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 fēnix® 8 is a robust dive-rated smartwatch designed for athletes and adventurers. Its 40-meter dive rating and durable build, including a scratch-resistant sapphire lens and titanium bezel, make it suitable for underwater activities like scuba and apnea diving. The AMOLED display is clear and bright even in challenging conditions, enhancing readability underwater. With a battery life of up to 10 days in smartwatch mode and 28 hours in GPS mode, it supports long adventures without frequent recharges.

Its 66-gram weight may feel hefty to some users, although it adds to its durability. Connectivity features, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and USB, allow seamless pairing with smartphones, enabling convenient features like making calls directly from the watch. While it offers a wealth of multisport functions and navigation aids, such as multi-band GPS and SatIQ technology, its advanced health monitoring tools, like heart rate and sleep tracking, are not substitutes for medical advice.

The built-in LED flashlight is a handy addition for low-light environments, and the dynamic round-trip routing is useful for planning workouts or explorations. Comfort and fit are tailored for men's wrists, which potential users should consider. Despite its advanced features, those not in need of such comprehensive tracking may find it overly complex and expensive for their needs. For dedicated athletes and divers, its combination of sport-specific workouts, dive support, and smart features make it a valuable companion.

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.