10 Best Garmin Dive Watches 2026 in the United States

The Garmin fēnix 8 is a premium multisport GPS smartwatch that stands out with its bright 1.4-inch AMOLED display protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire lens, offering excellent readability even underwater or in low light. Its build quality is top-notch, featuring a durable titanium bezel and leakproof metal buttons, which contribute to its 40-meter dive rating — making it suitable for both scuba and apnea diving. Battery life is impressive, lasting up to 29 days in smartwatch mode and up to 84 hours with GPS active, which means you can rely on it for extended adventures without frequent charging. The watch includes multiple dive modes and sensors that improve navigation and tracking underwater. Comfort-wise, although it weighs a modest 102 grams and has a pebble gray band designed for wear during intense activities, some users might find the 51mm size a bit large for smaller wrists.

In terms of smart features, it offers Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and USB connectivity, voice call capabilities, and off-grid voice commands that work without a phone connection. Health and wellness monitoring is thorough with heart rate, sleep, respiration, and even an ECG app, though this data should be seen as an estimate rather than a medical grade. It excels for multisport and outdoor use, including diving, though the relatively large size and premium price might be considerations for casual users or those seeking a more compact dive watch.

The Garmin tactix® 8 watch is tailored for those who seek a multifunctional diving and tactical smartwatch. Its 40-meter dive rating makes it suitable for scuba and apnea diving, though it may not be ideal for deep-sea diving enthusiasts. The solar-charged display and titanium bezel with sapphire lens promise durability and extended battery life, which is crucial for prolonged outdoor adventures. While the 1.4-inch display may seem small, it maintains readability, even with its extensive functionality.

Tactical features such as night vision compatibility, dual-position GPS, and an advanced ballistics solver cater to military personnel or outdoor adventurers. The watch excels in connectivity, offering Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and USB options, allowing you to sync with smartphones and use apps like AB Quantum to manage profiles efficiently. While its advanced navigation system with dynamic maps is a boon for explorers, the plethora of features could overwhelm someone not needing the tactical extras.

Health monitoring features keep track of heart rate, sleep, and other wellness metrics, though these are not medical-grade. The rugged design, weighing 95 grams, ensures it can withstand tough conditions, but its bulkiness might not suit everyone for daily wear. Comfort is subjective, as some might find the fit snug, whereas others may feel it cumbersome for prolonged use.

In essence, the Garmin tactix® 8 is ideal for users who need a robust tool for diving, tactical activities, and extensive outdoor navigation. However, casual users or those seeking a simpler dive watch may find its features to be more than necessary, potentially complicating their use.

The Garmin Descent Mk3i is an advanced dive computer that doubles as a multisport GPS smartwatch. The watch boasts a 1.4-inch AMOLED display, which is clear and readable even in low-light conditions, and the sapphire lens adds durability by resisting scratches. Its titanium bezel and optional titanium bracelet enhance its build quality, making it suitable for tough underwater environments. Water resistance up to 200 meters ensures reliability during deep dives, and the multiple dive modes cater to both recreational and technical divers, including freediving. The SubWave sonar technology is a standout feature, allowing communication between divers and monitoring tank pressures, though the required Descent T2 transceiver is sold separately, which could be a drawback for some users.

The built-in LED flashlight with variable intensities offers enhanced visibility underwater, adding to safety and convenience. The dive readiness tool is useful for assessing your physical condition before diving, though it should be noted that the metrics are estimations. The DiveView maps and multi-band GPS provide excellent navigational aid, though GPS tracking does not work underwater. The dive log feature is handy for storing and reviewing dive data, with seamless integration into the Garmin Dive app. As a multisport watch, it includes fitness and training features, along with comprehensive health monitoring tools, though these are not medical-grade.

Despite the robust features, the watch weighs 165.9 grams, which might not be comfortable for all users during prolonged wear. Connectivity through Bluetooth and USB supports smart features, enhancing its functionality as an everyday smartwatch. The Garmin Descent Mk3i excels in providing advanced features for diving and multisport activities, but the weight and additional cost for full sonar functionality could be potential downsides.