Garmin Descent Mk1
Reviews Summary
Garmin is a major player in the outdoor and sports technology industries, with products ranging from sports watches to dog collars. So it was a pleasant surprise to see that they had entered the scuba sector with the Garmin Descent MK1, their first dive computer. Garmin has done its homework and used its knowledge of environmental measuring tools to create a high-end dive computer that can compete with the best. GPS navigation, a variety of dive modes, an HD color display, long battery life, and even a heart rate monitor are all included in the Descent. The Descent can even be used to help you spearfish.
Pros
- Long-lasting battery life
- Multifunctional smartwatch
- Easily customizable features
- Easily illuminate screen
- Compatible across platforms, including Android, iOS, and Windows
Cons
- Comparatively pricey
- No air integration
- Narrow screen size
Where to get it?
Garmin Descent Mk1, Watch-Sized Dive Computer with Surface GPS, Includes Fitness Features, Silver with Black Band
Review
The Design:
The Mk1 features a 1.2-inch color display and a sleek appearance. It’s a regular size, and it’s not as large as some other multi-sport watches available (you can still wear it daily). It is, however, a tad thick, which some people may not appreciate.
The Garmin Descent MK1 strap comes in two styles: an attached titanium strap and a long and short silicone dive strap. So, if you’re looking for a watch band that fits nicely over your swimwear, the MK1 is the one for you. You won’t have to buy two different smartwatches to mix and match based on your activity or location! Furthermore, the watch comes with over 26 different strap options.
The MK1 contains five hand-sized metal buttons, each of which assists you in doing certain tasks. You can also press and hold it to reach the control menu, which allows you to turn off your Garmin Descent MK1 or check your alerts. You can navigate your control menu using the center and bottom left buttons. You can also access your settings menu by holding the left middle button for a long time.
The Performance
When it comes to performance, the most important factors I’ll consider are the accuracy of the golf features and the battery life. The watch has no purpose if those two functionalities aren’t up to par. Regarding accuracy, the golf GPS was similar to the other multi-sport golf watches.
The Descent MK1 is more than a dive computer; it’s also a watch that can track and monitor performance in various sports. Golfers, for example, will have access to over 40,000 preprogrammed golf courses. Skiers’ runs will be automatically timed, and runners will be alerted if they favor one foot over the other. The Descent MK1 is a diving computer and fitness tracker that also functions as a smartwatch. You can quickly check text messages, emails, and other web apps. With the continued popularity of phone apps, you can enjoy them on your dive computer so you won’t be left out.
The Garmin Descent MK1 communicates through GPS which is another major selling factor. This allows you to set entry and exit points easily. It also means you can utilize the built-in 3-axis compass with more precision. Many of the Descent MK1’s diving features depend on its superb GPS. Before you plunge, easily determine where you want to go and map your routes and actions. You’ll probably want to check out the dive storage as well. With 16GB of built-in storage, this dive computer can store up to 200 distinct dives in your history, which is more than most.
Is It Worth It?
Overall, the Garmin Descent MK1 is a full-featured smartwatch that can also be used as a diving computer. The Garmin Descent MK1 is a versatile dive computer that can be utilized by many, including technical divers. Use it to keep track of your experiences, whether climbing a mountain or diving hundreds of feet below the surface. It may be used as a smartwatch to check your text messages and measure your heart rate.
