Quick Overview
- 1#1: Subsurface - Cross-platform open-source dive logbook, planner, and data analysis tool supporting numerous dive computers.
- 2#2: MacDive - Comprehensive dive logging and planning software optimized for macOS and iOS ecosystems.
- 3#3: Shearwater Cloud - Cloud-based dive logging platform with seamless integration for Shearwater dive computers and advanced analytics.
- 4#4: Divelogs - Web-based dive logbook with mobile apps, social features, and support for multiple dive computer brands.
- 5#5: Suunto DM5 - Dive management suite for downloading, logging, and planning dives from Suunto dive computers.
- 6#6: LogTRIP PRO - Windows-based professional dive logbook with mapping, statistics, and dive computer import capabilities.
- 7#7: MultiDeco - Advanced technical dive planning software supporting multi-gas, trimix, and closed-circuit rebreathers.
- 8#8: V-Planner LIVE - Real-time technical dive planning tool for liveaboard and CCR diving with gas switching support.
- 9#9: Dive+ - Modern dive logging app with computer connectivity, AR identification, and global dive site database.
- 10#10: Oceanic+ - Dive app and desktop software for logging dives from Oceanic dive computers with Bluetooth sync.
Tools were ranked based on feature depth, user-friendliness, seamless integration with dive computers, advanced analytical power, and overall value, prioritizing reliability and versatility across casual and professional use cases.
Comparison Table
Choosing the right dive software can be overwhelming, with tools like Subsurface, MacDive, and Shearwater Cloud among many options. This comparison table simplifies evaluation by highlighting key features, usability, and functionality, helping readers identify the best fit for their diving needs, whether for casual tracking or professional use.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Subsurface Cross-platform open-source dive logbook, planner, and data analysis tool supporting numerous dive computers. | other | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 10/10 |
| 2 | MacDive Comprehensive dive logging and planning software optimized for macOS and iOS ecosystems. | other | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 3 | Shearwater Cloud Cloud-based dive logging platform with seamless integration for Shearwater dive computers and advanced analytics. | other | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 4 | Divelogs Web-based dive logbook with mobile apps, social features, and support for multiple dive computer brands. | other | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 5 | Suunto DM5 Dive management suite for downloading, logging, and planning dives from Suunto dive computers. | other | 7.9/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 6 | LogTRIP PRO Windows-based professional dive logbook with mapping, statistics, and dive computer import capabilities. | other | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | MultiDeco Advanced technical dive planning software supporting multi-gas, trimix, and closed-circuit rebreathers. | other | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 8 | V-Planner LIVE Real-time technical dive planning tool for liveaboard and CCR diving with gas switching support. | other | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | Dive+ Modern dive logging app with computer connectivity, AR identification, and global dive site database. | other | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 10 | Oceanic+ Dive app and desktop software for logging dives from Oceanic dive computers with Bluetooth sync. | other | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.8/10 |
Cross-platform open-source dive logbook, planner, and data analysis tool supporting numerous dive computers.
Comprehensive dive logging and planning software optimized for macOS and iOS ecosystems.
Cloud-based dive logging platform with seamless integration for Shearwater dive computers and advanced analytics.
Web-based dive logbook with mobile apps, social features, and support for multiple dive computer brands.
Dive management suite for downloading, logging, and planning dives from Suunto dive computers.
Windows-based professional dive logbook with mapping, statistics, and dive computer import capabilities.
Advanced technical dive planning software supporting multi-gas, trimix, and closed-circuit rebreathers.
Real-time technical dive planning tool for liveaboard and CCR diving with gas switching support.
Modern dive logging app with computer connectivity, AR identification, and global dive site database.
Dive app and desktop software for logging dives from Oceanic dive computers with Bluetooth sync.
Subsurface
otherCross-platform open-source dive logbook, planner, and data analysis tool supporting numerous dive computers.
Broadest dive computer support in an open-source tool, enabling seamless data import from virtually any modern dive computer.
Subsurface is a free, open-source dive logging and planning software designed for recreational and technical divers, supporting import from over 200 dive computer models across major brands. It offers comprehensive tools for logging dives, analyzing profiles with tissue models and gas consumption stats, planning dives with customizable algorithms, and tracking equipment maintenance. Cross-platform availability on Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android makes it versatile for divers managing data on the go.
Pros
- Extensive dive computer compatibility and data import
- Advanced dive analysis including SAC rates, tissue graphs, and deco planning
- Fully open-source with no usage limits and active community support
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to feature depth
- Mobile app is read-only companion, lacking full editing
- Cloud sync requires separate paid subscription
Best For
Technical and serious recreational divers seeking a powerful, customizable platform for comprehensive dive data management.
Pricing
Completely free and open-source; optional Subsurface Cloud sync starts at €2.50/month.
MacDive
otherComprehensive dive logging and planning software optimized for macOS and iOS ecosystems.
Interactive 3D bathymetric dive site maps with customizable overlays
MacDive is a premium dive logging, planning, and analysis app exclusively for macOS, iPhone, and iPad, enabling users to import dive data from over 200 dive computers and visualizers. It offers stunning 3D maps, detailed dive profiles with tissue loading graphs, comprehensive statistics, and a robust dive planner using Bühlmann ZHL-16C algorithms. The app syncs seamlessly across Apple devices via iCloud, making it ideal for divers seeking a polished, visually appealing solution for managing their dive logs.
Pros
- Exceptional Apple-native UI with beautiful visualizations and 3D maps
- Broad compatibility with major dive computers and strong iCloud sync
- Powerful analytics including gas consumption, SAC rates, and safety metrics
Cons
- Exclusive to Apple ecosystem—no Windows or Android support
- Higher upfront cost without subscription options
- Dive planning lacks some advanced multi-gas or trimix features found in competitors
Best For
Apple-using divers who value a premium, intuitive interface for logging, planning, and analyzing dives on Mac and iOS devices.
Pricing
One-time purchase: $49.99 (Mac), $9.99 (iOS); supports Family Sharing.
Shearwater Cloud
otherCloud-based dive logging platform with seamless integration for Shearwater dive computers and advanced analytics.
Real-time Bluetooth dive log syncing and customizable Buhlmann tissue graphs with gradient factor simulation
Shearwater Cloud is a web and mobile platform tailored for divers to sync, log, and analyze dive data directly from compatible Shearwater dive computers like the Perdix, Teric, and Peregrine. It provides detailed dive profiles, tissue compartment graphs using Buhlmann ZH-L16C with gradient factors, customizable reports, and community sharing features. Users can also plan dives, track gear, and export data for further analysis.
Pros
- Seamless Bluetooth sync with Shearwater dive computers
- Advanced tissue modeling and gradient factor analysis
- Free access to core features with no subscription required
Cons
- Limited support for non-Shearwater dive computers
- Requires internet for full functionality
- Mobile app lacks some web version depth
Best For
Technical and recreational divers who own Shearwater computers and seek precise post-dive analysis and easy data sharing.
Pricing
Completely free for all features, no paid tiers required.
Divelogs
otherWeb-based dive logbook with mobile apps, social features, and support for multiple dive computer brands.
The world's largest verified dive site database with user-submitted details and photos for precise trip planning.
Divelogs.de is a robust online platform designed for scuba divers to log dives, manage gear, and plan future trips using a vast database of over 50,000 dive sites worldwide. It supports direct imports from popular dive computers like Shearwater and Suunto, tracks certifications, and offers community features such as buddy finder and shared logs. The service emphasizes detailed dive profiling, equipment maintenance reminders, and social networking within the diving community.
Pros
- Extensive database of over 50,000 verified dive sites
- Strong integration with major dive computers for automatic log imports
- Comprehensive community tools including buddy matching and trip sharing
Cons
- Many advanced features locked behind premium subscription
- Web interface can feel cluttered and somewhat dated
- Mobile app lacks full offline functionality
Best For
Experienced divers who travel frequently and value detailed planning, gear tracking, and community connections.
Pricing
Free basic plan; Premium from €4.99/month or €49.99/year unlocking unlimited logs, advanced analytics, and full site access.
Suunto DM5
otherDive management suite for downloading, logging, and planning dives from Suunto dive computers.
Advanced RGBM bubble model visualization with real-time tissue compartment graphs
Suunto DM5 is a desktop dive management software designed for users of Suunto dive computers, allowing seamless download and analysis of dive logs via USB connection. It provides detailed graphical profiles, tissue compartment loading graphs based on Suunto's proprietary RGBM algorithm, and gas consumption analysis. The software also supports customizable dive planning with multi-gas support, making it suitable for recreational and technical divers seeking precise post-dive insights.
Pros
- Highly accurate RGBM decompression modeling and tissue visualization
- Free to download and use with no subscription required
- Comprehensive dive planning tools for multi-gas technical dives
Cons
- Windows-only compatibility with no Mac or mobile support
- Dated user interface lacking modern aesthetics and intuitiveness
- No cloud sync or integration with newer Suunto apps
Best For
Technical divers with Suunto computers who prioritize detailed desktop-based analysis over mobile convenience.
Pricing
Completely free to download from suunto.com.
LogTRIP PRO
otherWindows-based professional dive logbook with mapping, statistics, and dive computer import capabilities.
Team log sharing and collaborative trip management for group dives
LogTRIP PRO is a web and mobile-based dive logging software tailored for scuba divers to record detailed dive profiles, including site details, gas mixes, buddies, and photos. It offers gear inventory management, certification tracking, maintenance logs, and interactive statistics dashboards for analyzing dive history. The platform supports dive computer imports from popular brands and enables sharing logs with dive teams or buddies.
Pros
- Seamless multi-device sync across web and mobile
- Comprehensive gear and certification management
- Strong dive statistics and visualization tools
Cons
- Full features locked behind PRO subscription
- Limited advanced dive planning or simulation capabilities
- Occasional delays in dive computer data imports
Best For
Recreational divers and small dive teams who prioritize easy logging and data visualization over advanced planning tools.
Pricing
Free Lite version with limits; PRO at $4.99/month or $49/year for unlimited dives and advanced features.
MultiDeco
otherAdvanced technical dive planning software supporting multi-gas, trimix, and closed-circuit rebreathers.
Integrated support for both Bühlmann GF and VPM-B+ algorithms in a single free tool
MultiDeco is a free, portable dive planning software primarily for Windows users, specializing in technical dive decompression calculations. It supports multiple algorithms including Bühlmann ZHL-16B/C with gradient factors, VPM-B/VPM-B+, and RGBM, allowing for complex multi-gas profiles with trimix, heliox, and oxygen switches. The tool provides detailed outputs like tissue graphs, gas consumption estimates, and customizable deco schedules for advanced planning.
Pros
- Completely free with no hidden costs
- Multiple advanced deco algorithms including VPM-B+
- Portable executable with no installation required
Cons
- Outdated graphical user interface
- Windows-only, no Mac/Linux or mobile support
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
Best For
Experienced technical divers on Windows who need a reliable, no-cost tool for multi-gas trimix planning.
Pricing
Entirely free, open-source download from multideco.info.
V-Planner LIVE
otherReal-time technical dive planning tool for liveaboard and CCR diving with gas switching support.
Real-time VPM-B bubble model calculations with live gradient factor adjustments in a fully web-based platform
V-Planner LIVE is a web-based dive planning software specializing in technical diving profiles using the proprietary VPM-B (V-Planner Multi-gas Bubble) decompression model. It supports complex multi-gas dives with trimix, heliox, and nitrox, including features like gradient factors, bailout planning, and real-time adjustments. Accessible via any browser without installation, it caters to advanced divers needing precise bubble model predictions.
Pros
- Highly accurate VPM-B/E decompression model trusted by tech divers
- Intuitive web interface with real-time planning and multi-gas support
- Includes advanced tools like bailout gas planning and gradient factor customization
Cons
- Requires stable internet connection, no offline mode
- Subscription model adds ongoing cost without one-time purchase option
- Fewer logging and dive computer integration features compared to desktop rivals
Best For
Technical divers planning multi-gas deco dives who value browser-based accessibility and VPM bubble modeling.
Pricing
Subscription at $10/month or $100/year
Dive+
otherModern dive logging app with computer connectivity, AR identification, and global dive site database.
Bluetooth dive computer integration for automatic profile uploads and analysis
Dive+ is a mobile app designed for scuba divers, offering dive logging, planning, and community features to track and share underwater adventures. It supports importing detailed dive profiles from popular dive computers like Suunto, Shearwater, and Garmin via Bluetooth. Users can discover global dive sites, log gear and buddies, attach photos/videos, and connect with a social network of divers.
Pros
- Strong integration with major dive computers for easy profile imports
- Engaging community features for discovering sites and sharing logs
- Intuitive mobile interface with Apple Watch support
Cons
- Premium subscription required for full features like unlimited logs
- No native desktop version or robust cross-platform sync
- Occasional sync issues with certain dive computers
Best For
Recreational scuba divers seeking a social, mobile-first app for logging and community interaction.
Pricing
Free basic version; Dive+ Premium subscription at $4.99/month or $49.99/year.
Oceanic+
otherDive app and desktop software for logging dives from Oceanic dive computers with Bluetooth sync.
Automatic Bluetooth syncing of detailed dive profiles and tissue data from Oceanic computers
Oceanic+ is a mobile dive app tailored for Oceanic dive computer users, enabling Bluetooth syncing of dive profiles, tissue loading data, and logs directly from compatible hardware. It offers advanced dive planning with Buhlmann ZHL-16C + GF algorithms, a community for sharing dives, and integrated training courses. The app emphasizes seamless hardware integration and user-friendly mobile access for recreational divers.
Pros
- Seamless Bluetooth sync with Oceanic dive computers
- Strong dive planning and tissue modeling tools
- Active community and dive sharing features
Cons
- Subscription required for full access to premium features
- Limited compatibility with non-Oceanic hardware
- Occasional connectivity and sync glitches reported by users
Best For
Owners of Oceanic dive computers seeking an integrated app for logging, planning, and social sharing.
Pricing
Free download with basic features; premium subscription at $4.99/month or $49.99/year for full access including advanced planning and unlimited logs.
Conclusion
Subsurface leads the pack as the top choice, boasting cross-platform accessibility and robust dive management features that suit divers of all expertise levels. MacDive and Shearwater Cloud follow closely—MacDive for its seamless integration with macOS and iOS, and Shearwater Cloud for its cloud-based analytics and tight sync with Shearwater computers—each standing as strong alternatives for specific needs. Together, these top three tools showcase the best in dive software, setting a high bar for functionality and user experience.
Dive into better organization and planning with Subsurface, the most comprehensive pick to enhance your underwater adventures.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison