The most frequently asked question we hear at Underwater Explorers is, “Shearwater Peregrine or Perdix 2, which should I get?”
As divers, we all know Shearwater Research is a leading manufacturer of dive computers. These computers have a worldwide reputation for their reliability, ease of use, and advanced features.
Undoubtedly, their two most popular models are the Peregrine and the Perdix 2. While both are excellent computers, they cater to different types of divers and are available at different price points – making one nearly twice as expensive as the other.
This brief review compares the two, outlining their features and primary differences to help you decide which suits you.
This is especially useful if you are among the many who are considering purchasing a Shearwater Computer for the first time and are unsure whether to select the Peregrine or the Perdix 2.
Shearwater Computers: In-store Experience Online
First and foremost, if you were to walk into our brick-and-mortar store asking that question, we’d have two questions for you (in our familiar, always-helpful manner):
Whether you currently use or plan to use Helium (Trimix) as a diving gas, and whether you are diving with a rebreather or intend to do so in the near future.
If your answer to the above is "No," like a majority of recreational or technical divers on open circuit using only Air or Nitrox, we’d then ask you this:
How important is it for your diving to have Air Integration (i.e., the ability to monitor real-time tank pressure via transmitter)? Also, do you need a reliable Digital Compass integrated in your dive computer?
In summary:
- If you don’t use Helium/Trimix
- If you don't & won’t use a Rebreather
- If you don’t require a digital compass
But are not certain about Air Integration, both the Peregrine and the Air-Integrated Peregrine TX are likely the best and most affordable options to consider.
We’d advise you to start there and then consider whether the more expensive Perdix 2 offers further advantages for you and your current or future diving needs.
Before progressing any further, if you’re a dive professional, i.e. a Divemaster/Dive Leader and above involved in training others, we’d strongly recommend looking at the advantages of air integration when it comes to Shearwater Computers.
The Shearwater Peregrine Computer
Referring to the Shearwater Peregrine as an entry-level dive computer is doing it injustice. Whether you’re a recreational or technical diver, it is built to endure for many years and accommodates various diving conditions down to 120 metres.
It's packed with outstanding features that make it easy to use, including a large, easy-to-read full-colour 2.2” LCD, intuitive menus, and a simple two-button interface that makes Shearwater computers ever so popular.
The Peregrine’s exceptional quality includes a simple, intuitive layout, easy navigation, Air, Nitrox, 3-gas Nitrox, and Gauge modes, and a CNS-tracker with a built-in dive (and decompression) planner.
If you’re a decompression diver switching between deco gases on the ascent, just let the unit know the switch, and it will automatically switch to the profile to match that gas. Simple.
The Peregrine lacks a built-in digital compass, air integration, or support for Helium or rebreathers. Instead, it offers exceptional value as a fully-fledged, reliable dive computer that is user-friendly and brightly visible for easy monitoring. Both for recreational and most technical divers.
In comes the Peregrine TX Computer
The Peregrine TX dive computer is an excellent solution if you don’t require Helium (Trimix) for diving, won’t use a rebreather, and desire a digital compass and air integration in your computer.
Shearwater correctly describes the Peregrine TX as a fusion of the beloved Peregrine’s large, user-friendly interface and the core features from its flagship model, the Perdix 2: Onboarding serious Air Integration and a reliable Digital Compass!
Think Peregrine: All the functions plus the full-colour, large, easy-to-read screen. Add an on-screen tilt-compensated digital compass that provides clear headings and reciprocal headings to bring you back to your starting point: You get the Peregrine TX.
Moreover, just like the flagship models Shearwater Perdix 2 and the Shearwater Teric, the Peregrine TX can connect to and display data from up to four Swift transmitters simultaneously – a feature allowing multiple tank pressure readings on a single computer!
The Peregrine and the Peregrine TX have Bluetooth, which allows connection to Shearwater Cloud, logbook, dive profile, and updates. They also have wireless charging for their Li-Ion batteries, lasting up to 30 hours in medium brightness mode. Each supports three gases from 1% to 100% Oxygen and has the same screen.
In addition to every outstanding feature of the Peregrine, Peregrine TX offers the Air Integration and Digital Compass. And before we forget, the most popular standalone Peregrine model comes in Adventures Edition Light and Dark colours, too.
The Shearwater Perdix 2 Ti Computer
Suppose you are a committed technical diver utilising helium in your breathing gas (even if only occasionally, given the high cost!), diving on a rebreather, or planning to do so soon. In that case, the Shearwater Perdix 2 Ti dive computer is a better choice and a more future-proof investment than the Peregrine series.
Again, if you were in our Shearwater Showroom, with the above covered, you’d need no encouragement on our part to decide on the Perdix 2 Ti.
It is the most popular dive computer worldwide for technical divers, and online reviews and feedback reflect that popularity.
As it possesses all the functionalities of the Peregrines, we shall forgo that type of comparison and concentrate on what additional features the Shearwater Perdix 2 Ti offers.
Firstly, in addition to Air, Nitrox, and 3-gas Nitrox, the Perdix 2 is Trimix enabled for Open-Circuit Technical diving and Closed-Circuit diving, including quick OC bailout from CC, and fixed PPO2.
Secondly, it supports optional VPM-B and DCIEM modes for those serious technical dives.
In addition, it has an integral 3-axis, tilt-compensated digital compass, which is bright and truly easy to read.
Furthermore, in addition to shared features with the Peregrine TX, such as the ability to connect to and monitor up to four Swift transmitters, Bluetooth, a Dive Log (1000 dives compared to 400 for the Peregrine), and a Cloud connection, among others, the Perdix 2 does not rely on an internal Li-Ion battery that supports wireless charging.
The Perdix 2's battery is easily replaceable. It is powered by a single, standard-sized AA battery, which can be purchased anywhere in the world.
This feature has several advantages: You can use different “types” of batteries for different runtimes. AA Alkaline for up to 40 hours, Lithium 1.5V for up to 60 hours or our most popular Saft LS14500 battery for up to 100 hours runtime!
If, as a diver considering the technical route or already a dedicated technical diver, these features are insufficient to convince you, then consider the Perdix 2’s exceptional robust construction as an added advantage.
The Shearwater Perdix 2 Ti, available in silver and black, is one of Shearwater’s most robust and reliable dive computers. It features an armoured casing, a precision titanium bezel, and durable titanium piezo touch buttons that safeguard performance-enhanced electronics. The unit also has a toughened glass window and is depth-rated to 200 metres.
Which Shearwater Computer is Right for You?
If you're a recreational or technical diver who only dives open circuit with air or nitrox, the Peregrine offers exceptional value with its outstanding features.
Whether the standalone Peregrine or the advanced TX model, these computers are easy to use, affordable, and have all the features you need for most types of diving.
However, if you're a more experienced diver who wants a more versatile and future-proof device, the Perdix 2 will be the better choice if you can stretch the budget just a bit. It is incredibly robust, supports OC and CC Trimix diving, and has air integration and a 3-axis digital compass.
No matter which dive computer you choose, Shearwater is a world-leading, tried-and-trusted brand. Their computers are known for their reliability and ease of use. You can't go wrong with the Peregrine, Peregrine TX, or Perdix 2.
Additional factors to consider
In addition to the features listed above, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing a dive computer:
- Battery life: The Peregrine has a rechargeable battery, while the Perdix 2 uses a user-replaceable AA battery. Effectively, it can have longer runtimes.
- Size, weight, construct: The Peregrine is more compact and lighter than the Perdix 2. But Perdix 2 is more robust.
- Price: The Peregrine and TX are more affordable than the Perdix 2.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which dive computer is right for you is to ask yourself the same questions we’d have asked you in-store to help you make the right choice.
We hope this blog post has helped you decide which dive computer is right for you.
We asked Gemini to come up with a saying about dive computers to help you along: “A dive computer isn't for pushing the limits, it's for knowing where the limits are.” Funny thing, this AI!...
Happy diving all!
