Garmin Descent™ T2 Transceiver with Subwave™ Wireless Communication
Quick take
The Garmin Descent T2 transceiver is a compact, dive-rated wireless accessory that sends tank pressure and key air metrics to compatible Garmin Descent air-integrated dive computers (sold separately). It can also enable SubWave preformatted diver-to-diver messaging with network-compatible air-integrated buddies, but you will need the right compatible computers and software to unlock the full experience.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Dive-rated hardware (20 ATM) with a compact design that attaches to high-pressure regulator ports.
- Displays real-time tank pressure, air time remaining, and air consumption rate on compatible Descent air-integrated computers.
- Supports group monitoring by pairing up to 8 transceivers with compatible Descent dive computers.
- SubWave wireless messaging works with network-compatible air-integrated Descent computers within up to 30 meters (with required software).
- Battery life up to 100 hours, using a user-replaceable CR123A lithium battery.
Cons
- No screen or GPS functions, it is an accessory that depends on a compatible Descent dive computer to show the data.
- SubWave messaging requires compatible buddies with compatible air-integrated Descent computers, and the right software version.
- Some setups may need hose planning, since the transceiver pod can be too wide for tight rig configurations.
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence focuses on day-to-day reliability during dives, setup and integration, and how well the tank pressure data lines up with an SPG. Multiple reviewers describe stable connection behavior during dives, with a couple noting occasional connection drops at the surface but no in-dive problems. Reviewers also mention the device being quiet for SubWave sonar, and several emphasize its value as a safety-oriented integration with their Garmin Descent dive computer. Evidence is limited around subwave messaging usage frequency, since not every buyer has access to other divers using compatible networked computers.
How it fits into a Descent dive setup
The Descent T2 transceiver is designed to be added to a dive system by attaching to high-pressure regulator ports. Once paired, it provides wireless access to tank information and related metrics on compatible air-integrated Garmin Descent dive computers (the computer is sold separately). That means you are not buying a standalone dive computer, you are upgrading what your wrist display can show.
Tank data and situational awareness
One of the main benefits is the transceiver’s ability to send tank pressure and breathing-related details, including air time remaining and air consumption rate, to your compatible air-integrated Descent computer. If you dive with family or guide less-experienced divers, the ability to monitor multiple tanks and key air values can be a practical way to reduce guesswork in the moment.
SubWave wireless communication for diver-to-diver messaging
The T2 transceiver supports preformatted diver-to-diver messages through the SubWave wireless communication system. Messaging is intended for divers using compatible air-integrated Descent dive computers, and it works within a range of up to 30 meters. The feature depends on network compatibility and the receiving computer having software version v.15.70 or later, so plan for that if your group does not already have updated compatible gear.
Range, pairing, and group monitoring
Where the T2 stands out for group dives is its multi-transceiver pairing support. Compatible air-integrated Descent dive computers can pair up to 8 transceivers, letting you monitor your own tank and additional divers’ air levels and depths within range (the listing notes up to 10 meters for monitoring depths/levels across the group). Bluetooth Low Energy simplifies pairing by helping identify buddy names with the transceivers they are wearing.
Installation and real-world setup considerations
The transceiver is described as compact and designed to attach without interfering with hoses. Still, some divers may need to think about the physical layout of their rig. If your current first-stage layout is crowded, it is worth checking clearance before you hit open water.
Battery life and maintenance
Battery life is rated up to 100 hours of diving, and the transceiver uses a user-replaceable CR123A lithium battery. For divers who do multiple trips in a season, that matters more than “weekend-only” runtime, because you are likely to want predictable performance without frequent battery swaps mid-series.
Pros and cons in plain English
Best for
- Divers who already own, or plan to buy, compatible Garmin Descent air-integrated dive computers and want wireless tank and air-metric display.
- People who routinely dive with a small group, where monitoring multiple divers’ air levels improves team awareness.
- Divers interested in SubWave preformatted diver-to-diver messaging, but only if their buddy group has compatible network-capable air-integrated computers with updated software.
Who should avoid it
- If you want a standalone device with its own display and navigation, this accessory has no screen and relies on a compatible Descent dive computer.
- If your dive buddies do not have compatible air-integrated Descent computers (and you cannot update software), SubWave messaging will be limited.
- If your regulator hose routing is very tight and you cannot adjust hose length, the physical fit may require extra planning.
Is the Garmin Descent T2 transceiver worth it?
It is worth considering when you want a deeper, more safety-oriented view of tank status and breathing metrics on your wrist display, especially in multi-diver scenarios. It becomes a stronger value proposition if your group can take advantage of SubWave messaging and if you already use Garmin Descent air-integrated computers. If you are only buying for messaging with friends, or you do not have the compatible Descent air-integrated setup, the T2 will not deliver its full feature set.
Price and availability
Pricing can fluctuate and the current listing notes limited stock. Check the latest price and shipping details before you buy.
FAQ
Does the Descent T2 transceiver work with any dive computer?
No. It is meant to pair with compatible air-integrated Garmin Descent dive computers (sold separately). It will not replace the computer, since it has no display of its own.
What does the transceiver show on the dive computer?
It sends tank pressure, air time remaining, and air consumption rate to a compatible Descent air-integrated computer, improving situational awareness during the dive.
How many divers or tanks can be monitored?
A compatible air-integrated Descent dive computer can pair up to 8 transceivers, enabling multi-tank monitoring within the system’s stated range for depth and air level awareness.
How far does SubWave diver-to-diver messaging reach?
The listing specifies up to 30 meters for diver-to-diver messaging when using SubWave network-compatible air-integrated Descent dive computers.
Do I need a software update to use SubWave messaging?
SubWave messaging availability depends on software version for compatible computers. The listing indicates network compatibility requires software v.15.70 or later.
What battery does it use, and how long does it last?
It uses a user-replaceable CR123A lithium battery, with battery life up to 100 hours of diving (rating stated on the listing).
Is the SubWave sonar noisy?
Reviewers who tested it described the SubWave sound as either not noticeable or very faint to them, with limited reports of anyone hearing it clearly.
Will it connect reliably during dives?
Specifications
| Product Title | Garmin Descent™ T2 Transceiver with Subwave™ Wireless Communication |
|---|---|
| Category | Automotive > Motorcycle & Powersports > Accessories > Electronics > GPS Units |
| Brand | Garmin |
| Manufacturer | Garmin |
| Model Name | Descent™ T2 Transceiver |
| Model Number | 010-13308-00 |
| Color | Black |
| Item Weight | 0.55 Pounds |
| Operating System | Garmin OS |
| Additional Features | Bluetooth |
| GPS Geotagging Functionality | No GPS |
| Band Material Type | Silicone |
| Water Resistance Level | Water Resistant |
| Sport Type | Diving |
| Human Interface Input | Buttons |
| Supported Application | Diving |
| Water Resistance Depth | 30 Meters |
| Metrics Measured | Heart Rate, Blood Oxygen Monitor |
| Closure Type | Clip |
| Shape | Round |
| Style Name | Rugged Modern |
| Band Color | black |
| Battery Capacity | 1500 Milliamp Hours |
| Battery Cell Type | Lithium Metal |
| Display Type | No Display |
| Compatible Devices | Smartphone |
| Compatible Phone Models | Compatible with iOS and Android devices |
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