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10 Best Underwater Compass For Scuba Diving 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Trident Retractor Compass with Gate snap, Waterproof Oil Filled Compass for Scuba, Camping, Kayaking and Outdoor Sports

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,312
Compass Type
Tilt Tolerance
Ease of Use

Most important from
185 reviews

Compass Type
Despite some issues, the compass is considered decent for diving, with a preference for the single clip version.
Tilt Tolerance
The Trident compass is extremely sensitive to being level, which can be a challenge during use.
Ease of Use
The compass is very easy to read both on land and underwater.

The Trident Retractor Compass is designed for scuba diving and other outdoor activities like camping and kayaking. Its waterproof and oil-filled design ensures high accuracy and reliability underwater. The scratch-resistant polycarbonate case enhances durability, making it a sturdy choice for rough use. One of its notable features is the top and side reading design, which offers flexibility in various reading positions.

Additionally, the anatomical wrist band and side window allow for quick reference and precise navigation, which are vital when underwater. The luminescent display with a high visibility lubber line is beneficial in low light or limited visibility conditions, making it easier to read the compass bearings. The ratcheting 360° bezel includes headings in 30° numbered increments and twin heading indicators, which help in accurate course alignment.

However, at 0.01 ounces, the compass is extremely lightweight, which might be a concern in terms of stability during use. The compass dimensions (4 x 3 x 2 inches) are compact, but some users might find it slightly bulky on the wrist. This compass is best suited for scuba divers who need a reliable and durable navigation tool with good visibility in low light conditions.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,312
Compass Type
Tilt Tolerance
Ease of Use

Most important from
185 reviews

Compass Type
Despite some issues, the compass is considered decent for diving, with a preference for the single clip version.
Tilt Tolerance
The Trident compass is extremely sensitive to being level, which can be a challenge during use.
Ease of Use
The compass is very easy to read both on land and underwater.
#2

Scubapro 3 Gauge in-Line Console

Rating
10.0
Tilt Tolerance
Luminescence
Durability and Build Quality

Most important from
11 reviews

Tilt Tolerance
The oil-filled compass maintains accuracy even when the console isn’t perfectly level, thanks to its tilt tolerance.
Luminescence
Strong luminescence on the gauges makes it simple to read in low-light or murky water.
Durability and Build Quality
Built with rugged materials, it stands up well to demanding diving conditions.
Ease of Use
The console delivers clear and easy visibility, ensuring accurate readings underwater.

The Scubapro 3 Gauge In-Line Console is a solid choice for scuba divers needing a clear and durable underwater compass combined with essential gauges. It includes a reliable oil-filled compass with a rotating bezel marked in 30-degree increments and offers up to 26 degrees of tilt tolerance, which helps maintain accurate direction readings even if the console isn’t held perfectly level. Luminescence on the dial is strong on all gauges, making it easier to read in low-light or murky water conditions. Built with rugged plastic and polycarbonate, this console stands up well to rough underwater environments, so it should last through many dives.

It combines a pressure gauge, depth gauge, and compass into a compact and streamlined unit that is lighter and less bulky than having separate instruments, which adds to comfort and convenience during dives. The pressure gauge reads up to 6000 psi and the depth gauge up to 200 feet, with added temperature display, giving comprehensive dive data at a glance.

One downside is its size and weight—at 6.6 x 12.5 x 3.4 inches and 1.5 pounds, it may feel a bit bulky compared to some modern digital consoles, potentially affecting ease of handling for some users. Also, as an analog device, it requires manual reading and interpretation rather than automatic digital displays. This console suits divers who want reliable, straightforward analog instruments in one package, especially those who prioritize durability and clear visibility over compactness or digital features.

Rating
10.0
Tilt Tolerance
Luminescence
Durability and Build Quality

Most important from
11 reviews

Tilt Tolerance
The oil-filled compass maintains accuracy even when the console isn’t perfectly level, thanks to its tilt tolerance.
Luminescence
Strong luminescence on the gauges makes it simple to read in low-light or murky water.
Durability and Build Quality
Built with rugged materials, it stands up well to demanding diving conditions.
Ease of Use
The console delivers clear and easy visibility, ensuring accurate readings underwater.
#3

SAEKODIVE Bungee Mount Compass - Glow in the Dark, Waterproof Dive Compass for Scuba, Kayak - Diving Accessories

Rating
9.9
Luminescence
Durability and Build Quality
Ease of Use

Most important from
10 reviews

Luminescence
The glow-in-the-dark feature is a game-changer, offering excellent visibility even in dark underwater conditions.
Durability and Build Quality
Durable and reliable waterproof design makes it a dependable companion for water adventures.
Ease of Use
Easily mounts to almost anything you can wrap the bungee around.
Size and Weight
Perfect size - not too large to be a nuisance, yet easy to read numbers and directions.

The SAEKODIVE Bungee Mount Compass is a versatile tool designed for scuba diving, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. One of its standout features is its ability to glow in the dark, making it easy to read in low-light conditions. This is particularly useful for night dives. It also boasts a high tilt tolerance, ensuring the compass remains accurate and smooth during use, even at steep angles.

The compass is built to last, with a durable PVC housing and a PC dial, making it waterproof for dives deeper than 230 feet. This ensures reliability in various underwater conditions without compromising performance. Additionally, the bungee mount makes it easy to secure and use, adding to its convenience. The compass is designed for both adults and children, making it a versatile option for families or groups with varying experience levels.

The 360° rotating ratchet bezel and double pointer allow for precise navigation, with the red lubber line aiding in easy orientation. Its size and weight are compact, with a package weighing just 77 grams, making it easy to carry without adding significant bulk to your diving gear. For anyone in need of a reliable and durable underwater compass, the SAEKODIVE Bungee Mount Compass is a strong contender, especially with the trust of the Saekodive brand and a one-year warranty.

Rating
9.9
Luminescence
Durability and Build Quality
Ease of Use

Most important from
10 reviews

Luminescence
The glow-in-the-dark feature is a game-changer, offering excellent visibility even in dark underwater conditions.
Durability and Build Quality
Durable and reliable waterproof design makes it a dependable companion for water adventures.
Ease of Use
Easily mounts to almost anything you can wrap the bungee around.
Size and Weight
Perfect size - not too large to be a nuisance, yet easy to read numbers and directions.

Buying Guide for the Best Underwater Compass For Scuba Diving

Choosing the right underwater compass for scuba diving is crucial for ensuring safe and accurate navigation while exploring underwater environments. A good compass will help you maintain your bearings, find your way back to your starting point, and navigate through complex underwater terrains. When selecting an underwater compass, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs and preferences.
Compass TypeThere are two main types of underwater compasses: wrist-mounted and console-mounted. Wrist-mounted compasses are worn like a watch and offer the convenience of being easily accessible and hands-free. Console-mounted compasses are attached to your diving console, often alongside other instruments like depth gauges and pressure gauges. The choice between the two depends on your personal preference and how you like to organize your diving gear. If you prefer having all your instruments in one place, a console-mounted compass might be the best fit. If you like the flexibility of having the compass on your wrist, go for a wrist-mounted one.
Tilt ToleranceTilt tolerance refers to the compass's ability to provide accurate readings even when it is not held perfectly level. This is important because underwater conditions can make it difficult to keep the compass level at all times. Compasses with higher tilt tolerance can still give accurate readings even when tilted at various angles. For recreational divers, a tilt tolerance of up to 20-30 degrees is usually sufficient. However, if you plan on diving in challenging conditions or need precise navigation, look for a compass with a higher tilt tolerance.
LuminescenceLuminescence is the compass's ability to glow in low-light conditions, making it easier to read in dark or murky waters. This feature is particularly important for night dives or dives in environments with limited visibility. A good underwater compass should have a luminescent dial or markings that are easy to see in the dark. When choosing a compass, consider how often you dive in low-light conditions and select one with strong luminescence if you frequently find yourself in such situations.
Durability and Build QualityDurability and build quality are essential for ensuring that your compass can withstand the harsh underwater environment. Look for compasses made from high-quality materials that are resistant to corrosion, pressure, and impact. A well-built compass will last longer and provide reliable performance over time. If you frequently dive in rough conditions or at greater depths, prioritize a compass with robust construction and a sturdy design.
Ease of UseEase of use is an important factor to consider, especially if you are a beginner or prefer straightforward equipment. A good underwater compass should have a clear, easy-to-read display with simple markings and a smooth rotating bezel. It should also be easy to operate with gloves on. When selecting a compass, consider how intuitive it is to use and whether you can quickly and easily take readings while diving. If you are new to scuba diving, opt for a compass with a user-friendly design.
Size and WeightThe size and weight of the compass can affect your comfort and convenience while diving. A compact and lightweight compass is easier to carry and less cumbersome, especially on long dives. However, make sure that the compass is not too small, as this can make it difficult to read. When choosing a compass, consider the balance between size, weight, and readability. If you prefer minimal gear, opt for a smaller, lighter compass, but ensure it still has a clear display.

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