Complete review of the Mares Quad Air dive computer. Features a large segmented display, wireless air integration, and the RGBM algorithm. Technical analysis by AquaExposure.
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Learning to scuba dive often exposes students to a significant cognitive overload.
Ask any instructor what causes the most problems during initial dives.
The answer invariably revolves around the difficulty of reading and understanding information on a console that is being tossed around by the current.
A dive computer is not just a simple mathematical tool.
It's a vital interface that must translate your safety level in a fraction of a second.
Clarity, reliability, and ease of use should be immediately apparent without requiring any effort to interpret.
With the Mares Quad Air, the Italian manufacturer has taken its largest screen model and integrated wireless air management.
The goal is to offer such absolute readability that even water filled with particles no longer ruins the dive.
This test aims to determine if this segmented display giant remains relevant today.
We will analyze its capabilities in light of the arrival of color models and evaluate its RGBM algorithm.
| Overall score: 3.4/5 | Criterion | Score | What it means |
|---|---|---|---|
| Algorithm & Decompression Stops | 3.4/5 | Proprietary Mares-Wienke RGBM algorithm, solid but not customizable. | |
| Air & Multi-Gas | 2.5/5 | Three Nitrox gas settings ideal for recreational diving, but no Tek or Trimix functions. | |
| Screen & Ergonomics | 3.5/5 | Large segmented LCD screen, unbeatable contrast, operable with four large buttons. | |
| Battery Life | 3.7/5 | Excellent battery life thanks to a low-power display and an easily replaceable CR2450 battery. | |
| Connectivity & App | 3.0/5 | Reliable, but requires the purchase of an external interface to export dive logs. | |
| Compass & Instruments | 2.5/5 | No electronic compass, compensated by a good depth gauge mode. | |
| Durability & Depth Rating | 4.1/5 | Hardened plastics and scratch-resistant mineral glass, certified for depths up to 150 meters. | |
| Price & Customer Support | 4.1/5 | The comfort of a large screen with integrated air at a reasonable price, supported by Mares customer service. |
Decompression management relies on a proven system that won't let you down.
The Quad Air uses the proprietary Mares-Wienke RGBM algorithm, which utilizes ten tissue compartments.
This mathematical model is very safe for recreational diving.
However, it does not offer adjustment of Gradient Factors or the use of the Bühlmann ZH-L16C model.The display of decompression stops is very, very clear on the main screen.
The total ascent time and the depth of each stop are immediately identifiable.
The device triggers audible and visual alarms in case of a rapid ascent or violation of a decompression stop.
This computer will support your learning progression without any problems.
It will faithfully follow you towards the realm of light technical diving.
The device manages up to three different gases, whether it's air or Nitrox with oxygen concentrations from 21% to 99%.
This feature allows for easy planning of accelerated decompression stops.
However, it does not include any Trimix functions or a mode for closed-circuit rebreathers.
This is the real strength of the Quad range.
The screen is large and intelligently divides the space into three main sections.
This uncluttered layout ensures that the diver's eye never feels overwhelmed.
The segmented LCD panel measures over 2.2 inches diagonally.
Key information such as depth and tank pressure benefits from very large font sizes.
The four buttons located in the corners allow for very intuitive navigation.
You won't need to search through lengthy menus, even when wearing thick waterproof gloves.
The main advantage of the monochrome LCD screen is its extremely low power consumption.This technology saves you the hassle of daily battery recharges between dives.
The computer is powered by a CR2450 button cell battery that you can replace yourself.
The Quad Air offers approximately 150 dives on a single battery.
Using the wireless probe for air management will consume the battery slightly faster.
The data transfer system functions perfectly for everyday use.
However, it has a slight technological lag compared to newer models.
The dive log stores approximately 100 hours of dive profiles with sampling every five seconds.
The device does not include Bluetooth as standard in its housing.
To transfer your dives to the smartphone app, you will need to purchase an interface separately.
You can choose between the USB Dive Link 2 cable or the Bluelink Pro Bluetooth connector.
The device focuses exclusively on its primary function.
It manages air and decompression with remarkable efficiency.
Underwater navigation will therefore be done in the traditional way using a separate instrument.
The Quad Air does not have an integrated electronic compass.
However, it includes a depth gauge mode that is very useful for specific dive profiles.
This mode displays the resettable average depth and incorporates a precise timer.
It will perfectly resist impacts on boat decks or against rocks.
The computer features a tempered mineral glass that offers excellent abrasion resistance.
Superficial scratches are very well contained by this hardened material.
The maximum certified depth of use, according to the manufacturer, is 150 meters.
By offering air management on a screen of this size, Mares makes a strong statement.
The brand positions this model in a very competitive price segment.
The quality-price ratio is excellent for an integrated air computer of this format.
The density of the distribution network ensures quick support in case of hardware issues.
The Mares Quad Air is primarily aimed at recreational or club divers.
It will be the ideal companion for levels 1 to 3.
This is the perfect device for those who want all their data displayed on a single, large screen.
You will never have to squint again to read your decompression stops or your air reserve.
However, this computer is not ideal for advanced technical divers.
Those who want to modify their Bühlmann gradient factors will need to look elsewhere.
It is also not suitable for those seeking a modern color matrix display.
Mares' customer service evokes polarized opinions within the diving community.Some divers report that transactions are completed in as little as eight days.
Others mention occasional delays or some inflexibility regarding shipping costs.
The local reseller acts as a crucial intermediary between the manufacturer and the end customer.
The quality of your support will largely depend on the professionalism of the store where you purchased it.
The option to use user-replaceable batteries is a major advantage for travelers.
You can easily carry two spare CR2450 batteries in your emergency kit.
This approach ensures that you won't miss a dive due to a forgotten charger.
It's a very practical solution for long cruises where access to electricity may be limited.
The generous battery life of the LCD screen largely compensates for the lack of a rechargeable battery.
To find out which battery to buy for this computer, check out our complete guide on batteries for dive computers. To learn how to change it yourself step by step without risking damage, read our comprehensive tutorial on changing the battery yourself.
If you're looking for a more compact watch-style format for everyday use, the Mares Sirius is worth considering.You can find our detailed review on the page Test Mares Sirius: The dive computer offers Tek and recreational modes.
For those who prefer a high-definition color screen with a Bühlmann algorithm, the new model in this range is very interesting.
Feel free to consult our complete evaluation on the page Test of the Mares Quad Ci: The large color screen takes performance to the next level.
To compare this computer with other models, visit our dive computer comparison tool.
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The Quad Air features the same large screen format but adds the ability to connect to wireless transmitters, allowing you to display your tank pressure directly on the screen.
Yes, it allows you to configure up to 3 different gas mixtures (air and nitrox from 21% to 99%) for performing dives with accelerated decompression.
Yes, absolutely. It uses a standard CR2450 battery that can be replaced by the user, which is very convenient when traveling.
No, it is not a built-in feature. To transfer your dive data wirelessly to your smartphone, you need to purchase the optional Bluelink Pro interface.
