We compare Suunto's Vyper Novo to the Zoop Novo
The Vyper Novo is an ideal mid-range choice for most recreational scuba divers. It can handle 3 gases, has wireless air integration capability, and a built in compass.
Suunto's Vyper Novo is the big brother to the Zoop Novo. These look very similar in size. In this review, I explore the Vyper's features, compare it to the Zoop, and also to Suunto's other watch-sized dive computers.
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If you already know that the Suunto Vyper Novo dive computer is for you, click on the button below to see the current price and any savings that may apply on Leisure Pro.
Click below to see the answer to your most pressing question, or keep scrolling to read the entire review.
Suunto Vyper Novo Diving Computer - At a Glance
What features does the Vyper Novo have?
4 - Button Menu - Suunto’s Vyper Novo has well thought out functionality. Menus are easy to navigate and the display is clear to read. Its buttons are big, and easy to press.
The Vyper Novo has an integrated, tilt adjusted 3D digital compass.
Vyper Novo is water-activated. It will remain in Surface Mode at depths less than 4 feet (1.2 meters) and switches into Diving Mode at depths greater than this. as soon as it goes deeper than 1½ feet (0.5 meter). You do need to turn on the Dive Mode before diving to do your pre-dive checks.
Adjustable Alarms - All the standard dive alarms are adjustable. An alarm can be set for maximum depth time, and there’s a default setting for safety stops.
Battery - When switched on to Dive mode, the battery indicator will show the current battery level. To conserve battery, the Vyper Novo will switch to Idle mode after about 3 minutes. During its Idle mode it continues to display the current time, the day of the week, and the date.
Chose between imperial or metric units (feet or meters, Fº or Cº) are easy to set to your personal preference.
Can I change the Vyper Novo battery myself?
Suunto market these as user-changeable when it comes to batteries, but then warn that if you change this yourself, you may void the warranty.
The Vyper Novo takes a standard 3 Volt CR2450 battery. You can buy the Battery Replacement Kit online. The kit includes the battery and O-ring and costs under $20.
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 be included as part of its regular two yearly service.
The video below shows the steps on how to swap over the battery. The screwdriver used is a T-6 torx.
Planning to dive at different altitudes?
It’s generally recommended you wait a minimum of 3 hours before diving at a new altitude. Traveling to a higher elevation will temporarily change the equilibrium of dissolved nitrogen in your body.
The Vyper Novo comes with an Altitude Diving setting feature. This is not updated automatically as you change heights. The Altitude Setting needs to be changed manually.
When you adjust the Altitude setting, the Vyper Novo adjusts its mathematical model according to which altitude is selected. The Vyper Novo calculates 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 no-fly icon is displayed.
Suunto Vyper Novo White
Suunto Vyper Novo versus the Zoop Novo
Now that you know all about the Vyper Novo, let's have a look at the differences between it and the Zoop Novo. They are very similar in looks and size. Both the Suunto Zoop Novo and the Vyper Novo offer better functionality than their predecessors and both are great value for money.
The Suunto Zoop Novo is designed for the entry level diver, whereas the Suunto Vyper Novo has the features to satisfy most recreational and technical divers.
The Vyper Novo has wireless air integration option, an integrated digital compass, and the ability to handle up to three gas mixes. Zoop Novo doesn't have these options.
Comparison Table - Vyper Novo versus D4i Novo and D6i Novo
The Vyper Novo is not a watch sized dive computer. The D4i Novo and D6i Novo are watch sized dive computers.
The Conclusion
If you are looking for a dive computer that's above entry level or you think you will expand on your dive training in next year or two, then consider the Suunto Vyper Novo. Given the functionality, it sells at a reasonable price point.
With an integrated 3D compass, the ability to switch between up to 3 gases, and the option for wireless air integration, this a computer that will grow with your needs.
Last Updated on December 9, 2020
