Ratio

Ratio iX3M2 Tech+

A full-trimix, CCR-capable computer with a choice of 4 decompression models.

Open BLE sync (libdivecomputer)

Syncs wirelessly with third-party apps (Subsurface, Currents, etc.), not just the manufacturer app.

Ratio iX3M2 Tech+
4.2Comparison Score
$835
Released2022
Max depth rating220m
AlgorithmBühlmann ZHL-12, ZHL-16B, ZHL-16C, or VPM-B (user selectable)
Air integrationwireless
Wirelessbluetooth
Display2.8" color IPS, 320x240, 150° viewing angle
Batteryrechargeable
Digital compassYes
Gas typesair, nitrox, trimix
Gas switches10
CCR capableYes

"Gas switches" is how many different mixes this computer can be programmed to switch between mid-dive, mostly relevant for technical/staged-decompression diving. It doesn't tell you which gas types (air, nitrox, trimix) are supported. See Gas types and the product description above for that.

Pros
  • Choice of 4 decompression algorithms, more flexible than most single-algorithm computers
  • Up to 10 gas mixes with full trimix and CCR support
  • Wide 150-degree IPS viewing angle on the color display
Cons
  • Designed in Italy, made in Germany, support/parts network is smaller than Shearwater's or Garmin's in North America
  • Bulkier console-style unit (220g) versus watch-style competitors
  • Steeper learning curve given the 4-algorithm, multi-mode feature set
Diver community sentiment
Mixed opinions

Sentiment on the iX3M2 Tech+ skews toward cautious, niche enthusiasm rather than broad consensus. Experienced Scubaboard posters who tried the gen-2 model said it "completely reworked" the mechanics/software of the original iX3M, praising the large bright screen, ease of use, firmware-based upgrade path to CCR, integrated gas analysis, and pricing that undercuts Shearwater in some markets. Recurring complaints include the Pro variant lacking custom gradient-factor/SurfGF settings (a dealbreaker for some tech divers), a proprietary transmitter that doesn't interoperate with the established Shearwater/PPS ecosystem, and inconsistent customer-support responsiveness. At least one experienced divemaster ultimately switched to a Shearwater Perdix 2 despite the higher cost.

Scubaboard: iX3M2 announcement/owner threadScubaboard: owner who switched to ShearwaterScubaboard: iX3M2 user reviews thread

Summarized from public forum discussion (Scubaboard, Reddit, and similar), not a survey we ran ourselves. See the linked threads for the original conversations.

The iX3M2 Tech+ is Ratio’s top-tier technical computer, standing out for offering a choice of four different decompression models rather than locking divers into one. It’s aimed squarely at trimix and CCR divers who want algorithm flexibility.