The Garmin Descent G2 is a next-generation Garmin dive watch that combines the reliability of a professional-grade Garmin dive computer with the everyday functionality of a premium smartwatch. Designed for both recreational divers and technical explorers, it delivers accurate decompression tracking, depth monitoring up to 100 meters, and intuitive dive planning. Integrated with the Garmin Dive™ app, it allows you to log, analyze, and share every underwater adventure with ease. Beyond diving, the Descent G2 offers advanced health tracking, GPS navigation, and smart connectivity, making it the most versatile Garmin Descent G2 yet — built to perform underwater and crafted to support your lifestyle topside.
- What it is: A 1.2″ AMOLED screen dive-computer watch with multiple dive modes and full smartwatch capabilities.
- Best for: Recreational, freediving and technical divers who do not need air‐integration or tank transmitters.
- Not for: Divers who require wireless transmitter support for tank pressure or messaging between divers.
- Key compatibility: Works with the Garmin Dive app, supports Bluetooth to compatible smartphones; marks surface entry/exit via GPS.
- Important limitation: Depth rating is to 100 m (10 ATM) per EN 13319 standard — check whether that matches your dive regime.
Brilliant AMOLED Display
The Garmin Descent G2 is equipped with a vibrant 1.2″ AMOLED touchscreen that offers exceptional clarity whether you’re 30 meters underwater or checking stats at the surface. The high-resolution 390 × 390 panel provides sharp graphics and vivid colors, making critical dive data — like depth, no-deco time, and tank pressure (on compatible models) — instantly readable at a glance. Protected by a rugged sapphire crystal lens, the display is highly resistant to scratches and impact, ensuring durability dive after dive. Optimized brightness control adapts to changing light conditions, giving you confidence in both low-light environments and bright sunlight topside.
Pro-Grade Dive Tech
Built for serious divers, the Garmin Descent G2 incorporates professional-level technology to keep you safe and informed underwater. Its trusted Bühlmann ZHL-16C decompression algorithm ensures accurate tracking of tissue loading and no-decompression limits, giving you confidence whether you’re on a recreational dive or planning more technical profiles. A highly precise depth sensor rated to 100 meters delivers reliable real-time data, while multi-GNSS support allows you to mark your entry and exit points at the surface — perfect for reviewing dive locations in the Garmin Dive™ app. This combination of algorithm accuracy, sensor reliability, and advanced positioning makes the Descent G2 a true Garmin dive computer you can depend on in any environment.
Smart Above, Tough Below
The Garmin Descent G2 is more than just a dive watch — it’s also a powerful multisport smartwatch you can rely on every day. On land, it provides advanced health and wellness tracking, including heart rate monitoring, Pulse Ox, stress levels, sleep analysis, and detailed fitness metrics. Smartwatch features such as Garmin Pay™ contactless payments, smart notifications, and seamless sync with Garmin Connect™ make it a convenient companion outside the water. Below the surface, its rugged design, 100 m depth rating, sapphire lens, and dive-ready build ensure uncompromising performance when you need it most. With the Descent G2, you don’t have to choose between lifestyle convenience and professional-grade diving — you get both in one device.
Pro's & Con's of the Garmin Descent G2
Pros
- Full suite of dive modes including CCR, trimix, nitrox and freedive.
- Bright AMOLED display with sapphire lens makes data easy to read underwater.
- Smartwatch features + dive-features in one device (health metrics, sports apps, GPS).
Cons
- Does not support wireless tank pressure integration/transmitters.
- Battery life in smartwatch mode (~10 days) is less than similarly priced standard smartwatches. :contentReference[oaicite:34]{index=34}
- Single size (45.5 mm) may be large for smaller wrists.
Garmin Dive Watch Comparison — Key Features
| Feature | Garmin fēnix 8 | Garmin Descent Mk3i | Garmin Descent G2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | AMOLED or Solar (MIP) options (model-dependent) | AMOLED (43 mm: 1.2"; 51 mm: 1.4") | 1.2" AMOLED (390 × 390) |
| Case sizes | 43 mm, 47 mm, 51 mm (series variants) | 43 mm or 51 mm | 45.5 mm |
| Dive / water rating | Water: 10 ATM; Dive (EN 13319): 4 ATM (to ~40 m) | Dive-rated to 200 m (EN 13319) | Water: 10 ATM; Dive (EN 13319) to 100 m |
| Dive modes / algorithm | Recreational scuba & apnea (to 40 m); Bühlmann ZHL-16C | Rec/tech: air, nitrox, trimix, CCR; Bühlmann ZHL-16C (GF) | Rec/tech incl. nitrox/trimix/CCR; Bühlmann ZHL-16C |
| Air integration (tank data) | No | Yes — SubWave™ with Descent T2 transmitter | No (air-integration on G2i variant) |
| Underwater comms | — | SubWave™ diver-to-diver messaging (with T2) | — |
| Maps & GPS | On-device maps (select models); multi-band GNSS | DiveView™ & topo maps; multi-band GNSS; surface entry/exit marking | Multi-GNSS; surface entry/exit marking (via Garmin Dive™ app) |
| Battery — smartwatch mode | Long life; varies by size & display (AMOLED vs Solar) | Up to ~25 days (51 mm); up to ~10 days (43 mm) | Up to 10 days (12 days in battery-saver) |
| Battery — dive mode | — (recreational features only) | Up to 30 h (43 mm) / up to 66 h (51 mm) | Up to 27 h |
| Materials (lens / case) | Sapphire lens on Sapphire models; steel/titanium cases | Sapphire lens; stainless steel/titanium case | Sapphire lens; ocean-bound plastic bezel/case |
| LED flashlight | Yes (built-in) | Yes (built-in) | No |
| Speaker & mic | Yes (calls/voice assist) | Yes (voice assistant & calls support varies by region) | No |
Notes: Battery figures vary by size/model and settings (AOD, GNSS mode, etc.). “Air integration” and underwater comms on Mk3i require the SubWave™ T2 transmitter.
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Learn More — Guides & Articles
- Best Dive Computer Guide for 2025 — Our top picks for the best dive computers for 2025.
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- Underwater Photography Guide — lighting & strobe technique fundamentals
- Best Regulator Guide 2024 — ensure you have the perfect regulator for underwater photography
Garmin Descent G2 Specifications
Display & Dive Features
- 1.2″ AMOLED touchscreen display (390 × 390 pixels), sapphire lens
- Watch-style dive computer
- Dive rating: 10 ATM / 100 m (EN 13319 compliant)
- Decompression model: Bühlmann ZHL-16C
- Depth sensor: accurate 0–100 m (0.1 m resolution up to 99.9 m; 1 m at 100 m)
Battery & Power
- Built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- Battery life: up to 27 h in dive mode; up to 10 days in smartwatch mode
Environmental Conditions
- Operating/storage temperature: –20 °C to 60 °C (–4 °F to 140 °F)
- Underwater operating temperature: 0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F to 104 F)
- Charging temperature: 0 °C to 45 °C (32 °F to 113 °F)
Smart Features & Connectivity
- Wireless: 2.4 GHz (Bluetooth/Wi-Fi), NFC (13.56 MHz)
- Supports dive log storage and review in Garmin Dive™ smartphone app
- Multi-GNSS support and surface GPS entry/exit marking
- Health & wellness features: heart rate, Pulse Ox, stress, sleep, fitness tracking
- Smartwatch capabilities: notifications, Garmin Pay, Garmin Connect sync
Physical & Materials
- Weight: ~61 g
- Dimensions: approximately 45.5 × 45.5 × 15.2 mm
- Eco-friendly housing, bezel, buttons made from recycled ocean-bound plastics
- Durable sapphire lens and leak-proof buttons
- 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.
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