Our comprehensive review of the Shearwater Perdix 2. Features a titanium housing, Bühlmann ZHL-16C algorithm, Trimix support, and air management for up to 4 probes. The ultimate dive computer?
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There are underwater situations where 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 becomes an indispensable companion, a guarantor of safety that calculates, anticipates, and guides you through the nuances of decompression.
The Shearwater Perdix 2, a modernized version of the renowned Perdix AI, embodies this philosophy. With its reinforced casing, aluminosilicate glass, and titanium buttons, it was designed 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 competitive offerings in the multi-gas dive computer market.
| Overall Score: 4.8/5 | Criterion | Score | What it means |
|---|---|---|---|
| Algorithm & decompression stops | 5.0/5 | Complete transparency and optimal safety with the customizable Bühlmann algorithm. | |
| Air & multi-gas | 4.6/5 | Absolute gas management, from Nitrox to Trimix, including a rebreather mode. | |
| Screen & ergonomics | 4.8/5 | Incredible readability and ease of use even with thick waterproof gloves. | |
| Battery life | 5.0/5 | The simplicity of a standard AA battery with massive 60-hour battery life. | |
| Connectivity & app | 5.0/5 | The Shearwater Cloud ecosystem remains the benchmark for reliability in the market. | |
| Compass & instruments | 5.0/5 | Integrated 3D digital compass, precise and responsive underwater. | |
| Robustness & depth | 4.2/5 | Certified to 260 meters, ready for the most demanding conditions. | |
| Price & customer service | 4.2/5 | A significant investment offset by a globally recognized customer service. |
This dive computer was reviewed by AquaExposure and Benjamin Coste.This computer is designed for: Technical divers (using Trimix or cave diving) and demanding recreational divers who prioritize maximum robustness and the ability to manage multiple air sensors.
This computer is not ideal for: Occasional divers who travel light and prefer a more discreet watch-style format for everyday use.
Important Note: Tek Diving and Rebreathers
The Perdix 2 is primarily intended for advanced applications (Trimix, CC/BO modes). We emphasize that using these functions requires specialized training (Tek certification, rebreather course) before any use, regardless of the excellent safety rating achieved by this device.
Transparency is a core value in technical diving. The Perdix 2's algorithm adheres to this principle, providing complete visibility into its calculations. The display is exceptionally clear, and the vibration alerts, available with certain battery types, 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 a high degree of customization in decompression management, adapting to the most diverse dive profiles. The real-time display of Total Ascent Time (TAT) and decompression limits is standard with Shearwater, ensuring safety and control. The integration of an internal vibration motor is a major advantage, particularly appreciated by divers who wear thick hoods, where audible alerts may be muffled.
This computer is a true gas management hub. Whether your exploration takes you diving with air, Nitrox, or Trimix, or if 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) and 5 gases in closed circuit (CC), offering maximum flexibility for complex gas configurations. It includes full Trimix support, allowing for safe deep dives. Its highly effective Gauge mode transforms it into a high-precision "bottom timer." While not directly included in the score, the air integration allows you to monitor up to 4 transmitters simultaneously, a valuable feature for managing multiple decompression bottles.### O3 Screen & Ergonomics (4.8/5)
The 2.2-inch LCD screen on 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 them becoming blocked by salt or sand, a common problem with less durable materials.
The two-button navigation system, characteristic of Shearwater, is remarkably efficient, even when wearing thick dry gloves. The screen features new aluminosilicate glass, which provides impact resistance far superior to that of previous generations, often equipped with plastic. This increased robustness ensures durability for an instrument subjected to the rigors of the underwater environment.
One of the major advantages of this model is its simple power source. The use of a standard AA battery, readily available in any supermarket around the world, is a real boon 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 provide 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 for maximizing the device's safety features.
In a world where data is king, a dive computer's ability to communicate and share information is essential. The Perdix 2 excels in this area, offering seamless connectivity and a robust application ecosystem.
Featuring native Bluetooth, it easily connects to the Shearwater Cloud app, a benchmark for reliability and user-friendliness. This app not only allows you to download and analyze your dive profiles but also updates the computer's firmware (Firmware OTA), ensuring that your device always benefits from the latest improvements and features. The open export of data is also a major advantage, giving users the freedom to use their preferred analysis software.
Its three-axis digital compass with tilt compensation offers exceptional accuracy and responsiveness, even in inclined positions. In addition to the compass, the computer displays water temperature and features a dedicated depth gauge mode, transforming the device into a complete and versatile navigation instrument – essential for complex dives or those in environments with limited visibility.
A dive computer is an investment that must withstand even the most extreme conditions. The Perdix 2 was designed with this in mind, offering exceptional robustness.
Certified to an impressive depth of 260 meters, it is ready to handle the most demanding dives. Its tempered aluminosilicate glass provides 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.
Shearwater is renowned for having an exceptional customer support system. The brand has regional centers staffed with experts who can handle repairs efficiently. Out-of-warranty replacements are documented and managed professionally. There are no known weaknesses regarding Shearwater's customer support, which provides peace of mind for divers investing in equipment of this value. The 2-year warranty, while standard, is backed by a responsive and competent network.
The Shearwater Perdix 2 is primarily aimed at demanding technical divers, 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 an excellent choice for those who do not compromise on safety and performance. It will also be suitable for very experienced recreational divers seeking absolute reliability, an intuitive interface, and the ability to manage multiple air sensors for maximum redundancy.However, this computer is not ideal for the occasional diver- someone who prioritizes the lightness and discreetness of a watch-style format for their travels. Its bulk 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 leisurely swims.
The power supply is often a crucial consideration for divers, especially during long cruises or extended expeditions. The Shearwater Perdix 2 excels in this area with its simplicity and efficiency, relying on a proven and universal solution.
It operates using a single 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 is 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 well-suited 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 to dive computer batteries. To learn how to change the battery yourself step by step without risking damage, read our complete tutorial on how to change your own dive computer battery.
While 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 powerful.
To compare this computer with other models, use our dive computer comparison tool.
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Technically yes, because its interface is intuitive, but its price and its Trimix and rebreather functions primarily target highly dedicated and technically advanced divers.
It is highly recommended to use a 1.5V lithium AA battery (such as an Energizer Ultimate Lithium) which provides up to 60 hours of dive time and activates the vibration alert.
It can connect simultaneously to up to 4 wireless Swift transmitters- which is ideal for managing the pressure of multiple decompression tanks.
