Garmin has just introduced the Descent G2, an all-in-one dive computer and smartwatch featuring a brilliant AMOLED display and a powerful suite of tools designed for life both in and out of the water.
The Garmin Descent G2 is built for recreational, technical, and freediving enthusiasts, offering a range of advanced dive modes and Garmin’s latest innovations, including the new ‘dive readiness’ score.
This feature takes into account sleep quality, stress levels, and jet lag—beyond just surface interval times—to help divers make safer, more informed decisions before heading underwater.
In this in-depth review, we’ll explore:
- The latest features & upgrades of the Descent G2
- How it compares to the previous Garmin Descent G1
- Its diving, freediving, and smartwatch functionalities
- Why does it stand out from competitors like the Apple Watch Ultra
- Pricing, availability & whether it’s worth the investment
If you’re considering upgrading your dive watch or investing in a premium dive computer, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Garmin Descent G2 Review: Features & Upgrades
The Garmin Descent G2 is equipped with advanced features that set it apart from its predecessors. Some of the most important highlights are:
Brighter and more responsive AMOLED display
One of the most important new features is the 1.2-inch AMOLED display, which replaces the older LCD screen of the Garmin Descent G1. This upgrade offers:
- A sharper, higher contrast display that improves readability underwater
- A brighter backlight makes it easier to read dive data in low-light conditions
- Greater energy efficiency for longer battery life
Unlike conventional LCD screens, AMOLED displays offer better color saturation and deep blacks, making dive data easier to see.
The improved responsiveness of the touchscreen also enables faster menu navigation, reducing the hassle of underwater adjustments.
Eco-Friendly Build with Recycled Ocean Plastics
Garmin is committed to sustainability, and it shows. Following the success of the Descent G1 Solar – Ocean Edition in 2023, the latest model is crafted from 100% recycled ocean-bound plastics—making it a great choice for divers who care about ocean conservation without compromising on performance.
The case, bezel, and buttons are made from recycled materials without sacrificing durability.
Additionally, the rugged design is complemented by:
- A strong sapphire lens for scratch resistance
- A 100-meter depth rating, ensuring reliability even for deep-sea diving
- Leakproof buttons to withstand prolonged underwater use
This commitment to sustainability aligns with Garmin’s eco-friendly vision while maintaining the rugged durability divers expect from their gear.
Extended Battery Life for Long Dive Sessions
The Garmin new scuba diving smartwatch offers exceptional battery performance, ensuring it lasts through multiple dives:
- Up to 24 hours in dive mode
- Up to 12 days in smartwatch mode
- Fast charging capabilities
Compared to its predecessor, the Descent G2 lasts longer on a single charge, making it a great choice for divers who travel frequently or embark on extended dive expeditions.
Advanced Diving Features of the Garmin Descent G2
This dive computer is designed to support a wide range of diving styles, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced divers.
Multi-Gas & Rebreather Support
The Descent G2 includes multiple dive modes, allowing it to adapt to different diving techniques:
- Single & Multi-Gas Diving: Supports air, nitrox, and trimix for recreational and technical divers
- Closed-Circuit Rebreather (CCR) Mode: Allows for gas monitoring in rebreather diving setups
- Gauge Mode: Works as a depth gauge and timer, suitable for professional divers
For those who engage in technical or deep-sea diving, the ability to use multiple gas blends is crucial.
The Descent G2 ensures safety and precision by providing accurate tracking and decompression algorithms.
Built-In 3-Axis Compass for Navigation
Navigation is essential for underwater safety, and the Descent G2 comes with a highly accurate 3-axis compass that helps divers:
- ✔ Maintain orientation even in low visibility conditions
- ✔ Navigate with custom waypoint markers
- ✔ Improve underwater direction tracking
The digital compass is designed to be intuitive and easy to read, ensuring divers stay on course without needing additional navigation tools.
Big Numbers Mode for Enhanced Readability
When diving, quick access to critical data is crucial. The Descent G2 introduces Big Numbers Mode, which simplifies the interface by enlarging essential details such as:
- ✔ No-decompression limits (NDL)
- ✔ Dive time and depth
- ✔ Safety stop timers
This feature makes the Descent G2 user-friendly, especially for older divers or those who prefer a clean, minimal interface while underwater.
Freediving & Apnea Training Features
For freedivers and spearfishers, having the best freediving watch is more than just a convenience—it’s a game-changer.
A great dive watch doesn’t just track time; it provides advanced apnea training tools, real-time depth monitoring, and performance insights to help improve breath-hold techniques and ensure a safer, more efficient dive.
Dynamic Apnea Mode for Performance Tracking
Freediving requires careful breath control and technique refinement. The Descent G2 tracks performance metrics such as:
- ✔ Max depth and ascent rates
- ✔ Descent speed tracking
- ✔ Dive time & recovery intervals
By recording each session, freedivers can analyze and improve their performance over time.
Apnea Alerts for Safety
To minimize distractions during dives, the Descent G2 provides haptic and audible alerts for:
- ✔ Custom depth intervals
- ✔ Target depth achievements
- ✔ Neutral buoyancy detection
This hands-free approach enhances safety by ensuring divers stay aware of depth and ascent conditions without constantly checking the watch.
Velocity Chart for Post-Dive Analysis
After surfacing, divers can review their descent and ascent rates, hang times, and overall dive performance using the Garmin Dive app.
This feature is particularly useful for freedivers aiming to optimize their efficiency and reduce oxygen consumption during dives.
Why Garmin Descent G2 Stands Out from Competitors
This isn’t just another dive computer—it’s a versatile smartwatch packed with pro-level diving features. From advanced apnea tracking to multi-gas support, here’s why it stands out from the competition.
1. Dive Readiness Score – A Unique Addition
Unlike traditional dive computers, the Descent G2 introduces a dive readiness score, which evaluates:
- ✔ Sleep quality before a dive
- ✔ Stress levels & heart rate variability
- ✔ Recent exercise, fatigue & jet lag
This feature helps divers decide when their body is physiologically ready for a dive, reducing the risk of decompression sickness and fatigue-related errors.
2. Surface GPS Tracking for Entry & Exit Points
A major upgrade in the Descent G2 is GPS-based dive logging, allowing divers to:
- ✔ Track entry and exit points on a map
- ✔ Log dive routes for future reference
- ✔ Enhance underwater navigation
This feature is especially useful for wreck diving, drift diving, and exploring new locations, ensuring divers always know where they surfaced.
All-Day Wearability: Smartwatch Features of the Garmin Descent G2
One of the standout features of Garmin’s new Descent G2 is its seamless transition from a dive computer to an everyday smartwatch.
Unlike many other Garmin dive computer alternatives are bulky and used solely for underwater activities, the Descent G2 is designed for daily wear, making it a multi-purpose device for divers, athletes, and fitness enthusiasts alike.
Health & Wellness Monitoring
The Descent G2 isn’t just a scuba diving smartwatch—it’s a full-fledged health tracker. Whether you’re on land or underwater, this smartwatch provides real-time health insights, including:
- ✔ 24/7 Heart Rate Monitoring: Tracks heart rate variations during dives, workouts, and daily activities.
- ✔ Pulse Oximeter (SpO2 Tracking): Measures blood oxygen saturation, crucial for altitude acclimatization and post-dive recovery.
- ✔ Advanced Sleep Monitoring: Breaks down light, deep, and REM sleep stages to provide a sleep score and improvement insights.
- ✔ Stress & Hydration Tracking: Helps divers maintain optimal hydration levels and manage daily stress for improved performance.
- ✔ Respiration Rate Tracking: Monitors breathing patterns throughout the day and during workouts, which is particularly helpful for freedivers.
These comprehensive wellness features make the Descent G2 more than just a dive watch—it’s a personal health assistant designed to keep you at your best both in and out of the water.
Training & Sports Insights
For those who love adventure beyond diving, the Garmin new Descent G2 includes dozens of preloaded sports apps, allowing users to track performance across various activities:
- ✔ Cycling, Running, and Open-Water Swimming
- ✔ Strength Training & HIIT Workouts
- ✔ Skiing & Snowboarding Mode
- ✔ Rowing, Yoga & Pilates Sessions
The device tracks VO2 max levels, recovery times, and performance adaptation to heat and altitude, making it a versatile fitness companion for multi-sport athletes.
Smart Connectivity & Productivity Features
The Descent G2 seamlessly integrates with smartphones to provide essential connectivity tools:
- ✔ Receive Emails, Calls & Text Notifications (Compatible with Apple & Android)
- ✔ Garmin Pay for contactless payments
- ✔ Garmin LiveTrack for real-time location sharing
- ✔ Music Controls & App Integration via Garmin Connect IQ Store
If you’re a diver looking for a powerful dive watch that also works great as an everyday smartwatch, the Garmin new Descent G2 has you covered.
It’s the perfect Garmin smartwatch for divers, packed with advanced dive tracking and all the smart features you need for life on land.
Comparison: Garmin Descent G2 vs. Garmin Descent G1
If you already own a Garmin Descent G1, you might be wondering whether the G2 model is worth upgrading to. Below is a detailed comparison to help you decide.
| Feature | Descent G2 | Garmin Descent G1 |
| Display | 1.2″ AMOLED (Brighter, Sharper) | LCD Display |
| Battery Life | 24 hours (dive) / 12 days (smartwatch) | 25 hours (dive) / 21 days (smartwatch) |
| Dive Readiness Score | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Surface GPS for Entry/Exit Tracking | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Multiple Dive Modes | ✅ Yes (Supports Air, Nitrox, Trimix, CCR) | ✅ Yes |
| Recycled Ocean Plastic Build | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Freediving-Specific Features | ✅ Yes (Apnea alerts, variometer, custom depth notifications) | ✅ Yes, but limited |
| Health & Fitness Tracking | ✅ Yes (Heart rate, SpO2, VO2 max, stress tracking) | ✅ Yes, but fewer metrics |
| Smartwatch Features | ✅ Yes (Garmin Pay, LiveTrack, Notifications) | ✅ Yes |
| Price | Expected: $999 – $1,200 | ~$750 – $850 |
Should You Upgrade?
✔ If you want a brighter AMOLED display, GPS tracking, and dive readiness insights, YES, upgrading is worth it.
✔ If you’re a freediver or technical diver needing advanced apnea tracking & navigation tools, YES, the G2 is superior.
❌ If you already have a G1 and don’t need AMOLED or surface GPS, the upgrade is optional.
Garmin Descent G2: Pricing & Availability
How Much Does the Garmin Descent G2 Cost?
Garmin has not officially announced the pricing for the Descent G2, but based on previous models, the expected price range is:
💰 $999 – $1,200 (depending on the model and strap type).
Where Can You Buy the Garmin Descent G2?
The Descent G2 will be available at:
- ✔ Garmin’s Official Website
- ✔ Amazon & Authorized Retailers
- ✔ Scuba Diving Equipment Stores
Color Options & Customization
Garmin offers the Descent G2 in two color schemes:
- Black (Classic & Professional Look)
- Paloma/Shell Pink (Stylish & Modern Aesthetic)
Additionally, Garmin’s QuickFit bands allow for easy strap customization, ensuring divers can switch between sporty and casual styles effortlessly.
How does the Garmin Descent G2 compare to the Apple Watch Ultra?
| Feature | Garmin Descent G2 | Apple Watch Ultra |
| Depth Rating | 100m | 40m |
| Dive Modes | Multi-Gas, CCR, Gauge, Freediving | Recreational Diving Only |
| Built-In Compass | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Dive Readiness Score | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Surface GPS Tracking | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Battery Life | 24 hours (dive), 12 days (smartwatch) | Up to 36 hours (general use) |
| Smartwatch Features | ✅ Yes (Garmin Pay, Notifications, Garmin Coach) | ✅ Yes (Apple Pay, App Store) |
| Price | $999 – $1,200 | $799 – $899 |
- ✔ Best for Scuba Divers & Freedivers? → Garmin Descent G2
- ✔ Best for Casual Diving & Everyday Use? → Apple Watch Ultra
Garmin Descent G2 Review (FAQs)
How deep can the Garmin Descent G2 go?
The Descent G2 has a 100-meter depth rating, making it suitable for recreational, technical, and freediving.
Is the Garmin Descent G2 waterproof?
Yes! It has a 10 ATM water resistance rating, meaning it’s built for deep-sea diving, swimming, and water sports.
Does the Garmin Descent G2 have air integration?
No, the Descent G2 does not support wireless air integration for monitoring tank pressure.
Final Verdict: Is the Garmin Descent G2 Worth It?
If you’re looking for a premium dive computer that doubles as a high-performance smartwatch, the New Descent G2 is a fantastic investment.
✅ Why You Should Buy It:
✔ Brighter, sharper AMOLED display for easy underwater readability
✔ Advanced dive tracking with multi-gas support
✔ Surface GPS tracking for entry & exit points
✔ Freediving-specific features & apnea alerts
✔ All-day smartwatch features (Garmin Pay, notifications, fitness tracking)
For divers who demand precision, safety, and smart functionality, the Garmin Descent G2 is one of the best dive computers of 2025.
Would you upgrade to the Garmin New Descent G2? Let us know in the comments.
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