Garmin just raised the dive technology bar with their new Descent X50i large-format dive computer, shown for the first time here at the DEMA 2024 show. If this is a dive computer-which it mostly is-it is the most feature-packed one for the recreational and technical diver alike: a giant 3-inch color touchscreen, dive-to-dive messages, built-in maps, air integration, and even a flashlight.
Let’s dive right in and explore what makes the X50i dive computer unique and if it is worth spending your hard-earned dollars on for that underwater escapade.
Overview of the Garmin Descent X50i Premium Dive Computer
The Garmin X50i is, until now, the company’s most adventurous dive computer. Designed for such divers who like to have a big readable display with advanced technological possibilities that complement and improve dives.
The 3-inch color touchscreen display isn’t just oversized puts a ton of information at your fingertips, everything from div data to map integration.
While it does provide as many dive modes, including single gas and multi-gas, rebreather, and gauge modes, this makes it even versatile enough for all sorts of underwater missions.
Whether it is a recreational diver exploring shallow reefs or a technician going deep, the X50i as the largest dive computer gets the job done for whatever demands you put it through.
Bigger Screen, Better Visibility
You will notice one of the first things in the X50i: the screen. At 3 inches, it happens to be among the most extensive dive computers you can find today, with a 20 ATM dive rating.
To put that into perspective, popular models such as the Shearwater Petrel 2 come mounted with a 2.6-inch-wide screen while the Apeks 2 comes with a 2.2-inch display. The X50i offers more room for the display of dive data, which, apart from being wider, is pretty vibrant and easy to read.
The large screen attempts to address probably the most common sags among divers-difficulty in reading small text underwater.
This is really great for older divers, or indeed anyone who has struggled with visibility in lower light. The X50i will present you with readable, crystal-clear data right when you need it.
Easier Reading for Everyone
I believe most of us have heard divers complain about small displays with too much information.
Garmin has taken this head-on by providing you with options as to how to customize what data shows up on the screen which makes it easy to read information like projected ascent dive profile and in-dive depth chart.
Indeed, want all your numbers front and center? No problem; prefer a minimalist approach? Well, you can do that too.
Built for real diving.
Descent x50i dive computer features Premium build and Materials Features such as sapphire lenses, and inductive leakproof metal buttons, similar to other Garmin dive computers, mean that the X50i is not lacking in ruggedness, either; probably good to go on deep dives and rough conditions.
The elastic strap is one of those nice touches designed to fit rapidly onto both wetsuits and dry suits without needing to change settings continuously.
Built for Depth Rated for depths to 656 feet, the descent x50i is a premium dive device that will be robust enough for just about any diver.
Even technical divers pushing the limits of their training will find this depth range sufficient, and Garmin’s reputation for durability means this dive computer is likely to hold up under heavy use, though we’ll have to wait for long-term testing to see how it performs over time.
A Bright, Customizable Main Dive Page
The X50i places everything you need, quite literally, at your fingertips. The big, bright screen seems designed to cut through distractions and deliver crystal-clear information even in poor underwater conditions.
The dive computer features a 3-inch color touchscreen display to show your dive stats in stunning detail, the dive log lets you review data take notes, and share details and air integration and diver-to-diver messages
On the left-hand side of the display are core dive details that remain static for consistency:
- NDL (No Decompression Limit).
- TTS (Time to Surface).
- Current Depth.
- Elapsed Dive Time.
- Gas Settings ( whether operating on an open or closed circuit system).
The beauty of the device lies in the right side of the screen, which is fully customizable. Though pre-loaded layout options are available straight out of the box, you can tweak the display to suit your preference. Garmin offers seven-page layouts, affording divers the independence to prioritize the information they need most.
You can set up a page with a compass alongside TTS and Surf GF for the Gradient Factor, or you could use a more advanced and technology-focused interface for advanced needs.
Designed for Technical Divers
The X50i is not restricted to the needs of either recreational or technical divers; it’s a strong powerhouse in both worlds. Garmin has focused on advanced data fields, which are vital to making complex underwater decisions.
Some of the data fields specific to the tech diver include:
Delta +5: Helps to know the change in ascent if you were going to extend your dive.
GF99: Tracking in real-time the gradient factor during a dive.
at+5: Estimate what your decompression obligation will be if you stay five minutes longer.
Ascent dive profile: Visualize an ascent plan through the Projected Ascent data field, which shows a projected depth profile associated with the current
Time-To-Surface (TTS). The chart also plots depth over time and displays decompression stops and gas switches.
The above features make it very easy for divers-especially the most adventurous ones-to plan for extended bottom time and strategies for ascent.
Dynamic Depth Chart: Real-Time Planning
Probably the best of them is the Dynamic Depth Chart. It offers an on-broadcast depth history of your dive while mapping out a clear ascent plan. It gives the following:
- Depth history throughout the dive.
- Projected Time to Surface – TTS.
- Breakdown of remaining deco stops:.
- Critical ascent data includes Delta +5 and at +5.
- Total number of stops left before surfacing.
What’s more astonishing is just how forward-looking this feature is. You’re able to see where you’ve been and, at the same time, plot the fastest, safest path back to the surface.
This is ideal for keeping ahead of the scuba dive-particularly in those scenarios where you are balancing many factors against deco stops, gas consumption, and much more.
Integration with Subwave T2 Transceivers
It also ramps up teamwork underwater with seamless integration of up to eight Descent T2 transceivers.
The SubWave sonar data network allows x50i to communicate and exchange messages with other divers and monitor their tank pressure, depth, and distance. Divers sharing the same system can monitor critical metrics such as:
Personal tank pressures.
- Personal tank pressures.
- The depth and distance of up to eight team members.
This kind of integration incorporates a degree of safety and accountability for buddy dives. The Garmin dive-to-dive messaging, also fully introduced on the Descent Mk3i, has received a major update in the X50i. Now, even more, pre-set messages come preloaded on the device for easy, rapid communication during dives.Â
GPS and Entry/Exit Tracking
If you’re like most divers, trying to recall exactly where you went in or came out is always a bit of an exercise. The X50i has a built-in GPS that automatically marks surface entry and exit points a signature piece for Garmin, but for good reason: It doesn’t help just with post-dive logs; it helps ensure you surface near where you started, a necessity for drift dives or boat-based ops.
To prepare for your next dive, you can take advantage of built-in GPS to navigate to thousands of preloaded dive site locations from around the world or add extra details – like points of interest and bathymetric depth contours – to dive sites with DiveView maps, an extension of the preloaded TopoActive maps.
Backup Dive Light: Small But Smart
In true Garmin fashion, even the tiniest features feel thoughtfully designed. The integrated backup dive light is surprisingly practical.
Need to sort through your gear at an early morning hour? No problem. Lose your primary light mid-dive? Stay calm—the backup light keeps you oriented toward an exit or a line. It’s not intended to replace your main light, but it is a reliable fail-safe when you need a little extra visibility.
Dive Bands with Comfort and Durability
As the name suggests, it is not that simple to find the perfect dive watch strap. The X50i hits the sweet spot in expanse vs. security. New dive bands mix the elasticity of bungee straps with the reliability of traditional nylon bands.
The stretchy material developed is firm enough to keep the adjustment once, even as your wetsuit or dry suit compresses at depth.
Easy clasp system: Designed for quick adjustments without the need to constantly readjust it.
It’s always nice when something as straightforward as an accessory—a watch strap, in this case—simply does the job right.
Long Battery Life for Full Dive Days
The worst battery anxiety is underwater with the X50i it’s not an issue: this rechargeable battery provides up to 16 hours of in-water use.
Those who have used Garmin’s other models, such as the Descent MK or G1, will be happy to know that this device also uses the same charging clip for convenience. With fast-charging capability, time spent off of a charge is minimized, letting you get back to enjoying your dives.
A Recap of the X50i’s Best Features
Descent x50i is the perfect dive computer for technical divers and a great option for recreational divers who want to see key stats and critical information while exploring the underwater world.
The Descentâ„¢ x50i can boast of being the most packed with tools for divers to further enhance the experience of diving. Here’s a quick rundown of what makes it tick:
- A bright, customizable screen showing real-time data.
- Top-tier technical areas of expertise include Delta +5 and GF99.
- Dynamic Depth Chart to track and plan your ascent.
- Seamless integration of Subwave T2, both with tank monitoring and diver messaging.
- Inbuilt GPS for keeping track of entry and exit.
- Dive light backup in case of emergencies or fast repairs.
- Stretchy, durable dive bands for a comfortable fit.
- Long-lasting rechargeable battery optimized for dive sessions.
X50i Dive Computer- How does it compare to other dive computers?
Garmin MK3
While the MK3 offers multi-sport tracking and a smaller form factor, the X50i is purely for diving purposes. The larger screen makes this a better device for divers looking for more specialization.
Shearwater Petrel and Apex 2
Compared to competitors Shearwater Petrel 2 and Apex 2-the big selling points of the X50i are the touchscreen, built-in mapping, and dive-to-dive messaging. For entry-level enthusiasts, however, the $1,500 price puts it squarely on par or slightly above similarly priced competition.
Is It Worth the Price?
At $1,500, the Garmin Descent X50i is not for those on a tight budget, but for divers seeking a premium experience-especially if they want its great screen, customizable layouts, and advanced air integration-it’s worth considering.Â
In case you are looking for something compact or cheaper, this might not be your computer. But for the serious divers who want advanced features, it will be hard to beat what the X50i brings to the table.
Why the Garmin Descent X50i Stands Out
The X50i is way more than another dive computer; with multiple dive modes, it’s a really useful, all-around tool for every level of diving, from the absolute beginners up to the technical pros.
Designing this device, it seems obvious that Garmin considered seriously what divers had to say. Actually, for that matter, a lot of features have been incorporated into its design that make it even more intuitive, reliable, and helpful.
Whether in multilevel deco dives or a simple recreational outing, this dive computer feels like a natural extension of my gear. It is the kind of companion one can always rely on from start to surface in any dive.
If cutting-edge tech in a package that’s both durable and user-friendly is what you’re in the market for, then the X50i is worth checking out.
👉 Check out the Garmin Descent X50i on Amazon now and take your underwater explorations to the next level!
