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Last Updated: March 11, 2023

The Suunto Zoop Novo is a great dive computer for recreational divers

In this review I compare the Suunto Zoop Novo's features and its capabilities against other entry-level dive computers in this price bracket. 

The Suunto Zoop Novo an excellent start up dive computer for both features and price. It has all the basic functions to keep you safe when diving.  This dive computer is designed to be strong and long lasting. It’s a great choice for either entry level or Recreational divers.

Zoop Novo Dive Computer Blue

If you already know the Zoop is for you, click the button to see the latest price and any discounts that may apply at either Amazon or the Scuba.com

Leisure Pro has recently rebranded itself as Scuba.com. 

Click the item in the table below to skip to the answer of your most pressing question, or continue scrolling to read the entire Suunto Zoop Novo review.

Wrist Mounted or Console Based Dive Computer?

The Zoop Novo comes as either wrist mounted or console based. Most new divers are heading down the path of wrist mounted dive computers.

The great advantage of wrist mounted is having the vital information on your arm where it’s easy to read, rather than tucked away on a console. If you’re going for wrist mounted, then the black rubber strap that comes with the Zoop Novo is long enough to go over your wet suit or dry suit.

Suunto Zoop

Wrist Mounted or Console Based Dive Computer?

The Zoop Novo comes as either wrist mounted or console based. Most new divers are heading down the path of wrist mounted dive computers.

The great advantage of wrist mounted is having the vital information on your arm where it’s easy to read, rather than tucked away on a console. If you’re going for wrist mounted, then the black rubber strap that comes with the Zoop Novo is long enough to go over your wet suit or dry suit.

Suunto Zoop

Suunto Zoop Novo - At a Glance

With its full decompression capability, you won’t be growing out of the Zoop Novo anytime soon. If you extend on your training or decide to buy a more advanced computer later on, the Zoop Novo makes a great backup dive computer.

  • The Zoop Novo weighs  4.23 oz / 120 grams
  • Four diving modes - Air, Nitrox, Free and Gauge. 
  • 4 - buttons making the Menu easier to navigate.
  • It has a back light which can be adjusted or turned OFF completely. The back light function makes it suitable for the occasional night dive.
  • Log book memory hours - Based on a 20s sampling rate, the Zoop Novo has 140 hours. Sampling rates are adjustable and the Logbook also allows for bookmarks.
  • Operating temperature range is from -9 F to 122 F (or -20 C to +50 C).

Note: The USB download cable is not included with the Zoop Novo. This is an optional extra at an additional charge. 

Which is the best Dive Computer for Beginners?

Scuba Diving in Iceland

Before we go too much further with this review, let's take a quick look at other dive computers in this price bracket. There are a number of entry level and recreational dive computers that are very popular with divers, and all are very similar in features. These are all quality diving computers with slight differences between them.

Popular Recreational dive computers in the same price range as the Zoop Novo, include the Aqualung i300C, Cressi Giotto, and Oceanic Geo 2.0.

Scuba Diving in Iceland

Which is the best Dive Computer for Beginners?

Before we go too much further with this review, let's take a quick look at other dive computers in this price bracket. There are a number of entry level and recreational dive computers that are very popular with divers, and all are very similar in features. These are all quality diving computers with slight differences between them.

Popular Recreational dive computers in the same price range as the Zoop Novo, include the Aqualung i300C, Cressi Giotto, and Oceanic Geo 2.0.

Recreational Scuba Diving Computers - Comparison Table

The Comparison Table below also shows the differences between the most popular Recreational dive computers.

Preview
Cressi Giotto Wrist Computer
Suunto Zoop Novo Wrist Scuba Diving Computer, Blue, Without USB
Aqua Lung I300c Wrist Dive Computer with Bluetooth Black/Grey
Oceanic GEO 2.0 Scuba Dive Computer Wrist Watch W/O USB (White/Teal)
Product
Cressi Giotto Wrist Computer
Suunto Zoop Novo Dive Computer
Aqua Lung i300C Scuba Dive Computer
Oceanic Geo 2.0 Diving Computer
Dive Modes
Air, Nitrox, Gauge
Air, Nitrox, Free and Gauge
Air, Nitrox, Gauge, Free
Watch, Norm, Freedive, Gauge
Menu Buttons
3 - Button
4 - Button
2 - Button
4 - Button
Bluetooth Transfer
Altitude Adjustment
Manual
Manual
Automatic
Manual
Gas Switching
Price
Price not available
$299.95
$329.00
$239.95
Preview
Cressi Giotto Wrist Computer
Product
Cressi Giotto Wrist Computer
Dive Modes
Air, Nitrox, Gauge
Menu Buttons
3 - Button
Bluetooth Transfer
Altitude Adjustment
Manual
Gas Switching
Price
Price not available
Details
Preview
Suunto Zoop Novo Wrist Scuba Diving Computer, Blue, Without USB
Product
Suunto Zoop Novo Dive Computer
Dive Modes
Air, Nitrox, Free and Gauge
Menu Buttons
4 - Button
Bluetooth Transfer
Altitude Adjustment
Manual
Gas Switching
Price
$299.95
Details
Preview
Aqua Lung I300c Wrist Dive Computer with Bluetooth Black/Grey
Product
Aqua Lung i300C Scuba Dive Computer
Dive Modes
Air, Nitrox, Gauge, Free
Menu Buttons
2 - Button
Bluetooth Transfer
Altitude Adjustment
Automatic
Gas Switching
Price
$329.00
Details
Preview
Oceanic GEO 2.0 Scuba Dive Computer Wrist Watch W/O USB (White/Teal)
Product
Oceanic Geo 2.0 Diving Computer
Dive Modes
Watch, Norm, Freedive, Gauge
Menu Buttons
4 - Button
Bluetooth Transfer
Altitude Adjustment
Manual
Gas Switching
Price
$239.95
Details


Beginners Level Diving Computers - Comparison Table

For comparison's sake, these are some of the most popular Beginners Level dive computers: 

Preview
Mares Puck Pro Wrist Dive Computer
Aqualung i100 Computer - Blue
Mares Puck Pro Plus Wrist Dive Computer - Blue/Black
Product
Cressi Leonardo Dive Computer
Aqua Lung i100 Scuba Dive Computer
Mares Puck Pro Plus Dive Computer
Dive Modes
Air, Nitrox, Gauge
Air, Nitrox, Gauge, Free
Air, Nitrox, Bottom Timer
Menu Buttons
Single
4-Button
Single
Logbook Memory
70 Hours
24 Dives
35 Hours
Altitude Adjustment
Manual
Automatic
Manual
Gas Switching
Price
Price not available
$199.00
$279.95
Preview
Mares Puck Pro Wrist Dive Computer
Product
Cressi Leonardo Dive Computer
Dive Modes
Air, Nitrox, Gauge
Menu Buttons
Single
Logbook Memory
70 Hours
Altitude Adjustment
Manual
Gas Switching
Price
Price not available
Details
Preview
Aqualung i100 Computer - Blue
Product
Aqua Lung i100 Scuba Dive Computer
Dive Modes
Air, Nitrox, Gauge, Free
Menu Buttons
4-Button
Logbook Memory
24 Dives
Altitude Adjustment
Automatic
Gas Switching
Price
$199.00
Details
Preview
Mares Puck Pro Plus Wrist Dive Computer - Blue/Black
Product
Mares Puck Pro Plus Dive Computer
Dive Modes
Air, Nitrox, Bottom Timer
Menu Buttons
Single
Logbook Memory
35 Hours
Altitude Adjustment
Manual
Gas Switching
Price
$279.95
Details


We have reviews on these popular Beginners Level Dive Computers - Cressi Leonardo, Aqualung i100 & i200, and the Mares Puck Pro.

Work out what features you really want from your dive computer, then just go for it!

How big is the Zoop Novo?

Zoop Novo Dive Computer Blue with Cable

There’s nothing small about the Zoop Novo.  It's been designed with both functionality and durability in mind. 

The screen is hard-wearing acrylic which will take the odd knock. Its display size is a good 1 â…“ inches across (or 40 mm) making it easy to read at a glance, even for 'older eyes'.

The bezel diameter is 2.4 inches (61 mm) with a thickness of just over an inch, (28 mm). It weighs 4.23 oz (120 grams).  

Although the Suunto Zoop Novo is wrist mounted, it is not a regular watch-sized dive computer. It's far too big to be worn as an everyday watch. 

How big is the Zoop Novo?

Zoop Novo Dive Computer Blue with Cable

There’s nothing small about the Zoop Novo.  It's been designed with both functionality and durability in mind. 

The screen is hard-wearing acrylic which will take the odd knock. Its display size is a good 1 â…“ inches across (or 40 mm) making it easy to read at a glance, even for 'older eyes'.

The bezel diameter is 2.4 inches (61 mm) with a thickness of just over an inch, (28 mm). It weighs 4.23 oz (120 grams).  

Although the Suunto Zoop Novo is wrist mounted, it is not a regular watch-sized dive computer. It's far too big to be worn as an everyday watch. 

What Functions and Features does the Zoop Novo have?

You can’t overstate the peace of mind that comes with having an interface that’s easy to operate.


The Zoop Novo has some well thought out functionality. The Zoop Novo has a 4-button menu which are nice and big, making them easy to press. Menus are easy to navigate and the display is clear to read.


The ZOOP Novo is water-activated. You should to turn it on to Dive Mode before diving to do your pre-dive checks but if you forget, it automatically activates as soon as it goes deeper than 1½ feet (0.5 meters). The Zoop remains in Surface Mode at depths less than 4 feet (1.2 meters) and switches into Diving Mode at depths greater than this.


The standard dive alarms are all adjustable. A default setting will remind you to make a safety stop. Alarms can be set for maximum depth and dive time.


If you exceed the no-decompression limit on a dive, the Zoop Novo will provide the decompression information you need to make a safe ascent. After this, surface interval and repetition dive information will be displayed.


When switched on to dive mode, the battery indicator will show the current battery level. To conserve battery, the Zoop switches into its idle mode after about 3 minutes. During the idle mode it displays the current time, the day of the week, and the date.


It’s easy to set to either imperial or metric units (feet or meters, Fº or Cº) depending on your personal preference.

Diving at Altitude - No Fly Time

Traveling to a higher elevation will temporarily change the equilibrium of dissolved nitrogen in your body. It's generally recommended that you wait at least 3 hours before making a dive at a new altitude.

As with most dive computers, the Zoop Novo comes with an Altitude setting. This is not automatic, you will need to adjust it yourself each time you change altitudes. 

When you adjust the Altitude setting, the Zoop Novo adjusts its mathematical model according to which altitude mode is selected. It will calculate shorter no-decompression times at higher altitudes

The no-fly time is shown in the center of the display next to an airplane icon. Flying or traveling to a higher altitude should be avoided at any time the Zoop Novo displays the no-flying time.

Diving at Altitude - No Fly Time

Scuba Green Lake

Traveling to a higher elevation will temporarily change the equilibrium of dissolved nitrogen in your body. It's generally recommended that you wait at least 3 hours before making a dive at a new altitude.

As with most dive computers, the Zoop Novo comes with an Altitude setting. This is not automatic, you will need to adjust it yourself each time you change altitudes. 

When you adjust the Altitude setting, the Zoop Novo adjusts its mathematical model according to which altitude mode is selected. It will calculate shorter no-decompression times at higher altitudes

The no-fly time is shown in the center of the display next to an airplane icon. Flying or traveling to a higher altitude should be avoided at any time the Zoop Novo displays the no-flying time.

How long does the Zoop Novo battery last?

Life expectancy for the battery depends on the number of dives you have per year.

As a general rule, if you’re lucky enough to be diving around 300 times a year, the battery will last between around 8 to 12 months.  If you get around 100 dives in per year, then you can expect the battery to last for about 12 to 18 months. Diving less than 100 dives a year, should give you 18 to 24 months of battery life.  

Can I change the Zoop Novo battery myself?

The Zoop’s battery is a standard 3 volt CR2450.  You can change this without having to send it away to an authorized dealer or take it to a dive shop. If you're happy to change the battery yourself, the Battery Replacement Kit is widely available to buy online. As well as a battery, the kit includes an O-ring and costs under $20.

The video below shows how to change the battery on the Suunto Zoop Novo and the Vyper Novo

It starts with a warning that changing the battery yourself or using an unauthorized dealer may void the warranty. If you can get past this, it then demonstrates how EASY it is to change the battery. The screwdriver size used is a T-6 torx.

If you don’t feel confident enough to change the battery yourself or are worried about voiding the warranty, then a new battery replacement can easily be included as part of its regular 2 yearly service by an authorized dealer. 

Which Algorithm does Suunto use?

The Suunto RGBM (Reduced Gradient Bubble Model) is a modern algorithm. The algorithm model monitors continuous multi-day diving and closely spaced repetitive diving. It also takes into account dives that are deeper than your previous dive.  

Adaptive Decompression

Zoop Novo Dive Computer

Some diving practices increase the risk of decompression sickness/illness. These include dives with short surface intervals, repetitive dives that are deeper than previous ones, multiple ascents, or substantial multi-day diving.

The Zoop Novo will adapt the decompression algorithm when any of these practices are detected, and in some circumstances will advise that your Surface Interval time needs to be extended. 

The ability to adapt to different situations and dive profiles provides added safety. It also changes these calculations according to any personal adjustment you select.  

Adaptive Decompression

Some diving practices increase the risk of decompression sickness/illness. These include dives with short surface intervals, repetitive dives that are deeper than previous ones, multiple ascents, or substantial multi-day diving.

The Zoop Novo will adapt the decompression algorithm when any of these practices are detected, and in some circumstances will advise that your Surface Interval time needs to be extended. The ability to adapt to different situations and dive profiles provides added safety. It also changes these calculations according to any personal adjustment you select.  

Zoop Novo Dive Computer

Dive Planner and Logbook, Bookmarks and Memory

  • dive planner
  • bookmarks
  • log book

The Zoop Novo has a Dive Planner which is accessible by pressing the PLAN button on the front face of the computer anytime during Surface mode.

Here’s where you’ll find the calculator for a no-decompression stop. Using the two buttons on the bottom of the face, you can increase or decrease your Maximum Depth. Once you’ve made the adjustment, the Zoop will calculate your no-decompression time.

Higher altitudes and conservative personal adjustments will shorten the no-deco time limits. The Planning mode also takes into account the following information from previous dives:

  • all dive history for the previous 4 days
  • any calculated residual nitrogen
  • oxygen toxicity (Nitrox mode)

The no-decompression times given for different depths will then be shorter than before your first ‘fresh’ dive.

Do I need to buy the USB Cable to download my Dive Log?

The USB cable is an optional accessory and is not included in the price of the Zoop Novo.  Buying the USB cable allows you to download your dive profile information to either a PC or MAC. 

The Suunto DM5 software is free to download from Suunto’s website.

Compare Entry Level Dive Computer Functions

Do I need to buy the USB Cable to download my Dive Log?

Compare Entry Level Dive Computer Functions

The USB cable is an optional accessory and is not included in the price of the Zoop Novo.  Buying the USB cable allows you to download your dive profile information to either a PC or MAC. 

The Suunto DM5 software is free to download from Suunto’s website.

What dive information is downloaded?

Once downloaded, reviewing the data is great for planning future dives, keeping records of your dive history, and for demonstration or educational purposes.

Complete logbook data can also be downloaded. Paper copies are then easy to print. The following data is recorded and downloaded:

  • dive number
  • dive entry time (in year, month, day and time)
  • dive entry time (in year, month, day and time)
  • depth profile of the dive
  • dive time
  • oxygen percent setting and maximum OLF (in Nitrox mode)
  • tissue calculation datatissue calculation data
  • the temperature at the maximum depth, beginning of the dive, and the end of the dive
  • surface interval time
  • identity number of the dive computer
  • additional dive information including personal information, and any SLOW and mandatory Safety Stop violations, Dive Attention Marks, Bookmarks, Surfaced Marks, Decompression Marks, and Ceiling Error Marks).

Diveboard

Diveboard: Your Online Scuba Logbook. The crew at Diveboard have created a free program called Diveboard Agent. 

After downing, this connects with many dive computers including the Suunto Zoop Novo. Suunto and Diveboard have worked together to provide integration between Movescount to Diveboard.

Another open-source option that's worth looking into is Subsurface.

Which functions is the Zoop Novo missing?

Scuba Diver

There's no doubt that Suunto’s Zoop Novo is an entry level dive computer that has all the functions beginner divers need. Below is a list of the features that the Zoop doesn't have that I'm sure you want to be aware of. I've also listed alternative dive computers to look into if one of these features is particularly important to you. 

Surface Interval - In comparison to other dive computers, the Zoop Novo has a longer Surface Interval time. A minimum of 5 minutes is needed between each dive. If the Surface Interval is shorter than 5 minutes, the Zoop Novo treats the next dive as a continuation of the previous dive.

No-Fly icon is not displayed when not turned on - The Zoop Novo does not display the no-fly icon when on standby. You need to activate it to check the airplane icon is not displayed before jumping on a plane.

No Digital Compass, Tri-mix or Air Integration - The Zoop Novo doesn’t have a digital compass, tri-mix capability or air-integration. Compasses are cheap and widely available, but if you’re after a built in compass and air integration, then have a look at the Suunto Vyper Novo

No Bluetooth Connectivity - Unlike the Cosmiq+ which has Bluetooth connectivity, you need to buy the USB cable to download your dive logs and update your firmware. Click here to read a review of the Deepblu Cosmiq+ Dive Computer and see the comparison tables against its rivals. 

Which other functions is the Zoop Novo missing?

Suunto D5 Watch Sized Dive Computer

If you think you’ll expand on your training later on or are definitely headed towards more advanced recreational or technical diving, then take a look at the Shearwater Perdix, the Shearwater Teric or the Aqualung range of dive computers.

Watch-Sized Dive Computer - If you’re after a watch-sized dive computer, look into the Suunto D4i Novo, and Suunto D6i Novo. 

Which functions is the Zoop Novo missing?

There's no doubt that Suunto’s Zoop Novo is an entry level dive computer that has all the functions beginner divers need. Below is a list of the features that the Zoop doesn't have that I'm sure you want to be aware of. I've also listed alternative dive computers to look into if one of these features is particularly important to you. 

Surface Interval - In comparison to other dive computers, the Zoop Novo has a longer Surface Interval time. A minimum of 5 minutes is needed between each dive. If the Surface Interval is shorter than 5 minutes, the Zoop Novo treats the next dive as a continuation of the previous dive.

Scuba Diver
Air Integrated Dive Computers

No-Fly icon is not displayed when not turned on - The Zoop Novo does not display the no-fly icon when on standby. You need to activate it to check the airplane icon is not displayed before jumping on a plane.

No Digital Compass, Tri-mix or Air Integration - The Zoop Novo doesn’t have a digital compass, tri-mix capability or air-integration. Compasses are cheap and widely available, but if you’re after a built in compass and air integration, then have a look at the Suunto Vyper Novo

No Bluetooth Connectivity - Unlike the Cosmiq+ which has Bluetooth connectivity, you need to buy the USB cable to download your dive logs and update your firmware. Click here to read a review of the Deepblu Cosmiq+ Dive Computer and see the comparison tables against its rivals. 

Which other functions is the Zoop Novo missing?

If you think you’ll expand on your training later on or are definitely headed towards more advanced recreational or technical diving, then take a look at the Shearwater Perdix, the Shearwater Teric or the Aqualung range of dive computers.

Watch-Sized Dive Computer - If you’re after a watch-sized dive computer, look into the Suunto D4i Novo, and Suunto D6i Novo. 

Suunto D5 Watch Sized Dive Computer

What about the Price and Manufacturer's Warranty?

These come with a 2 year Manufacturer’s Warranty.

The Suunto Zoop Novo Dive Computer is well priced. You should be able to find it for between $280-$350 online. The USB cable needed to download the dive data to your laptop is around $70.  

The software is free to download. When the time comes to change the battery, the Battery Kit costs less than $20.

Servicing, general maintenance and things to avoid

  • As it’s always better to be safe and avoid problems before a dive trip, plan to have the computer serviced every couple of years, or after 200 dives. Its calibration will need to be checked, as well as a test of the functions and the waterproof seal.
  • To keep your Zoop Novo working well for years, always thoroughly rinse in fresh water after each dive. Make sure all salt crystals and sand grit are removed. It’s important that the water contacts/connector are kept clean. Clean with fresh water and a soft brush. Dry off and store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place away from the damp. 
  • Regularly check the condition of the band, clasp and metal components. Over time these can become affected by a build up of sunscreen, perspiration and sea-salt.  
  • Protect the Zoop Novo from extreme heat, direct sunlight, and chemicals. Although well built, it won’t withstand the impact of heavy objects falling on it, such as Scuba tank cylinders.

How to set the Suunto Zoop to Nitrox

The 4 menu buttons make navigating and setting up the Zoop Novo very easy. The video below shows how how easy it is to set up for Nitrox diving. 

Click to play

The Conclusion?

The Suunto Zoop Novo has the functionality entry level and recreational Scuba divers need.  It’s easy to use and an excellent entry point computer.

It has good features at an excellent price. The Suunto Zoop Novo is a great choice for your first dive computer.  It’s even made our Best Dive Computers list.

Zoop Novo Dive Computer Blue

The Conclusion?

Suunto Zoop Novo Yellow

The Suunto Zoop Novo has the functionality entry level and recreational Scuba divers need.  It’s easy to use and an excellent entry point computer.

It has good features at an excellent price. The Suunto Zoop Novo is a great choice for your first dive computer.  It’s even made our Best Dive Computers list.

4.7/5 - (18 votes)

About the Author

Sharon McKenzie

Sharon McKenzie is an Advanced Certified Scuba Diver who loves to explore the ocean depths. She is an advocate for marine and eco conservation, promoting sustainable products. In her free time, Sharon also enjoys paddleboarding and snorkeling. She has two upcoming diving expeditions to Bali and the Great Barrier Reef, which are destinations she has always wanted to explore.

Author Web Link

Sharon McKenzie - Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Snorkeling

Related Articles

  • I know this is an entry-level dive computer, but somehow I just don’t like the look of it. I feel it’s probably worth spending more to get one you’re happy with. Some of the reviews of other wrist DC’s here on this site are really good, and worth a read!

  • I was wondering how easy this would be to use, e.g. is it difficult to press the small buttons under water? The features do look pretty amazing. Thanks for the great review!

    • Hi George, Have a look at the photo near the top of the article of the diver with the zoop on his wrist. This photo really gives you a sense of its size. On the Zoop page at Amazon, there are reviews of the Zoop and many states that it’s easy to press the buttons even with gloves on. I hope this helps answer your question.

  • Do you know if there’s a video on how to change the battery myself? It’s probably worth the extra $20 if there’s a good tutorial on how to change it. Thanks!

  • Definitely loving the water activated feature! That’s a way to save energy and not having to worry about turning the watch off/on.

    Also, the fact that you can hear it underwater is sweet! It sounds like divers will really benefit from the features.

  • Thanks for the in-depth review and for pointing out the USB cable deal. I’m just beginning and the Suunto Zoop Novo seems to be perfect. I’ve hired the Zoop but as they’re not making these anymore, I like the look of the Novo. It’s above my originally planned budget but it seems the added functionality makes it worthwhile.

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