The Suunto D5 dive computer is the most versatile wristwatch-style computer that was ever designed! Downbelow hosted the Suunto global sales conference event in 2018 and I had the chance to test the D5 prototype before it was officially launched in 2019.
Whether you are a beginner or seasoned diver, one of the top features that you would be looking for in a personal dive computer is its ease of use. You would not want to be pressing too many buttons or taking such a long time trying to familiarise yourself with the controls before you can access your desired information. This is particularly important as dive computers are considered to be life-saving equipment that any diver should be able to rely on to avoid decompression sickness.
Fortunately, the Suunto D5 has an easy-to-use interface that beginners would easily understand. The high contrast, full colour screen is a MIP display with Transflective Display Technology and adjustable LED Backlight for easy reading in low light or night diving conditions. The screen prominently displays everything you need to know, like the depth and time, and has a switchable window at the bottom so that you can view your tank pressure, your no-decompression limit (NDL), compass, and timer. I also love that they are presented as understandable graphics!
Another excellent feature is the electronic compass. This has an easily visible degree scale which is set around the perimeter of the device. You are also able to present your heading so you can easily navigate back to the exit point.
With just three buttons to think about when accessing the menus and controls, the Suunto D5 requires very little effort to use underwater – very slick and quick to do. The middle button can be used to change the view according to your desired preference. At the same time, it helps eliminate potential misuse of dive tablesand a slew of problems that could be caused by inaccurate information.
Another feature that the D5 has is the rechargeable battery. This saves a lot of money in the long run as you will not have to keep heading to a service centre to get the battery changed and pressure tested each time it goes flat. You are able to simply plug it in to the USB provided and get it charging. Charging is super easy and can be done via a computer USB port or plug it in to the wall using a phone charging dock station.
Last but not least, Suunto has revamped this computer’s wireless connectivity. The D5 syncs over Bluetooth to the mobile app after taking just a minute or two to find and verify your device. The app itself is pretty interesting and kind of resembles a social media platform that is strictly for diving. Once the mobile app connects to the computer, it begins downloading your dives and uploads them to what’s called your “diary” for you to see your dive log, your dive times, max depths, etc.
The Suunto D5 also gives you a number of different options, should you wish to customise the colour of your dive watch. A number of replacement straps made of leather and in various colors can be added to your Suunto D5. This way, you can choose a colour that matches your diving gear or pick your favourite colour to complete your casual style when you are not diving.
Overall, the Suunto D5 exceeded my expectations, and I would recommend it to all kinds of recreational divers looking for a high-quality, user-friendly computer. The fact that it looks good on you when you are diving and not diving is just icing on the cake.
If you are interested in purchasing the Suunto D5, please contact our Dive Shop Manager, Karen at our Downbelow Dive Shop, KK Times Square and come check them out!
