating based on Amazon customer reviews. This product also comes with a limited one-year manufacturers warranty. Also, the main two drawbacks that we found with the Scubapro G2 dive computer is that it’s rather expensive and doesn’t come with a screen protector.

Suunto D6i Novo Zulu Dive Computer

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The D6i Novo Zulu dive computer is a product geared towards professionally oriented divers. Advanced dive functions such as a tilt-compensated 3D compass and live dive synching to Movescount.com. The ability to share info, still photos, and videos with the world while you’re under the water makes it a great dive computer for instructors.

Other key features include monitors for your cylinder pressure and air supplies via the computers wireless air integration system and DM4 software to save your dive data. Enjoy five different dive modes including air more, nitrox mode for one to three nitrox mixes, gauge modes, and free dive mode.

The Suunto D6i Novo Zulu Dive Computer has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from Amazon customer reviews. This product also comes with a two-year international limited warranty. Furthermore, the main drawback that we found is that it has a high price tag for so few features.

Aqua Lung i450t Dive Computer

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The Aqua Lung i450t is a hoseless gas integrated wrist watch dive computer. The Aqua Lung patented Gas Time Remaining Algorithm allowing for accurate real-time calculations of gas levels. Its multiple gas capability manages various Nitrox mixes with separate PO2 set points. The dive computer itself is mounted on a state-of-the-art wristband and has an intuitive design and easy to use interface.

Additional key features include a digital compass, with return bearings and declination adjustment, north reference, and free dive mode with dedicated memory. More or less the same compass as the OCi. Also, you can manage your diving depth, bottom distance, and surface times while in free dive mode.

The Aqua Lung i450 Dive Computer has a 5 out of 5 stars rating based on Amazon customer reviews. This product also comes with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee and a limited two-year warranty. The main drawback is that, for a high dollar dive watch, it doesn’t have as many features as you’d think it should.

Pros and Cons

Now that we’ve described the product in detail, as well as highlighting its competitors, let’s go over the pros and cons.

PROS

• Easy to use interface
• All the most cutting-edge features a diver could ever want
• Air integration system
• Advanced onboard digital compass
• Extremely durable design
• USB data transfer kit(an additional purchase with most dive computers)
• Excellent aesthetics
• Four customizable Nitrox gas mixes
• Convenient buddy check function
• Full user manual
• Satisfaction guarantee
• Two-year warranty

CONS

• A high price range for casual divers
• Dive log is limited to 24 dives
• Has been reported to lose connection with the transmitter while in the water
• Annual upkeep costs around $50

I want to mention that although high priced, there are very few dive computers on the market with so many features. And as far as annual upkeep goes, well, that’s the price for diving with such superior gear. Also, there isn’t a piece of wireless equipment on the market that doesn’t lose connection from time to time, which has more to do with the environment than the actual device itself.

The Verdict

There is no other diving watch quite like the Oceanic OCi dive watch. With such a fresh look, scores of super advanced features and uber functionality, all at a competitive price, what’s not to like? As technology steadily advances and becomes more affordable each year, the market continues to flood with inferior products. The Oceanic OCi dive computer is not one of them. Sure, you can find a dive watch for a quarter of the price. However, it won’t have even a quarter of the beneficial features nor the high durability.

If you’re a professional diver, or otherwise spend a load of time under the water, do yourself a favor and consider the long-lasting benefits of investing in the Oceanic OCi dive computer. You’ll thank yourself later. Want to check out the Oceanic OCi dive computer in person? Find an Oceanic Pro Dealer near you.

Did you recently purchase an Oceanic OCi dive computer? Or maybe a dive watch that you feel is a better investment? We’d love to hear from you, tell us all about in the comments section below!