A closer look at the Garmin Descent Mk3 and Mk3i

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Garmin’s latest dive computer-integrated smartwatch, the Descent Mk3 series, is sure to be another excellent all-round device for scuba diving sports, fitness and health enthusiasts, but it is the transceiver-enabled Mk3i, with its forthcoming underwater communication system, that is going to turn divers’ heads.

Officially branded ‘SubWave’ technology by Garmin, the sonar-based communication system is in the final stages of development and due to be released in a forthcoming software update (v15.70 or later).

Even before the update is released, the Descent Mk3i is already capable of networking up to eight divers through the use of Garmin’s Descent T2 transceiver (sold separately). Once connected, divers within a range of 10 metres from their buddies will be able to monitor each others’ tank pressure, air consumption rate and remaining dive time.

Once the software update is released and installed, divers will be able to send a selection of preset messages to any diver within a 30m line-of-sight, including ‘Are You OK?’ and its associated response, ‘Come to Me’, and ‘Safely End Dive’. Divers who may be struggling will also be able to activate the Diver Assistance Mode, alerting other divers within the 30m range who will then be able to monitor the diver-in-need’s depth and distance from them, as well as the already included features.

Descent Mk3 dive computer functions

There are three different models of Descent Mk3 available; the entry-level 43mm-diameter Mk3; plus 43mm and 51mm versions of the Mk3i (see below for version details). Aside from the transceiver-enabled air integration and comms – which are available only with the MK3i – each model covers the same dive computer functions.

Based around the industry-standard Bühlmann ZHL-16c with gradient factors algorithm, the Mk3 can handle air, nitrox, trimix and up to 100% O2, and is programmable for one bottom gas and up to 11 deco and/or backup gas mixtures. The computer is suitable for use with a closed circuit rebreather (CCR) and also comes with gauge, apnoea and apnoea hunt modes for freedivers and spearfishers.

It goes without saying that all the standard functions of a dive computer are present, and the hi-res display (390x390px on the 43mm models and 454x454px on the 51mm computers) can be customised to show the user’s preferred dive data.

The AMOLED colour touchscreen adds an extra layer of versatility to the MK3’s user interface, and each model is packed into a fibre-reinforced polymer case with a sapphire crystal lens rated – and, importantly, fully functional – to depths of up to 200m. Alarms both audible and haptic are present and programmable to keep dives in line with their plans.

Also included are functions for tide data, GPS tracking for entry and exit points and a suite of more than 4000 pre-installed dive maps. Each computer has a user-configurable backlight with an auto-on mode for low-light conditions, and the 51mm Mk3i also has a built-in flashlight.

The Mk3 and Mk3i can be paired with Apple and Android smart devices through the use of Gamin’s Dive app, which will enable them to download a complete set of dive data, including location and images, which can subsequently be shared with dive buddies and friends back home.

More than just a dive computer

Much of Garmin’s range of wearable tech is aimed at fitness, health and wellbeing, and the company has not held back in making sure each of these functions is incorporated into the Descent Mk3 series.

Features such as the Mk3’s wrist-based heart rate monitor, pulse oximeter and sleep monitoring app have been incorporated into Garmin’s tech for some time now, but the bar has definitely been raised with the Mk3’s Diver Readiness Tool. The Garmin-first technology analyses your sleep history, recent exercise and stress levels – and even jet-lag – to provide you with a ‘diver readiness score’ based on current tissue-loading potential, with each factor broken down so that you can ultimately be the judge on whether or not you’re fit enough and ready to go diving.

Needless to say, the sporting apps for which Garmin is renowned are integrated into the Mk3, with preloaded activity profiles for – among the many others – trail running, swimming, running, biking, hiking, rowing, skiing, and golf (including 43,000 worldwide courses!). In fact, you’d be hard-pushed to find a physical activity which is not catered to among the available software.

On top of all the sports, fitness and wellness apps is a range of everyday utilities such as smart device control and notifications with preset message responses, calendar and weather forecast, Spotify Music, and contactless payments with Garmin Pay.

Dive specs at a glance (complete list here)

Battery life (43mm MK3/MK3i, dive mode): 30 hours
Battery life (51mm MK3i, dive mode): 66 hours
Display: colour AMOLED touchscreen w/backlight
Depth rating: 200m
Size (53mm Mk3i): 51x51x16.4mm
Weight (53mm Mk3i, no bands): 77.8g
Algorithm: Bühlmann ZHL-16c with gradient factors
Gas mix: air, nitrox, trimix, 100% O2
Multi-gas: 1 bottom gas, up to 11 deco/backup mixtures
PO2: up to 2.0 with customisable deco setting
Modes: CCR, gauge, apnoea, apnoea hunt
Air integration: Mk3i with T2 transceiver
Utilities: 3-axis compass, dive planner, flashlight (53mm Mk3i only)

Descent Mk3/Mk3i product variations

All of the models are compatible with Garmin’s QuickFit straps, and out of the box come with an extra-long adjustment strap, USB-C charging/data cable and product documentation.

Descent Mk3 – 43mm

The Mk3 is only available in the smaller 43mm size, with a stainless steel bezel and fog-grey silicone band.

MSRP: €1249.99 / £1099.99

Descent Mk3i – 43mm

The Mk3i is available in both 43mm and 51mm sizes – the 43mm Mk3i is available with either a carbon grey DLC (diamond-like carbon) titanium bezel with a black silicone band (left) or a bronze PVD titanium bezel and French grey silicone band (right).

MSRP: €1449.99 / £1299.99

Descent Mk3i – 51mm

The flagship 51mm Descent Mk3i comes with a carbon grey DLC titanium bezel with either a black silicone band (left) or black DLC titanium band (right).