Table of Contents
The Mares Puck Pro+ is a user-friendly and affordable dive computer offering essential features, durability, and simplicity, making it an ideal choice for beginner and recreational divers.
Category | Score | Weight | Weighted Score |
---|---|---|---|
Design and Build | 4.5/5 | 0.15 | 0.675 |
Display and Readability | 4.5/5 | 0.20 | 0.90 |
Features and Functionality | 4.5/5 | 0.25 | 1.125 |
Ease of Use | 5.0/5 | 0.15 | 0.75 |
Battery Performance | 4.5/5 | 0.10 | 0.45 |
Value for Money | 4.5/5 | 0.15 | 0.675 |
Final Verdict: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)
Mares Puck Pro+
The Mares Puck Pro+ is a simple and reliable dive computer designed for beginner and recreational divers. With its intuitive one-button interface, clear display, and durable construction, it’s an excellent choice for those new to diving or looking for a straightforward device.
This compact and lightweight dive computer offers essential features like nitrox compatibility, safety alarms, and an easy-to-read layout, ensuring a stress-free and safe underwater experience. Built with Mares’ commitment to quality and affordability, the Puck Pro+ delivers great performance at a competitive price.
Best For: Beginner divers, recreational divers, and younger users seeking a durable and user-friendly dive computer to safely explore the underwater world.
Design and Build
The Mares Puck Pro+ is built with simplicity, durability, and comfort in mind, making it an excellent choice for beginner divers and younger users.
Key Features
- Compact and Lightweight Design:
- Slim profile and lightweight construction ensure comfort, even for smaller wrists, making it ideal for younger or beginner divers.
- Durable Materials:
- Constructed from tough thermoplastic materials, the Puck Pro+ is built to withstand wear and tear from frequent use.
- Clear Display:
- Features a high-contrast, segmented LCD screen with large digits, ensuring easy readability in various underwater conditions.
- One-Button Interface:
- The single-button navigation simplifies operation, allowing divers to quickly cycle through menus and settings.
- Adjustable Wrist Strap:
- Comes with a flexible and durable strap designed to fit a variety of wrist sizes comfortably.
Durability
- Depth Rating: Rated to 150 meters (492 feet), exceeding the requirements for recreational diving.
- Robust Build: Resistant to scratches and impacts, ensuring reliable performance in rugged conditions.
Aesthetics
The Mares Puck Pro+ combines a minimalist design with a practical layout, offering a professional appearance that balances simplicity and functionality.
Score for Design and Build: 4.5/5
The Mares Puck Pro+ is a well-designed, durable, and compact dive computer that prioritizes comfort and ease of use, making it a perfect choice for beginner and younger divers.
Display and Readability
The Mares Puck Pro+ features a clear and intuitive display designed to ensure critical dive information is easily accessible to divers of all experience levels.
Key Features
- High-Contrast LCD Screen:
- The segmented display presents data with sharp contrast, ensuring easy readability even in low visibility underwater.
- Large Digits and Simple Layout:
- Dive metrics such as depth, dive time, and no-decompression limits are displayed in a clean, uncluttered format, reducing confusion during dives.
- Backlight Functionality:
- Equipped with a backlight for enhanced visibility during night dives or in dark underwater conditions.
- Single-Line Scrolling:
- The simple, one-line scrolling format for settings and menus makes navigation straightforward and user-friendly.
Strengths
- Large digits and bold text ensure effortless reading of dive metrics, even for younger divers.
- The backlight improves visibility in low-light or murky conditions.
- The minimalist layout eliminates distractions, focusing on essential information.
Limitations
- Monochrome display lacks the vibrancy and advanced customization of full-color dive computers.
- Smaller screen size may feel restrictive for divers accustomed to larger or more detailed displays.
Score for Display and Readability: 4.5/5
The Mares Puck Pro+ offers a straightforward, easy-to-read display that prioritizes simplicity and clarity, making it an excellent choice for beginner and child-friendly diving.
Features and Functionality
The Mares Puck Pro+ is a feature-rich dive computer designed to cater to beginner and recreational divers, offering essential functionalities that ensure safety and enhance the diving experience.
Key Features
- Dive Modes:
- Air Mode: Monitors standard air dives, displaying critical information such as depth, dive time, and no-decompression limits.
- Nitrox Mode: Supports oxygen-enriched air mixes up to 99%, allowing divers to select and switch between two gas mixtures during a dive.
- Gauge Mode: Functions as a bottom timer, providing precise depth and time readings without decompression calculations.
- Intuitive User Interface:
- Single-button navigation simplifies menu access and settings adjustments, making it user-friendly for divers of all experience levels.
- Logbook and Dive Planning:
- Stores up to 36 hours of dive profile data at a 5-second sampling rate, allowing divers to review previous dives and plan future ones effectively.
- Safety Alarms and Indicators:
- Provides audible and visual alarms for critical parameters, including ascent rate violations and missed decompression stops, enhancing diver safety.
- User-Replaceable Battery:
- Equipped with a standard CR2450 lithium battery, offering approximately 200-300 dives per battery life, and can be replaced by the user to minimize downtime.
- Upgradeable Firmware:
- Supports firmware updates via the optional “BLUELINK” system, a Bluetooth clip connector that enables wireless data transfer and ensures the device stays current with the latest features.
Strengths
- Comprehensive dive modes accommodate various diving preferences and skill levels.
- User-friendly interface with single-button operation simplifies device handling.
- Robust safety features, including clear alarms and indicators, promote safe diving practices.
- Upgradeable firmware ensures longevity and access to the latest functionalities.
Limitations
- Lacks advanced features such as air integration and a digital compass, which may be desired by more experienced divers.
- The optional “BLUELINK” system for Bluetooth connectivity is an additional purchase, not included with the device.
Score for Features and Functionality: 4.5/5
The Mares Puck Pro+ offers a well-rounded set of features tailored to meet the needs of beginner and recreational divers. Its combination of essential dive modes, safety alarms, and user-friendly operation makes it a reliable companion for underwater exploration.
Ease of Use
The Mares Puck Pro+ is designed with simplicity and functionality in mind, making it one of the most user-friendly dive computers available for beginner and recreational divers.
Key Features
- Single-Button Navigation:
- The intuitive one-button interface allows divers to scroll through menus, adjust settings, and access dive information quickly and efficiently, even underwater or while wearing gloves.
- Pre-Configured Dive Modes:
- Air, nitrox, and gauge modes are straightforward and easy to activate, minimizing setup time and ensuring divers can focus on their dive.
- Clear Menu Structure:
- Organized menus with logical progression simplify navigation, eliminating confusion for new users.
- On-Screen Prompts and Alerts:
- Visual prompts guide users during setup and dives, while audible alarms provide clear notifications for critical dive parameters like ascent rate or safety stops.
- Easy Battery Replacement:
- The user-replaceable battery ensures that maintenance is quick and hassle-free, even during multi-dive trips.
Strengths
- One-button operation streamlines usability, making it ideal for beginners and younger divers.
- Pre-configured modes and clear prompts reduce the learning curve.
- Audible and visual alerts keep divers informed of safety-critical information.
- Simple battery replacement ensures minimal downtime between dives.
Limitations
- Lack of multi-button navigation may feel limiting for divers accustomed to more advanced interfaces.
- Advanced features like customizable layouts or data screens are not available, which may deter experienced divers.
Score for Ease of Use: 5/5
The Mares Puck Pro+ excels in user-friendliness, offering an intuitive interface and clear operation that cater to divers of all levels, particularly those new to diving or seeking a straightforward dive computer.
Battery Performance
The Mares Puck Pro+ is equipped with a dependable power system designed to support consistent performance for recreational divers, making it an excellent choice for multi-day dive trips or casual use.
Key Features
- User-Replaceable Battery:
- Powered by a standard CR2450 lithium coin-cell battery, which can be easily replaced without professional servicing.
- Battery Life:
- Provides approximately 200-300 dives per battery, depending on dive frequency, mode usage, and settings such as backlight intensity.
- Low-Battery Indicator:
- A clear on-screen notification alerts divers when the battery is running low, ensuring timely replacement before the next dive.
- Energy Efficiency:
- Optimized power consumption ensures long-lasting performance, even with frequent use of the backlight and audible alarms.
Strengths
- Long-lasting battery life supports extended use without frequent replacements.
- User-replaceable battery design eliminates the need for downtime or professional assistance.
- The low-battery indicator ensures divers have sufficient warning to prepare for replacements.
Limitations
- CR2450 batteries, while widely available, require careful handling during replacement to maintain the device’s waterproof integrity.
- Lacks rechargeable battery options, which some users may prefer for environmental or convenience reasons.
Score for Battery Performance: 4.5/5
The Mares Puck Pro+ offers reliable and long-lasting battery performance, with the added convenience of a user-replaceable design. While it doesn’t include a rechargeable option, its efficiency and ease of maintenance make it a practical choice for recreational divers.
Value for Money
The Mares Puck Pro+ is a highly affordable dive computer that offers essential features and reliable performance, making it an excellent investment for beginner and recreational divers. Its combination of simplicity, durability, and functionality ensures long-term value without breaking the bank.
Why It’s Worth the Investment
- Affordable Price Point:
- Provides core dive modes, safety features, and a user-friendly interface at a cost significantly lower than premium dive computers.
- Durable and Long-Lasting:
- Built with high-quality materials, the Puck Pro+ is designed to withstand regular use and the rigors of diving, ensuring longevity.
- User-Friendly Design:
- Simple one-button operation and clear display make it ideal for beginners, minimizing the need for extensive training or advanced setup.
- Low Maintenance Costs:
- The user-replaceable battery and durable construction reduce ongoing costs, offering long-term affordability.
- Wide Appeal:
- Suitable for both recreational and beginner divers, the Puck Pro+ serves as a reliable entry-level option and a cost-effective backup for experienced divers.
Considerations
- Limited Advanced Features:
- Lacks air integration, trimix support, or wireless connectivity, which may limit its appeal to more experienced or technical divers.
- Optional Accessories:
- Features like Bluetooth connectivity via the BLUELINK system require additional purchases, which could increase the overall cost.
Score for Value for Money: 4.5/5
The Mares Puck Pro+ delivers excellent value for recreational divers and those new to diving. While it may not cater to the needs of technical divers, its affordability, durability, and ease of use make it a strong choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable performance.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordable Price: Provides essential dive computer features at a budget-friendly cost, making it accessible to beginners and recreational divers.
- User-Friendly Interface: One-button operation and intuitive menus ensure simple navigation, even for first-time users.
- Durable Construction: Built with tough thermoplastic materials and a scratch-resistant screen for long-term reliability.
- Essential Dive Modes: Supports air, nitrox (up to 99%), and gauge modes, meeting the needs of most recreational divers.
- Clear Display: High-contrast segmented LCD with large digits offers excellent readability underwater.
- Long Battery Life: The user-replaceable CR2450 battery supports approximately 200-300 dives, reducing maintenance downtime.
- Safety Alarms: Visual and audible alerts for critical parameters like ascent rate and no-decompression limits enhance dive safety.
- Compact Design: Slim and lightweight, ensuring a comfortable fit, especially for smaller wrists or younger divers.
Cons
- Lacks Advanced Features: Does not include air integration, trimix support, or a digital compass, which may limit its appeal to technical divers.
- Monochrome Display: While clear and functional, the screen lacks the vibrancy and customization options of full-color or AMOLED displays.
- Optional Accessories Required for Connectivity: Bluetooth syncing via the BLUELINK system requires a separate purchase, adding to the overall cost for those wanting wireless connectivity.
- Single-Button Navigation: While simple, some users may find it slower to operate compared to multi-button or touchscreen interfaces.
The Mares Puck Pro+ is a practical and reliable dive computer for recreational and beginner divers, offering strong safety features and ease of use at a competitive price. While it may lack advanced functionality, its affordability and simplicity make it a solid choice for those seeking an essential and durable dive companion.
Comparison
The Mares Puck Pro+ Dive Computer is a simple and affordable option for beginner and recreational divers, but how does it compare to more advanced models like the Suunto Ocean and the Garmin Descent MK2i?
While the Mares Puck Pro+ excels in ease of use, affordability, and essential dive functionality, the Suunto Ocean offers greater durability, pre-configured dive modes, and a user-friendly interface for recreational and advanced divers. Meanwhile, the Garmin Descent MK2i delivers unparalleled technical dive modes, air integration, GPS navigation, and multi-sport functionality, making it a premium choice for technical divers and adventurers.
For a detailed side-by-side comparison of these three dive computers, including their features, pricing, and best-use scenarios, visit our dedicated page:
Click here to compare – Mares Puck Pro+ vs. Suunto Ocean vs. Garmin Descent MK2i
Whether you’re a beginner diver looking for simplicity, a recreational diver valuing reliability, or a technical diver needing advanced features, this guide will help you find the dive computer that best fits your needs.
Overall Rating
The Mares Puck Pro+ is a dependable and affordable dive computer tailored to beginner and recreational divers seeking simplicity and essential features. Its user-friendly design, durability, and value make it an excellent entry-level choice, though it lacks advanced functionalities for technical diving.
Category | Score | Weight | Weighted Score |
---|---|---|---|
Design and Build | 4.5/5 | 0.15 | 0.675 |
Display and Readability | 4.5/5 | 0.20 | 0.90 |
Features and Functionality | 4.5/5 | 0.25 | 1.125 |
Ease of Use | 5.0/5 | 0.15 | 0.75 |
Battery Performance | 4.5/5 | 0.10 | 0.45 |
Value for Money | 4.5/5 | 0.15 | 0.675 |
Best For
- Beginner Divers: Offers essential features and user-friendly operation to simplify learning and diving safely.
- Recreational Divers: Provides reliability and durability for regular use without unnecessary complexity.
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Combines affordability with robust performance, making it ideal for cost-conscious divers.
Final Verdict: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)
The Mares Puck Pro+ is an excellent entry-level dive computer that balances simplicity, reliability, and affordability. While it lacks the advanced features needed for technical diving, it is a standout option for beginner and recreational divers looking for a durable and easy-to-use device.
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