The Smart Dive Watch: Best Choices For Shopping In 2024

Hailey Abbott By, Hailey Abbott
Updated
Garmin Descent Mk1, Watch-Sized Dive Computer
Image credit: Amazon.com

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Garmin Descent Mk1, Watch-Sized Dive Computer

Dive in style and ease with the Garmin Descent watch-sized dive computer. Using a Logbook, you can store and review up to 200 dives, share your data online with Garmin Connect and its included mobile app. Elevate wrist heart rate technology is provided so you can get an accurate measure of your heart rate during your dives. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Descent™ G1, Rugged Dive Computer, Multiple Dive Modes

With the extremely compact design, the Descent G1 is a versatile underwater GPS and dive computer that supports all types of diving, including recreational, advanced, technical, free diving and even spear fishing. The slim form factor makes it a compact unit that is perfect for entry-level divers to use in any scenario. Read Review

3. Best Versatile: Mares Smart Air Dive Computer Wrist Watch with or Without LED

Stay connected and informed on your next dive with the Mares Smart Air Dive Computer Wrist Watch. This computer is perfect for divers of all levels, offering customizable audio alarms to keep you updated on what’s going on while you’re underwater. The Air Integrated design allows for superior buoyancy and ease of movement, so it’s perfect for deep diving or snorkeling. Read Review

4. Best Quality: Garmin Descent Mk2i, Watch-style Dive Computer

Garmin leads the way in dive computers. This watch-style dive computer is packed with features that make your diving practice easier and safer. The GPS-enabled wristwatch features the ability to store up to 16 days of data in its internal memory, so you can easily review your data when not wearing the device. Read Review

Smart dive watches have become a common sight with the increasing need for divers to stay safe and alert. These watches can collect data on your activities and can even provide helpful advice when you’re underwater. The best smart dive watches on the market today allow you to take note of important information like depth, temperature, water pressure, and oxygen levels while offering assistance during decompression stops.

The best smart dive watches vary in aesthetics, design, and functionality, but they all share one thing: they’re designed specifically for recreational scuba diving. If you’re new to this style of diving or looking for an upgrade from your old analog watch, read on for some helpful tips that will help you make an informed decision about which smart dive watch is right for you.

Our team had to focus on researching and sifting through 21 hours to get such results for readers. These studies are based on customer star reviews and interviews about their feelings when using the product. When it comes to finding the smart dive watch, we believe our Garmin Descent Mk1, Watch-Sized Dive Computer with Air Integrated Wrist Computer is a worth product to buy. If you're looking for additional options and more in-depth advice, you may check out the following.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Garmin Descent Mk1, Watch-Sized Dive Computer
Our Score:
9.9
Garmin
  • Dive log lets you store and review data from up to 200 dives — and share online via Garmin Connect and its included mobile app
  • Built-in sensors include 3-axis compass, gyroscope and barometric altimeter as well as GPS and GLONASS capability that lets you mark your dive entry and exit points for surface navigation (GPS tracking and satellite communication does not work underwater)
TOP Choice #2 Descent™ G1, Rugged Dive Computer, Multiple Dive Modes
Our Score:
9.7
Garmin
  • Store up to 200 dives on your wrist. Upload, share and review dives in the Garmin Dive smartphone app, and even search for dive sites all over the world
  • Battery life: up to 25 hours in dive mode, 21 days in smartwatch mode and 26 hours in GPS mode
  • Complete with Mares LED Transmitter
  • Simplistic Interface Design
  • Air Integrated Wrist Computer
  • Customizable Audio Alarms
  • Great Wrist Computer for Any Level of Diving
  • o Battery life: up to 80 hours in dive mode, 16 days in smartwatch mode and 15 hours in GPS mode with music
  • Advanced, watch-style dive computer with 1.4” color sunlight-readable display (36% larger than previous model) in an elegant yet rugged design
5 Garmin Descent Mk2i Dive Computer Watch
Our Score:
9.2
PlayBetter
  • MUSIC, GARMIN PAY AND SAFETY ASSISTANCE: Leave your phone at home. Using select streaming services, including Spotify & Deezer, store songs directly on your wrist (including full Spotify playlists!) and stream to your Bluetooth earphones. Spotify integration requires separate Spotify Premium membership. Experience cashless payments with Garmin Pay and feel confident on adventures with the incident, assistance, and incident detection features.
  • AIR INTEGRATION FEATURE: The Descent Mk2i diving and multisport watch can be paired with Descent T1 transmitter for integrated pressure monitoring on up to 5 tanks via SubWave sonar data network.
  • NEW LEVEL WATCH-STYLE DIVE COMPUTER: Access advanced features for a range of diving activities - including the ability to plan dives on the device for recreational, technical, and free diving. Enjoy up to 80 hours in dive mode, 16 days in smartwatch mode and 15 hours in GPS mode with music.
  • GARMIN DESCENT MK2I DIVE COMPUTER WATCH: This advanced, watch-style dive computer with air integration capability, multiple dive modes, along with multisport training features.
  • GARMIN DESCENT MK2i DIVERS BUNDLE: Garmin Descent Mk2i (Titanium Carbon Gray DLC/Black Band) Dive Computer Watch, PlayBetter Waterproof Dry Bag with Window, PlayBetter Waterproof Cell Phone Pouch, Extra-Long Adjustment Strap & USB Charging Cable
  • Advanced, watch-style dive computer with a sunlight-readable 1.2” color display in a small, elegant design that you can customize with your QuickFit bands
  • Battery life: up to 30 hours in dive mode, 7 days in smartwatch mode and 6 hours in GPS mode with music
  • Use amazon Alexa built in to get quick news and information, check the weather, set timers and alarms, control your smart home devices and more all through the sound of your voice (third party app may be required; amazon Alexa not available in all countries)
  • Works around the clock with 6 plus day battery life (varies with use and other factors)
  • Receive a Daily Readiness Score that reveals if you’re ready to exercise or should focus on recovery (requires Fitbit Premium membership. Premium content recommendations are not available in all locales and may be in English only)
  • 6-month Fitbit Premium trial for new Premium users (Valid payment method required. Cancel before free trial ends to avoid subscription fees. New Premium users only. Content and features may vary by language and are subject to change.)
  • [MONITOR YOUR HEALTH AND WELLNESS EASILY] - Take your training to the next level with this premium smartwatch that features performance metrics, Garmin Coach adaptable training plans, and 30+ built-in sports apps. This fitness watch also measures your heart rate, respiration, stress levels, sleep, step count, and more.
  • [GARMIN EPIX (GEN 2) GIFT BOX BUNDLE] - Garmin epix (Gen 2) Active GPS Smartwatch (2022 Model), PlayBetter HD Screen Protectors (4-Pack), USB Adapters for Car/Wall & PlayBetter Protective Case | Packed in PlayBetter Red Gift Box
  • ⌚Extremely Resistant to Damage - Our fully enclosed slim shell designed android smart watch can be immersed in 50m (5ATM waterproof) deep water. The durable smart watch is a proven survivor of extreme conditions and has passed the drilling, crushing and hot steam scouring test which makes sports watch suitable to be used in high temperature and high pressure environments.
  • ⌚Live an Efficient Life - To make your everyday life easier, AMAZTIM smart watch for android phones comes with a touch screen and features like 1.71” high-end brightness and 280x320 resolutions for a better visual experience. Thanks to 380mAh Li-Polymer battery of heart rate monitor watch that has a standby time above 50days. Communicate and entertain all week long with 10 days use time

Things To Look For When Buying smart dive watch

There are numerous factors to consider when looking for the smart dive watch to purchase. The easiest way to figure out the right one is to read reviews from people who have already purchased it.

Throughout this article, we will go over certain most important factors to consider when purchasing smart dive watch. Please take your time reading and studying the items listed below!

Multiple Operating Modes

Modern dive computers use two modes: gauge and air.
The basic units are capable of handling at most one gas and nitrox mixture.
To be able to dive with technical gas mixtures, you need a computer that can handle multiple functions.
Rebreather is a mode to be considered. It calculates the rebreather limits.
The feature should be available to freediving fans.

Battery Type

You don't need to replace batteries when you travel with a rechargeable battery.
It is important that your battery can be changed easily without the need for expert servicing.

Buttons

For newly-certified divers, models with fewer buttons can be a great option.
It's easier to use large buttons between tasks. Keep in mind that you will likely be wearing thick gloves.

Operating Modes

The three most common modes of a dive computer on the market are Air, Nitrox, and Gauge. Additional operating modes can be added depending on divers' experience and gear preference, such as watch, freediving or Trimix.

Display Type

A dive computer that has a large, colorful display and is well-lit should be considered.
Displays of dots-matrix work as long as the data can be viewed.
The latest models in the top-of-the-range range come equipped with Organic Light-Emitting Diodes, (OLED), which provide clarity and vivid colors.

Compatible Technology

Logging and planning dives is easier when you have a compatible computer with your Mac or smartphone.
The USB port will be included on the basic model, but advanced models have Bluetooth.

FAQs

Can You Use A Dive Computer As A Watch?

Dive computers are designed to cater for diving activities. Some of these computers are too bulky to be worn every day as wristwatches.
However, modern technology has made some of these dive computers more fashionable and compact for daily use. They can also be worn as digital watches with an optional bracelet or watch mode.

Can Dive Computers Replace Compression Tables?

The benefit is that dive computers are much more user-friendly than decompression tables. After you input your main dive data, the computer automatically calculates the pressure of any inert gas in your body. Divers will be notified if there are any missed ascent rates or decompression stops by the computer.

Do You Need A Dive Computer For Freediving?

Freedivers should have a dive computer. This computer not only helps you to stay safe while freediving, but it also boosts your performance.

Are Dive Computers Suitable For Beginners?

Diver computers make it easy for novice divers to use. Dive computers will make safe diving much more enjoyable and alert you when there are any issues with decompression.

Do I Really Need A Dive Computer?

Divers can see how long they've been submerged and the time remaining. It can also calculate your Nitrogen level, which helps to decrease the chance of getting decompression sick.

How Long Does A Dive Computer Last?

Battery life is dependent on how often you dive and the hours spent diving. One dive computer is capable of supporting 50 dives per year on average.
If you are able to use the device for at least an hour each day, your dive computer can last as long as 300 days before needing to be replaced.

Conclusion

The smart dive watch would be those who suit your needs and demands at the lowest possible cost. With more and more options available, it could be simple to find a design that satisfies all of these criteria. If you're not sure which one is best for you, take into account the Apple Watch SE [GPS + Cellular 40mm] Smart Watch w/ Space Grey for another option.


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About Hailey Abbott

Hailey Abbott
Hailey Abbott is an outdoor enthusiast and freelance writer for CampfireHQ. She has a passion for hunting and fishing, which she often enjoys with her family and friends. Hailey also enjoys staying active through sports such as golf, basketball, and softball. Hailey has worked as an editor for several years, providing content that is both accurate and engaging. She has also had the opportunity to interview numerous experts in various fields. This wealth of experience gives her a unique perspective when writing about the outdoors and other topics.

Read Hailey's full bio