Garmin Descent G2 Dive Watch
The Garmin Descent G2, the latest upgrade from the ever popular Garmin G1 dive watch, is a garmin dive watch that’s not just a timepiece but a full-fledged dive computer, GPS navigator, and smartwatch rolled into one. The G2 is packed with features that cater specifically to divers, from advanced dive metrics to built-in GPS. What sets it apart from other dive computers on the market is its ability to seamlessly transition from a dive computer to a smartwatch, making it a versatile tool for both underwater and everyday use.
Key Features & Technology:
Dive Features
- Dive Log: Store dive logs on device, and review in the Garmin Dive app.
- Customisable Dive Modes: Add additional screens for each dive mode that features the fields you want to see.
- Twoway Messaging & SOS: Pair with the inReach® Mini 2 satellite communicator and the inReach dive case (each sold separately) to communicate above the water.
- Dive Compass: Easily navigate below the waterline with the built-in 3-axis compass.
- Tide Data: Stay up to date on ocean conditions so you can catch the perfect wave. Just pair the watch with your compatible smartphone.
Health & Fitness Features
- Daily Movements: Keep tabs on your daily steps, calories burned, floors climbed and more from your wrist.
- HRV Status: Gain a deeper understanding of your overall health through heart rate variability while you sleep.
- Stress Tracking: Find out if you’re having a calm, balanced or stressful day.
- Wrist-based Heart Rate: Descent G2 dive watch constantly samples your heart rate, so you can stay in the know all day and night3.
- Pulse OX Sensor: Track your blood oxygen saturation while you’re awake or asleep.
- Health Snapshot: Log a 2-minute session to record key health stats, then generate a report to share with your health care provider.
- Women's Health Tracking: Track your menstrual cycle or pregnancy to get exercise and nutrition education.
Activity Tracking
- Built-in Sports Apps: Track activities, including cycling, open-water swimming, strength training and more.
- Surf Activity: Record the number of waves surfed, maximum speed reached, distance traveled and more.
- Garmin Coach: Prepare for your next race, train for a milestone, or simply improve your fitness with Garmin Coach adaptive or prebuilt training plans.
- Intensity Minutes: Track your moderate and vigorous activity minutes.
- VO2 Max: See your current fitness level, and track changes over time to set goals, evaluate progress and more.
- Altitude & Heat Acclimation: See how you’re holding up to the current elevation or heat based on your health metrics.
- HIIT Workouts: Track your HIIT workouts, including AMRAP, EMOM, Tabata or custom workouts.
Connected Lifestyle Features
- Garmin Connect: See your health and fitness information, connect with friends and more — in this free, zero-subscription app.
- Safety & Tracking: If you feel unsafe or if your watch senses that an incident occurred, your watch will send a message with your live location.
- GARMIN PAY™ Contactless Payments: Breeze through checkout lines or transit systems with participating providers.
- Smart Notifications: Receive emails, texts and alerts on your watch when paired with your iPhone® or Android™ smartphone.
- CONNECT IQ™ Store: Add watch faces, data fields and apps to your paired smartwatch.
Features & Technology for the G2
Single Gas, Multi-Gas, and Gauge Modes: Whether you’re using a single tank or multiple gas mixtures, the Garmin Descent G2 has you covered. It supports single gas, multi-gas, and gauge modes, making it a versatile tool for different types of dives. 
Dive Computer: The 1.2-inch AMOLED display provides easy reading at any depth, with a sapphire lens and leakproof buttons — plus a 10 ATM dive rating.
Real-Time Depth and Temperature Monitoring: One of the standout features of the Garmin Descent G2 is its ability to provide real-time depth and temperature readings. The watch uses advanced sensors to deliver accurate data, so you can focus on enjoying your dive without worrying about the details.
Preloaded Maps and Waypoints: Getting lost underwater is a diver’s worst nightmare. Thankfully, the Garmin Descent G2 comes with preloaded maps and waypoints, so you can navigate with confidence. You can also mark your own waypoints for future reference. It’s like having a GPS for the ocean.
Notifications and Connectivity: The Garmin Descent G2 isn’t just for diving. It’s a fully functional smartwatch that keeps you connected with notifications for calls, texts, and emails. You can also control your music and access other smart features directly from your wrist.Comparison between the Garmin Descent G1 and the latest Garmin Descent G2
| Feature | Garmin Descent G1 | Garmin Descent Mk2 / Mk2i (aka G2) |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2022 | Mk2: 2020 / Mk2i: 2020 |
| Display | Monochrome, sunlight-visible, 0.9" (176x176 px) | Full-color AMOLED (Mk2S) or sunlight-visible color LCD (Mk2/Mk2i), 1.4" (280x280 px) |
| Size Options | One size (45.5 mm case) | Multiple (Mk2: 52 mm, Mk2S: 43 mm, Mk2i: 52 mm) |
| Dive Modes | Single/Multi-Gas, Apnea, Gauge, CCR | Same, with full CCR support |
| Air Integration | No | Mk2i: Yes (with Garmin T1 transmitter) |
| GPS & Mapping | GPS/GLONASS/Galileo, no full mapping | GPS + TOPO maps and underwater 3D dive site mapping |
| Battery Life (Smartwatch) | Up to 21 days | Mk2: 16 days / Mk2i: 16 days / Mk2S: 11 days |
| Battery Life (Dive Mode) | Up to 25 hours | Mk2/Mk2i: 80 hours / Mk2S: 30 hours |
| Touchscreen | No | Yes (Mk2/Mk2i) |
| Fitness & Smart Features | Yes (basic fitness, HR, sleep, etc.) | More advanced (VO2 Max, advanced metrics, golf, etc.) |
| Music Storage | No | Yes (on Mk2/Mk2i) |
| Wi-Fi & Bluetooth | Bluetooth only | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ANT+ |
| Price (approx) | $549 USD | Mk2: ~$999, Mk2i: ~$1499 (excl. transmitter) |
| Build Materials | Fiber-reinforced polymer with silicone strap | Stainless steel / Titanium bezel options |
| Target Audience | Recreational to advanced divers, value-focused | Technical divers, pros, and multi-sport users |
Related Underwater Gear Categories:
- Full Range of Scuba Gear
- Full Range of Garmin gear
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- Dive Travel Options with Bluewater Dive Travel
- Descent G2 dive computer and smartwatch
- Extra-long adjustment strap
- Charging/data cable
- Documentation
1. What are the key features of the Garmin Descent G2?
The Garmin Descent G2 is a watch-style dive computer featuring a bright 1.2-inch AMOLED display, multiple dive modes (including recreational, technical, and freediving), and health and wellness tracking. It offers up to 10 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and is constructed using recycled ocean-bound plastics.
2. How does the Garmin Descent G2 differ from the Descent G1?
The Descent G2 introduces an AMOLED display, providing more vibrant visuals compared to the G1's MIP display. However, this results in a reduced battery life of up to 10 days, compared to the G1's longer duration. Additionally, the G2 includes features like 'Dive Readiness' and 'Pool Apnea' modes, which are not present in the G1.
3. Can the Descent G2 be used for activities other than diving?
Yes, the Descent G2 supports over 80 sports apps, including cycling, open-water swimming, and strength training, making it a versatile companion for various land and water activities.
4. Is the Garmin Descent G2 suitable for everyday wear?
While the Descent G2 is designed primarily as a dive computer, its smartwatch capabilities and health tracking features make it suitable for daily use. However, its size and design are tailored for diving, which may influence personal comfort and style preferences.
5. Does the Descent G2 support air integration?
No, the Garmin Descent G2 does not offer air integration capabilities. Divers seeking this feature might consider other models like the Descent Mk2i or Mk3i, which include air integration.
6. How is the battery life of the Descent G2 during dive activities?
The Descent G2 provides up to 10 days of battery life in smartwatch mode. However, battery performance during dive activities may vary based on usage and settings.
7. What materials are used in the construction of the Descent G2?
The Descent G2 is constructed using recycled ocean-bound plastics for its housing, bezel, and buttons, reflecting Garmin's commitment to eco-friendly design.
8. Can I customize the watch face on the Descent G2?
Yes, users can customize the watch face on the Descent G2 to display preferred data and aesthetics. This can be done through the device settings or via the Garmin Connect app.
9. How does the 'Dive Readiness' feature work on the Descent G2?
The 'Dive Readiness' feature provides insights into your physical preparedness for diving by analyzing factors such as sleep quality, stress levels, recent exercise, and previous dives.
10. Is the Descent G2 compatible with the Garmin Dive app?
Yes, the Descent G2 is compatible with the Garmin Dive app, allowing users to store and review dive logs, track dive locations, and share experiences with the diving community.
