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The 11 Best G-Shock Watches of All Time

Charlotte H

June 23, 2025

If there’s one watch brand that truly lives up to the “built for anything” reputation, it’s G-Shock. For decades, G-Shock has been the go-to for people who want toughness, reliability, and style without ever having a need to baby their watch.

With so many models out there, it’s easy to think they all look the same at first glance. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll see each G-Shock has its own purpose, its own mission. 

Whether you’re hiking, hitting the gym, swimming, or just doing yard work after a day wearing your fancy, significantly more expensive timepieces, these are watches you can grab without thinking twice. They’re affordable, insanely durable, and in my opinion, everyone should own at least one.

So, which G-Shock is right for you? Let’s break down the 11 best of all time…

Who Should Own A G-Shock Watch?

G-Shock watches are famous for being virtually indestructible; they’re marketed as being shock-resistant, water-resistant to 200 meters, and built to handle anything life (or you) can throw at them.

They’re the kind of watch you never have to worry about, which is exactly why they’ve become the go-to for adventurers, athletes, military personnel, construction workers, and anyone who lives an active or unpredictable lifestyle. 

But it’s not just about durability. G-Shocks are super functional and loaded with alarms, timers, world time, solar power, even GPS and Bluetooth syncing on some models.

That said, G-Shocks aren’t just for the hardcore outdoorsy types. They’ve also carved out a huge place in streetwear and fashion culture, thanks to their bold designs and endless color options.

So whether you’re a trail runner, a gym rat, a traveler, or someone who just appreciates rugged style, there’s a G-Shock that’ll fit your vibe. It’s the ultimate “do anything, go anywhere” watch, but which one out of them all is going to suit your wrist the best?

The 11 Best G-Shock Watches

With so many G-Shock models out there, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. But that’s where this list comes in.

Most G-Shocks come packed with core features like shock resistance, 200-meter water resistance, alarms, timers, and backlighting. Some add solar charging, Bluetooth, or advanced sensors for even more versatility. 

No matter what kind of style or functionality you’re looking for, I’ve narrowed down 11 that represent the best of the best, those with iconic design, unbeatable durability, and serious value for money.

G-Shock MTGB1000

G-Shock MTGB1000

The G-Shock MTGB1000 is a wonderful mix of ruggedness and high-end aesthetics. It’s a model built with a layered construction of stainless steel, carbon fiber, and reinforced resin, resulting in a seriously tough but surprisingly wearable timepiece. 

It’s Triple G Resist rated, meaning it’s shock-resistant, vibration-resistant, and even resistant to gravitational forces like intense motion or impacts.

It’s packed with modern tech too, including Bluetooth connectivity, Multi-Band 6 radio syncing for spot-on accuracy, and Tough Solar charging so you’ll almost never need to worry about battery life.

Visually, it’s a statement piece. It has these wonderful sleek metal finishes, a polished analog dial with three subdials, and a sapphire crystal glass shield to make it feel as premium as it performs.

It’s great for anyone who wants a G-Shock that can transition from outdoor adventures to a business meeting or a formal dinner, making it one of the most well-rounded G-Shocks you can get.

RRP: $900

G-Shock GMB2100 “CasiOak”

G-Shock GMB2100 “CasiOak”

The GMB2100, better known to most as the “CasiOak”, might just be the most iconic modern G-Shock out there. And for good reason.

Its nickname comes from the octagonal bezel design which gives off serious Audemars Piguet Royal Oak vibes, but with a distinctly G-Shock twist. It’s sleek, stylish, and surprisingly slim, while still being every bit as tough as you’d expect from the brand.

This full-metal version of the wildly popular GA2100 ups the ante with a stainless steel case, bezel, and bracelet, combined with Bluetooth connectivity and Tough Solar charging.

That means it syncs with your phone for automatic time updates, world time, and more, all while being powered by light. It’s also water-resistant to 200 meters, shock-resistant, and has all the classic G-Shock features like alarms, stopwatch, countdown timer, and dual LED illumination.

RRP: $550

G-Shock DW5600

G-Shock DW5600

When I think of G-Shock, this is the model that always comes to mind first. The DW5600 is an icon and as classic as it gets when it comes to this Japanese watchmaker.

Originally launched in 1983, this is the watch that defined G-Shock’s identity as being tough, reliable, and built to last. Its clean, square case design is instantly recognizable and still looks great today, whether you’re out on a trail or just running errands.

The G-Shock DW5600 keeps things simple, but that’s part of its charm. You get all the essentials like 200 meters of water resistance, a shock-resistant build, a 24-hour stopwatch, countdown timer, multi-function alarm, EL backlight, and a 5-year battery.

It’s lightweight, comfortable on the wrist thanks to its soft resin strap, and virtually indestructible. Plus, it’s incredibly affordable for the amount of spec you get.

RRP: $99.95

G-Shock GMWB5000

G-Shock GMWB5000

Few G-Shocks blend history and innovation quite like the GMWB5000. It’s a modern reimagining of the very first G-Shock from 1983, but rebuilt in full stainless steel with premium finishing and a seriously impressive feature set.

It keeps the original square silhouette, but everything else is updated from the sleek case and bracelet to the technology within.

Don’t let the polished look fool you, because this thing is still a tank. Shock resistance is handled through a clever resin cushioning system hidden beneath the metal, while a screw-lock case back and 200 meters of water resistance mean it’s just as tough as any G-Shock out there.

On the tech side, it’s fully loaded with Bluetooth connectivity, Multi-Band 6 atomic timekeeping, Tough Solar charging, world time, alarms, countdown timer, and a crisp full-auto LED backlight.

RRP: $600

G-Shock GMS5600

The G-Shock GMS5600 is the smaller, sleeker sibling of the classic DW5600 mentioned above. It keeps that iconic square G-Shock design but in a more compact, slimmer package so it’s ideal for those with smaller wrists or anyone who prefers a more subtle, lightweight fit. At 43.8mm x 38.4mm, it wears compact without sacrificing any of the toughness G-Shock is known for.

Function-wise, you’re still getting everything you’d expect including shock resistance, 200-meter water resistance, a countdown timer, stopwatch, multi-function alarm, and a backlit digital display. It’s a minimalist take on a G-Shock classic, with just the right balance of toughness and style.

RRP: $160

G-Shock Baby G

G-Shock Baby G

If G-Shock watches had a fun-loving younger sibling, it’d be the Baby-G. These watches bring all the toughness the brand is known for, but wrap it in a more playful, compact, and colorful package.

While they’ve traditionally been marketed toward women with their pastel shades, slimmed-down cases, and charming touches like cherry-red accents or hidden display graphics, Baby-Gs are more about bold self-expression and therefore for anyone who loves vibrant style with a side of durability.

The BG-169, for example, may look cute, but it’s seriously capable. You’re still getting 200-meter water resistance, shock protection, world time, a stopwatch, countdown timer, alarms, and even a Telememo function to store names and numbers.

These watches genuinely make me smile and really bring some much needed fun back into the watch collecting space.

RRP: $87

G-Shock DW6900

G-Shock DW6900

Another one of the most recognizable silhouettes in the G-Shock lineup, the DW6900 has been a fan favorite since its debut in 1995. It was a shift from the brand’s original square shape, bringing a rounded, more playful form and those three iconic sub-dials, known as the “Triple Graph.”

Its fame got a serious boost when Tom Cruise wore it in Mission: Impossible II, adding to the watch’s spy gear–like aesthetic.

Beyond the looks, you’re getting all the essentials including shock resistance, 200-meter water resistance, stopwatch, countdown timer, alarm, and EL backlight. And with countless limited editions, including the NASA-themed DW6900, it’s a model that has become highly collectible too.

RRP: $125

G-Shock MRGB5000B

G-Shock MRGB5000B

One of the most expensive G-Shocks you can buy is the MRG-B5000B, proof that G-Shock does luxury, and does it exceptionally well.

And honestly, it earns every cent of its price tag. Every element of this watch has been carefully considered, with the classic square-shaped case completely reengineered with ultra-high-end materials and Japanese craftsmanship.

The bezel alone is a technical marvel, built from 25 individual parts and topped with COBARION, a lustrous alloy that’s four times harder than titanium with a platinum-like shine.

The band is also made from DAT55G, another proprietary titanium alloy that’s three times tougher than standard titanium and highly polishable. All the polishing is done by hand using Sallaz machines, the same method Grand Seiko uses for its famous Zaratsu polish.

And of course, you’re getting technology to match including Bluetooth connectivity, Multi-Band 6 atomic timekeeping, Tough Solar, and more.

RRP: $4,000

G-Shock Mudman GW9500

G-Shock Mudman GW9500

One of the toughest tools in the G-Shock arsenal, the GW-9500 Mudman is aptly named. It’s a survival companion built for the harshest environments, more than happy to go where most timepieces won’t: knee-deep in grit, dust, sand and mud.

The latest evolution brings a completely re-engineered Carbon Core Guard structure, keeping the case lightweight but insanely strong.

It’s mud and dirt resistant to a serious degree, with gasket-sealed buttons and shock absorbers to keep the internals pristine no matter the chaos outside.

And it’s not all brawn, because there’s a Triple Sensor tech with a compass, altimeter, barometer, and thermometer, all displayed on a crisp dual-layer LCD. It’s also solar-powered, radio-controlled and water resistant to 200 metres.

RRP: $380

G-Shock GSTB100

G-Shock GSTB100

If you’re into bold designs and serious wrist presence, the G-Shock GST-B100 hits all the right notes. Part of the G-STEEL series, this one is perfect for someone who wants that signature G-Shock durability, but with a more mature, industrial twist.

The standout feature here is the carbon composite bezel, crafted using advanced TORAYCA carbon fiber tech and finished with a distinct pyramid texture that gives off major “machined-for-performance” energy.

Yet despite its overly masculine look, it’s not heavy and wears really well. It’s ultra-light yet incredibly strong, and it adds some serious visual depth to the watch.

At 9 o’clock, you’ll find a rotary disc that mimics a jet engine turbine, cleverly used to show battery levels or timer progress through a small red marker. It’s these little details that elevate the whole experience.

RRP: $440

G-Shock GA700-1B

G-Shock GA700-1B

Finally, we have the G-Shock GA700-1B, the largest and arguably most aggressive model yet. This one is built to stand out, built to take a hit, and built with purpose, boasting an oversized case of 57mm wide and a signature front button at 6 o’clock.

A hybrid analog-digital layout gives you the best of both worlds, but what really steals the show are the sculpted hour and minute hands, forged with G-Shock’s own resin molding tech to look like chiseled metal.

Pair that with a deep, three-dimensional dial and bold indices, and you get a face that’s full of depth, drama, and readability. There’s also a Super Illuminator LED display, a five-year battery life and the essential 200-meter water resistance.

RRP: $99

Conclusion

At the end of the day, what makes G-Shock so special isn’t just the durability or the features, because they’ve got those in spades. It’s the sheer variety.

From bold, oversized statement pieces to compact and playful designs, from high-tech tools built for adventure to fashion-forward icons, there’s a G-Shock for every kind of wearer.

They all share that same rugged DNA with shock resistance, 200-meter water resistance, and tough-as-nails construction, but with those traits, each model also brings its own personality to the table.

That’s the magic of G-Shock; they understand their audience better than most brands ever will. Some watches are built to blend in, others are made to turn heads, and a few even do both.

g shock move review

A brand that’s known for its fashion sense and durability, the G-Shock brand from Casio is a name that can speak for itself. Finding its start back in the ’80s, the watch isn’t new to the market by any means.

Even many people who have never owned a G-Shock of their own are well aware of the brand’s status in the world. Aside from that, they continue to innovate and bring fresh ideas to market that make people take a second look once again.

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When it comes to the G-Shock Move collection, you’re looking at a watch that’s perfect for those living active lifestyles.

Features like advanced fitness tracking, Bluetooth, and a long battery life are just the surface of what’s impressive about this collection. This article focuses on the G-Shock Move collection and the unique details of how they’re made.

The Long-Standing G-Shock History

G-Shock History

In the beginning, one of the core ideas behind G-Shock was to create a watch that rivaled the fragile nature of traditional watchmaking. While there are many kinds of durable watches on the market today, I’d say G-Shock was definitely a pioneer.

After a few hundred prototypes went into development, they finally landed on the original shock-resistant design that made them so popular. Throughout the years, G-Shock kept innovating and pushing the capabilities and features of their watch designs forward.

Certain features like smart access tech, triple G resistance, and the blend of fashion and function made them ideal for many use cases. Whether you commute to the office every day or you’re a passionate marathon runner, diver, or family man, you’d find plenty to love about G-Shock.

While the brand has dropped many collections over the years, I’m here to focus on what the G-Shock Move Sports collection is all about.

While this particular collection is one of the newer styles in the G-Shock lineup, it didn’t take long for it to garner global attention. It’s more than just heart rate monitors and step counters.

The G-Shock Move promises much more versatile performance. Honestly, I’m usually pretty skeptical about these types of watches, as many of them are the same.

It’s essentially a watch that’s viable for almost any active lifestyle out there. You’ll also be surprised by the scale of customization and hidden features behind surface-level visuals.

There are several watches currently available in this collection. Whether it’s the DWH5600 or GBA900, you’re getting a range of feature sets perfect for varying active lifestyles.

I can easily get overwhelmed when it comes to digital watches, as it can feel like a sizable learning curve with today’s tech. The reality is that G-Shocks are very user-friendly and can offer a lifetime of support if you take care of them.

The history of G-Shock and its various collections is vast. What I always appreciate about the brand is that they always include classic G-Shock elements in all of their new designs. They never seem to lose their roots while moving toward innovation from multiple angles.

Reviewing the Case of a Digital Face

First and foremost, I feel compelled to highlight that some of the watches in this collection exude the classic Casio style.

However, they’ve combined this with the nature of G-Shock to ensure it has some individuality. The general case size here is on the larger side, with 16.6mm thickness and a length of 51.1mm.

The octagonal design for most of the collection is compact and sleek. You can also find a few designs that have that bold circular design that’s reminiscent of many other G-Shock watches. For this collection, the battery size was reduced for a slimmer profile, and you won’t have to worry about a lack of battery life. 

Another approach they took to slim down the visual profile is to work with a slim MIP LCD display. This tones down the bulkiness without sacrificing on the features you’ll love most. I have never truly been a fan of their bulkier watches, so this take on a slimmer look is a win in my book.

I didn’t initially realize it, but the case is made with a bio-based resin accompanied by a bit of stainless steel. Not only an eco-friendly choice, but it also adds to the lightweight profile.

Some might disagree with this, but I was surprised at how light this collection felt on my wrist. Don’t let the resin comment make you imagine a lack of durability here, as it’s all reinforced with carbon fiber.

It’s hard to give G-Shock any flak for this collection as it hits several big selling points. An eco-conscious, feature-packed, durable watch is something anyone can appreciate.

Sure, they may not be glamorous in the face of luxury or high-end style, but that’s not what I’m focusing on here. We’re looking at a watch collection that can face essentially any environment you put yourself in, and look good doing it.

More Than Just a Digital Clock

G-Shock Watch

You might not be getting a high-end flashy dial like a traditional watch, but the feature-rich digital display will keep you impressed at every turn. It isn’t hard to find the data you’re looking for, whether it’s running, walking, or any other activity you’re in the middle of.

What I like the most about this is the detailed calculations behind important health metrics. From running pace to distance and a lot more, you can keep track of your progress with every step. To be fair, I think this specific collection from G-Shock is so stacked with features that it’s essentially a tool for bio-hacking.

It allows you to micro-manage so many metrics about your activity that you can refine your approach with each passing day. A lot of this stems from the training analysis that’s included, which can provide data like cardio load status as well as recovery details. This is what I mean by being more than just heart rate data. 

G-Shock Move watches will provide that information, keep it updated, and tell you how to improve moving forward. This is all done through actionable data, all accessible through the multi-layered LCD. Take advantage of data points related to blood oxygen levels, sleep time, and an algorithm that measures your activity time. 

For the most part, there won’t be a single activity metric that you won’t be able to get historical data on. The longer I navigated this watch, the more I just kept running into more features. Even if I’m not one to put all of them to use, the collection is a testament to how far Casio and G-Shock innovation have come.

The Wrap Around the Wrist

Delivering a snug fit that won’t budge or pinch the wrist, the G-Shock Move collection is no stranger to functionality and comfort. The strap is made with that same bio-resin material, and is designed with a wrist size range of 145mm to 215mm. I was actually surprised at how comfortable it was for all-day use, even with such a snug fit.

Another bonus for me personally is that the bio-resin band didn’t make my wrist sweat too much. I truly like to wear my watches all day, making comfort a big selling point for me. G-Shock functionality can speak for itself, but you aren’t sure how it’ll feel until you put it on.

The eco-conscious spin on the materials is just a bonus. While the stock band for these watches is more than suitable, some people may still want to customize this aspect. This will be easier said than done, as replacing the strap on a G-Shock Move isn’t as simple as you might have hoped. 

If you were to ask me, the stock strap for any G-Shock is the way to go. Not only does it match, but they’re durable and comfortable, promising longevity over many other straps on the market. G-Shock watches are built with the long term in mind, and this includes every strap found in the Move collection. 

You may not get a bunch of strap variations to choose from, but I’d say the functionality of the band is more important here. The band supports a uniform look with the rest of the watch, blending in with its surroundings and making the LCD the focal point.

An Everyday Wear for Anyone

The G-Shock Move Sports collection might be geared towards a more active crowd, but they’re all a great choice for anyone if you ask me. Everybody could benefit from the stacked features in a G-Shock, including its years of durability; you’re bound to get out of it.

For the most part, I can say this collection from G-Shock promises a durable, lightweight, and highly functional experience. It’s a great addition to your lifestyle, whether you like being active or are obsessed with biohacking, G-Shock can be a helping hand.

It sounds like a bad marketing cliche, but the watches in the Move collection really stand out as much more than a timepiece. Most would agree this is evident, but the scope of that comment is a lot deeper than it seems on the surface. G-Shock has taken multi-functional wristwatches to a new level once more.

This collection is definitely catered to a specific crowd, but that doesn’t mean that’s all they’re good for. Part of what makes G-Shock such a loved brand worldwide is that their watches are meant for anyone. Even within this single collection, there are several options ranging in feature sets, styles, colors, and more to fit a broad customer base.

Each person is bound to value different aspects of the watch. Aside from its features, the watches in this collection offer a blend of street and outdoor styles.

While I wouldn’t necessarily wear this in a professional setting, it blends seamlessly with casual wear. Some might disagree with these points, but G-Shocks have always come with a sportier look.

The design and comfort really sell the moment you put it on, as it’s a lot lighter than it looks. Overall, the G-Shock Move collection finds a great middle ground with diverse style options and uniform comfort and feature sets. Another angle that tends to reel people into new G-Shock designs is the company’s affordable price model.

Varying Price Points for the G-Shock Move Collection

A majority of G-Shock watches fall within a similar price range. This isn’t to say there haven’t been other high-end models before, but with the Move collection, the cost is pretty modest. It still varies here depending on the model you’re looking at. For example, the one I ended up getting is the DWH5600, which retails at $320.

However, in the same collection, you can find the GBA900, which only goes for $140. These numbers come straight from the official website, which means they could vary even more if you look elsewhere. It’s always important to remember that, regardless of the brand, you always want to shop with reputable retailers. 

Exquisite Timepieces is a long-standing example of stellar reputation, and this is a combination of their track record and years of experience. This is the only way you can trust the process, as you get the true price and buyer support you need to make the right choice.

As with any watch on the market, used or refurbished models always come at a discount. Considering G-Shocks are already pretty affordable, taking the used route can save you a little money. I can’t imagine the difference would be substantial, and in this case, I’d highly advise opting for a brand new one.

Final Thoughts

There’s no question that there is a massive list of G-Shocks you could choose from. While the watchmaker has plenty of sporty designs that have landed on the market, very few match up to the Move collection.

G-Shock found a middle ground between everyday wear and stacked features to help you face the outdoors and maintain health.

When I think about the endless number of people that could benefit from this, the ideas behind this lineup start to make a lot more sense. If you’re curious to try it for yourself, speak with the experts at Exquisite Timepieces to land a wristwatch that’s perfect for your needs.

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