Cressi Leonardo vs. Mares Puck Pro: Best Budget Dive Computer (2026)
The Cressi Leonardo and Mares Puck Pro are the two dive computers new divers ask about most — both are simple, single-button, entry-level units at a similar price, and both are so reliable that dive shops buy them as rentals. So which should you actually own? Here is the honest breakdown. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Quick Verdict
- Best for most new divers: Cressi Leonardo — cheaper, bigger logbook, and a clearer screen.
- Best if you will grow into Nitrox/tech: Mares Puck Pro — gas switching and much longer battery life.
Cressi Leonardo vs. Mares Puck Pro: Side by Side
| Feature | Cressi Leonardo | Mares Puck Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Lower (often $100+ cheaper) | Higher |
| Modes | Air, Nitrox, Gauge | Air, Nitrox, Bottom Timer |
| Gas switching | No | Yes |
| Logbook memory | ~70 hrs (~60 dives) | ~36 hrs (~30 dives) |
| Battery life | ~150 hrs | ~400 hrs |
| Display | HD edge-to-edge LCD | Clear, slightly smaller |
| Data transfer | Optional (buy separately) | USB cable included |
| Interface | Single button | Single button |
Cressi Leonardo — Who It’s For
The Leonardo is the value pick. You get a large, high-contrast HD screen that is genuinely easy to read at depth, a roomy 70-hour logbook, and full air/Nitrox/gauge modes — all for noticeably less money. The trade-offs: no gas switching and a shorter battery life. For the vast majority of recreational divers who dive air or a single Nitrox mix, none of that matters. Check the Cressi Leonardo price.
Mares Puck Pro — Who It’s For
The Puck Pro costs a bit more but adds gas switching (useful if you head toward advanced or tech diving), a huge ~400-hour battery, and a bundled USB cable for easy dive-log downloads. If you plan to progress past open-water Nitrox or just want the longest battery between changes, it is worth the premium. Check the Mares Puck Pro price.
Which Dive Computer Should You Buy?
Buy the Cressi Leonardo if you want the best value, a bigger logbook, and the clearest screen — it covers everything a recreational diver needs. Buy the Mares Puck Pro if you want gas switching, the longest battery life, and included data transfer. You genuinely can’t go wrong; it comes down to budget vs. future-proofing. Either one beats renting after ~10 dives. For more options, browse beginner dive computers.
What to Look for in a Beginner Dive Computer
- Nitrox capable — you’ll want it once you’re certified.
- Easy, legible display — single-button units are simplest to learn.
- User-replaceable battery — saves shop fees.
- A logbook you can download — nice for tracking depth/time.
A screen protector and retractor are cheap add-ons that protect your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Cressi Leonardo good for beginners?
Yes — it’s one of the most popular first dive computers thanks to its single-button simplicity and clear screen.
Do I really need my own dive computer?
If you dive more than a handful of times a year, owning one pays for itself versus rentals and lets you learn a single familiar device.
What’s the main difference between them?
The Leonardo is cheaper with a bigger logbook and screen; the Puck Pro adds gas switching, longer battery, and included USB data transfer.
