Garmin Descent G2 vs. G1 // What’s New in This $699 Dive Computer?

Garmin has recently announced the release of the Descent G2, a new watch-style dive computer that builds upon the foundation of the earlier Descent G1 model. The G2 incorporates several upgrades and new features, positioning it as a versatile option for divers seeking a blend of underwater functionality and everyday smartwatch capabilities. This article delves into the key aspects of the Descent G2, comparing it to its predecessor and other Garmin dive computers, while also noting some of its limitations.

Key Upgrades and New Features

The Descent G2 boasts several significant improvements over the Descent G1:

• Display Technology: The most notable upgrade is the switch to a 1.2-inch AMOLED display. This is a significant change from the G1's LCD screen, offering enhanced clarity and readability, especially underwater. The G2's display is also protected by a sapphire lens.

• Eco-Friendly Design: Like the G1, the G2 continues Garmin's commitment to sustainability by using recycled ocean-bound plastics for the watch's housing, bezel, and buttons.

• Dive Readiness Score: The Descent G2 introduces a dive readiness feature that assesses factors like sleep, stress, exercise, and jet lag to help divers gauge their preparedness. A higher readiness score suggests the diver is ready, while a lower score might indicate the need for a more conservative approach.

• Enhanced Freediving Features: The Descent G2 includes:

  • Dynamic apnea mode for tracking pool dives.
  • Apnea alerts with audible and haptic feedback for custom depth, intervals, target depth, and buoyancy.
  • Variometer alerts based on ascent/descent rates and a velocity chart within the Garmin Dive app.

• Multiple Dive Modes: Supports single and multi-gas (including nitrox and trimix), closed-circuit rebreather (CCR), and gauge mode, making it suitable for both recreational and technical divers.

• Navigation Tools: Features an in-dive 3-axis compass for underwater navigation and surface GPS to track entry and exit points.

• Big Numbers Mode: Offers a simplified display mode that shows only critical dive information like NDL (No-Decompression Limit), time, and depth.

Additional Features

Beyond its core dive functionality, the Descent G2 includes several smartwatch capabilities:

• Health and Wellness Tracking:

  • 24/7 heart rate tracking
  • Sleep analysis (light, deep, and REM stages)
  • Heart rate variability (HRV) status
  • Stress and hydration monitoring
  • Pulse Ox monitoring

• Training Insights:

  • Preloaded sports apps (cycling, swimming, strength training)
  • VO2 Max tracking
  • Heat and altitude acclimation
  • Recovery time tracking
  • Daily suggested workouts

• Smartwatch Connectivity:

  • Notifications for emails, texts, and alerts
  • Garmin Pay for contactless payments
  • Connect IQ support for downloading apps and watch faces
  • LiveTrack & safety features like incident detection

• Battery Life:

  • Up to 10 days in smartwatch mode (4 days with always-on display)
  • Up to 27 hours in dive mode

Garmin Descent G1 vs. G2: What’s New?

The Descent G2 brings several improvements over the Descent G1, but how do they compare?

Pricing and Positioning

The Descent G2 is priced at $699.99, making it a more affordable wrist-based dive computer compared to Garmin's Descent Mk line.

Other Garmin dive watches include:

• Descent G1 Solar – $500
• Descent MK3 – Starting at $1,000
• Descent X50i – $1,300, featuring air integration and sonar-based dive messaging

Conclusion

The Garmin Descent G2 represents a significant step forward in the Descent series, bringing an AMOLED display, enhanced freediving features, and dive readiness scoring at a more accessible price point. Its eco-friendly design and blend of dive computer and smartwatch features make it a strong option for divers. However, the lack of built-in maps, an older heart rate sensor, and slightly reduced battery life might be dealbreakers for some.

Ultimately, the Descent G2 is a compelling dive watch, but divers should weigh its features against its trade-offs before making a purchase.