Mares Matrix Review- The matrix display for improved navigation.

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The evolution of our diving equipment often follows predictable cycles where manufacturers refine existing concepts without truly revolutionizing our underwater experiences.

We become accustomed to reading basic digital information on small screens that drastically limit the clarity of displayed data during our decompression stops.

However, the interface that calculates our saturation and dictates our safety for each dive deserves special attention from designers.

The Mares Matrix embodies this desire to offer a different way of viewing our vital parameters to improve our understanding of the environment.

By integrating a high-resolution dot matrix display into a compact metal housing, the Italian manufacturer sought to redefine the dive computer watch.

This device replaces the traditional button battery with a rechargeable battery and features an advanced electronic compass to facilitate navigation.

This technical analysis, based on the manufacturer's specifications and documented feedback from the community, aims to determine whether this model, equipped with the RGBM algorithm, remains a relevant choice in light of the wave of new color screens.Diving is a discipline that demands rigor, method, and perfect mastery of your measuring instruments.

Overall Score: 3.6/5

Algorithm and Decompression Stops

Decompression management is the core function of any dive computer that aims to ensure your safety.Before even looking at the design or additional features, it's crucial to understand the mathematical logic that will determine your bottom time.

The Matrix relies on a classic mechanism from the Italian manufacturer, known for its reliability among the general public for many years.

This device uses Mares-Wienke's proprietary RGBM algorithm, which is based on ten distinct tissue models to simulate gas absorption and release.

This mathematical model seamlessly integrates the management of configurable deep stops to smooth the ascent to the surface and limit the formation of micro-bubbles.

However, it does not allow for free adjustment of Gradient Factors, unlike a Bühlmann ZH-L16C model, which offers complete flexibility.

This closed approach limits customization options for highly demanding technical divers who like to fine-tune their decompression profile based on their physiology.

The device remains very clear about alarms for uncontrolled ascents or excessive saturation that could occur during a poorly planned dive.

It automatically adjusts to altitudes up to 3700 meters, ensuring your dives in mountain lakes without complex menu navigation.

Rigour, caution, and consistency are the key principles of this algorithm, which prioritizes safety above all else for recreational divers.

Air and Multi-GasAchieving independence in diving often involves using oxygen-rich gas mixtures to optimize decompression and reduce post-dive fatigue.

Understanding how a dive computer manages these gas transitions is crucial for planning more advanced dives with an adequate safety margin.

This computer is perfectly suited for accompanying your first enriched air dives, featuring a clear interface that minimizes the risk of errors.

It can manage up to three gases simultaneously, covering Air and Nitrox from 21% to 99% oxygen content for accelerated decompression stops.

Switching between gases during a dive is done very logically using the four buttons on the metal casing, which are conveniently located under your fingers.

However, there is no Trimix mode or rebreather management available in the device's menus, as it remains focused on traditional open-circuit diving.

It also lacks wireless air integration, meaning it does not communicate with any pressure sensors connected to the first stage of your regulator.

Therefore, you will need to continue monitoring your air supply using a traditional mechanical pressure gauge connected to your regulator via a high-pressure hose.

The absence of wireless air integration is a design choice that simplifies the electronics but requires constant manual checking of your air consumption.

Display and ErgonomicsThe display is undoubtedly the standout feature of this device, setting it apart from the usual standards in the dive watch market.

Forget the large, square digits of traditional segmented displays that limit the presentation of complex data and create a rigid user interface.

The full-matrix display, approximately 30x30 millimeters, offers excellent contrast with a color inversion mode that is very useful during night dives.

It is readable from all angles thanks to its high-quality mineral glass, which prevents unwanted reflections from the sun near the surface.

A rare feature for this type of watch, the computer displays your dive profile graph in real time during your underwater excursion.

This detailed representation of your dive's topography provides a very valuable visual aid underwater, allowing you to anticipate your decompression stops.

The four-button navigation is intuitive and has been praised as excellent by numerous testers who have used it under various visibility conditions.

The interface offers such clear readability that even with thick gloves, checking the settings remains effortless for the equipped diver.

The ergonomics were designed to minimize the cognitive load on the diver when they need to make quick decisions in response to an unexpected event underwater.

Battery Life and Power SourcePower management is a constant concern for divers who frequently travel to remote locations far from modern infrastructure and power outlets.

If you are tired of going to a watchmaker to have your dive computer serviced and the battery replaced, this model offers a practical solution.

The Matrix features an internal rechargeable lithium-ion polymer battery that can be charged via a standard wall outlet or USB port, which is commonly available today.

In pure dive mode, the battery life is approximately ten to fifteen hours, depending on usage conditions and water temperature.

A deep sleep mode helps conserve energy between long trips, preventing complete discharge that could damage the battery cells.

While recharging from a power outlet is an excellent solution, this battery life will require daily attention from the traveling diver.

During intensive cruises with three or four dives per day, you will need to plug it in regularly in your cabin to avoid running out of power.

Planning ahead, checking the battery level, and maintaining discipline are essential to avoid ending up with a blank screen when it's time to enter the water.

Connectivity and App

Saving our dive profiles is crucial for analyzing our diving technique and making technical progress over the years of underwater exploration.The watch features a comprehensive logbook that stores up to thirty-six hours of detailed dive profiles in its internal memory before overwriting the oldest data.

High-precision sampling records your parameters every five seconds, allowing for a detailed analysis of your underwater behavior and ascent rate.

However, this device requires an older-style transfer method to connect with the era of smartphones and connected applications that dominate the current market.

Due to the lack of a built-in Bluetooth module, downloading the dive data to the software is exclusively done via the interface cable provided in the original packaging.

Firmware updates also require this proprietary wired connection to a PC or Mac, which necessitates installing the appropriate drivers.

This hardware limitation requires a bit of patience when you return home, as it takes time to properly archive your dives in your digital dive log.

The dedicated software then allows you to view the graphs with remarkable precision, helping you understand your depth variations and optimize your buoyancy.

Compass and Instruments

Underwater navigation requires reliable instruments that won't fail you in murky conditions or complex environments where visual references disappear.The integrated digital navigation system is remarkably precise for a device the size of a dress watch, designed for everyday wear.

It features a comprehensive digital compass with extremely stable tilt compensation, which minimizes errors caused by arm movement during finning.

This 3D compass includes a heading memory function that greatly simplifies returning to the boat after extended explorations on steep drop-offs.

In addition, a chronograph mode is very useful for managing specific decompression stops or orientation exercises during training dives.

A depth gauge mode displays the average depth and can be reset, making it suitable for divers who use dive tables or planned decompression and calculate their own profiles.

These additional features transform the watch into a true miniature dashboard that centralizes all navigation data on your wrist.

Robustness and Depth Rating

The marine environment is harsh on precision electronics that are not properly protected from pressure, salt, and ambient corrosion.

Despite its urban design, this computer is a robust device capable of reaching great depths without suffering any deformation.

The elegant metal casing protects proven electronics designed for depths of 150 meters, withstanding the immense pressure of deep dives.The tempered mineral glass provides a high level of scratch resistance, which is essential when diving on wrecks or rocky areas.

The device also features an exclusive menu that displays your emergency medical information in case of an incident requiring immediate assistance.

This exceptional durability ensures a long lifespan, even when exposed to the corrosive effects of salt and tropical sunlight, which can prematurely damage diving equipment.

The robust mechanical design inspires confidence, especially when conditions deteriorate underwater and equipment is subjected to extreme stress.

Price and Customer Service

Investing in a dive computer should be considered a long-term investment, taking into account the quality of after-sales service offered by the manufacturer.

Initially priced around €610, this high-end model retains a strong value on the second-hand market thanks to its legendary durability.

The build quality of its housing justifies the continued interest from experienced divers who seek durable equipment capable of withstanding impacts.

Regarding after-sales service, the Mares European network has mixed reviews within the diving community, as users share their experiences.

Some users report quick turnaround times of eight days for issues covered under warranty by the brand's qualified technicians.Other users have reported delays or some rigidity in processing shipping costs for returns to the workshop for complex repairs.

The local reseller plays a vital role and is crucial for ensuring smooth handling of your faulty equipment.

Choosing a dive computer should precisely match your actual diving activities, not unrealistic fantasies of exploring distant locations that may never materialize.

This model is ideal for regular divers from Level 2 to 4 who are looking for a true everyday watch capable of accompanying them underwater.

It will delight those who want a powerful digital compass and the ability to display their dive profiles in real-time on a matrix screen.

Its matrix readability will appeal to experienced Nitrox divers due to its intuitive ability to manage three gases during decompression stops.

However, this computer is not ideal for divers who are going on a safari without easy access to electricity to recharge its battery.

Its limited battery life of about ten hours will quickly become a major constraint on cruises in remote locations far from power outlets and generators.

It is also not suitable for technical deep divers who require the Bühlmann model or the use of Trimix for their decompression dives that exceed recreational limits.

Mares' customer service receives mixed feedback from European users who have had to use it for repairs.

Opinions are divided between very quick resolutions and more complex processes that require patience and perseverance.

Some divers experience turnaround times of eight business days when the problem is clearly identified by the Italian brand's technicians.

Other users report processing delays or administrative inflexibility regarding shipping costs for sending equipment to repair centers.

In this context, the retailer acts as a crucial intermediary between the brand and the end-user diver who is waiting to receive their computer back so they can dive again.

The quality of your relationship with your local dive shop will largely determine the effectiveness of support in case of technical issues requiring return to the factory.

The power source of our computer often dictates our preparation routine before entering the water for a new exploration of the underwater world.

Choosing a rechargeable lithium-ion polymer battery significantly changes the diver's field workflow compared to using disposable batteries that are replaced once a year.You'll need to get into the habit of regularly recharging the device, at least every two or three days during dive safaris, to avoid unpleasant surprises.

This structural limitation restricts underwater time to approximately ten hours per charge, requiring strict discipline to prevent battery failure mid-dive.

Recharging via a wall outlet or USB port remains very convenient when you have access to an electrical outlet in your hotel room or cabin.

The deep sleep mode helps conserve energy between dives, but it doesn't eliminate the need for a thorough check before heading to the dive center.

Organization, rigor, and method are key to managing this limited autonomy during your intensive stays in tropical regions.

The Mares ecosystem offers other alternatives that might better suit your specific needs regarding decompression and user interface.

If you're looking for a larger color screen with a modern interface, you can check out our review of the Mares Genius, which offers exceptional readability.

For tech enthusiasts who want to benefit from Bühlmann's Gradient Factors in a watch format, the Mares Sirius represents a logical and high-performance evolution.Beginner divers who prefer a large, highly readable segmented screen should consider the Mares Quad, which remains an essential choice for your first dives.

Having a real-time graph of your dive displayed on a matrix screen is undoubtedly a valuable asset for visualizing your profile.

However, understanding why the computer extends your decompression stops during irregular ascents is a fundamental skill for your safety.

To unlock the secrets of the RGBM model and master the subtleties of decompression, join our specialized module on desaturation through the AquaExposure Training.

Also, learn how to effectively use your dive computer compass in real-world conditions so you never get lost again on a complex site.

Learn the strict rules for planning gas changes to approach your Nitrox dives with complete peace of mind.

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

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