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10 Best Underwater Compass For Scuba Diving 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Aqualung Computer I550C with Compass NH Black/Black

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,206
Ease of Use
Durability and Build Quality
Size and Weight

Most important from
13 reviews

Ease of Use
The device is compact yet very easy to read, making it convenient for frequent use.
Durability and Build Quality
Durability is generally solid, but the battery cover is a known weak point that may crack and require replacement.
Size and Weight
The device is compact yet very easy to read, making it convenient for frequent use.

The Aqualung Computer I550C with Compass is a dive computer that combines a digital compass with advanced dive modes, including Air, Nitrox, and Gauge, making it versatile for different diving styles. Its metal build offers solid durability, and weighing 1.43 pounds, it’s a bit heavier than simple compasses but reasonable for a device with multiple functions. The compass is integrated into a large, easy-to-read screen that includes backlighting, which helps with visibility in low-light underwater conditions.

The device stands out with features like wireless Bluetooth connectivity to manage dive data on your phone and a user-changeable battery that keeps your settings intact, which is convenient for regular divers. However, because it’s primarily a digital dive computer with a compass function, it may be bulkier and more complex to use for someone just needing a straightforward underwater compass. Its size and weight might feel heavy for casual users who prefer lightweight gear.

This product suits divers who want a reliable, multifunctional dive computer with compass capabilities, especially those interested in tracking dive data and managing gas efficiently, but it may be overkill if you only want a simple, compact underwater compass.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,206
Ease of Use
Durability and Build Quality
Size and Weight

Most important from
13 reviews

Ease of Use
The device is compact yet very easy to read, making it convenient for frequent use.
Durability and Build Quality
Durability is generally solid, but the battery cover is a known weak point that may crack and require replacement.
Size and Weight
The device is compact yet very easy to read, making it convenient for frequent use.
#2

Mares Mission Puck 3 Scuba Diving Computer Console - Puck Computer w/Compact Easy-to-Read Pressure Gauge & Integrated Analog Compass

Rating
9.4
Compass Type
Luminescence
Durability and Build Quality

Most important from
7 reviews

Compass Type
Integrated analog compass provides precise underwater navigation.
Luminescence
Offers excellent visibility underwater with a high-contrast screen and effective backlight.
Durability and Build Quality
Performs reliably across multiple saltwater dives without issues.
Ease of Use
Intuitive single-button operation makes switching dive modes straightforward and safe.

The Mares Mission Puck 3 Scuba Diving Computer Console is a versatile tool that combines a compact pressure gauge, a dive computer, and an integrated analog compass. This makes it a comprehensive option for divers who want to manage multiple needs with a single device. The strength of this product lies in its ergonomic design, which is both comfortable and durable due to its chrome-plated brass body.

The high-contrast screen with large characters and a 170-degree viewing angle ensures superior visibility even in low-light conditions, which is further supported by an effective backlight for night dives. The intuitive single-button operation makes it easy to switch between dive modes, enhancing user experience and safety underwater. The integrated analog compass provides precise navigation, which is crucial for underwater orientation.

The multiple lanyard attachment points add to its convenience by allowing secure placement during dives. However, the product's weight and size (12 x 6 x 8 inches and 1 kilogram) might be a bit bulky for some divers. This makes it best suited for recreational divers who prioritize reliability and ease of use.

Rating
9.4
Compass Type
Luminescence
Durability and Build Quality

Most important from
7 reviews

Compass Type
Integrated analog compass provides precise underwater navigation.
Luminescence
Offers excellent visibility underwater with a high-contrast screen and effective backlight.
Durability and Build Quality
Performs reliably across multiple saltwater dives without issues.
Ease of Use
Intuitive single-button operation makes switching dive modes straightforward and safe.
#3

Scubapro 3 Gauge in-Line Console

Rating
8.8
Tilt Tolerance
Luminescence
Durability and Build Quality

Most important from
13 reviews

Tilt Tolerance
The oil-filled compass maintains accuracy even when the console isn’t perfectly level, thanks to its tilt tolerance.
Luminescence
Strong luminescence on the gauges makes it simple to read in low-light or murky water.
Durability and Build Quality
Built with rugged materials, it stands up well to demanding diving conditions.
Ease of Use
The console delivers clear and easy visibility, ensuring accurate readings underwater.

The Scubapro 3 Gauge In-Line Console is a solid choice for scuba divers needing a clear and durable underwater compass combined with essential gauges. It includes a reliable oil-filled compass with a rotating bezel marked in 30-degree increments and offers up to 26 degrees of tilt tolerance, which helps maintain accurate direction readings even if the console isn’t held perfectly level. Luminescence on the dial is strong on all gauges, making it easier to read in low-light or murky water conditions. Built with rugged plastic and polycarbonate, this console stands up well to rough underwater environments, so it should last through many dives.

It combines a pressure gauge, depth gauge, and compass into a compact and streamlined unit that is lighter and less bulky than having separate instruments, which adds to comfort and convenience during dives. The pressure gauge reads up to 6000 psi and the depth gauge up to 200 feet, with added temperature display, giving comprehensive dive data at a glance.

One downside is its size and weight—at 6.6 x 12.5 x 3.4 inches and 1.5 pounds, it may feel a bit bulky compared to some modern digital consoles, potentially affecting ease of handling for some users. Also, as an analog device, it requires manual reading and interpretation rather than automatic digital displays. This console suits divers who want reliable, straightforward analog instruments in one package, especially those who prioritize durability and clear visibility over compactness or digital features.

Rating
8.8
Tilt Tolerance
Luminescence
Durability and Build Quality

Most important from
13 reviews

Tilt Tolerance
The oil-filled compass maintains accuracy even when the console isn’t perfectly level, thanks to its tilt tolerance.
Luminescence
Strong luminescence on the gauges makes it simple to read in low-light or murky water.
Durability and Build Quality
Built with rugged materials, it stands up well to demanding diving conditions.
Ease of Use
The console delivers clear and easy visibility, ensuring accurate readings underwater.

Buying Guide for the Best Underwater Compass For Scuba Diving

Choosing the right underwater compass for scuba diving is crucial for ensuring safe and accurate navigation while exploring underwater environments. A good compass will help you maintain your bearings, find your way back to your starting point, and navigate through complex underwater terrains. When selecting an underwater compass, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs and preferences.
Compass TypeThere are two main types of underwater compasses: wrist-mounted and console-mounted. Wrist-mounted compasses are worn like a watch and offer the convenience of being easily accessible and hands-free. Console-mounted compasses are attached to your diving console, often alongside other instruments like depth gauges and pressure gauges. The choice between the two depends on your personal preference and how you like to organize your diving gear. If you prefer having all your instruments in one place, a console-mounted compass might be the best fit. If you like the flexibility of having the compass on your wrist, go for a wrist-mounted one.
Tilt ToleranceTilt tolerance refers to the compass's ability to provide accurate readings even when it is not held perfectly level. This is important because underwater conditions can make it difficult to keep the compass level at all times. Compasses with higher tilt tolerance can still give accurate readings even when tilted at various angles. For recreational divers, a tilt tolerance of up to 20-30 degrees is usually sufficient. However, if you plan on diving in challenging conditions or need precise navigation, look for a compass with a higher tilt tolerance.
LuminescenceLuminescence is the compass's ability to glow in low-light conditions, making it easier to read in dark or murky waters. This feature is particularly important for night dives or dives in environments with limited visibility. A good underwater compass should have a luminescent dial or markings that are easy to see in the dark. When choosing a compass, consider how often you dive in low-light conditions and select one with strong luminescence if you frequently find yourself in such situations.
Durability and Build QualityDurability and build quality are essential for ensuring that your compass can withstand the harsh underwater environment. Look for compasses made from high-quality materials that are resistant to corrosion, pressure, and impact. A well-built compass will last longer and provide reliable performance over time. If you frequently dive in rough conditions or at greater depths, prioritize a compass with robust construction and a sturdy design.
Ease of UseEase of use is an important factor to consider, especially if you are a beginner or prefer straightforward equipment. A good underwater compass should have a clear, easy-to-read display with simple markings and a smooth rotating bezel. It should also be easy to operate with gloves on. When selecting a compass, consider how intuitive it is to use and whether you can quickly and easily take readings while diving. If you are new to scuba diving, opt for a compass with a user-friendly design.
Size and WeightThe size and weight of the compass can affect your comfort and convenience while diving. A compact and lightweight compass is easier to carry and less cumbersome, especially on long dives. However, make sure that the compass is not too small, as this can make it difficult to read. When choosing a compass, consider the balance between size, weight, and readability. If you prefer minimal gear, opt for a smaller, lighter compass, but ensure it still has a clear display.

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