I’m pretty simple when it comes to my dive-computer needs. I want one that switches easily between air and nitrox, one that’s easy to operate, and one that looks nice on my wrist. The Cressi Neon dive computer, for the most part, checks all those boxes.
Speaking of boxes, we’ll start with the Neon packaging. Rather than a typical dive-computer box, the Neon comes in a compact, semi-rigid clamshell case, surrounded by a cushioning foam insert. If you don’t wear your dive computer as a watch when you travel, this makes for a perfect carrying case.
Tech specs
- The computer’s face is mineral glass, which you can protect with an optional soft silicone cover.
- The total diameter of the computer is 1.9 inches (48 mm), with the screen at 1.5 inches (38 mm). This lightweight computer weighs in at only 2.5 ounces (70 g).
- A flat profile, with a maximum height of only .55 inches (14 mm) makes for a hydrodynamic design that helps prevent potential snagging.
- There’s a “new high-performance, low-power processor. Allows much faster data processing, more power backlighting and sound alarms and doubles the battery life compared to previous models.
- The list of included features — optional Bluetooth, user-replaceable battery, four user modes — goes on and on.
What I like about the Neon
Although I love the box, as mentioned above, I’m the kind of dive-traveler who wears her computer as a watch from the beginning to the end of the trip. I chose the white/lilac combination for just that reason. It’s a well-fitting, stylish dive watch that doesn’t look out of place on your wrist out of the water.
In the water, though, the Neon really shines. Once I figured out the two-button navigation (see below), I found it to be a fantastic companion on dives. The rounded, hydrodynamic design kept the profile low and close to my wrist, and the nicely backlit screen was easy to read. I set a deep stop on the computer as well and found the alarms for that and for my safety stop unobtrusive but effective.
Wrap-up
- I loved all the features available in this compact watch. It’s a great all-around dive computer for both someone like me, who doesn’t need a lot of features, and for someone who does, and who wants to dig into the computer’s functions more seriously.
- I also loved the attention to detail on the Neon. With so many cool color combinations and the durable, portable packaging, this is a great dive watch for both travel and diving at home. It fit well over my wetsuit and the backlit display was easy to read underwater, no matter the conditions.
- Although I know the two-button style is meant to make setting the watch easy, I struggled with it. I just kept pushing combinations of the two buttons, even resorting to watching tutorials online, to figure out how to set this watch. Once I did, it was easy to operate, but I’d love if watches like this came with more detailed instructions.