Did Garmin Mis-fire with the Descent G1 Solar? The Divers Ready Review
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- Опубликовано: 30 июл 2024
- This is the Divers Ready review of the Garmin Descent G1 Solar. A Trimix-capable smart watch dive computer for under $650? Why don't I love it!
There are a lot of features that confuse me about the Garmin Descent G1 Solar. Why does it have Trimix and CCR capabilities, but a tiny, hard-to-read screen? Who is this dive computer intended for?
Garmin made an impressive giant stride into the dive industry in 2020 with the Descent Mk1, followed by the Descent Mk2 and Mk2i - reviewed on this channel, and then the Mk2S - a fully functioning Descent in a smaller case aimed at women and small men. Awesome computers, every single one. Full Nitrox and Trimix, a Buhlmann-based algorithm for the Tecchies and all the features of an epic smart watch, notifications, connectivity, GPS etc. BUT… they are not cheap! The base model Mk2S starts at a cent less than a grand up to over two grand for the Mk2i with transmitter. So the question became what do Garmin have to offer the entry level diver? Can they make a base model for newer divers that don’t want to commit a $1000 to their first dive computer, but still include the cool, smart watch functionality, at a more attractive price point?
Enter the Descent G1 Solar.
As always, let me know your thoughts in the comments section.
Thanks for watching!
D.S.D.O
James
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Did Garmin Mis-fire with the Descent G1 Solar? The Divers Ready Review 
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While I do appreciate the honesty, I've had a completely different experience. Visual style is a matter of personal preference and I actually prefer the retro monochrome display look to the classic touch screen smartwatch one, at least in black. Granted I've only used it on a week long dive trip so far, but I've had zero issues with screen legibility on the surface as well as at depth. Coming from a Suunto Zoop novo which is an actual entry level dive computer, I've found the G1 to be well worth the price. Consider it from the women's perspective who want a quality dive computer that they can use as an every day sports watch. The options you have are the MK2s and the G1 that has all of the same functionality for a much more affordable price.
I feel like you missed the mark on this… This is not an entry dive computer, its an amazing Solar Instinct 2 that you can do an ultramarathon with AND a dive computer. I don’t know if you do any other kinds of sports but for those of us that do, this watch is insane.
Agree! I’m mainly a surfer, but I occasionally scuba dive, freedive, take out my Mtb, etc.. For me, this watch is perfect.
100% agree. I´m pretty active and this watch / fitness tracker / dive computer just hits the spot and then some.
I believe his point is that if what you are stating is true, then why CCR, why Trimix? Remove the technical features and add AI and it would be the perfect "Instinct 3"
Im a dive master who works in Cozumel , Mexico . I bought the computer a month ago I love it .I dive every day with it and I will recommend it to everyone ...
I love that the g1 can be used for all my training as well as (free)diving. As a runner I appreciate that it includes pretty much all features of the forerunner-series (made for running). It even support multisport activities like triathlon which previously required a high-end forerunner-model. Also, it is great to be able to track your fitness level and the combined training load from various activity types with one device (eg cycling, running, strength training, swimming, freediving and so on). Finally, it supports garmin pay so you don't even need to bring your wallet anymore 😀
Thanks for sharing!
I absolutely LOVE Garmin Pay! You can literally go diving with this and hit get back to the shop, get a snack and fuel up and pay with it. Leave your wallet at home!
This is so subjective. I disagree with your opinion. I have G1 this blue color and I love it. I find it very pleasant aesthetic. It looks beautiful for me. I like its looks more than the MK 2. I want to have durable watch and long battery. That is why i also got Garmin Instinct. Its Plastic is durable military grade. I use it in construction site as well. You can hit the concrete column with it no issue. Can you do that with another one ? No.. i challenge you do it. Very happy with my purchase. I have no issue with it visibility working all day in super sun light in Maldives.
The G1 uses the same dive computer package as the MK2 but in the body of an instinct. The functionality is unified with their more expensive dive computers with the exception of the Ai. I have mine for freediving and spearing and it’s awesome for my use case. I don’t need a big fancy colour screen or the like and the extra features are nice bonuses. I love having a smart watch with a ridiculously long battery life that I can use to track my apnea dives with.
This is exactly how I plan to use mine. Have you had any issues with the watch randomly shutting off while freediving? I've heard that mentioned elsewhere.
Me too. And honestly if I had to pick a watch regardless of price, I’d go with the g1 as I go on 3 to 4 day boating and camping trips and I don’t really wanna deal with charging my watch. I sorta understand his viewpoint as a scuba person but seems he really missed it when he was asking who is this for. I mean again I would take it over a mk2 even if they were the same price.
For me it's the perfect product to be honest. I do a lot of running, swimming, cycling and freediving and I also like to log my days with an activity tracker. Now I can get all that for $500 (non solar version). On top of that this also has a built in pulse meter so I don't have to bring a chest strap. Where would you find another watch that can do all that for that price? As for the choice of the plastic material I think it's totally right for this watch as it's both durable, better protetcted when bumped and it's light. It's meant to be worn 24/7 and it's quite a big difference to have 60 grams on your wrist instead of 100 grams, especially if you have a smaller wrist like me. As for the CCR and TriMix it's obviously because they used the same software as the MK2. Why would they remove features that are there for free? When it comes to the solar charging it's not there to charge your watch per se, it's there to extend battery life and over the 35 days normal battery life the panels might instead give you 45 days (as an example). This product is obviously not for you but I think you but I definitely has a place in the line-up.
Hey mate, just wondering what are your thoughts; Have you used the watch mountain biking (obviously as well as diving)what are the features if so? It’s hard to find a one watch to fit all. Obviously hike risk of scratches and knocks with biking. What are your thoughts?
@@scottc422 Hey! I normally use my Garmin Edge 530 for MTB but I've used the Decent a couple of times without any problems. It's a very durable watch and it's got all the features i need for MTB. If you have it on the handlebars and crash it might break but it you keep it on the wrist it should be OK. Only downsides with having it on the wrist is that you won't be able to see it very well and also the pulse monitor is pretty much useless unless you have a chest strap.
In agreement here. I LOVE this watch and hope they continue to make future iterations. I am a runner and a freedivee and I get virtually all the features of my old Instinct and Instinct 2 but also all my diving needs as well. I wear this watch more than any other smartwatch I've ever owned which says a lot because I love my automatics. I wish the solar version was available in the two grey shades, that's my only complaint. Great job Garmin!
Glocks are made out of plastic too… idk if it’s the same quality plastic in this watch but it’s well known plastics can be even more durable than metals. They’ve dropped glocks out of airplanes and the whole 9 yards. Metal is heavy and not even necessarily tough.
@@bluedoggum8373 ; Plastics? The Gshock watches are tanks😂. I have one from 25 years ago that still works and fifteen of those years, I worked construction and beat the balls off it. It has earned itself a nice retirement now😂. So the fact that this Garmin is plastic🤷♂️, I could care less.
I’ve been waiting for you to do this review mate. I really like the fact that you actually dive with equipment rather than the typical “hands down spec review” Thanks as always I’ll probably just save up for a perdix bright screen is needed here in the dark waters of the U.K.
I think it's meant for people who want an all sports computer (including diving), and not a diving computer including many sports. What I mean with this is that I think it is focused on a bit of everything and not to excell in scuba, for example, this computer can be for running, gym, kayak, scuba, you can even use it to track your dogs if you like hunting (there's a really professional Garmin collar tracking), it can be used for lots of stuff, so it's for people that do lots of sports, including diving, but won't buy three different wrist computers for running tracking and diving.
Mk2i + Solar owner. Backmount and Sidemount use. Using the solar as a backup to the mk2i
Overall size of solar is great. Usage of the display-face space is lacking. Solar charging is virtually worthless. Brightness settings are more than capable of allowing the face to be seen in bright sun or at depth, even when non-dark adapted. (Brightness run at 20% for daily use, 40% for dives cause I like a lil extra brightness). Perfect adjunct to the Mk2i when both are run on the same gradient factors. SubWave AI would be tough to squeeze in this watch without increasing size. Great backup tech watch, or easy rec dive replacement if you’re accustomed to the Mk2i.
Biggest pet peeves are lacking of space usage on the face and solar charging efficiency
Also. How garmin hasn’t added an update for twin transmitter Sidemount usage is very annoying
Hi James, thanks for this video. I bought the G1 and am real happy with it. I normally use a Perdix when diving at home, but I travel a lot for work and I wanted a watch sized computer I could have with me at all times. This did it for me. Battery is a killer, smartwatch functionality is a great addon. I also quite like the looks of it. Its travel computer I will use for 10-20 dives a year plus a backup for my normal dives. I am absolutely happy that i bought it, but I would be dissapointed if it were my only computer. One more thing... This computer actually looks like a watch, the rest of them are much too big for me! Thanks for the review and all of your content!
Easy to travel and a good backup for the perdix in a almost impossible situation that perdix would fail
Great review
Who´s this for? Even Garmin explains it on one of their videos. Simply put, this is for divers, who are also adventurers, explorers, boaters, hikers, cyclists, etc. I absolutely love mine. It tracks my heart rate, sleep, steps, stairs, exposure to sun, stress, calories burned, music controls, Garmin Pay (LOVE IT), emergency contacts, find my phone, timer, stopwatch, time zones, etc. It just has too many features to list in a comment. I have the black solar model and yes, massive G-Shock vibes and it´s just as rugged. Oh, and as a dive computer, it´s very accurate. It´s also a good size for an everyday watch.
Greetings from TDI/SDI 3740 up in Palm Beach. I use a Perdix AI/ SPG and Descent G1 Solar. I am that guy who it is designed for. Twice a week after I lift weight, I swim 1,000m. The Garmin keeps track of my laps. Once a week I hike for an hour/ 90 min hike. The hike function I love. I use it everyday.
Thanks for sharing!
Hello James! I'm new to your channel and new to the exciting diving life! I very much enjoy your reviews and teaching! I watched your review on the Garmin MK2I and I got the crazy buying bug and bought it! 14 dives later, I LOVE this Garmin Descent MK2I... So, no buyers remorse here!! Your points and/or facts about this G1 solar, are spot on! I like AI too much and just wanted to thank you for such good advice and thank you for everything that you do on your channel! Someday I would love to go diving with you. Maybe I'll be able to make it down there some time. I haven't even dived in salt water yet! I've only been diving in Sand Hollow lake in St George Utah ( which is still a good dive by the way). That's where I got certified.. My son and I have been trying to go out every weekend to just get better and to keep practicing. I'm sure we will need some training in the ocean some day very soon! Thanks again!
i've actually been eyeing this particular unit as a cheap dive computer option just to get me through DM training. so happy that i decided to spend a bit more on a perdix that should be able to go with me for good long while!
Your videos are great to watch! I learn a lot in a short time. For the Solar test you may have been to busy to read that depending on what you have running on the watch, the solar only helps maintain. To get better “charging” maybe have to shut down most active functions. Anyway you were stumped on who would buy it, from reading other comments here, I think you see. People who may dive a few times a year but are active in other areas Garmin is great at. And the cost, I can do almost everything mk2 can , but giving up the nice display and a few little things
Thanks a lot. I‘ve been looking at this and the mk2 as well and couldn’t get myself to invest that pile of money. Ended up with a Suunto D5 plus Tank Pod, and love it.
Thanks for sharing! Dive safe.
I found a mission the G1 Descent is great for: As a backup dive computer to a Shearwater. The G1 serves perfectly as my daily smartwatch AND backup computer: small, light, feature rich and with sapphire lens.
Exactly my thought!
I got the g1. I’m a paramedic that’s just joined the public safety dive team. I wanted something I could grow into without breaking the bank right out of the gate.
I've had the the G1 since March. I have 18 dives with it & I like the black LCD. I have not had a problem reading the watch but I have not dove at night with it. I am also a runner and ride a bike from time to time. Its battery life is amazing and it does what I need it to. I live in South Florida and do mostly do drift divers so I really like the GPS markers for entry and exit. I also like to see my heart rate on my dives so I can see where I've used more air based on my heart rate. I would say this watch is for someone who's into cardio and AOW diver who does 30 dives a year. I do have the solar and agree that you are not going to charge it with the sun but if it gives me a few another hour because of it when I need it the most that's cool. The solar panel also provides a reading of the watches solar exposure. So you'll know how long you've been in the sun.
Thinking of buying, assuming the solar feature will be most useful backcountry (canoe/camp/hike), would you agree? Diving, will be in a bed with a charger every night 🌙
Do you think the heart rate is accurate? Also, I understand its solar, but can it operate on a replaceable battery as well? Or is it solar only?
„Added 45 seconds ago” from search, spot-on!
There is no AI because it needs additional hardware. They probably have software which does CCR and Trimix so they just put it whole into the watch, it would cost some money to cut it out, and it ticks some boxes so why not to leave it. It costs so much because it is sport smartwatch with additional dive computer capabilities, and not other way around. I would guess that solar is only for sustaining time display and garmin pay, when You forget to charge it.
@@user-qf7bn2oz5n Do You recommend it as a backup computer?
Dive Computer, then smartwatch. Hence the name; Descent
Thanks for the review, I'm very much a recreational diver and love the idea of having a small dive computer that I can wear on vacation as an every day watch. I was looking at this computer mostly because of price point. For what ever reason (AGE) I have trouble reading any mono colored computer in low light and small screens are a deal breaker for me. The color or plastic doesn't really bother me. Love these reviews!
Thanks for your support! Dive safe.
Hey James, I love your videos!
I think you're too fixated in the trimix capabilities. Think of it as software that they give you for free.
My everyday watch is a Garmin Forerunner 935 that can do everything, including activities that I never do such as skydiving. I mainly use it for running, tracking sleep, heart rate and telling the time. I wish it would also do diving but it doesn't. The G1 series is there to close that gap.
Hi James. Great review. I was probably the target customer. Already have a Wisdom 3 DC and was looking to upgrade my smart watch and bike computer (and was like hey maybe I can get a redundant DC as well). But I passed for the same reason you did. It’s not a very pretty device, and for all the advanced features I can’t do AI which is very important to me.
The only thing I was truly excited about was GPS logging my dive sites. Maybe future models will be more appealing.
My wife accidentally lost my LI Vivo4 Garmin while we were away for a weekend. To make it up I got the Garmin G1 (non solar). It serves as a backup to a Perdix 2 and as an everyday watch. Works pretty good as a dive computer and the GPS is nice for tagging exact locations of a dive. The watch functions are identical to the Vivo4 and I was happy with that. The plastic ring around the watch face is a nice addition for me personally as I often have to deal with putting my hands and wrists in tight places for work and my watch often hits things. I would not wear this if I was dressing up, but I probably would not wear any smartwatch for that. I honestly did not realize it did not have AI since it was always planned to be a back up. For the price, I agree I would be unhappy if it was my primary dive computer. As aback up that doubles as a daily wear smartwatch? It does great at what I need it to do.
Thanks for the honest review James. You clearly give the best reviews in the industry and I have bought a few bits of kit (most noably the DiveRite Hydrolite, which I actually just dive yesterday) based on your reviews. Thanks a lot from a loyal follower from the beginning and cheers from Canada.......Now get up here to the great lakes already!
Thanks for your support! Dive safe.
I have a MK1 and a G1. Very happy for the G1 for what it is. I like its styling, I like the ruggedness of it, the compact package, the battery life, I feel it is a great product.
I dive 3 or 4 times a week. I like that I have a single watch that only needs charged once a week while I do activities using GPS every day.
I find the display adequate. It is not large or colorful, but efficient and clean. Never have I had to squint or work at reading my watch.
Lack of air integration is a factor, I agree, if that is something you feel you need. I like my trusty spg.
It's a good watch, at a good price. I am sure happy with mine.
since you have them both could you tell me if the mk1 updates brings the new options that are only available on the g1 and mk2 series such as ,
the body battery
all day stress
sleep score and insights
or hiit training yoga etc ...
@@saoulkimo6001 the majority of the things you mention come from an updated sensor set that the Mk2, Instinct 2, and Fenix 7 has. The mk1 is built off of Fenix 5 platform, I believe. Still great, but does not include many of the things you mention.
@@ThaDirtyVicar yes i see i thought the options were available because of the software not that something changed in the hardware part , actually i'm confused between having to choose a recent g1 with all the new features with a simple monochrome screen or an used mk1 with a gps accessible through the screen or maybe i wont even use it , i don't know i need a perspective of someone like you that have them both to tell me wich features are worthy and which are the ones that looks essential but are not really vital it's just marketing you see what i mean
I got the gray non-solar G1 since I didn't like the solar line colors and I didn't believe the tiny solar panel could actually do anything. Anyway, I see your point, but I do believe it's mostly triggered by your gear envy and because you have experience with higher-end gear. I've looked around a lot and I couldn't find a solid AI diver computer in the price range, so the point of just "adding AI" is not as easy as you make it. Garmin are not a diving specialized brand even though they make pretty nice diving computers (MK1/2/2i/2s in addition to the G1). As an all around fitness tracker with functionalities that cover everything from tops of mountains to bottoms of seas, I think it's a great dive computer, fitness tracker and navigation device. It has an integrated compass, dive computer functionality, and tens of sports related functionalities. I also disagree on the backlight. Even though my experience is limited to around 40 meters, everything is perfectly readable even at 20% backlight intensity. Air integration would be nice, but only the mk2i has that in the whole Garmin range. As for the CCR and multi gas, since the computer, processor, and software are there, why not just have that functionality? 🤷🏻♂️ To be fair, for someone who doesn't dive as much as you and uses it for other sports activities, the G1 is an almost perfect computer for the price that, as far as I know, has no rivals. I only wish it had air integration, but that would come at a higher price, not to mention the cost of the transmitter. I love your channel, but this video sounded more like a solid rant than an actual, objective review!
Totally agree
The target market for this watch is health and fitness enthusiasts that need one device they can wear on their wrists 24/7 to also track dives with enough toughness to do other outdoorsy/rough activities. If you're an active individual that works out, does activities like hiking, camping, or rock climbing, and loves to dive, this Garmin device for you.
If you're a dive master, or in situations that require advanced dive skills way past the intermediate stage, or diving is your only hobby or activity then you shouldn't be looking at a smartwatch with entry level dive capabilities anyways. That person needs a dedicated dive computer or a top of the line Garmin MK series watch.
As for me, I'm a health enthusiast, who loves the gym, recently found a passion for freediving, likes to do activities in nature like rock climbing and I'm already in the Garmin ecosystem with my Vivoactive 4s - the Garmin G1 is perfect for me.
I agree with this perspective.
Hi James, Thank you for the honest review. Point of fact I still like and wear my G-shock. But as you pointed out the big thing for a beginner is simple to use and easy to read. I guess Ill have to wait for your design to get made......
Thanks for your support! Dive safe.
I've noticed that almost all the people I've met who own a G1 are dive professionals. Similarly most dive professionals I know wear a G1. I've worked for two dive shops in Cairns with a total of maybe 100 instructors between them and I'd say a third to a half of them wear the G1. It's got all the sports functionality plus a ton of diving capability plus most of the people I've met like the lightweight plastic and the colours. While it's not in the Mk series or at all like Shearwaters it seems to provide basically everything an active divemaster or instructor wants and needs. And...most importantly, you can control the dive deck playlist from the computer!
I love the watch too. It has all I need in a small, ordinary but not unpleasant package. I wear it daily. Eccelent battery life. Looks cheap? Even better. No need to atract. If I ever upgrade, this would be a perfect back up.
Thanks for your honesty!
I got the black one for using at a lake I go to, quick free dives and quick pony bottle dives so it doesn’t trash up my Teric dive logs…and as a backup
Not defending the G1, cuz I'd never buy it, but to be fair...
- 5% charge is more than a day of operation if the battery can operate the watch for 36 days at 100%.
- The software is probably a direct port from the Mk2. Re-editing the software for the G1 would probably be more expensive than to just leave everything in there.
- AI would require a receiver, which is an expensive piece of additional hardware. The Mk2 doesn't have AI either. Nor does the Mk2s. Add the price difference between the Mk2 and the Mk2i to the G1, and it would more than double in price and make it more expensive than the Mk2. Who would want to buy a $1400 watch with an LCD display made out of cheap plastic?
I have the Perdix AI because I want a dive computer that's a dive computer. Not a watch with a dive computer built in, or a dive computer crammed into a watch-size case.
Good build, nice work
I'm glad you like it! Dive safe.
I was waiting for your thoughts on this watch and I am interested at its value for money considering it’s a smart watch. Did the backlight help at all in the water ?
If you need a watch for diving purpose only, we have a lot of choice, but if you need a watch for diving and other activities, the options are so limited.
All Suunto Shearwater models doesn't has a watch for diving, other sports activity and health tracking.
Then there is this Atmos that pack with these features but missing the HR broadcast. (I use HR broadcast to my cycling computer when I cycle)
My only concern with this watch is the font size, I'll definitely go for this if they make it 2 sizes, G1 (bigger screen) and G1s (current size).
I can only give my thoughts on the Descent G1 (non-solar).
I got it on sale.
About me:
I am a relatively new diver currently taking a CMAS**2 course (to depth approx 100 ft / 30 meters). Diving single gas, usually in low visual conditions as water here is just not that clear. (6 meters visual at the max, in worst cases you can't see your hand when stretched out. ).
I didn't think solar would work here anyways (I live in Denmark, which is pretty northern, coastal climate with a lot of clouds).
Negatives:
The compass didn't work very well, but I am relying on a normal diving compass.
I have good eyes and haven't had problems reading the display, but it is still small compared to other dive computers.
It didn't come with a long strap (so I bought a bungee mount for it), only solar comes with a long strap!
Positives:
-Good as a multisport watch, and GPS is nice. It also logs position, when you get to the surface.
-You can set delay on the watch when to stop your dive, which can be nice in shallow waters.
-It automatically logs your dives on your phone, and the app is pretty good.
-Gasses are easy to set up.
In general I do like the watch for my use cases, as I am also an open water swimmer and do a bit of running. The Garmin eco-system is pretty nice for this. As a dive computer, there are better computers on the market, when it comes to display and stuff like that. You really have to consider if you are going for a sports watch, that can be used as a diving computer, or if you are going for a dive computer. If the first, it is great, if it is the 2nd, don't buy this watch. It is a watch, that I think is best suited for beginners, where you should be learning your basics like checking air on your manometer etc., I can't see myself using this watch for tech dives in a few years, then the Descent Mk2 or a Shearwater Perdix 2 seems more likely.
In the end I am pretty happy with it. But I wouldn't recommend it for full price.
May I ask where to get it on sale?
@@ahmedtohamy8697 I am Danish, so I bought it in a diving shop in Copenhagen (Kingfish). If you live in Europe I would recommend looking at Spanish dive shops as they are often cheaper than Danish ones.
@@1985rbaek I live in Luxembourg and I ordered the normal edition for €450 .. Did you manage to get lower price?
@@ahmedtohamy8697 About the same price (460 euro). I have seen them as high as 550.
I also had problems with the compass but they went away after I figured out how to calibrate it.
Great info there and something to skip for sure. Been drooling over the Descent MK2i for a while but with everything going on in life for me it's not an option so I stick with my Puck Pro. Doubting I will ever get into much on the Tec diving side but the smartwatch features and air integration is something I really think will be good for my lifestyle. Just wish they would ditch the titanium frame and do stainless steel or something like that.
I just bought a G1 a little while ago and I really love it! I recommend it for other outdoorsy people like me who would use all the other features it has. I havent had any complaints so far. Its a great smartwatch and outdoor tool. Haven't used it for diving yet but i might update when that happens
Just bought it as my first dive watch, just recently certified diver. I've loved it so far, but don't push any time or tank limits.
I like having the full data after a dive readily available. Especially when working on buoyancy and hovering in place.
The equipment tracker is amazing. I can easily see if a piece of gear just doesn't get used, or if something needs servicing or replacement soon.
I wish it had the capability to connect to air, but the MK2 is required for that.
I like your very clear opinions. They are informative and I agree with some of your criticisms of the G1 Solar. I can see where you are coming from in your review, but perhaps if you had focussed on the $550 non-solar version, Garmin's choices or their customer's would make more sense, especially sense the solar charging seemed like a vanity tax based on your experience? I'm not a SCUBA diver. I'm a freediver, but over the last 15 years I have sometimes used the Garmin ecosystem for cycling, running and swimming. And I understand that for SCUBA more so than with apnea, the equipment's performance in the water is critical, but the issue of air integration does not seem to let you see the importance of data integration to some.
I'm looking for something to help me in the water, record my dives (plus the exercise it provides) and track my progress over time. It needs to play nicely with the Apple ecosystem and I don't want to spend $1000 to $2000 on a computer. When I look at my options and to use Oceanic as an example, I can spend $415 for an apnea-specific model (F-10) or $585 (Veo 4.0) for one with a compass that doesn't easily sync with how I track all my other athletic and health data or possess AI, for that matter. Or I can buy the G1 for $550 to $650 and get a smartwatch that lacks the elegance of the $800 Apple Watch Ultra, but far exceeds it in some important areas both above and below the water, even with Oceanic's obnoxious SaaS app. I don't know if I will ever put on a tank and a regulator, but if I do, I could easily use a G1 and spend the money saved over a more capable computer on renting or purchasing the additional gear required.
I also understand why Garmin threw every bit of functionality into the G1 except for AI: because they had the code written already and would have had to spend money to edit it. If you compare the G1 to the MKs, the feature set is nearly identical across the board. Had they added AI at $650, sales of the MKs would drop like a poorly-weighted noob! But like you, I'd like to see a simpler option. Why isn't there the apnea-equivalent of the GPS, ANT+ and Bluetooth-enabled Garmin Venu Sq watch (currently on sale for $129) for $250 that can talk to the Garmin app on my iPhone? I can guess at the answer.
Thanks James for your honest feedback, also what do you think of about Tusa Solar IQ1204
Stay Safe Dive Safe🤙🤙🤙
Thank you for saving me time and cash , i was about to buy that watch but , now ill look for something more entry level
Real question…when will shearwater add more features to a Teric to make it more than just a dive computer.
I'm a dive instructor that doesn't make tons of money but still need a solid reliable, rugged and feature complete dive computer. If you get it black you can match with how many straps you want. I'm tired of going through entry level computers like they were disposable after 1 year (mares & Cressi)
To answer your inquiry, I would buy it!
Hi, thanks for the review,
Which dive computer that has smartwach functionalities (training, strength, running) and others for the day to day would you recommend me, if not this one? I'm looking forward to buy my first one, but I get to dive if I'm lucky 5 times a year.
Thanks!
@James Davis thanks a lot for your input. Anyways I bought the G1, and so happy so far :)
So...too soon to ask for a Perdix 2 review, or...?
Hey James, new subscriber here. Wondering if you have done or might do a video for the more full figured man? Us big boys that like to dive but so difficult to find gear to fit.
i think the ccr mode and multi-gas technical functions comes from the simple source: they just pulled the software from the mk2 and plomped it in. it's most likely the same diving tech circuits, just not the same awsome screen. so instead of saying "why did they add this to the G1?" you should be saying "why did they just copy/paste everything from their super-expensive computer, into a cheaper case and screen that doesnt have the screen area to display it?"
thank you for this review. i actually have it's land-based brother the instinct 2 solar, and was contemplating to "upgrade" to the G1 to have as a possible backup computer to my Perdix AI, or as a holiday computer. now i am most likey to just wait and see what the market comes up with. im not tec diving just yet, so i have time. :)
The garmin decent G1 is basically the instinct 2 with dive features and modes
I like Garmin and had a MK1 and MK2i but they’re let down by the screen and a few other things, which I think they have now fixed in software. Saying this I did sell my MK2i and traded in for a Teric. Anyway, because of the love for Garmin I thought I’d buy one of these Solar G1 as a redundant device. However, I couldn’t read it at depth, the screen is so small and there is not enough contrast for my old eyes. It was nice to mark my in and out location but I struggled with it and have now sold it on after 2 months. For anyone thinking of buying one I’d recommend they see it in the flesh before putting any money on the table.
Hmm, wouldn't readers solve that problem?
@@397coney7 possibly a prescription mask would but I can see my other gauges clearly. Some of the information on the G1 is very small. I would definitely recommend people try before buying.
Go on Single Gas, Menu(Settings) , Big Numbers turn on.
How about mk3 ?
Intersting review but I think the answer to your question seems obvious. This seems to be the perfect backup for a tec diver to a larger primary computer. Having small size computer on my wrist to go next to my shearwater and then wear as a watch outside the water seems like a no brainer. Primary shearwater, dive slate, backup computer etc etc whos got the room on the arm for anything bigger?
Still waiting for the video singing the praises of the Perdix. Especially with the Perdix 2 having been released now.
Good review, cross that one off the list!
Thanks for your support! Dive safe.
Well, CCR and trimix are just software for Garmin, it cost more to leave them out from the software than leave them there. I can't see the reason why they would have needed to leave them out. At least you will have watch that can develop the whole diving career(even it would not actually last so long time). I would say that the old way of doing computers software based on divers lever is just obsolite. There are also divers that goes directly to CCR without diving open circuit.
So it's like the dive version of the garmin instinct which is the budget version of the garmin fenix. Trimix/ccr is just software which has zero incremental cost. Screens and AI receivers are hardware that costs money on every watch they build. Hard to beat that battery life and the rate of solar charge is fine because if you wear it all day every day then it'll probably never need a charge. But would I buy it? Probably not but could see it as maybe a backup to a Shearwater :)
It has almost a copy of the dive program from the mark series. I would think they just put the program in this chip for simplicity’s sake, and it seems kinda nice you’re getting the features from those watches at this price. Idk im a spearfisherman. Watches with surface interval timers are never cheap, and this one seems to have a good build. I would say the watch is for someone like me. The fact that there is scuba stuff I will never use doesn’t really bug me.
James, I've been watching your videos since receiving my OW cert, you are a wealth of knowledge! But, after this review, you have 100% credibility with me. I bought this thinking with a name like Garmin it had to be an amazing product but returned it after just two dives. Thank you for sharing all that you know. Please continue to create such amazing quality videos!
But why did you return it?
Thanks for your support! Dive safe.
James! You just summed up why we can trust your reviews to be honest and thorough. This is the first time I have seen someone that was given a tech item to review that actually felt comfortable enough to bash it and not go soft. I appreciate the honesty and the solid testing period you gave it. Much appreciated!!
I currently dive with a Perdix as a primary, Teric as my backup and I also have a Garmin Decent MK2s. I totally agree with your reviews of each of these dive computers. Keep up the excellent content.
Either way im still getting it as it isn't no decent mk2 but it does well as a all in once budget watch as yes it doesn't have AI but for the hardware and other hardware that goes with it will drive the watch's price alot higher,and I think the color is a bit over the top but I think the black or grey will look
more cleaner in my opinion and also the display isn't that bad but i think there is a always blacklit display during a work out so it isn't super dark or dim it can also be how u can see idk, and also the display is smaller then the mk2 but not by much as the mk2 is 1.4 inches and the G1 is like 1.2 inches as the g1 is the same display size as my apple watch series 3 lte that im replacing, I think its a great deal for a watch as it does about 80% to 90% what the decent mk2 does or have for a hell of alot cheaper.
James, next time (when doing dive comp videos) please present Mares dive comps for recreational divers.
You can get the all black watch which looks good. I agree, the other colors suck. I just need a watch that has a depth gauge, dive log and some alerts for the 10 dives I do a year. I think I am leaning towrds the garmin instinct cross over and just stick to the gauges on my regulator.
Hmm I’m torn now. Bought the regular version recently as my first dive computer, and absolutely love the fitness tracker aspect of it, but not so sure about the actual dive part. I have only taken it free diving thus far, but I’m considering returning it for a shearwater. Really really torn
Why are you thinking to return it after a freedive? Did something go wrong or not meet your expectations?
@@julianjosephs8822 No it worked perfectly, I just found the screen far too small. I'm going to exchange it for a Shearwater Peregrine, although I will dearly miss the fitness tracking features.
Hilarious review, completely agree. I was so hoping this G watch would be the one for my wife. She likes my mk2i but it's too big for her wrist. Why no AI??? Common Garmin.
Have you looked at the Mk2S?
I agree, it's a completely bonkers computer, especially if you're a technical diver. I couldn't imagine it being anything but a backup to the backup to the backup to the backup for every technical diver I know. However... as a freediver, I kinda like it. It tracks my heart rate so I can see the onset of bradycardia. It has a pool mode so when I'm training in the pool it doesn't log a zillion shallow dives where I only wanted to look at the time to gauge my pace. It has a stopwatch for statics. It has an "apnea hunt" mode for when you want to go shoot your dinner. And then, if I want to go blow bubbles with the less, it also handles scuba. I think this watch is bit of a Rorschach test. There's so much going on with it, that your reaction to it ends up saying more about you than it does about the thing itself. I could do without the technical modes. They're of basically academic interest. The rest of it is pretty cool, though.
It's basically the Instinct Solar with dive rated pressure sensor and software. The solar thing is, IMO, gimmicky at best. You're spot on with ditching the solar in favor of more screen real-estate. Carry a solar charged battery pack and charge your watch from that (It's what I do on longer adventures). I loved my Instinct but when I started diving I picked up the Descent Mk2i, which is basically the fenix with dive rated pressure sensor and software. Anymore, I only wear the Instinct when I don't want to risk damaging the Descent.
It have all the extra fitures because it's only software and not hardware.
Garmin don't charge you for the software so you get all the extra moods for free, un like other dive computer's
Is the display better on the g1 without solar?
I have a Garmin Forerunner, but am in need of an upgrade, as well as in need of a dive computer. I'd go with one of these if it had music integration. As a recreational diver it's a little silly for me to have a MK2 or MK3, but they're just a bump above the Fenix line price-wise. So I'm scratching my head thinking Forerunner 965 and something like a Cressi Leonardo, or the small size of a MK 2 or 3 and spending more than I'd planned for less battery life than a Forerunner? Or... still searching.
I've been using Descent G1 for a while and, of course, James's video pops up. Stop wwtching me Google! I have to say my experience has been great. The solar charging does extend the battery, I never had to recharge on an 8 day liveabaord. The screen quality doesn't bother me at all, its clear with proper background light setting. The only thing I agree with in this video is why on earth is AI not a feature!? Im grateful I didnt watch this video before buying the watch... I wouldnt have bought my cute, light, compact, and functional G1. Sure, it's not an Mk2i, but it's not costing me 1500 euros, so all good there.
hi james have you had a look at the tusa dive computer ,it's solar powered but not ai.....
I bought this but as 56 year old I would really wish Garmin will produce screen magnifiers to attach to the front.
Where is your dive center at Miami?
Hello, the video is very helpful, I think I am going to buy it, it is just for me, I want to have a nice dive computer where I can use it as daily watch or other sport activities. I think Garmin made this watch just for the people who thinks like this. I want to ask something else, I liked your ring very much, where did you get it? How can I have the same? Thank you so much
You should do a video on self reliant diver course
Not sure if it's available in US but there's this Taiwan brand called Crest. They make basic affordable dive com for Asia market.
Bro should just make his own watch watch line😂
I think it's pretty clear who this computer is for, and why it has all the gas modes, but not air integration. This is for technical divers who want a watch, backup computer, and dive logger. I.e. me. I *love* my Shearwater, which is often connected to my rebreather, and also follows me on OC dives, but it's only good for diving and terrible as a watch. Not all my dives on a given trip are going to be CC, due to buddy and time restrictions so it's really handy to only need 1 primary and 1 backup that follow me for the whole trip (and thus aren't confused about deco. calcs because they have the complete tissue history). As a backup, I don't particularly care about air integration, I just need to get to the surface safely. Since it looks like it takes actual extra hardware for Garmin to hear from the transmitters, I'm happy to save 200$. Also as a backup, It's totally awesome that it's battery life is excellent, so I rarely take it off. Of course it's not good as a primary dive computer, but I'm very happy to trade a large and bright screen for battery life and everyday-ability if it means I can always safely bail out when my Shearwater breaks (not that it's ever happened underwater :-D), and gives me a very handy logger.
I agree with the questionable need to have CCR and Trimix on this watch. From Garmin's perspective I can see why it was just part of the inheritance of the pedigree. I do however see a use for it with Tec Diving students. This watch is a great redundant watch. Sure, buy the Perdix as a primary. It's never going to be a waste using any argument. But, for redundancy I don't think that you could get a better backup watch as well build as this one for the price. Even if you just use it as a bottom timer while learning Deco Procedures. Going the other way, if you are starting to push the recreational diving and you already have this watch and want to get into Tec. Diving then this watch will get you off the ground. When you are really into Tec. Diving you will naturally gravitate to something like the Perdix. Then, this watch reverts to a backup and you have the best of both worlds.
I also find that when Tech divers go recreational diving with their friends, using a high-end Perdix is rather an odd thing to wear. I have 2 Shearwaters but use a trusty Suunto 4i or sometimes even a Zoop when recreational diving. Very freeing when Deco is never going to be a consideration and the only thing that matters is the way you conduct yourself in-water.
I also like the logging and log integration with the App. Great functions for recreational divers clocking up their dives and keeping it in one place. Nothing worse than rocking up to a remote site but being unable to record your dive and then forgetting it's location after a few days. With it's terrestrial functionality, the App and GPS integration, it's an added bonus just using it as an every day watch giving you direct access to your dives and other adventurous pursuits.
Definately agree though - ditch the solar real estate if you want this to be a main-stream recreational dive watch. Most of us are used to normal charging methods with our phones. Do I sense a Mark II G1 in the offing?
The Ratio iColor Deep watches are less than $650 and support trimix and support 3 transmitters, huge battery life and full colour display. And can be upgraded to support CCR and 10 transmitters. Much better value IMHO, though they aren't smart watches.
I bought a G1 but took it back for a MK2S. The issue I had with the G1 is the screen is not legible in some cases but the MK2S is legible in all lighting conditions.
In which cases was the G1 screen not legible?
@@julianjosephs8822 direct sunlight is the biggie, but for the most part it's just not legible. The MK2S on the other hand is completely legible in all scenarios
Thanks mate, you just saved me a few hundreds dollars :))
Glad I could help! Dive safe.
Surprised that you're not a fan of the Garmin Descent G1. It's the first good dive "watch" since it can be used above water. It suits people who lead an active lifestyle who also happen to dive every few months. I have done 10 dives with this and had no complaints whatsoever. The garmin appwith all its health info, the garmin pay app, etc are so useful as well! IMO, this is the best computer/watch for a recreational diver who happens to lead an active life above water.
In my opinion this is he ultimate watch/computer for multi-sport.
I normally use and Apple Watch for training and my friends cressi cartesio for spearfishing.
I was looking for a simple diving watch to use in the water.
Now I’m selling my Apple Watch and buying this particular watch that can be use diving, runing, surfing, cycling…
At the beginning of this video I was worried if I made the right choice. Now I know that I did it 😄
I consider buying it. Mainly as smart watch and for gos feature when diving. So it would be the 4th computer I bring on deep Tec dives 😂…Main computers are all shearwater… Ccr controller, perdix and Teric.
But I guess it’s getting ridiculous, the amount of computer I’m using. But but but I want a cool smartwatch primarily, what I don’t have yet 🤔
So you can’t connect something to your tank which sends how much air you have left to the watch what’s the point ???
Seems to be a case of throwing everything at the wall, and seeing what sticks. Are there divers out there clamoring for this? I am not. Currently saving my pennies for a Perdix 2 with a transmitter, and I am not a tech diver. That big, beautiful, easy to read screen!
You know,, there's a big number mode so that your dive screens are bigger?
This watch is for me. For the occasional resort dive, where i doesn`t have my suunto eon with me, and because i paid 220 dollar for it at a dive show😅
Wow!! This is the first of your reviews that I think you lost your mind 😂
Garmin is a leader in more then diving, and no where close can you get a dive computer in the same price category and have the many many outdoor and satellite functions that can literally save your life.. like when it’s paired with in-reach and is diving with you in a dive proof case. You can send sos or text messages via satellite. I know a movie about a couple that would have loved that feature.. sure it’s not as sexy as a $1000 dollar watch , but it’s not $1000 price. Garmin’s support is top notch ! . And maybe for the display view , you may need to turn the back light brightness up
Great watch! BAD REVIEW FULL OF OPINIONS …
Hi, as a dive instructor I would love something like it. I have an old suunto stinger because my dive computer is my watch. The big pro tech dive computer? Can't wear em at the bar sorry... so in this sense i like the idea of the g1.
Problem is.... it's U-GLY. Like you said it looks like a cheap gshock when all they had to do was to basically copy the d4i.
And by basically copy I mean drop the solar for an air integration ffs.
Also the Mk1 and MK2 are not exactly beautiful watches i have to say. I mean why can't they just make on in brushed stainless steel and call it a day?
I'll keep the old suunto until Garmin the Descent will look Decent. Pun intended.
There has been an increasingly worrying trend of depth sensor failure (especially in the black Garmin G1 models) within the "Garmin Descent Dive Computer" Facebook community group.
Does the non solar version have a bigger display with the extra room?
No
I'd probably use it as a backup
the usual problem of non divers designing equipment for divers. great review! Not buying it, at least for that price. After all i want is just a smart watch.... Thank you james.
How can Garmin think that entry level and CCR/Trimix belong in the same category? Seems like they didn't consult any any diving experts and just went off what they thought would be useful from prior research.
I'm a fan of this site and have purchased several pieces of my favorite gear (including a dive computer) based in part on reviews I've watched here. But this one was uncharacteristically -- and kind of spectacularly -- uninformative. James seems mystified at the design choices behind this watch without once noting that it's specifically a dive version of Garmin's highly successful Instinct line of watches -- the same way his beloved Mk2 is a dive version of Garmin's highly successful Fenix line of watches. Paralleling James' own logic in his rave review of the Mk2, this watch makes perfect sense for someone who wants all of the Garmin's smartwatch fitness capabilities with diving functionality on top, but doesn't want to spend over $1,000. I agree with all the positives he notes. His negatives are mostly flimsy. Aesthetics? Purely subjective and have nothing to do with diving. I think it looks okay, and I occasionally get compliments on mine. Screen? I've got 20 dives on mine and have never once had an issue reading it. In fact, in some light (such as near the surface on a safety top in high sunlight), I've found it much easier to read than the (vastly larger and brighter) screen on my Shearwater Peregrine. Trimix capability? That's a negative?? Agreed most users will probably not buy this watch for that capability, but it's not so mystifying that Garmin would include this since it's already an integrated part of their dive software. Would you give this watch a better review if it were less functional in this way? No AI capability? Valid criticism. Will be interesting to see if they put it in future generations, though I would wager most people looking for this are looking at higher end computers anyway. Solar charging? I agree, this function, while cool in theory, has not been that practically impressive yet in my experience. But it's available in a non-solar version for $100 less. Finally, who is this watch for? It's for me, at least, and for the vast majority of other commenters here, it appears. I shopped it mainly as a fitness/health tracker to replace an Apple watch that was useless unless it was charged every 24 hours. When I saw Garmin was adding dive capability to the Instinct, it seemed like a perfect backup to my Peregrine. And it has been. I haven't had any issues with it at all, below or above water, and think it's a quite solid product that deserved a less snarky review.
Tmx vs AI topic - as tmx is just a matter of spftware than it is eqsy to implement without extra hardware and power consumption needed for AI. It looks as first rec computer you can actually use as backup when upgrading to tec diving = and purchasing Deacent mk2 to be your new primary.staying in the same ecosystem Dont understand this fascination with AI (for the same resons i like diving manual rebreather) and it has drawn my interest due to fmx funcionality. I think it is clever move by Garmin to retain people and not switching to another (shearwater) brand when growing into tec diving.
? Give it less modes will be better? I don't understand your point
22mm lugs...maybe a nylon NATO-strap to spice it up?
But I agree, the bluish-gray color looks tacky.