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Garmin Descent MK1 Dive Computer

Garmin Descent Mk1 Dive Computer is a digital underwater GPS-enabled dive watch that accurately measures depth, dive time, and nitrogen level. It is designed to be used as a recreational dive computer or as a backup device for professional diving. This comes with pre-set dive modes and an optional ascent rate alarm.

You might have heard that it’s a lot of fun, but also daunting. There is a lot of equipment and a lot of training involved, and that can be overwhelming. But don’t worry! We are here to help you get started on your journey as a scuba diver.

Garmin Descent Mk1 Dive Computer
Image: Amazon.com

Key Features

  • Full-featured GPS
  • Supports single-gas, multi-gas, gauge, and apnea diving, including nitrox and trimix
  • Multisport activity profiles
  • Smart Notifications
  • Built-in sensors
  • 3-axis compass
  • Gyroscope
  • Barometric altimeter
  • Dive log of up to 200 dives

Garmin Descent MK1 Review

I am a diver, and I have been using the Garmin Descent Mk1 Diving Computer for few days. Here’s what I have found:

The first thing I noticed when I got this diving computer was that it packs a lot of functionality into a small package. The display is bright and easy to read, with large numbers that are easy to see even in low light conditions. The backlight is adjustable so you can turn it off completely if you want to conserve battery power or set it to stay on longer if you prefer more visibility on your dive.

The buttons are easy to use underwater as well as above water, they are large enough that they won’t be accidentally pressed while you are diving around underwater, but still small enough that they are easy to reach when you are working with gloves on or when your fingers are numb from cold water temperatures. They also have a nice tactile feel; you know exactly when you have pressed them because they click into place instead of being mushy like some other devices I have used in the past!

It is the perfect way to start your diving career, it is easy to use, reliable, and affordable. It has all the features you need (and none of the ones you don’t). And let’s face it: it looks pretty sweet too.

There are no issues with lag time between pressing a button and seeing results on screen either, the screen updates almost instantly after each action which makes it.

Let’s talk about it in more detail.

Garmin Mk1 watch dial
Image: Amazon.com

Features of MK1 Dive Watch

This MK1 underwater gps diving computer has an automatic altitude adjustment feature that allows you to track your depth, air pressure, and temperature without having to worry about switching between modes or calibrating your device before each dive. It also has an advanced sensor algorithm that helps improve accuracy when tracking your distance traveled during a dive. It also has a Wrist-based Heart Rate feature. Read more about underwater gps for divers.

Performance

I was excited to try out the GPS-enabled Garmin Mk1 watch because it has some features that set it apart from other dive computers on the market:

  • It has a large, easy-to-read display. The screen is incredibly crisp and clear, even at depth.
  • The battery life is impressive, I have only had to change it once after 3 months of diving.
  • The software that comes with the device is easy to use, and you can customize your dive profiles easily by adding notes, photos, or videos. You can also connect the device to your smartphone via Bluetooth and download data directly into apps like Strava or MapMyFitness so you can track how many calories you burn while diving!

Navigation

The Garmin Descent Mk1 is a gps-enabled dive computer that will lead you to the deepest depths of the ocean. You can use this device to navigate your way through uncharted waters and set new records, or just enjoy a relaxing day on the sea.

And speaking of knowing where you are, this product has more than just GPS capabilities: it also has a depth gauge and compass built right into it so that as long as there is cell reception, you will never have trouble finding your way back home again!

The best thing that I noticed about this computer is that it was very easy to navigate, which is important if you are trying to keep track of your diving time and depth. All of the buttons are clearly labeled and easy to find, so you can quickly access information about your dive.

The Garmin Mk1 watch comes preloaded with maps of popular diving sites around the world, so you don’t need to worry about manually downloading them from an app or website before you go diving. This will save you time when preparing for your dive trip, especially if you are traveling internationally.

Garmin Descent Mk1 Dive Computer Design

Garmin Descent Mk1 scuba watch is designed to be simple and intuitive. It is a watch that you can wear on your wrist, so it is very easy to read. You can also use it in the water, which makes it easier to use while you are underwater. It is designed to make your diving experience easy and fun by providing accurate data so you can stay safe while exploring the depths of the ocean. It has a bright color screen that makes it easy to read in any lighting conditions, and it has a handy backlight feature so you can still see what’s going on when it gets dark underwater (or just under fluorescent lights).

Garmin Mk1
Image: Amazon.com

Quality

One of the benefits of using this product is its durability; it is made from high-quality materials that will not break down easily over time even when subjected to harsh environments like salt water or other chemicals present in seawater (such as chlorine).

This also means that you will not need any special cleaning methods before using it again after each trip underwater; if anything gets on top then just wipe it off with a damp cloth and then dry it before putting back into your pocket.

Display and user interface

The Garmin Mk1 dive computer has a 1.2” color screen that allows the user to see all of their information at once. The screen is also backlit so it can be read easily even when diving in low light conditions.

scuba diving gps watch
Image: Amazon.com

The computer features an easy-to-use interface that makes it easy for even inexperienced divers to use this product without any problems. You will find all of your most important information right on this screen so there is no need for scrolling through menus or trying to remember what button does what function while underwater (which could lead to mistakes). Another great feature included with this device is its high resolution

Garmin Descent MK1 Battery Life

The battery life of Garmin Descent Mk1 Dive Computer is impressive too, I haven’t had to charge my device since I bought it! First of all, it charges in less time! That’s amazing for someone like me who can not sit still for longer than five minutes without needing a break from their phone.

In watch mode, the battery can last up to 19 days and 10 days in smartwatch mode. When you use GPS mode then it can give you a run time of 20 hours.

Garmin Descent Mk1 Dive Computer Log Book

The Garmin Mk1 watch also has an intuitive logbook feature that lets you keep track of all your dives in one place. This way, if you find yourself taking longer or shorter dives than usual, or if there is something different about this particular dive like depth or temperature, you can see exactly how it compares to previous dives and adjust accordingly. You can read our review of the ScubaPro G2 dive computer

Connectivity

When it comes to connectivity, Garmin Mk1 has three types of connectivity:

  • Bluetooth
  • Wifi
  • ANT+

Wrist Strap

You can change the QuickFit bands to match your wrist-worn style for any occasion, which is very easy, and no tools are required for that. QuickFit straps for diving are longer to accommodate thick wetsuits and dry suits.

Garmin Mk1 Dive Computer Warranty

It comes with a 1-year company warranty from the date of purchase.

Pros

  • It has GPS Navigation
  • User-friendly interface
  • Quickfit bands
  • Able to track data in real-time
  • Easy to use with one hand
  • Audible reminders

Cons

  • Expensive
  • No Dive Profiles
  • No Air Integration
  • No Skiing Feature

Quick Comparison: MK1 Vs MK2i

The Mk1 dive computer is an older model, and the Garmin Descent Mk2i dive computer is the newest version. It has been replaced by the Mk2i, which has a few improvements over the Mk1.

The most notable difference between these two computers is that the Mk2i has a touchscreen display, while the Mk1 didn’t. This makes it easier to use and more user-friendly, you can swipe through menus with your finger and make edits more quickly than with buttons alone. The Mk2i also has a better battery life than its predecessor: up to 30 hours versus up to 24 hours for the Mk1.

Another important difference is that some of the features on this computer are only available on certain versions of either machine. For example, if you want Bluetooth connectivity on your original Descent Mk1 or a wireless transmitter for your Descent MK2i, you’ll have to pay extra for those options (and they aren’t cheap!).

Finally, there are some minor differences in features between these two models: for example, one can be used as an altimeter watch while another cannot; one has three dive modes while another has four.

Specs of Garmin Descent Mk1

Dimensions0.7 x 2.01 x 2.01
Battery1 Battery (CR123A)
Item model number010-01760-00
Included ComponentsDive Watch, strap, charging/ cable and manual
Primary interface Dial
Scanner Resolution240 x 240
ColorSilver with Black Silicone Band

Conclusion: Our Verdict

In conclusion, the Garmin Descent Mk1 dive computer is a great option for divers who want to improve their experience underwater. It is easy to use, and its reliability will keep you safe in the water.

With all these features and more, it is an excellent choice for any scuba diver who wants an easy-to-use dive computer with plenty of features!