Comparison new Garmin dive computer vs garmin descent !

Garmin, a pioneer in diving equipment and outdoor sports, offers a range of high-end watches for divers: the Descent X5i, Descent Mk3/Mk3i, and Descent Mk2i. These watches offer advanced functionalities, ideal for both amateur and professional divers. If you're still hesitating between the latest Garmin models for your next purchase, this article will help you make your choice according to your needs.

1. Size and display: optimal underwater legibility

Descent X50i:

• Measuring 62.4 x 98.3 x 24.5 mm, the X50i is the largest model in the range. It features a 3.0” color LCD touchscreen, with a high resolution of 640 x 360 RGB pixels. This spacious screen makes it easy to read essential information, even in conditions of reduced diving visibility. Ideal for divers who value clarity and size.

Descent Mk3/Mk3i:

• Compact and elegant, the Mk3 and Mk3i watches feature a 43 mm x 14.15 mm case and a 1.2-inch round display, with a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels. These reduced dimensions make them the perfect choice for users seeking a discreet design while retaining excellent readability.

Descent Mk2i:

• Positioned between the other two models, the Mk2i offers a casing measuring 51 x 51 x 16.4 mm. Its 1.4-inch screen, with a resolution of 454 x 454 pixels, is a good compromise between size and practicality. Its luminous display guarantees fast, efficient underwater reading.

2. Weight and materials : 

Descent X50i:

• With a weight of 280 g, the X50i is designed to withstand demanding environments. It features a sapphire crystal lens, offering excellent scratch resistance, and an elastic nylon strap, ideal for a secure fit even with diving gloves.

Descent Mk3/Mk3i:

• The lightest in the range at 72.5 g, these watches feature a robust silicone strap. This combination of lightness and durability makes them an ideal option for everyday use in addition to diving.

Descent Mk2i:

• Weighing in at 165.5 g, the Mk2i offers two strap options: silicone or titanium. These high-end materials ensure optimum comfort for long diving sessions, while adding a touch of elegance.

3. Autonomy and waterproofing: rock-solid reliability

Descent X50i:

• The X50i has a battery life of up to 16 hours in diving mode and, like the other models in the range, is waterproof to 200 meters. These features guarantee reliable performance during your underwater explorations.

Descent Mk3/Mk3i:

• These models offer exceptional battery life:
• 10 days in connected mode, ideal for everyday use.
• 30 hours in dive mode, perfect for long underwater expeditions.
• Water resistance to 200 meters means you can dive with confidence, even in extreme conditions.

Descent Mk2i:

• The Mk2i stands out for its impressive autonomy:
• Up to 76 hours in GPS mode.
• Up to 60 hours in dive mode, optimum autonomy for technical divers or those on extended expeditions.
• Like the other models, it is waterproof to 200 meters.

4. Diver-specific features: total immersion

Air integration:

• All models offer air integration to monitor your gas levels. However, the Descent Mk3i and Mk2i offer connectivity with SubWave probes (up to 8 cylinders).

Sonar communication:

• The X50i is limited to sonar communication up to 10 meters, while the Mk3i and Mk2i can communicate up to 30 meters, offering an advantage during technical dives.

Diver-to-diver messaging:

• The Mk3i and Mk2i models allow messages to be sent between divers, improving coordination during group dives.
• Integrated LED light:
• An additional feature exclusive to the Descent X50i, ideal for illuminating dark depths or reading your dive computer in the dark.

5. Other advanced features

All models offer premium features such as:

• Diveview™ mapping to explore and plan your dive routes.
• Customizable dive profiles to adjust your settings according to your needs.
• Depth history graph, enabling detailed post-dive analysis.
• GPS, GLONASS and Galileo compatibility, for precise tracking of your movements on the surface and underwater.

✅ For further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.