Shearwater Tern TX Dive Computer

For divers who want pressure and compass data without wearing a full-size computer, the Shearwater Tern TX fills a very specific gap. It keeps the watch-style dimensions and four-button interface of the standard Tern, then adds a tilt-compensated digital compass and support for compatible Shearwater transmitters. That combination works well for travel, local recreational diving and freediving where a larger technical computer would add unnecessary bulk.

On the wrist, the 1.3-inch full-colour AMOLED screen presents configurable dive data at 360 x 360 resolution. Dedicated buttons keep menus predictable with wet or gloved hands, and the compact case is easier to wear between dives than a large rectangular unit. Air, Nitrox, three-gas Nitrox, Gauge and Freediving modes cover broad sport-diving use, with Bühlmann ZHL-16C decompression and adjustable gradient factors providing a consistent basis as training and dive planning develop.

Air integration is optional rather than bundled. A diver can start with the computer alone, then add pressure monitoring later; Tern TX can pair with up to four compatible transmitters. That capacity also supports more involved cylinder arrangements without changing the computer. The compass brings heading information onto the same display, reducing the need for a separate wrist compass. These are useful additions, not just letters on the model name, and they make the TX meaningfully different from the standard Tern.

The rechargeable battery is rated for up to 20 hours at medium brightness and charges wirelessly on the supplied USB-C station. Dive logs can be transferred by Bluetooth for review and firmware updates, while the Remora quick-release band system allows the fit to be adjusted around different exposure protection. Tern TX is still a dedicated dive computer rather than a notification-driven smartwatch.

Tern TX is often the better choice when compact size, Freedive mode, compass navigation and future transmitter use all matter. Standard Tern offers better value when pressure integration and a compass are unnecessary. Peregrine TX gives the same buyer a larger screen and stronger sidemount emphasis, while Teric or Perdix 3 becomes relevant only when Trimix or CCR capability is part of the actual dive plan.