Tag: dive computer

  • Garmin Unveils Affordable Wearable with 2.4-Inch Display

    Garmin Unveils Affordable Wearable with 2.4-Inch Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Garmin Descent X30 features a 2.4-inch color LCD display with a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels, tracking various dive metrics and syncing logs via Bluetooth to the Garmin Dive app.

    2. It has four waterproof metal buttons for navigation, designed for use with gloves, and offers a flip-screen mode for customizable button positioning.

    3. The device is rugged, rated for dives up to 10 ATM (100 meters), and utilizes recycled materials in its housing and bezel.

    4. The built-in lithium-ion battery lasts for 30 hours at medium brightness and 10 hours at high brightness.

    5. Priced at $749.99/£649.99/€749.99, the Descent X30 is about half the cost of the more advanced Descent X50i, which features a larger 3-inch touchscreen and a higher dive rating.


    The Garmin Descent X30, a large-format dive computer, is now available globally. This new model follows the recent launch of the Descent S1 smart buoy just a few months ago.

    Display Features

    The Descent X30 features a spacious 2.4-inch color LCD display with a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels. Although Garmin claims the screen is vibrant, they haven’t shared any specifics about the maximum brightness. This dive computer can track various data during your dive, including NDL Aware depth metrics, compass readings, and water temperature. Additionally, it allows users to choose from multiple dive profiles and record entry and exit points with the help of surface GPS, automatically syncing dive logs to the Garmin Dive smartphone app through Bluetooth.

    Navigation and Design

    Navigating the Descent X30 is done via four waterproof metal buttons, which are usable even with gloves on. The flip-screen mode provides the option to position the buttons either at the top or bottom of the device, depending on your preference. Garmin emphasizes that all of the plastic used in the housing and bezel of the dive computer is made from recycled materials. This model is considered “rugged,” rated for dives up to 10 ATM (100 meters). With its built-in lithium-ion battery, it can last for 30 hours at medium brightness or 10 hours on high brightness.

    Pricing Information

    Currently, the Garmin Descent X30 dive computer is priced at $749.99/£649.99/€749.99. This is about half the cost of the more advanced Descent X50i (retail price $1,499.99 on Amazon), which shares a similar design but offers a larger 3-inch touchscreen and is rated for 20 ATM dives.

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  • Garmin Wearables Update: Enhanced Touch Controls Now Available

    Garmin Wearables Update: Enhanced Touch Controls Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin’s Descent X50i dive computer software update is now at version 3.18, featuring a 3-inch display.
    2. The update introduces compatibility with the new S1 SubWave Buoy accessory, allowing messaging and location sharing options.
    3. A new reboot warning alerts users if water is detected shortly after powering down the device.
    4. Improvements include easier back swipes and enhanced touch panel functionality, with changes to backlight activation and timeout settings.
    5. The update is available to all users and can be installed via the Garmin Device app, Garmin Express, or directly on the watch.


    Garmin’s Descent X50i dive computer has recently gotten an update for its system software, now sitting at version 3.18. This premium model, which was released in November 2024, features a larger 3-inch display, setting it apart from other models in the Descent lineup, like the Descent G1 and Descent Mk3.

    New Features and Changes

    The 3.18 update marks the first major software release for the Descent X50i. The change log reveals that it now works with the new S1 SubWave Buoy accessory. With this addition, users can choose to enable or disable Messaging and Location Sharing when they connect to a buoy or transmitter. Furthermore, there’s a new reboot warning feature that alerts users if water is detected within 45 seconds after powering down the device.

    Improvements and Adjustments

    Garmin has also made it simpler to perform back swipes on the device and has enhanced the functionality of the touch panel, though specifics on these improvements are not provided. According to the release notes, the automatic backlight activation by tapping the device at the surface has been removed. Users can still activate the backlight by pressing the touch screen or buttons. Additionally, the duration for the backlight timeout has been shortened to 15 seconds in order to save battery life. The update includes various in-dive changes and bug fixes, all detailed in the change log below.

    Availability of the Update

    The system software version 3.18 is now open to all users of the Garmin Descent X50i dive computer, which retails for $1,499.99 on Amazon. When paired with a smartphone, the update will automatically transfer to the wearable through the Garmin Device app. Alternatively, it can be installed using Garmin Express software, or directly on the watch by navigating to PREV > Settings > System > Check for Updates.

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