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 Descent Mk3i is a top-tier dive computer designed with serious divers in mind. It offers excellent water resistance with a 200-meter rating, making it reliable for various recreational and technical dives. The watch supports multiple dive modes and includes advanced features like the Descent T2 transceiver, which enables diver-to-diver messaging and tank monitoring, a useful tool for group dives. Its 1.4-inch AMOLED display is bright and clear, protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire lens, ensuring good readability even underwater or in low light, aided by a built-in LED flashlight with adjustable white and red light.

Battery life stands out, lasting up to 25 days, which is impressive for a smartwatch with GPS and dive capabilities. The titanium case and DLC coating add durability and a premium feel, while multiple bands provide options for comfort and fit. Connectivity via Bluetooth allows syncing dive logs to Garmin's app, which can store data from up to 200 dives. On the downside, the 51 mm size might feel bulky on smaller wrists, and while GPS works well on the surface, it doesn’t function underwater—a limitation common to all dive watches.

This watch suits divers who want a robust, feature-rich device that doubles as a smartwatch and dive computer, especially those who value detailed dive data and group dive communication. Some users might find the watch's advanced features and interface a bit complex at first, but its comprehensive functionality makes it a strong choice for dedicated diving enthusiasts.

The Garmin Descent Mk3i is an impressive dive watch specifically designed for both recreational and technical divers. It boasts exceptional water resistance, rated for depths of up to 200 meters, making it a solid choice for serious underwater adventures. With multiple dive modes, including options for freediving and scuba, this watch caters to a wide range of diving styles. The AMOLED display is not only vibrant but also equipped with a scratch-resistant sapphire lens, ensuring good readability both above and below water, even in low-light conditions thanks to the built-in LED flashlight.

One of its key strengths is the battery life, lasting up to 25 days in smartwatch mode, which is impressive for a device with so many features. It also offers connectivity with the Descent T2 transceiver, allowing for valuable tank pressure and depth monitoring for up to eight divers, which enhances group diving experiences.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The price point may be on the higher side, making it a significant investment for casual divers. While the GPS functionality is great for tracking positions on the water, it does not work underwater, limiting its navigational capabilities during dives. Additionally, though the watch is designed for smaller wrists, some users might still find it bulky or uncomfortable for all-day wear. The dive log feature allows for the storage of up to 200 dives and is easily accessible via the Garmin Dive app, which is a bonus for those who like to keep detailed records. The watch’s durability is commendable, but potential buyers should ensure that the features meet their specific diving needs. The Garmin Descent Mk3i is an excellent option for dedicated divers looking for advanced functionality and reliability in their dive watch.