Shearwater Showdown: Teric, Peregrine & Perdix Dive Computers Compared [2024]
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This Shearwater Showdown is by world-expert marine biologist, Dr Simon Pierce, co-founder of the Marine Megafauna Foundation where he leads the Global Whale Shark Program. Simon is also an award-winning underwater photographer and has done thousands of dives across the world.
As a whale shark biologist and underwater photographer, I’ve relied on my dive computer to keep me safe and informed underwater over thousands of dives. My personal favorite are Shearwater computers, so the Shearwater Teric, Perdix 2, and Peregrine dominate my Top Dive Computers guide – they’ve earned my, and many other people’s trust over the years.
These three models are the most popular in the Shearwater range, but which one is best for you? Read on, gentle reader, as we dive deep into computer geekdom.
In a nutshell: The Shearwater Perdix 2 is popular amongst tech divers for its big, easy-to-read screen and full tech capabilities. The Shearwater Teric has all the tech wizardy of the Perdix, but in a stylish wrist-watch form making it's a great choice for dive professionals who need to wear their computers all day. The Shearwater Peregrine takes the recreational features of the Perdix and puts them in an easy to use, affordable, highly capable package, though it doesn't have air integration like the Teric and Perdix.
Discovering Your Ideal Shearwater
Here's the best Shearwater for various types of divers:
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The Shearwater Peregrine Dive Computer is the best Shearwater for everyday, recreational divers.
It has a fantastic full colour screen with big, clear, easy-to-read text. The user interface is a breeze to use even for beginner divers, yet this computer has features you can grow into like Advanced Nitrox. It’s not air integrated though – sad face.
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If you’re an advanced diver and like to wear your computer as a watch between dives, get the Shearwater Teric Dive Computer.
It's got all the tech features of the Perdix 2, but in a wrist-friendly package. If you want a larger screen and improved battery life, you’ll be better served by the Peregrine or Perdix 2.
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As an underwater photographer myself, the Shearwater Perdix 2 Dive Computer is my preferred choice.
The big screen, air integration, and dual straps mean I can strap the computer to my strobe arm to keep all my essential info in clear view.
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The Shearwater Perdix 2 Dive Computer has reached legendary status amongst tech divers.
If you want a watch-style computer, the Teric will presumably be your go-to. Both are fully customizable, support multiple gases, are air integrated, and are built to last. Honestly, though, I don’t know much about tech diving, so definitely dive into the specs!
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The Shearwater Teric Dive Computer, with its watch-style design, is perfect for dive instructors and pros.
With all the prowess of the Perdix 2, and the bonus that you can wear the Teric as a watch between dives. It looks awesome, and it’s streamline design is less likely to get caught while you’re gearing up or demonstrating.
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The Shearwater Teric Dive Computer’s dedicated freediving mode is the ticket here for freedivers.
It's got a streamlined, compact wristwatch form and full-color AMOLED screen. Plus, it tracks freediving depth, surface intervals, recovery times, and more. However, the Teric has been out for a while now – it doesn’t compete on ‘smart’ features with the Garmin Descent range.
Shearwaters side-by-side comparison
Peregrine vs Teric
Everyday diving or advanced needs?
If you're a recreational diver who needs something reliable and user-friendly, the Shearwater Peregrine has got you covered and comes in around US$500. With a bright LCD display, an easy-to-use interface, and a simplified mode for recreational diving, it's got all the essentials you need.
On the other hand, the Shearwater Teric is around US$1,200 mark. It’s built for the more demanding divers who prefer a wristwatch-style computer that they can wear between dives, and comes with air integration. It's a more sophisticated and versatile device, but with that comes a much higher price tag.
So, if you don't mind the absence of air integration, and you're just looking for something dependable and more wallet-friendly, then the Peregrine is your best bet.
Peregrine vs Perdix 2
Simplicity or adv. features?
The Shearwater Peregrine is like the baby brother to the Perdix 2. It's great for recreational divers who want a no-fuss dive computer with a clear screen.
But, if you're a diver who craves more features, then the Shearwater Perdix 2 is the way to go. It's basically the Peregrine on steroids, loaded with all the bells and whistles including air integration. It's also got a larger screen, making it super easy to read your dive data. I mean, personally, I'm a fan of the user-replaceable battery on the Perdix 2. Charging your device every night during dive trips can be a drag.
So, in the end, if you're fine with checking your gauge now and then and don't mind the lack of advanced features, the Peregrine could save you a fair bit of cash.
Perdix 2 vs Teric
Watch-style or slate-style?
Now, the Perdix 2 and the Shearwater Teric are both top-notch computers with awesome tech diving capabilities and bright screens. The main difference lies in the style.
The Teric is a watch-style computer that you can wear between dives, while the Perdix 2 is a slate-style device meant only for diving. Its larger screen gives you bigger, easier-to-read text, which can be a major plus. The user-replaceable battery on the Perdix 2 might win you over, especially if you're on longer dive trips.
So, if you prefer a watch-style computer, then the Teric is your perfect match. But if you value a larger display and a battery you can replace yourself, the Perdix 2 takes the cake.
Shearwater’s main features compared
Below are the key make-or-break features most people look at when buying a Shearwater:
Shearwater Peregrine
For everyday divers who don’t need a wristwatch.
Price: Around US$500
Ease-of-use: 5/5
Air Integrated: No
Screen: LCD, LED backlight
Watch Mode: No
Freediving Mode: No
Tech Modes: No
Bluetooth: Yes
Gases: Air, Nitrox
Shearwater Teric
For advanced divers and dive professionals.
Price: Around US$1,200
Ease-of-use: 5/5
Air Integrated: Yes, transmitter sold separately.
Screen: Color AMOLED
Watch Mode: Yes
Freediving Mode: Yes
Tech Modes: Yes
Bluetooth: Yes
Gases: Air, Nitrox
Shearwater Perdix 2
For UW photographers, advanced and tech divers.
Price: Around US$1,200
Ease-of-use: 5/5
Air Integrated: Yes, transmitter sold separately.
Screen: LCD, LED backlight
Watch Mode: No
Freediving Mode: No
Tech Modes: Yes
Bluetooth: Yes
Gases: Air, Nitrox
Shearwater Dive Computers Full Details
Shearwater Peregrine Dive Computer
✓ For everyday recreational divers
✓ Cheapest Shearwater
✓ Big, bright screen
✓ Easy to use, even for beginners
✗ No Air Integration
✗ No Freedive Mode
The Shearwater Peregrine is by far the most popular Shearwater due to its price accessibility. It’s perfect for everyday recreational divers that want simplicity and ease-of-use – all the Shearwater goodness at a mid-range price. There’s no air-integration though. Sad face.
Shearwater Peregrine Dive Computer: The Basics
Shearwater Peregrine Dive Computer is a user-friendly dive computer with a 2.2" LED colour screen that's bright and easy to read underwater. It's designed to fit into your dives seamlessly with an intuitive two-button navigation system and wireless charging. The battery life's pretty solid, around 30 hours on medium brightness. Plus, it stores about 200 hours of dives in its log and connects to the Shearwater app via Bluetooth.
Great Features for Experienced Divers
The Peregrine is not just for beginners, it's got some neat features for the more experienced divers too. It has a 3-Gas Nitrox mode, customizable display, and supports decompression diving. Unlike some other algorithms, it won't lock you out.
Things to Consider
Just like any technology, it's got its drawbacks. The Peregrine doesn't have air integration like the Teric and Perdix 2, and there's no freediving mode like the Teric. And while the screen is nice and big, it's not designed to be worn as a wristwatch between dives like you can with the Teric. Lastly, it's still hooked on the old micro-USB cable for charging.
In a Nutshell
Compared to traditional 'entry-level' dive computers, the Peregrine is quite advanced, yet remains user-friendly even for beginners. If you're after air integration (or think you’ll grow into in the future) check out the Teric or Perdix 2. If you’re after a watch-style computer to wear between dives, get the Teric.
Want more details? Check out our full Shearwater Peregrine review.
Shearwater Perdix 2 Dive Computer
✓ For tech and advanced divers, and UW photographers
✓ Air Integrated
✓ Big, bright screen
✓ Easy to use, even for beginners
✗ No Freedive Mode
Loved by tech divers, UW photographers, and anyone that wants a large screen and air integration (like me!) Also popular amongst older divers who are losing their eye sight (also, like me)
Shearwater Perdix 2 Dive Computer: The Rundown
The Shearwater Perdix 2 is the top dog in dive computers for 2024. It's a user-friendly device, whether you're a beginner or an advanced rebreather diver. It comes with a large, clear 2.2" screen that's easy to read underwater, and it's got a two-button navigation system that even works in a rocking boat. The battery life is amazing - you can get around 40 to 100 hours of diving per battery, depending on the type of AA battery you use and whether or not you're using air integration.
Great Features for Experienced Divers
The Perdix 2 isn't just easy to use, it's a tech diver's dream. It supports multiple tanks and trimix, has customizable conservatism levels, and uses the Bühlmann ZHL16-C dive algorithm. Plus, it stores about 1,000 hours of dives in its log and connects to the Shearwater app via Bluetooth.
Some Things to Think About
Even the best gear has its drawbacks. The Perdix 2 isn't designed to be worn as a wristwatch between dives and comes with a bungee cord and clips instead of a conventional strap. Also, keep in mind you'll be paying for all the features it comes with, even if you don't use them all.
In a Nutshell
The Shearwater Perdix 2 is an all-rounder - easy to use for beginners and packed with features for advanced divers. If you're after a watch-style computer or want something less techy, it might not be your thing.
Want more? Check out my full Shearwater Perdix 2 review.
Shearwater Teric Dive Computer
✓ For adv. divers and dive professionals
✓ Air-Integrated
✓ Bright screen
✓ Easy to use, even for beginners
✓ Freediving Mode
✗ Smaller round screen
Perfect for any advanced diver that wants a watch-style dive computer with all the features, including freediving modes.
Shearwater Teric Dive Computer: The Quick Look
The Shearwater Teric is a top-of-the-line, watch-style dive computer that's winning folks over left and right. Got tech-diving chops? Great, it has the loaded feature set of the Perdix 2, in a beautiful full-color AMOLED watch style form. A newbie? No worries, the Teric is super easy to use. And as a bonus, you can wear it like a regular watch when you're not diving.
What I love
This little beast lets you show off your style with interchangeable strap colors and customizable watch faces. Built like a tank with scratch-proof sapphire crystal glass, it's ready for whatever your dives throw at it. It's got all the tech you need, supporting trimix and closed-circuit rebreathers. The air integration is a killer feature, giving you your tank pressure straight on the computer when paired with the Swift transmitter. And it vibrates for alerts so you won't miss those important warnings.
Great for Beginners
The Teric is super newbie-friendly. The buttons are clearly labeled and easy to navigate. The screen is bright and clear, even underwater. And the battery? It runs for over 30 hours in dive mode and charges wirelessly. You can even download all your dive data onto the Shearwater app thanks to its Bluetooth.
Few Things to Keep in Mind
The Teric isn't perfect. It doesn't have smartwatch features and GPS like the Garmin, and it's a bit chunky if you compare it to a regular watch. It connects with two transmitters, but that might not be enough for some tech divers. Also, the vibration alerts could be hard to feel through a thick wetsuit, and the buttons might gather some salt crystals - but a good soak can fix that. Its smaller rounded screen also means you don’t fit as much information on a single-screen layout as you can on the Peregrine or Perdix 2.
The Bottom Line
The Shearwater Teric is a fantastic dive computer whether you're just starting out or you've got a ton of dives under your belt.
Check out our detailed Teric review for all the nitty-gritty.
Feature Comparison of Shearwater Dive Computers
If you’re like me, you probably have very specific requirements – you don’t want to out-grow your computer for at least a few years. I’ve summarized a bunch of feature comparisons for you here. You’re welcome.
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Peregrine: Not Available
The Shearwater Peregrine doesn’t offer air integration, making it a more basic and affordable option for recreational divers who don't require this advanced feature. The Shearwater website states that “Shearwater has no plans to add air integration to the Peregrine currently,” so don’t hold your breath. (Because that’s against PADI standards :P)
Perdix 2 and Teric: Wireless Air Integration
Both the Shearwater Perdix 2 and Teric offer wireless air integration, allowing divers to monitor their tank pressure and air consumption directly on their dive computer. This added feature enhances dive safety and convenience for tech divers. Both the Shearwater Perdix 2 and Teric support connectivity with up to four transmitters, allowing divers to monitor multiple tank pressures simultaneously. This feature is especially useful for tech divers who require advanced gas management capabilities during their dives.
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Screen Resolution
The Display Differences: The Shearwater Peregrine and Perdix 2 both feature a 320 x 240 screen resolution, while the Teric boasts a higher resolution of 400 x 400. This difference in resolution affects the sharpness and clarity of the dive data displayed on each computer.
Display Type
LCD vs. AMOLED: The Peregrine and Perdix 2 use an LCD with LED backlight, providing good visibility in various lighting conditions. The Teric, on the other hand, features a full-color AMOLED display, offering vibrant colors and exceptional contrast for enhanced readability.
Display Size
Finding the Perfect Fit: The display size varies among the three dive computers, with the Peregrine and Perdix 2 having a 2.2-inch screen, while the Teric has a slightly smaller 1.39-inch screen. The ideal display size depends on the diver's personal preference, balancing visibility and overall computer dimensions.
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Peregrine and Perdix 2: Vibration Only Alerts
Both the Shearwater Peregrine and Perdix 2 feature vibration-only alerts for dive safety notifications. This type of alert can be helpful in noisy environments or for divers who have hearing impairments.
Teric: Dual Alert System
The Shearwater Teric stands out with its dual alert system, offering both vibration and audible alarms. This ensures that divers receive essential safety alerts regardless of their preferences or environmental conditions.
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Peregrine: Rechargeable Li-ion Battery
The Shearwater Peregrine features a rechargeable Li-ion battery, with a battery life of up to 30 hours on medium brightness. This rechargeable option offers convenience and reduces waste from disposable batteries.
🏆 Perdix 2: Versatile Battery Options
The Perdix 2 stands out for its versatile battery options, accepting a single AA battery of any type. Battery life varies depending on the battery type used, with up to 60 hours (Lithium 1.5V), 40 hours (AA Alkaline), or 100 hours (Saft LS14500). Air integration (AI) enabled models may experience shorter battery life.
Teric: Dual Functionality Battery Life
The Shearwater Teric also features a rechargeable Li-ion battery, with up to 30 hours of battery life in dive mode and up to 50 hours in watch mode. This dual functionality provides divers with a versatile and energy-efficient option.
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Peregrine: Basic and Essential Modes
The Shearwater Peregrine comes with four essential dive modes: Air, Nitrox (up to 40%), 3 Gas Nitrox (up to 100% O2), and Gauge. These modes cover the needs of most recreational divers, making it a practical choice for those who require basic functionality.
Perdix 2: Comprehensive Diving Options
The Shearwater Perdix 2 offers a more extensive range of dive modes, including Air, Nitrox, 3 Gas Nitrox, OC Tec (Trimix enabled), CC/BO (fixed PPO2), and Gauge. These options cater to both recreational and technical divers, providing them with the flexibility to tackle various diving scenarios.
Teric: Versatile Modes for Recreational and Technical Diver
The Shearwater Teric boasts an impressive array of dive modes, including OC Rec (Air, Nitrox, 3 Gas Nitrox), OC Tec (Trimix enabled), CC/BO (fixed PPO2), Freediving, and Gauge. This versatility makes the Teric an excellent choice for divers who engage in a variety of diving activities, from recreational to technical and even freediving.
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Peregrine: A Solid Choice for Air and Nitrox Divers
The Shearwater Peregrine supports three open circuit gases, making it ideal for divers who primarily use Air and Nitrox. While it may not offer the same level of gas management flexibility as the Perdix 2 and Teric, the Peregrine is still a reliable and straightforward option for recreational divers.
Perdix 2 and Teric: Increased Flexibility for Technical Diving
Both the Shearwater Perdix 2 and Teric support five open circuit and closed circuit gases, offering advanced divers more flexibility in gas management. This increased capability makes these dive computers particularly well-suited for technical diving scenarios.
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Consistency Across the Board: ZHL16-C with Optional VPM/DCIEM
All three Shearwater dive computers – the Peregrine, Perdix 2, and Teric – use the ZHL16-C algorithm, with optional VPM and DCIEM upgrades. The ZHL16-C algorithm offers numerous benefits for divers. Its versatility and customization options cater to divers' specific needs and preferences, ensuring a personalized and optimized diving experience. With a proven track record of reliability, the ZHL16-C algorithm instills confidence in divers regarding the accuracy and safety of their dive profiles. Additionally, the algorithm's adaptability accommodates a wide range of diving profiles, from recreational to technical and mixed-gas dives. The consistency of this algorithm across Shearwater models ensures a seamless transition between devices and fosters familiarity, ultimately enhancing the overall user experience.
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Compact Convenience: Peregrine
The Shearwater Peregrine has dimensions of 77mm x 68mm x 25mm (3.09” x 2.67” x 0.98”) and a weight of 122g (4.32 oz). Its compact design makes it a convenient option for divers who prefer a smaller dive computer without compromising on functionality.
Perfect Balance: Perdix 2
The Shearwater Perdix 2 measures 81mm x 71mm x 38mm (3.2” x 2.8” x 1.5”) and weighs 190g (4.32 oz). Its slightly larger size and weight offer a balanced design that accommodates the computer's advanced features and customization options.
Sleek and Stylish: Teric
The Shearwater Teric has dimensions of 55mm x 55mm x 18mm (2.17 ” x 2.17” x 0.71”) and a weight of 120.4g (4.16 oz). Its wristwatch-style design and lightweight construction make it a sleek and stylish option for divers who want both performance and aesthetics in their dive computer.
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Peregrine: Approximately 200 Hours
The Shearwater Peregrine can store up to 200 hours of dive data at a 10-second sample rate. This ample storage capacity ensures that divers can keep track of their dive history without frequent data transfers.
Perdix 2: Extended Storage for Advanced Divers
The Shearwater Perdix 2 offers an impressive 1,000 hours of dive log capacity at a 10-second sample rate. This extended storage is ideal for advanced and technical divers who require more extensive dive log records.
Teric: A Balanced Dive Log Capacity
The Shearwater Teric can store up to 500 hours of dive data at a 10-second sample rate. This capacity offers a balanced storage solution for divers who engage in a mix of recreational and technical dives.
FAQ’s when deciding which Shearwater Dive Computer to buy
Still Unsure? This Q&A will hopefully answer you burning questions! If not, feel free to drop a question in the comments below and I’ll let you know what I think!
What are the key differences between the Shearwater Peregrine, Perdix 2, and Teric dive computers?
The key differences lie in their features and capabilities, and of course, price. The Peregrine is the cheapest and offers a great screen, vibration alerts, and exceptional value for everyday divers. The Perdix 2 is designed for demanding divers with advanced tech features, air integration, and a user-replaceable battery. The Teric combines power and convenience in a watch-style, featuring a full-color AMOLED screen, air integration, and a built-in compass.
Can I use these for technical diving?
The Perdix 2 and Teric are suitable for technical diving. They support advanced dive modes, gas switching, and OC Tec (trimix enabled) capabilities, making them ideal for divers engaging in complex dives. The Peregrine, while not specifically designed for technical diving, can handle up to 3 gases and provides gauge mode for basic technical diving needs.
Are these suitable for recreational diving?
Yes, all three computers are suitable for recreational diving. They offer standard modes like Air, Nitrox, and Gauge, covering the needs of most recreational divers. The Peregrine, with its user-friendly interface and affordability, is particularly well-suited for recreational diving.
Can I replace the battery myself?
The Perdix 2 and Teric feature user-replaceable batteries. The Perdix 2 uses a single AA battery (any type), while the Teric utilizes a rechargeable Li-ion battery. However, the Peregrine comes with a rechargeable Li-ion battery that cannot be user-replaced.
Can these computers be used for freediving?
Both the Perdix 2 and Teric offer Freediving modes, catering to freedivers who require specific tracking and data during their dives. The Peregrine, however, does not have a dedicated freediving mode.
Do these have built-in compasses
Both the Perdix 2 and Teric feature built-in 3-axis, tilt-compensated digital compasses. The Peregrine, on the other hand, does not have a built-in compass.
Can I connect these to my smartphone or other devices?
Yes, all three support Bluetooth wireless technology, allowing you to connect them to compatible devices for data transfer, firmware updates, and additional functionalities.
What languages are supported by these computers?
The Peregrine, Perdix 2, and Teric support multiple languages, including English, French, German, Portuguese, Korean, Japanese, Italian, Spanish, Simplified Chinese, and Traditional Chinese. The Teric offers additional language options such as Polish and Russian.
Are there any additional accessories available for these computers?
The Peregrine offers wrist strap color options in ocean blue and white for personalization. However, specific accessories for the Perdix 2 and Teric were not mentioned in the provided information.
Can I customize the display settings on these computers?
Yes, all three allow customization of the display settings, including brightness, contrast, and font size, to ensure optimal readability underwater.
Do these computers offer vibration alerts in addition to audible alarms?
Both the Peregrine and Perdix 2 provide vibration alerts, ensuring important notifications can be felt even in situations where audible alarms may be difficult to hear. The Teric offers both vibration and audible alarms for added versatility.
Can I use these computers for night diving?
Yes, these all feature LED backlit screens, allowing for clear visibility during night dives or in low-light conditions.
How long do the batteries last in watch mode?
The Teric offers up to 50 hours of battery life in watch mode, making it suitable for extended use as a regular wristwatch. The Peregrine and Perdix 2 do not have specific watch mode battery life mentioned in the provided information.
Are there user forums or online communities available for support and troubleshooting?
Yes, all three dive computer manufacturers have online communities and user forums where divers can seek support, share experiences, and find solutions to common issues.
Can I download and analyze my dive data on a computer or mobile app?
Yes, these all allow you to download dive data to a computer or compatible mobile app for further analysis, logging, and sharing with dive log software.
Are these computers suitable for cold-water diving?
Yes, these are designed to withstand various water temperatures, including cold-water environments. However, it's always recommended to check the manufacturer's guidelines for specific temperature ranges and limitations.
Can I pair multiple transmitters with these computers for monitoring multiple tanks?
Yes, the Perdix 2 and Teric support the use of multiple transmitters, allowing you to monitor the tank pressure of multiple cylinders simultaneously. The Peregrine does not have air integration or support for transmitters.
Do these have wireless connectivity with other devices apart from Bluetooth?
The provided information mentions Bluetooth wireless technology as the connectivity option for all three dive computers. However, additional wireless connectivity options were not specified.
Are there warranty options available for these computers?
Yes, these typically come with manufacturer warranties. It's recommended to check the specific warranty terms and conditions provided by the manufacturers for each model.
Can I use these dive computers for technical diving courses or professional diving applications?
These can be suitable for certain technical diving courses and professional diving applications, depending on the specific requirements and recommendations of the training organization or employer. It's advisable to consult with your instructor or employer to ensure compliance with their guidelines and standards.
