Shearwater Perdix 2 Test: The ultimate computer for technical diving.

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There are underwater situations where the clarity of information becomes an absolute necessity. When visibility is reduced on a deep wreck, or when the complexity of a technical dive requires precise management of each parameter, the dive computer goes beyond its role as a simple instrument. It transforms into an indispensable companion, a guarantor of safety that calculates, anticipates, and guides you through the nuances of decompression.

The Shearwater Perdix 2, a modernized successor to the renowned Perdix AI, embodies this philosophy. With its reinforced casing, aluminosilicate glass, and titanium buttons, it has been designed and engineered to meet the most extreme demands of cave and technical diving. This in-depth analysis aims to determine whether this investment, positioned in the high-end segment, fully justifies its value, and, above all, how it stands against increasingly fierce competition in the market for multi-gas dive computers.

Overall score: 4.8/5

This computer is designed for: Technical divers (using Trimix or cave diving techniques), or leisure divers who demand maximum robustness and the ability to manage multiple air sensors.

This computer is not ideal for: Occasional divers who travel light and want a more discreet watch-like form factor for everyday use.

Alert: Usage Tek and Recycler

The Perdix 2 is primarily designed for demanding applications (Trimix, CCR/BO modes). We remind users that the use of these functions requires very specific training (Tek certification, rebreather course) before any use, regardless of the excellent safety rating achieved by this device.

O1 Algorithm & Milestones (5.0/5)

Transparency is a core value in technical diving. The Perdix 2 algorithm adheres to this principle, offering complete visibility into its calculations. The display is exceptionally clear, and the vibration alerts, available with certain battery packs, effectively capture attention even in the most demanding environments.

The Perdix 2 is based on the Bühlmann ZHL-16C model and features fully adjustable Gradient Factors (GF). This flexibility allows for extensive customization of decompression management, adapting to a wide variety of dive profiles. The real-time display of Total Time in Ascent (TTS) and decompression limits is standard with Shearwater, ensuring safety and control. The integration of an internal vibrating motor is a major advantage, particularly appreciated by divers who wear thick hoods, where audible alerts may be muffled.

O2 Air & Multi-Gas (4.6/5)

This computer is a true gas management hub. Whether your diving takes you to air, Nitrox, or Trimix depths, or whether you need a reliable backup computer for your rebreather, the Perdix 2 demonstrates unparalleled versatility. It can do everything with surprising ease.

The device accurately manages up to 5 gases in open-circuit (OC) mode and 5 gases in closed-circuit (CC) mode, offering maximum flexibility for complex gas configurations. It includes full Trimix support, allowing for safe deep dives. Its highly performant Gauge mode transforms it into a high-precision "bottom timer." The air integration feature, although not directly included in the score, allows tracking up to 4 transmitters simultaneously, a valuable function for managing multiple decompression bottles.

O3 Screen & Ergonomics (4.8/5)

The 2.2-inch LCD screen of the Perdix 2 is both vibrant and large, offering exceptional readability in all conditions. Replacing the old plastic buttons with piezoelectric titanium buttons is a significant improvement, eliminating the risk of blockage by salt or sand, a recurring problem with less noble materials.

The two-button navigation system, a Shearwater hallmark, is remarkably efficient, even when using thick gloves. The screen features new aluminosilicate glass, which provides significantly better impact resistance than previous generations, often equipped with plastic. This increased robustness ensures durability for an instrument subjected to the rigors of the underwater environment.

O4 Battery Life & Power Source (5.0/5)

One of the major advantages of this model lies in its simple power source. The use of a standard AA battery, which can be found in any supermarket around the world, is a real blessing for traveling divers. No more desperate searches for specific batteries in remote locations.

Powered by a user-replaceable AA battery, the Perdix 2 offers impressive battery life. With a 1.5V Lithium battery (Energizer Ultimate type), it can achieve up to 60 hours of dive time. For those seeking even greater endurance, a specific Saft LS14500 battery can extend this runtime to up to 100 hours. Only lithium batteries support the vibration alert function, a detail to consider to maximize the device's safety features.

O5 Connectivity & App (5.0/5)

In a world where data is king, the ability of a dive computer to communicate and share information is paramount. The Perdix 2 excels in this area, offering seamless connectivity and a robust application ecosystem.

Equipped with native Bluetooth, it easily connects to the Shearwater Cloud application, a benchmark for reliability and user-friendliness. This application not only allows you to download and analyze your dive profiles, but also updates the computer's firmware (OTA firmware), ensuring that your device always benefits from the latest improvements and features. The open export of data is also a major advantage, offering users the freedom to use their preferred analysis software.

O6 Compass & Instruments (5.0/5)

Underwater navigation requires precision and reliability. The Perdix 2 incorporates a digital compass that meets these requirements with remarkable efficiency.

Its digital 3-axis compass with tilt compensation offers exceptional precision and responsiveness, even in inclined positions. In addition to the compass, the computer displays water temperature and offers a dedicated depth gauge/gauge mode, transforming the device into a complete and versatile navigation instrument, essential for complex dives or in environments with limited visibility.

O7 Robustness & Depth (4.2/5)

A dive computer is an investment that must withstand the most extreme conditions. The Perdix 2 was designed with this in mind, featuring exceptional robustness.

Certified up to an impressive depth of 260 meters, it is ready to handle the most demanding dives. Its tempered aluminosilicate glass offers superior impact resistance, protecting the screen from accidental impacts. Although the manufacturer's CE marking is 3.5, the overall design of the device inspires confidence and positions it as a reliable tool for even the harshest underwater environments.

O8 Price & Customer Support (4.2/5)

The Shearwater Perdix 2 represents a significant investment, with a price observed around €1220. This pricing places it clearly in the premium segment of the market. However, this investment is justified by the quality of manufacture, the features offered, and, above all, by the reputation of its after-sales service.

Shearwater is renowned for its exceptional customer service. The brand has regional centers staffed by experts who can handle repairs with great efficiency. Out-of-warranty replacements are documented and managed professionally. There are no known weaknesses in Shearwater's customer support, which provides peace of mind for divers investing in equipment of this value. The 2-year warranty, although standard, is backed by a responsive and competent network.

The Shearwater Perdix 2 is primarily designed for the demanding technical diver, whether they are experienced with Trimix, underwater cave diving, or dives using rebreathers. Its ability to manage multiple gases, its robustness, and its readability make it a top choice for those who do not compromise on safety and performance. It will also be suitable for very experienced recreational divers who seek absolute reliability, an intuitive interface, and the management of multiple air sensors for maximum redundancy.

On the other hand, this computer is not ideal for occasional divers who prioritize the lightness and discreetness of a watch-style format for their travels. Its size and high price would be excessive for simple recreational use. It is a work tool, a companion for exploration on complex missions, and not a wrist gadget for Sunday swims.

The issue of nutrition is often a crucial point for divers, especially during long cruises or extended expeditions. The Shearwater Perdix 2 excels in its simplicity and efficiency in this area, relying on a proven and universal solution.

It operates with a simple AA battery, which is a significant advantage. This accessibility means you can find a replacement battery in almost any store around the world, eliminating the stress of searching for proprietary batteries. For maximum battery life and to enable vibration alerts, it's recommended to use 1.5V Lithium AA batteries, such as the Energizer Ultimate Lithium, which offers up to 60 hours of dive time. This flexibility makes the Perdix 2 particularly suitable for travel and situations where access to specific charging sources is limited.

To find out which battery to buy for this computer, check out our complete guide on batteries for dive computers. To learn how to replace the battery yourself step by step without risking damage, read our complete tutorial on how to change your own battery.

If the Perdix 2 represents the pinnacle of technology for technical diving, Shearwater also offers other models suitable for different types of divers. For a more recreational approach, but still with the quality and reliability of Shearwater, the Shearwater Peregrine offers an excellent alternative, simplified yet high-performing.

To compare this computer with other models, see our diving computer comparison tool.

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