This article provides you with the most insightful review of the best outdoor watches under 100. Check it out now to see the best recommendations I have for you!
Sturdy, fashionable, and efficient, I bet these are the golden trio of criteria that you look for in an outdoor watch. Sadly, most high-quality outdoor watches matching the requirements are out of reach for the majority of customers.
Is there anything you can do about it? Can you get something worth your money when your budget is rather limited?
The answer is definitely yes! There are still affordable watches designed to endure the wear and tear. In my review today, I will give you my top 10 choices on the best outdoor watches under $100!
Are you curious? Let’s keep scrolling to find out more about what I have in store for you!
Our Team Picks
*Best for outdoor activities: Casio G-SHOCK - The GA 100-1A1 Military Series Watch
*Best among durable watches: Timex Expedition Grid Shock Watch
*Best for tracking external factors: Lad Weather Outdoor Watch
*Best for sport activities: Casio G-Shock Digital Watch
*Best for price: PALADA Men's Digital Sports Watch
*Best for extreme sport activities in daylight: Casio Men's Pro Trek PRG-270-1 Watch
*Best for waterproofness: EZON Hiking Outdoor Sports Watch
*Best for outdoor activities in sunlight: Casio Men's G-Shock GW2310-1 Watch
*Best for smartwatches: XABegin Multifunctions Rugged Military Sports Smart VIBE3 Watch
*Best for simplicity: Casio Men's W800H-1AV Classic Sport Watch
Outdoor Watches Under $100 Comparison Table
Outdoor Watch | Preview | Shape | Case Diameter | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Round | 37mm | 4.7/5 | |
| Rectangle | 50mm | 4.8/5 | |
| Round | 45mm | 4.1/5 | |
| Square | 45mm | 4.5/5 | |
| Round | 1.97inches | 4.1/5 | |
| Round | 52mm | 4.8/5 | |
| Round | N/A | 4.5/5 | |
| Oval | 46.4mm | 4.6/5 | |
| Round | N/A | 4.1/5 | |
| Square | 37mm | 4.6/5 |
Outdoor Watches Under $100 Reviews
Below are the best outdoor watches under 100 list that I took time and effort to find out. Hopefully, you can choose a suitable tent among them.
#1. Casio G-SHOCK - The GA 100-1A1 Military Series Watch
Alright, let’s get started by one of my most favorite - Casio G-Shock, model GA 100-1A1 in the military series. Casio has established a reputation for its digital devices, but the G-Shock branch has truly taken outdoor watches to the next level. Why is that?
First of all, have a look at the design itself. G-Shock features a case diameter of 37 mm, which makes time-watching easy and convenient. Whether you are a fan of analog or digital watches, G-Shock is still able to satisfy you, as these two types of watches are both shown on the screen.
Furthermore, G-Shock is famous for its durability. Since it aims at customers frequently taking part in outdoor activities like sports or military, G-Shock is well protected against any external impacts. Water-resistant, vibration-resistant and brightly lit in the dark if necessary, G-Shock deserves to be on the wishlist of those desperately in need of a high-quality outdoor watch.
Besides, the band of this watch is made from resin with metal buckle closure, so rest assured that your accessory will stay well on your wrist.
Another reason why I love Casio G-Shock is the number of time zones and cities available. There are up to 29 different time zones and more than 40 cities including the UTC incorporated in a G-Shock watch. Wherever you are on Earth, feel free to adjust the watch at will.
However, this watch has one tiny drawback that you might want to know. Although an electroluminescent backlight is capable of lighting up the analog portion, it fails to do the same with the digital part of the watch.
But to be honest, I myself do not think it is a deal-breaker for this amazing watch. If you are fine with reading time in the analog way, there is no reason why you should back away from purchasing this product.
PROS
CONS
#2. Timex Expedition Grid Shock Watch
Next up, I want to recommend to you an item from Timex. If you are fed up with the typical circular watches and would like to switch to something new, then maybe the Timex Expedition Grid Shock watch will please your demand!
What struck me when I first examined a Timex watch is its peculiar design. This brand creates its Grid Shock watch with a rectangular dial, making it outstanding in appearance compared to other traditional watches.
The thing is, while this product might look a bit out of the ordinary unorthodox, it surely provides some amazing features. Timex watch is certified as shock-resistant based on I.S.O standards, with a top plate made from stainless steel. Worry not about breaking your watch, my fellow people, because Timex watch is built to last!
Similar to the Casio G-Shock watch, Timex watch has a backlit clock face, which makes time-reading much easier in the dark.
Still, there is one thing I dislike about this item. Timex watch allows you to switch to the chronometer display when needed, which is amazing. But whenever the display is turned on, the current time will not appear on the screen. Not really cool, isn’t it?
Anyways, I think this downsize is still excusable. See for yourself whether the Timex watch is worth your money because I definitely think it is!
PROS
CONS
#3. Lad Weather Outdoor Watch
The third product on my list of the best outdoor watches under $100 is from Lad Weather. Do you want a versatile outdoor watch, but you do not enjoy the intimidating look of a Casio G-Shock or a Timex watch? Well, I bet you will be happy with this alternative from Lad Weather.
Lad Weather outdoor watch features a round dial with a case diameter of 22m, large enough for you to read the time easily. Each component of the watch is made from durable materials like stainless steel or Polyurethane, which means it can last for a relatively long time.
But what I love most about Lad Weather outdoor watch is its wide range of unique features. Are you into hiking? If yes, you will be thrilled to learn that Lad Weather watch. It allows users to calculate the altimeter through collected barometric data.
Does that sound impressive? Hold on, because the fun is not over yet. Lad Weather incorporates other useful details into its watch, from a graphical and numeric compass, a thermometer, and even the weather forecast through icons. Next time you are about to kick off an outdoor adventure, do not forget to bring along this useful device.
Nevertheless, I found the dial made from acrylic crystal pretty fragile. If you are not careful and frequently crash the surface against sharp edges, the dial can be slightly scratched, so watch out!
In short, I would say that Lad Weather is your ideal choice if you are an outdoor sportsman. Not only is it affordable, but it is also highly functional with a lot of original features.
PROS
CONS
#4. Casio G-Shock Digital Watch
Apart from the classic Casio G-Shock watch with both the analog and the digital clock face, I also love the purely digital version of the brand. Let’s see what it offers compared to the previously introduced product!
Overall, Casio G-Shock digital watch shares many similarities with its analog-digital counterpart. The watch features a backlit clock face with a case diameter up to 45mm, thus making time-reading in poorly lit conditions a piece of cake. Hooray!
Casio G-Shock digital watch also comes with other useful details. There is a multi-function alarm that enables an hourly time signal, a countdown timer, and an automatic calendar.
The stopwatch with the accuracy up to 1/100 second and the timekeeping mode ensure a pleasant experience for users, especially for those who work in sports-related fields.
Still, it should be noted that the navigation buttons of the Casio G-Shock Digital watches are pretty hard to press in. Although this is a purposeful design from the manufacturers to avoid the buttons getting pushed accidentally, I still think many customers will struggle with it.
If you do not mind those buttons, then congratulations! Casio G-Shock Digital watch is what you need for an outdoor trip without having to spend lots of money. Buy one and tell me your comments!
PROS
CONS
#5. PALADA Men's Digital Sports Watch
The fifth product on my list of the best outdoor watches under $100 is a model from Palada. If Casio or Timex is out of your reach, you may want to try out this affordable sports watch.
Palada watch can be considered dirt cheap for most customers, but trust me, its affordability does not come at the expense of its quality. Palada gives its customers a solid yet perfectly fashionable accessory on their wrist.
In terms of the features, Palada provides basically any function like other outdoor watches. The alarm clock is capable of giving you vibration and sound when needed, combined with the Japanese chipset for the most accurate time reading.
What is more, you will find an automatic calendar, a chronograph display, and a system allowing you to switch between a 12H or 24H format. Pretty convenient, right?
Do not expect this model to be flawless though, because as it turns out, the installed compass of this Palada watch is more of decorative purpose than of actual use. You probably would not want to come into the woods with a Palada watch hoping it will point out the directions for you.
If you think you will be fine without a compass, then great! Palada outdoor watch is just what you need, as it offers a pleasant user-experience with simple yet sufficient features.
PROS
CONS
#6. Casio Men's Pro Trek PRG-270-1 Watch
Casio has definitely established its reputation as one of the leading brands in the watch-making industry, with a focus on high-quality outdoor watches. If you want an upgraded version of the Casio G-Shock, I think Casio Pro Trek PRG-270-1 watch will not let you down.
The first thing about Casio Pro Trek PRG-270-1 that catches my attention - and I am not saying this is an advantage or a drawback - is the fact that it is battery powered through light. Whenever you feel like your watch is slowing down, put it in a sunlit place. Other alternatives like LED light will work as a power source, but the charging time will not be consistent.
Looking on the bright side, this state-of-the-art feature makes sure you do not need a frequent battery change. Plus, it is environmentally friendly!
However, I would say that the use of Casio Pro Trek PRG-270-1 is rather limited, as it can only function up to 23 minutes in the dark. Not so cool, don’t you think?
Let’s focus on other unique details of this outdoor watch before deciding whether it is worth a purchase or not. The case diameter of the watch is 26 mm, which is smaller than its counterparts. But the direction sensors are improved in this version, so they are more accurate and energy-saving.
Other interesting details of a Casio Pro Trek PRG-270-1 include the ability to measure altitudes, a compass display, and an alert whenever a change in pressure is detected.
In short, I would say Casio Pro Trek PRG-270-1 is a total beast if most of your activities are in daylight. Worth a try, I bet!
PROS
CONS
#7. EZON Hiking Outdoor Sports Watch
Another solid watch that deserves to be on your wrist is model H001 from Ezon. Not only is it affordable, but it also comes with multiple features that go far beyond time-reading. Stay tuned to see what Ezon prides itself on!
Ezon H001 watch provides a sense of sturdiness for its customers at first glance, thanks to its minimalist sports design, the stainless steel case and the buckle. The dial is made from mineral glass to minimize the scratches, and dare I say it works!
To me, Ezon H001 is something, because there are so many useful details installed in one small-looking watch!
You have the EL backlight which will illuminate the dial for easier reading, especially in the dark. Then you have three sets of alarms to serve different purposes. That is not to mention the countdown timer, the Daylight Saving Time, and the chronograph feature. Yay!
If you are about to take a hiking trip, Ezon H001 is a reasonable accessory to bring along. It is capable of measuring the barometer, forecasting the weather, and checking the altimeter of your destination. Plus, no longer will you have to worry about getting lost, as Ezon H001 comes with a compass!
The one thing I am dissatisfied with Ezon H001 is its attached manual. Let me tell you, although it has little to do with how the watch itself functions, the manual is a nightmare! I could barely read what is written on each page since the letters are too small. If only Ezon could work on a better printer!
Despite that flaw, I still think Ezon H001 is a solid watch at a reasonable price. It is not the best, but it gets the job done!
PROS
CONS
#8. Casio Men's G-Shock GW2310-1 Watch
Well, here we go again to another product from Casio. But you cannot blame me really, because Casio makes one of the best outdoor watches! And now, it’s showtime for model G-Shock GW2310-1!
Similarly to the Casio Pro Trek, this watch is battery-charged by lights, so you would not want to wear it and wander into the dark. But as long as you stay under the sun, G-Shock GW2310-1 is worth your money.
G-Shock GW2310-1 is a digital watch, which features an EL backlight with afterglow for convenient reading. The watch prides itself on many thoughtful details, like the ability to display the city code, the four settings of daily alarms, and the snooze button.
Furthermore, there is a stopwatch with the accuracy up to 1/100 second, the installed calendar, and the hourly chime. Feel free to imagine that you master your time once you put this versatile accessory on!
Concerning the appearance, I think G-Shock GW2310-1 is not as good as an option if you dislike the bulky design of Casio G-Shock GA 100-1A1. Why is that? Because this model is even bigger! It has a case diameter of up to 46mm, so it can look rather intimidating.
But apart from that, I cannot find much to complain about this watch. I suppose you will find G-Shock GW2310-1 - although a bit cumbersome - worthy of your investment.
PROS
CONS
#9. XABegin Multifunctions Rugged Military Sports Smart VIBE3 Watch
Wow, we are almost at the end of the list. But with so many wonderful watches to look at, who could get bored? Now, let me introduce you to a very economical model from XABegin, a VIBE3 watch!
The most distinctive feature of the VIBE3 watch is that it automatically connects with your mobile phone, regardless of the operating system. This way, VIBE3 can offer customers many useful functions, from sports data tracking, call message reminders, to social sharing and low battery indication.
Similar to most innovative watches, VIBE3 incorporates other details supporting your time-reading experience. The 12 and 24H switch gives you the freedom to choose which format that works for you, combined with the 1.24’’ LCD backlit screen. This does sound like an amazing combination, doesn’t it?
Still, there is one thing you should be noted about XABegin VIBE3 watch. Its water-resistant feature is not really impressive, as it can only work in case you expose to mild water pressure from hand washing or water splashing. Avoid going out under the heavy rain, since VIBE3 can run into some real problems.
If the weak level of water resistance is not a deal-breaker to you, I strongly suggest that you have a look at VIBE3, especially if your budget is limited. For such a cost-saving watch, VIBE3 truly does wonders!
PROS
CONS
#10. Casio Men's W800H-1AV Classic Sport Watch
Finally, before I wrap up on my list of the best outdoor watches under $100, let model W800H-1AV from Casio take the spotlight and see how it can be a fabulous sports watch for you!
Unlike most of its counterparts, Casio W800H-1AV features a square dial with a case diameter of 37mm. It is a digital watch, but it comes with a dual time feature that allows customers to track the date as well. Simple and easy-to-use, Casio W800H-1AV makes a perfect choice for those who shy away from complicated stuff.
What I like most about Casio W800H-1AV - besides its simplicity - is its sturdiness. The case is made from durable resin, reinforced by the adjustable buckle clasp and the black resin band. The clock face is from mineral glass to prevent massive scratches, so your watch will last a much longer time compared to a cheaply made timepiece.
Nevertheless, I must warn you that Casio W800H-1AV is designed to be “usable” at best. It will not serve any aesthetic function, and many of you may find the watch rather ugly-looking due to its bulkiness. Plus, it may not fit well under your long-sleeve shirts.
You think you do not mind the aforesaid problems? Cool, then Casio W800H-1AV is just what you need in case all you want is a cheap and functional watch!
PROS
CONS
How To Choose the Best Outdoor Watches Under 100
Choosing a quality outdoor watch is not an easy task, especially if you are not familiar with hundreds of watches available on the market. This is the reason why I will guide you through 5 most important factors to take into consideration. Next time you decide you want something sporty on your wrist, bear in mind what I am about to tell you!
1. Price range
Obviously, how much you can afford for an outdoor watch should top your list. My list focuses on the products within the $100 price range, so here is my advice.
If you can go as far as $80 and more, I would say a Casio Pro Trek or a Casio G-Shock GW2310-1 will be the best. While they are slightly more expensive than other choices, they make a better investment in the long run.
But if you want your watch to be around $50, then Lad Weather products are acceptable. Of course, they will not be as sturdy and reliable as those from Casio, but they sure do their jobs well enough.
For customers who really need to tighten the budget, XABegin or Palada watches are my recommendations. They are cost-saving, and their efficiency is not compromised by their low price.
2. Features available
If what you need is an outdoor watch for energetic activities, you have to look out for certain features.
Is the watch you intend to buy waterproof? If yes, how much ATM can it endure? Some watches can only deal with hand-washing, while others allow you to go snorkeling or swimming without breaking into pieces.
The majority of outdoor watches are incorporated with a compass display and a weather forecast. However, you might want to check out if these features actually work, or they are just decor.
In case you need a thermometer, a barometer, and an altitude checker in your hiking or climbing trip, there are some watches designed to provide you with what you need.
But again, in my experience, the results you get from these details are usually not 100% correct. You can use them - of course - but do not place all your trust into these outdoor watches.
3. Material and sturdiness
The material used to craft an outdoor watch will have a lot of say in deciding a timepiece’s durability.
If your watch’s dial is made from acrylic crystal, the chances are it is more easily ruined by scratches. I would suggest you go for watches whose dial is from mineral glass, as it would prevent your watch from having tiny crevices here and then.
Apart from the clock face, you also have to pay attention to the material of the body, the buckle, and the straps. I would say that the majority of popular outdoor watches on the market make use of black resin, rubber, and plastic, but the quality of these watches is not consistent.
Some famous brand - like Casio - tends to invest in higher-quality resin, so their products are less likely to be breakable. However, do not expect other lower-end brands to follow the same standards.
4. Complementary details
The basic features of an outdoor watch are definitely the must-haves, but it would serve you much better if your accessory has more to it than just simply a time-reading display.
There are sports watches with a backlit screen, which makes it easier for you to tell the time in the dark. Also, some Casio products incorporate an afterglow feature, so after you turn off the light, the light still lingers on for a few seconds before getting shut off totally.
If you want to know about the date, look for the auto-calendar installed in certain watches. Most outdoor watches even have different time zones available, and they allow you to view the time in foreign cities.
Of course, these features are optional, but personally, I think your watch will benefit a lot of this seemingly extra stuff. There is the 12 or 24H switch for you to pick which format you find more pleasing, the countdown timer and the stopwatch with the accuracy up to 1/100 second (really useful for sports!).
Oh, and do not forget the hourly chime with the alarm settings. I mean, sure, your phone can do these things as well, but having a watch capable of notifying you whenever you need to is quite a plus, right?
5. Comfort & appearance
Many people look down on these two factors but trust me; you will not want a cumbersome accessory on your wrist.
Sadly, most outdoor watches are made to endure the harsh conditions, so they tend to look pretty rugged, military-like, and heavy. They do not make a very fashionable look, but in the end, it is up to you whether or not you want something like that.
Once you buy an outdoor watch, I think it is fair to say that you should not wear formal or fancy events. These watches are not suitable for such occasions, so if you are not very sporty, you might want to think twice before making your purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Shoud I buy a fitness tracker or an outdoor watch?
2. Can I receive GPS signals and other data in any place?
3. Can I hike in the rain or swim with one of these watches?
The List is Okay to Choose!
So, what do you think about my list? Are the previously introduced watches the best outdoor watches under $100, or you still think there are better options?
Either way, I am hopeful that my piece of advice has been helpful to you. If you intend on buying a sports watch anytime soon, do not forget to bookmark this article for future reference!
