Back in 2018, the Editor had the privilege of joining the Garmin Descent Mk1 club and quickly came to appreciate its ability to pack a vast range of outdoor sports functions into a single device. Hiking, diving, running — it did it all. As activity data gradually accumulated in Garmin Connect, a steady exercise habit quietly took shape. On top of that, the dive log feature lets the Editor relive every memorable moment from a early-2019 Maldives dive trip with pinpoint accuracy. Technology, after all, is born from human nature.
2020 was a rough year for everyone, but near the end came a piece of genuinely exciting news: the Garmin Descent Mk2 series was about to launch (along with the Garmin Descent T1 transmitter, coming soon). Naturally, the Editor is first in line to share exactly what kind of cutting-edge technology Garmin has managed to pack into that compact watch body this time around!
The Case — Where Luxury Speaks for Itself
Alongside the Garmin Descent Mk2, Garmin also unveiled the Descent Mk2i, which incorporates Garmin's proprietary SubWave sonar technology. The key differences between the two models come down to the watch face, the standard strap, and whether the watch can connect to the Descent T1. Both models, however, feature the same upgraded 1.4-inch high-resolution display that remains legible in direct sunlight — a screen that is a full 36% larger than the one on the Descent Mk1.
- Garmin Descent Mk2: black silicone strap, stainless steel bezel
- Garmin Descent Mk2i: black silicone strap, titanium bezel, SubWave sonar support, compatible with the Descent T1 transmitter
Left: Mk2i with titanium bezel; Right: Mk2 with stainless steel bezel
The Editor's golden rule of diving is this: you can afford to lose on technique, but never on looking good. The Garmin Descent Mk2 series carries forward the sleek design language of its predecessor, with a case that is extremely well-executed — every detail a quiet testament to its owner's taste (and budget).
The refined craftsmanship of the case highlights the value of the Garmin Descent Mk2 series — you can feel the quality the moment it's in your hand
Evolution 1: Only the Strong Surpass Themselves — Hardware Efficiency Upgraded
The Garmin Descent Mk2 series brings several notable hardware improvements. Here are the most impactful ones:
- Haptic buttons: Press a button and the watch responds with a distinct vibration. It's a small touch that makes for a genuinely satisfying user experience.
- Longer battery life: Up to 80 hours in dive mode. With the Descent Mk2i paired to a Descent T1 transmitter, up to 32 hours. In smartwatch mode for everyday use, the battery lasts approximately 16 days between charges.
- GPS and ABC sensors: Navigation is a Garmin hallmark, and the Descent Mk2 series integrates GPS, GLONASS, and GALILEO positioning for fast, precise location tracking.
- Pulse Ox blood oxygen monitoring: Useful for daily health monitoring, high-altitude acclimatisation, and sleep tracking.
The Mk2 series delivers on the hardware upgrades front as well
Evolution 2: Only the Strong Surpass Themselves — Software Evolution Makes This More Than Just a Watch
Beyond the larger display, the Garmin Descent Mk2 series also brings a refined interface. Scrolling through pages with the up/down buttons now reveals far more information at a glance than the first generation could offer, and the transition animations between screens show that Garmin has truly sweat the small stuff.
Hold the upper-left button to bring up the menu interface
The Garmin Descent Mk2 series displays significantly more information on-screen
In addition to the interface refinements, the Descent Mk2 series also introduces two features that the sports community has been calling for: built-in EasyCard support and onboard music playback. Many smartwatches now support NFC payments via EasyCard — handy for the MRT, buses, and convenience stores — and while current regulations prevent linking a credit card for automatic top-ups, it's still a welcome option for runners who'd rather leave their wallet at home.
Tap to pay with EasyCard — no more carrying a wallet on your run
Anyone who has ever tried to cycle or run while juggling a phone for music knows how inconvenient it is — whether it's bouncing around in a bag or crammed into a pocket. The Garmin Descent Mk2 series lets you link your Spotify or KKBOX account, download playlists directly to the watch, and head out the door with nothing but a pair of Bluetooth earbuds. Phone? Not needed. For Bluetooth compatibility, Garmin publishes a list of tested and approved headphones on their website — worth checking before you buy, as the Editor found that some off-brand earbuds struggle with connectivity or volume control. (Official Bluetooth headphone compatibility list)
Link your Spotify® Premium account directly to the watch
Play music straight from the watch
Evolution 3: Only the Strong Surpass Themselves — SubWave Sonar Technology Monitors Up to 5 Tank Pressures with a Range of 10 Metres
Please note: the following ultimate-tier features apply exclusively to the Garmin Descent Mk2i.
Most dive computers with transmitter capability — such as those from Suunto — can only pair with a single unit, meaning you can only monitor your own scuba tank / cylinder pressure. Some models that do support multiple tanks tend to fall short on functionality or aesthetics. The Garmin Descent Mk2i's SubWave sonar technology changes this: it can pair with up to five Descent T1 transmitters simultaneously, monitoring tank pressures within a range of 10 metres. Step outside that range and come back, and the watch automatically re-establishes the connection. In practical terms, this means a single instructor can monitor the tank pressures of four students at once — a major leap forward for class and guided dive safety.
With a transmitter fitted, you also get convenient, at-a-glance access to your SAC (Surface Air Consumption) and ATR (Air Time Remaining) values directly from the watch face — two metrics that are critically important in technical diving, and something we may explore in more depth in a future article.
Even with a transmitter installed, a pressure gauge (SPG) is still recommended as a backup. That said, the setup is especially valuable for underwater photographers: when you're locked in on a macro subject, it's easy to lose track of your air supply. A transmitter-equipped dive computer means you can keep tabs on your own tank pressure at a glance — and even keep an eye on your dive buddy's — without fumbling for your pressure gauge (SPG). No more missing that once-in-a-lifetime megafauna sighting because you looked down to check your air right as it swam past.
The Descent T1 is the headline feature of this update
The Descent T1 installs into the high-pressure port of the regulator — an extension hose is recommended if the ports are too closely spaced for a direct fit
Time to hit the water! Wonder Woman~~
Underwater Display
The Descent T1 mounted on the regulator
The Garmin Descent Mk2 series display is 36% larger than the first generation's, and it reads remarkably clearly underwater. Just remember to head into the settings and crank up the backlight brightness — the Editor always sets it to 100% in dive mode to ensure all data is instantly legible without any eye strain.
The large display makes it easy to read the information you need at a glance
The double-tap screen-switch feature makes a return this generation as well — great news for divers who prefer wearing the watch, as it means gloves no longer interfere with button operation.
This screen shows a 3-minute safety stop at 5 metres; the "53" in the centre is the transmitter tank pressure; the upper-left corner displays SAC and ATR values
The main dive screen, showing NDL, SAC, tank pressure, depth, and other essential diving data
The electronic compass screen
A great tool for monitoring students' or dive buddies' tank pressure underwater
In 2020, Garmin also launched a dedicated diving app — Garmin Dive. In addition to the existing dive log upload functionality, the new app lets you share dive site information with divers around the world. It's also a great research tool for planning your next dive trip.
Garmin Dive — the dedicated scuba diving app
So, Should You Buy the Garmin Descent Mk2 or Mk2i?
Garmin's product philosophy has always been positioned at the premium end of the market — and rightly so. The build quality is exquisite, the user experience is thoughtfully crafted, and the attention to software and interface design alone justifies the price tag. Add to that more than 30 sports and health monitoring functions, and the Descent Mk2 series becomes a compelling proposition. If you're an outdoor enthusiast or multi-sport athlete, the Garmin Descent Mk2 series should be your first choice. If diving is your only activity, there may be more cost-effective options on the market — but if what you're after is the premium, refined, and fashion-forward experience that only Garmin can deliver, then a Garmin Descent Mk2 series watch is hard to argue against.
Choose the right dive gear for you — and enjoy every dive!
Note: The Garmin Descent T1 transmitter is coming soon.
[Bonus] Garmin Descent Mk1 Firmware Update Breathes New Life Into an Old Favourite!
If you already own a Descent Mk1 and aren't quite ready to upgrade to the Mk2 series for whatever reason, don't forget to visit the official website and download the latest firmware update via your computer. Beyond interface and stability improvements, updates sometimes include map data refreshes too. You've already invested in a high-value, all-round sports watch — make the most of everything it has to offer.
The update screen as seen after connecting via Garmin Express
Official Garmin Express download page
How to update:
- Download and install Garmin Express
- Connect your Garmin device to your computer using the charging/data cable
- Open Garmin Express — on first use, click "Add a Device" and follow the on-screen prompts
- Garmin Express will list all available updates; click "Install" or "Install All" and follow the instructions
- Wait until the program confirms you have the latest version installed
