Customer Reviews for Garmin - Descent Mk3i GPS Dive Smartwatch 51 mm Fiber-reinforced polymer - Carbon Gray DLC Titanium with DLC Titanium Band - (2023)
Customer Rating
4
Could be better.
on April 11, 2024
Posted by: Cole H
I bought this watch for the dive computer and functions. It is also a smart watch. GPS could be better and have a stronger signal. Maps take a while to update to current location. Watch is loaded with sports features, but they all have the same data. All these sports and the only features they have are timers, heart rate, it's all the same, over and over. Watch needs more layout, more clock appearances, more color choices. Flashlight is bright and gets the job done. Tac light was a very good choice. Only complaints are the GPS positioning takes too long to update and all the different sports have the same features and data.
The Garmin Mk3i watch is almost perfect for my active lifestyle. Whether I'm pounding the pavement on a run, gliding through the water in my kayak, or exploring the depths while scuba diving, this watch has me covered. One of the standout benefits of Garmin ecosystem for me is how seamlessly the Garmin Connect software integrates all my activities, making it easy to track and analyze my performance. The training programs available are a bonus, helping me stay on top of my fitness goals. The built-in flashlight was a nice surprise. It was an unexpected addition that's proven to be useful on many occasions. When I'm diving in the ocean, the in-reach communication feature provides invaluable peace of mind. However, it's important to note that in-reach communication requires a separate device and subscription. The GPS, compass, and maps functionalities are spot-on, enhancing my outdoor adventures. And I must mention, the new bright screen is a great improvement, ensuring visibility even in bright sunlight.
However, the data screens for diving have limited customization. If you want to see your gas pressure, there is basically one data field that can be changed on that screen. Hopefully, this will be fixed through software updates in the future. Despite this minor hiccup, the watch excels in all other areas.
Overall, the Garmin Mk3i is a great companion for any activity, with just a few tweaks to Scuba Diving screens needed to reach perfection.
I started out years ago to buy a smart waterproof smartwatch. No one had a watch that had sustained battery power or reserves. Settled on the fenix series. It was great, but lacking in a few features I would like to have. Then the MK series came out - wow, excellent replacement for my fenix. The MK 2i was my travel/outdoors and health buddy. Always wished for an amoled display that the iWatches had but I was not a 1 day battery life. Then the MK 3i was unveiled - with all my hopes and dreams in a computer dive/smartwatch. I am in heaven. Garmin is always on the cutting edge of delivering what we are looking for. An excellent addition to the MK series. Way to go!!!!
I LOVE this watch. Have had a Fenix 5 for many years, but as I do like to dive, have been waiting for the new version of the dive watch to upgrade. This thing is a beast! All the amazing features of the Fenix/Epix series I've been wanting in an upgrade, but add on completely insane diving capability as well. Only 7 dives so far with the new watch and T2 transmitter, but works flawless! So glad I waited for this one!
four dives in, replacing a standalone computer. this is a great dive watch; extremely intuitive to use underwater. I also use all of the other running and cycling features and they operate extremely well, as expected from Garmin.
Cons 1 My PSI is just as important as my depth. The PSI font size is HORRIBLE. Large font is just bold basically. I do not wear or need glasses either. The person that designed the PSI font size and PSI display location only used this in a pool or the Carribian Islands. Never in limited/low visibility waters. 2 Propriatary charging cable works great but super inconvenient. How about wireless charging its 2024. 3 The Tank transceivers noise is like a dripping faucet in the middle of the night. PROS The person that engineered the battery life should get a raise. Watch band replacement A+ OLED Display A+ Garmin Dive App A+ Garmin Connect App A+ 51mmA+ Button Quality & Ease of use A+ Overall quality of build A+
Response from GarminBy Garmin, March 18, 2024
Thank you for your review and experience with the Descent Mk3i. We would like to discuss this further over email. If you would please email us at product.support@garmin.com.