10 Best Garmin Dive Watches 2025 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 solid choice for divers looking for a high-end dive computer combined with smartwatch features. Its 200-meter water resistance and multiple dive modes cater well to both recreational and technical diving, including freediving. The 1.2-inch AMOLED display is bright and clear, protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire lens, which helps with readability even in challenging underwater conditions.

Garmin's inclusion of SubWave sonar technology enhances underwater communication and tank monitoring, a unique feature that divers in groups will appreciate, though this requires additional accessories. Battery life stands out with up to 25 days in smartwatch mode, which is excellent for extended trips, although active dive use will reduce this. The watch is built with titanium and a stainless steel bezel, providing durability while keeping the weight manageable for comfort. The extra-long strap options and a design suited for smaller wrists make it accessible for most users.

Connectivity through Bluetooth allows syncing with smartphones for dive logs and updates, but GPS features only work on the surface. The Descent Mk3i fits well for serious divers who want a reliable, feature-rich dive watch that doubles as a versatile smartwatch, though casual divers might find some features more advanced than needed.

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.