Whether on the phone, by email or in the store, the most frequently asked question we hear regarding Shearwater dive computers at Underwater Explorers is, “Shearwater Peregrine or Perdix 2, which one should I get?”
As divers, we all know that Shearwater Research is a leading manufacturer of dive computers. These computers have a global 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 varying price points, with one being nearly twice as expensive as the other.
This brief review compares the two, outlining their features and primary differences to assist you in deciding which one suits you best.
This is particularly useful if you are among the many considering purchasing a Shearwater computer for the first time and unsure whether to choose the Peregrine or the Perdix 2.
Shearwater Computers: In-store Experience Online
Firstly, if you were to contact us at our brick-and-mortar store in Portland, Dorset, asking that question, we’d have two questions for you (in our familiar, always-polite way):
- 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 both questions above is “No,” like a large proportion of recreational or technical divers on open circuit who use only Air or Nitrox, we’d then ask you this:
- How important is it for your diving to have Air Integration to monitor real-time tank pressure?
- 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 (for half the price of a Perdix 2).
We’d advise you to start there and then consider whether the more expensive Perdix 2 provides additional advantages for you and your current or future diving needs.
Before proceeding any further, if you’re a dive professional, namely a Divemaster/Dive Leader or higher involved in training others, we’d strongly recommend exploring the benefits of air integration when it comes to Shearwater Computers.
The Shearwater Peregrine Computer
To call the Shearwater Peregrine an entry-level dive computer compared to everything else “out there” would be doing it injustice. Whether you’re a recreational or technical diver, it is designed to last for many years and accommodates various diving conditions down to 120 metres.
It is packed with outstanding features that make it easy to use, including a large, clear full-colour 2.2” LCD, intuitive menus, and a simple two-button interface that makes Shearwater computers incredibly popular.
The Peregrine’s exceptional quality boasts a straightforward, intuitive layout, easy navigation, Air, Nitrox, 3-gas Nitrox, and Gauge modes, as well as a CNS-tracker with a built-in dive (and decompression) planner.
If you’re a decompression diver switching between deco gases during ascent, simply inform the unit of the switch, and it will automatically adjust the profile to match that gas. Simple.
While the Peregrine does not include a built-in digital compass, air integration, or support for Helium or rebreathers, it offers remarkable value as a fully-fledged, reliable dive computer that is user-friendly and highly visible for easy monitoring — suitable for both 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, but want to have a digital compass and air integration in your computer.
Shearwater rightfully refers to 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“. A Peregrine on boosters, with reliable Air Integration and a precise Digital Compass!
Think Peregrine: All the functions of that excellent unit with the bonus of an on-screen tilt-compensated digital compass that provides clear headings and reciprocal headings to return you to your starting point, and 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 4 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.
Alongside all the remarkable features of the Peregrine, the Peregrine TX also includes Air Integration and a Digital Compass. Furthermore, it’s worth mentioning that the most popular standalone Peregrine model is available in both Adventure Edition Light and Dark colours. But you can also get the Peregrine TX with Swift Transmitter as a package deal.
The Shearwater Perdix 2 Ti Computer
If you are a committed technical diver using Helium in your breathing gas (even if only occasionally, considering the high cost!), diving on a rebreather, or planning to do either soon, you likely want to skip the Peregrine. In that case, the Shearwater Perdix 2 Ti dive computer is a superior 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.
The Perdix 2 Ti 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, while the Perdix 2 shares features with the Peregrine TX, such as monitoring up to four transmitters, Bluetooth,a Dive Log (1000 compared to 400), and a Cloud connection, it 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 it’s the standalone Peregrine or the advanced TX model, these computers are user-friendly, affordable, and come equipped with all the features necessary for most types of diving.
However, if you are a more experienced diver looking for a versatile and future-proof device, the Perdix 2 will be the preferable choice if you can extend your budget slightly. It is exceptionally robust, supports OC and CC Trimix diving, and features air integration along with a 3-axis digital compass.
Regardless of which dive computer you select, Shearwater is a world-renowned and trusted brand. Their computers are celebrated for their reliability and user-friendliness. 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 your dive computer between Shearwater Peregrine and Perdix 2:
- 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 determine which dive computer suits you is to reflect on the same questions we would have posed in-store to assist you in making the right choice.
We hope this blog post has assisted you in deciding which dive computer is ideal for you.
Happy diving all!