Shearwater Tern TX Review
A compact, air-integrated dive computer that brings Shearwater reliability to travel and recreational diving. The Tern TX has quickly earned its place in my kit with intuitive controls, crisp display, and dependable performance across pool dives and local quarry work. Ideal for Divemaster shifts, warm water trips, or as a streamlined backup to a Perdix, it delivers serious capability in a small, lightweight package.
Overall Score: 8.9 / 10 (Strong)
Last updated: July 2025
I've been using the Shearwater Tern TX as my compact backup and travel dive computer for the last few months. With about ten dives logged on it so far, I've tested it in both pool sessions and Midwest freshwater quarry dives. While my main computer is the Perdix II, I chose the Tern TX to carry when doing Divemaster work or traveling light. It's proven to be an impressive companion for simpler dives without sacrificing key functionality.
Yes, especially if you're already in the Shearwater ecosystem. It syncs easily with AI transmitters, uses the same cloud software, and the display feel instantly familiar.
Absolutely. It supports AI, gas switching, and full decompression functionality in Rec mode. For many divers, this would be a perfectly capable primary device. The screen is smaller than the Perdix but still very readable.
Yes. It's lightweight, compact, and has great battery life. It pairs quickly with a transmitter and charges via USB-C puck. The hard case makes it easy to pack without worry. For warm water vacations, it’s ideal.
It's customizable enough for most recreational use. You can choose what shows in the middle two rows, while the top and bottom row is fixed. I use NDL and transmitter PSI and then TTS, temp, and GTR/SAC below that.
The Perdix II still wins for tech dives, redundant profiles, and full screen real estate. But for NDL dives or as a backup, the Tern TX holds its own. It’s faster to charge, lighter on the wrist, and better for casual dives.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact, travel-friendly form factor | Screen is smaller than Perdix II |
| Rechargeable USB-C battery | Bottom and Top rows are not customizable |
| Full Shearwater Cloud and AI support | |
| Bright, readable AMOLED display |
Why I Chose Shearwater Tern TX
I wanted a lightweight, no-hassle computer that could handle my recreational dives, pool sessions, and warm water travel without taking my primary tech rig with me. Since I'm doing Divemaster work and local fun dives that rarely push limits, I needed something AI-capable, durable, and simple. Staying within the Shearwater ecosystem meant shared transmitters, familiar menu logic, and easy syncing to Shearwater Cloud. The Tern TX hit that mark without the size and weight of the Perdix.
Verdict
The Tern TX has carved out a dedicated role in my kit. It now lives in my travel bag and comes with me for warm water trips and pool training. I also use it when assisting on dives where I don’t want to bring my full Perdix setup. It has never glitched, failed to sync, or run out of battery early. It may be my secondary computer, but it doesn’t feel like a downgrade.
Would I buy it again? Yes — for the same reasons I bought it the first time. It fills its role beautifully without compromise.
Who Shearwater Tern TX Is Best For
This item is best suited for:
- Recreational divers who want AI and Shearwater reliability in a compact form
- Traveling divers who want a lightweight and rechargeable computer
- Divers who already own a Perdix and want a streamlined backup
It may not be ideal for:
- Divers who need full tech dive features like Trimix or redundant algorithms
- People who prefer large format screens or maximum customizability
Deep Dive into the Score
Scoring System: Each category is scored out of 10 and weighted by importance. This model is used consistently across all gear reviews for transparency.
| Category | Score (0–10) | Weight | Weighted Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Function & Performance | 9 | 30% | 2.7 |
| Ease of Use | 9 | 20% | 1.8 |
| Versatility | 8 | 15% | 1.2 |
| Durability & Build Quality | 9 | 15% | 1.35 |
| Value | 8 | 10% | 0.8 |
| Brand Trust & Transparency | 10 | 10% | 1.0 |
| Total | 8.85 | ||
Rounded Display Score: 8.9
Deep Dive Score Explanations
- Function & Performance – 9: Air integration, customizable layout, clear display, and rock solid performance. One point off only for the missing tech mode.
- Ease of Use – 9: Very intuitive. Menu is nothing like the Perdix, but still usable. Syncs and charges without fuss. Slightly less flexible than Perdix for screen setup.
- Versatility – 8: Works great for NDL and simple deco, but not ideal for complex tech dives. Excellent travel option though.
- Durability & Build Quality – 9: Feels solid and well-constructed. Buttons are responsive and case is protective. No wear or scratches so far.
- Value – 8: On the higher end for recreational computers, but the reliability, support, and performance justify the price for me.
- Brand Trust & Transparency – 10: Shearwater’s reputation is second to none. Support, firmware updates, and ecosystem consistency are excellent.
My Custom Setup or Configuration
The screen is configured as follows:
- Top row: Gas type, battery level, current depth and ascent rate (not customizable)
- Second row: NDL and transmitter PSI
- Third row: TTS, temperature, and GTR/SAC
- Bottom row: Dive time (not customizable)
Setup is easy through the menu system. The only thing I wish I could do is swap the dive time to a different location, but that's a small nitpick. Everything else feels logical and useful.
Performance in the Water
- Readability: Clear even in silty quarry water or bright sunlight. Colors and contrast are excellent.
- Battery Life: Lasted multiple dives across several weekends on a single charge. Charges quickly via USB-C.
- AI Reliability: Transmitter synced instantly and never dropped signal. PSI updates are fast and stable.
- Comfort & Wearability: Lightweight and low-profile. Easy to wear with or without gloves. Stays in place during pool work or quarry dives.