The Best Casio Watches We’ve Ever Reviewed

Casio has a way of sneaking up on you. At first, it doesn’t seem like the brand to obsess over; no flashy status or sky-high price tag. But over the years, our review team has come to appreciate Casio for its simplicity, durability, and practicality, all without the hype. Founded in 1946 in Japan, Casio has been perfecting its craft for decades and proving you don’t need to shell out a fortune to find a great watch. After years of reviewing everything from vintage finds to the latest releases, we’ve learned to love Casio for its balance of value and style.

That’s why we’re excited to be highlighting our favorite Casio watches that offer the right mix of practicality, design, and value. If you’re tired of chasing hype and want a watch that works and still carries horological street cred, this list is for you. And if there’s a model we’ve missed, please let us know in the commends. We’re always on the lookout for hidden gems to review.

Casio F-91W

Case Size:	34mm x 38mm x 8.5mm
Material:	Resin
Water Resistance:	30m
Movement:	Quartz Module 593
Battery Life	7 Years
Price Range:	$15 – $20

Despite its small size and modest price tag, the Casio F-91W is one of the most well-known digital watches available and for good reason. Measuring in at 34mm in diameter and weighing only 20.5g, it’s tiny, but its resin case and bumpers give it a surprisingly substantial feel. During our review, we were struck by how solid and well-built it felt in hand despite its featherweight construction. The water resistance of 30m is enough for daily wear and accidental splashes, but don’t expect it to survive a dive. We wore it during hand-washing, kitchen prep, and outdoor chores, and it handled light water exposure without issue. It’s a watch that’s small enough for anyone to wear, but with a solid design that still stands out.

The F-91W features Casio’s Module 593, offering functions like a daily alarm, chronograph/stopwatch, an annual calendar, and an hourly chime. You can also toggle between 12-hour and 24-hour time formats. During practical use we found the operation of functions to be intuitive once you learn the sequence. We also did appreciate how the button feel was consistently responsive throughout our testing. Despite its small size, the LCD is quite legible and practical. Our review team found no issues reading the display indoors, outdoors, or in shaded conditions. The LED light is a fun, albeit limited, feature. In darker settings, we found it lit up just enough of the screen to check the time, though full-face illumination wasn’t achievable.

The resin strap is simple yet comfortable, featuring a minimalist and functional plastic buckle. It’s easy to adjust the fit, thanks to the multiple holes in the strap. During our time with it, the strap never caused discomfort or hotspots. In everyday use, the F-91W is as light as air, sitting comfortably on the wrist and almost disappearing when worn. After wearing it for hours at a time (both around the house and while active) it consistently stayed out of the way. Whether you’re doing garden work or sitting at your desk, it’s reliable and doesn’t flash like neon lights. Whether you’re looking for a cheap beater, a reliable everyday watch, or a nostalgic addition to your collection, this little digital legend won’t disappoint. It’s not flashy, it’s not luxurious, but for what it is, it’s hard to beat. If you’d like to learn more, there are more unique insights in our hands-on review.

Pros

• At around $15, it’s a steal for a watch that lasts and performs well.
• Weighing only 20.5g, the F-91W is so light you’ll forget you’re wearing it.
• Daily alarm, chronograph, annual calendar, and more, packed into a tiny package.
• The simple, minimal design suits a wide range of wearers, from casual to military.

Cons

• The light doesn’t fully illuminate the display, so it’s not ideal in total darkness.
• Some might find the 34mm case a bit too small for their taste.
• The strap is comfortable, but some may want more variety or customization options out of the box.

Casio A168WA

Case Size:	37.5mm x 33.5mm x 9.6mm
Material:	Resin
Water Resistance:	30m
Movement:	Quartz Module 3298
Battery Life	3 Years
Price Range:	$20 – $30

Lightweight, functional, and unapologetically retro, the Casio A168WA does the job without making a fuss. Channeling full 80s vibes, the watch features colorful digital lettering, a plastic case (yes, it’s plastic but looks like stainless steel), and a compact 37.5mm × 33.5mm design that we found easy to wear on a variety of wrist sizes. While it’s not necessarily suited for more formal or dressy occasions, it’s ideal for running errands or leaning into a vintage aesthetic. Its low-profile charm makes it a surprisingly reliable daily companion. That held true during our hands-on time testing the watch since it stayed light, unobtrusive, and functional throughout daily use.

If you’re expecting modern smart features, look elsewhere. The A168WA sticks to the basics: time, alarm, stopwatch, and an electro-luminescent blue backlight. It even includes an hourly chime for those who appreciate analog routines in a digital age. All core functions worked as expected in our testing, without any hiccups. The backlight, while fun and era-accurate, acts more like a quick pulse than a full glow. It’s fine for a glance, but not ideal for trying to use in darkness. Similarly, the display is small and can be hard to read at sharp angles or in certain lighting. Still, under normal conditions, legibility held up well enough for routine wear.

The stainless steel band adds to the retro aesthetic but isn’t without trade-offs. We found that it felt snug on smaller wrists but seemingly sat high after extended wear. The build quality, with its mix of plastic and lightweight metal, may feel cheap to some, but that’s expected at this price point. For under $30, you’re not getting premium materials, but you are getting dependable performance, nostalgic design, and a digital quartz that delivers more charm than many watches five times the price. If you lose it, you won’t panic (and be out hundreds of even thousands of dollars) and that alone makes it a solid beater for anyone who values simplicity with a side of retro flair. See more insights from us field testing the watch in our review.

Pros

• Easy and affordable purchase without the worry of damage.
• Feels like nothing is on your wrist, perfect for daily wear.
• If you’re nostalgic for the 80s retro style, this is your time machine.

Cons

• The stainless steel band might be uncomfortable for some, especially during prolonged wear.
• The plastic case feels a bit cheap compared to metal alternatives.
• The time display is small and can be hard to read at a glance.
• The short backlight lights up for a second, then it’s gone; blink and you’ll miss it.

Casio G-Shock DW9052

Case Size:	47mm x 48mm x 15mm
Material:	Resin
Water Resistance:	200m
Movement:	Quartz 3232 Module
Battery Life	2 Years
Price Range:	$50 – $75

The Casio G-Shock DW9052 is built for toughness, not subtlety. From our hands-on time with the watch, it’s clear this is a purpose-built tool meant for abuse. With its chunky 47mm case and bold design, it’s not for minimalists, but if you’re after a rugged timepiece that can handle hikes, drops, or hard use, it certainly delivers. The black urethane resin bumper provides a sturdy first line of defense against impacts, and during our review, it shrugged off light collisions and daily wear without issue. While the size and 15mm thickness might seem overbearing, the flexible strap and well-designed lugs helped it sit surprisingly comfortably on the wrist.

The timepiece’s utilitarian design is lifted by subtle touches like floating markers and a blue-tinted crystal, which add depth and visual interest in certain lighting. The green electro-luminescent backlight remained easy to read in low light during our testing, and the multiple LCD screens display essential functions clearly. Powered by Casio’s 3232 digital module, the watch includes a countdown timer (1 second to 24 hours), stopwatch (up to 23:59), alarm, and auto-calendar, all of which functioned reliably throughout our usage. It’s accurate to ±15 seconds per month and runs on a CR2016 battery, making it a low-maintenance choice for anyone needing durability over decoration.

Our review team sees the DW9052 as a strong match for first responders, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone who needs a tough, functional watch that doesn’t quit. While the size can make it tricky to fit under sleeves, and the cosmetic pins have a tendency to loosen, those trade-offs are minor compared to the value on offer. Sure, the display may feel busy at first glance, but after wearing it for a stretch, we found its layout intuitive and highly usable. If you’re after a reliable, no-nonsense G-Shock that earns its keep through performance, this one’s worth a look. You can read more about our personal experiences with the watch in the full review.

Pros

• Shock-resistant with protective bumper.
• Features a flexible strap design for a snug fit.
• Multiple LCD screens for different functions.
• Easy-to-read green electro-luminescent backlight.

Cons

• Keeping it in place under sleeves can be a challenge.
• Cosmetic pins can easily fall out.
• Multiple displays might feel busy at first.

Casio Wave Ceptor WV-59DJ-1AJF

Case Size:	39mm x 48mm x 12.75mm
Material:	Metal and Plastic
Water Resistance:	50m
Movement:	Quartz Module 3054
Battery Life	3 Years
Price Range:	$55 – $60

The Casio Wave Ceptor WV-59DJ-1AJF is a digital quartz that checks all the right boxes: practical timekeeping, retro aesthetics, and great value. Its unique rectangular case measures 39mm wide and 12.75mm thick, blending vintage styling with everyday wearability. While the combination of plastic and thin metal may feel “flimsy” to some, we found it lightweight and comfortable in daily use during our review. The integrated lugs mean you’re stuck with the stock bracelet, but it wears naturally on the wrist, even if long-term durability is questionable. Dark and light grey buttons give it a subtle visual character that complements the clean, straightforward layout.

Powered by Casio’s 3054 quartz movement, the Wave Ceptor includes world time, a countdown timer, stopwatch, alarm, and both auto and manual atomic time syncing. We tested the atomic time sync functionality during the review and found it reliable, which is especially helpful for those traveling across time zones or anyone who wants low-maintenance accuracy. The LCD layout keeps things simple with clear display of time, date, day, and atomic signal strength. While the blue-green backlight is a nice touch, its short duration and limited brightness aren’t especially useful in the dark. In daylight, the display remains legible, though readability does suffer at sharp angles.

For those who want classic Casio styling without sacrificing usability, the WV-59DJ-1AJF delivers. It’s reliable, light on the wrist, and feature-rich for the price (typically around $60). Our review team found it to be an easy, grab-and-go option that performed consistently during daily wear. While the bracelet can’t be swapped and the materials don’t feel “premium,” the core experience holds up well. It’s not trying to impress anyone, but with its atomic sync, retro charm, and no-fuss practicality, it doesn’t have to. We go more into the operation and functionality of the watch in our hands-on review.

Pros

• Great value at around $60.
• Accurate quartz movement with atomic time sync.
• Stylish and functional, with a classic Casio aesthetic.
• Easy button access.

Cons

• Plastic and metal construction may feel cheap to some.
• There is no option to swap out the strap.
• The illumination function doesn’t last long enough to be practical.
• The LCD can be hard to read from certain angles.

Casioak

Case Size:	45.4mm x 48mm x 11.9mm
Material:	Casio Carbon Core Guard (Impact-Resistant Resin)
Water Resistance:	200m
Movement:	Quartz 5611 Module
Battery Life	3 Years
Price Range:	$99 – $550

The G-Shock CasiOak is one of those watches that doesn’t need to shout for attention, but it’ll still make you appreciate its quiet strength. It’s like the dependable friend who shows up on time, never complains, and is always ready for an adventure. Our review team found the overall design to be functional and easy-wearing, thanks in large part to its 45mm case that wears smaller than expected due to the square shape and slim profile. Ultimately what we really felt was the best part about the Casioak was simply the fact that it didn’t draw too much visual attention to itself (which can’t always be said about other G-Shock models). In terms of durability, Casio’s Carbon Core Guard technology is the standout feature here, combining carbon fiber with resin to create a lightweight yet shock-resistant case. In practice we found that the case feels durable and tends to feel non-existent on the wrist.

The G-Shock 5611 quartz module powers the watch, offering essential functions like world time, a stopwatch, a countdown timer, and an accurate calendar up to 2099. The movement operates well based on our use, though it may take some time to get used to the button configuration. Once you’re familiar with it, navigating the watch’s functions becomes a breeze. We appreciated how on this model the matte black dial was straightforward to read, with bold indices and a raised chapter ring for clarity. The hands are simple sword shapes, and while the lume isn’t going to really impress anyone, the backlight does its job well based on our testing in low light.

Now the model we reviewed came with a camo-patterned rubber strap and an orange NATO-style strap, both of which we tested with the included strap adaptors. While the rubber strap is solid, the NATO strap suffers from oversized keepers that tend to slide around a bit. But hey, you’re not buying the CasiOak to impress strap experts, are you? If you’re tired of overpaying for luxury watches and want something solid, no-nonsense, and shock-resistant, the CasiOak might be the perfect match. Just be prepared for the strap keepers to go rogue from time to time. Read more about our personal experiences with the Casioak in our hands-on review.

Pros

• Lightweight and shock-resistant, offering excellent durability.
• The 45mm case and slim profile provide a snug, balanced fit on the wrist.
• Comes with two straps, giving you the flexibility to switch up your look.

Cons

• The minimal lume on the hands requires the backlight for clear readability in low light.
• The oversized NATO strap keepers slide around, making the strap less stable.
• The button configuration takes a little time to master before it becomes intuitive.

Casio G-Shock GW6900

Case Size:	53.2mm x 50mm x 17.7mm
Material:	Resin
Water Resistance:	200m
Movement:	Solar Quartz Module 3179
Battery Life	9 Months (before needing to recharge)
Price Range:	$140

Casio’s G-Shock GW6900-1 may not stand out visually, but after testing it hands-on we are believers in it’s ability to deliver dependable performance while embodying a true workhorse attitude on your wrist. With dimensions of 53.2mm × 50mm × 17.7mm, it’s certainly not small, but the resin case helps it wear surprisingly light. We found it stayed comfortable during extended wear, never feeling bulky despite its size. The resin strap adds to the practicality, staying flexible, drying quickly (in wet or humid environments), and holding its position on our wrist whether we were at a desk or outside doing yard work.

The triple-eyed display gives off a subtle sci-fi vibe while also allowing the readout to be quite intuitive, with each sub-display clearly mapped to its function. The main screen is crisp and easy to read, and the LED backlight performed well in low-light settings during our testing. The layout (combined with responsive button action) made the watch’s feature set easy to navigate. Powered by Casio’s Tough Solar movement and Multi Band 6 atomic timekeeping, it’s a true set-it-and-forget-it watch. Throughout our time reviewing it, solar charging remained steady, and time syncs occurred without any hiccups. With 31 world times, five alarms, a stopwatch, and countdown timer, it delivers utility without overcomplication.

While the backlight isn’t as bright as newer G-Shock models and the case may feel bulky on smaller wrists, those are minor trade-offs for a watch this capable. The GW6900-1 doesn’t try to do everything. It just focuses on doing the basics well. From day-to-day reliability to stress-free operation, it’s one of the few rugged-ready digital watches we’ve worn that truly disappears until needed. For anyone looking for a durable, feature-rich G-Shock that won’t ask for much in return, this one earns its reputation. Our hands-on review features more unique photos and personal insights about our time with the watch.

Pros

• Features Tough Solar and Multi-Band 6 technologies, so you don’t have to worry about battery life or time syncing.
• The comfortable resin strap is flexible, stays in place, and dries quickly.
• Clear backlight and crisp digital readouts.

Cons

• It may be too bulky for smaller wrists or those looking for a more understated watch.
• While the LED Backlight is functional, it’s not as bright as newer models.

Casio Oceanus T200

Case Size:	41.4mm x 49mm x 10.7mm
Material:	Stainless Steel
Water Resistance:	100m
Movement:	Solar Quartz Module 5596
Battery Life	6 Months (before needing to recharge)
Price Range:	$300 – $500

The Casio Oceanus T200 offers a unique blend of modern technology and classic design. It’s not really just another smartwatch or a gimmicky tech piece; it’s a beautiful timepiece that cleverly integrates Bluetooth connectivity for easy time synchronization and power reserve tracking on the Casio Oceanus App. During our hands-on testing of the watch, both features worked seamlessly and without any pairing issues (unlike what we’ve experienced on other similar watches in the past). The T200 has a clean dial and floating markers, which are cut into the chapter ring above the dial, adding unique dimension and depth to the wrist presence. The blue-tinted crystal, though subtle, offers a glowing effect in the right light, making it stand out from the crowd.

We found this glowing effect especially noticeable during outdoor wear. With its brushed surfaces and bold markers, the T200 features a sense of understated elegance, perfect for both formal and casual settings. In our time wearing it, the finish felt refined but never overtly flashy. The Bluetooth feature takes the spotlight, automatically syncing the time with the Casio Oceanus app. We tested the sync function multiple times, and each attempt resulted in precise timekeeping adjustments without hiccups. The timepiece is also driven by Casio’s 5596 Tough Solar quartz module, which draws power from any light source. So technically, you’re set for months without worrying about charging. The model we reviewed stayed fully charged throughout our time with it without any special care taken to charge it.

Whether you’re wearing it casually or for a more formal occasion, the watch fits in without ever looking out of place. That versatility was one of the strongest takeaways from our time wearing it in different settings. It’s perfect for someone looking for a reliable, stylish watch with a touch of modern technology. This makes it a great choice for daily wear or even a “just for fun” piece in a larger collection. It held up well during regular daily wear and never felt out of sync with the rest of a rotation. The only point of criticism we had with the watch on wrist was the bracelet. It can be a bit noisy and rattly on wrist. Plus, sizing it can be a bit difficult if you’re not used to removing links. However, while it might not be everyone’s cup of tea, it stands out as a reliable, beautiful, and versatile timepiece. If you’re after a watch that blends tech with elegance, the T200 might be the one. Feel free to learn more in our full hands-on review.

Pros

• Bluetooth connectivity for accurate, automatic time syncing.
• Tough Solar MultiBand 6 for low-maintenance use.
• Floating markers add depth and dimension to the dial.
• Stylish blue-tinted crystal that glows in certain light.

Cons

• The bracelet can be noisy and rattly.
• Pin and collar sizing can be tricky.
• Connectivity text on the dial may be a turn-off for some.

Casio G-Shock Mudmaster

Case Size:	56.2mm x 55.3mm x 17.3mm
Material:	Resin
Water Resistance:	200m
Movement:	Quartz Module 5476
Battery Life	2 Years
Price Range:	$350 – $500

The Casio G-Shock Mudmaster is the watch equivalent of a bulldozer: big, bold, and built to handle anything you throw at it. You’ll find it abundantly clear that it’s designed for serious abuse, whether you’re trudging through mud, working in construction, or off-roading on weekends. At 56.2mm across and 17.3mm tall, it’s not for the faint of wrist (so anyone with a wrist size under 7 inches we’d say), but during our hands-on testing we did appreciate how the oversized bezel offers real protection while adding to the tank-like aesthetic. We also found that the resin strap helps it wear more comfortably on the wrist than expected, even during active use. What’s interesting here (and why this watch has earned it’s name) is the G-Shock Mud Resist system, which uses internal gaskets and its unique case geometry to keep out dirt, sand, and debris.

The watch also includes a thermometer and compass, useful tools for outdoor settings that we tested in a variety of conditions. While we noticed that they aren’t necessarly lab-accurate, both sensors were dependable enough for general directional or environmental reference. It also includes core G-Shock functionality: stopwatch, five alarms with snooze, world time across 31 zones, and the brand’s familiar shock resistance. However, this particular model that we reviewed does skip Tough Solar, so you’ll need to swap out the battery every couple of years. Our sample ran without issue throughout the review period, but that trade-off is worth noting for anyone who prefers low-maintenance wear.

Not everything hits perfectly. The LED backlight is underpowered, offering just enough illumination to check the time in the dark but not much more. Likewise, the negative LCD display can be tough to read in direct sunlight (something we noticed repeatedly in bright outdoor settings). And while the strap helps offset the case size, this isn’t slipping under any cuff without a fight. Still, if you need a watch that’s built to take a beating and won’t flinch under pressure, the Mudmaster earns its place. It may not be refined, but it’s dependable and sometimes that’s all that matters. We have more photos and personal insights about the watch in our hands-on review.

Pros

• The Mud Resist system keeps dirt and debris out, making it ideal for outdoor use.
• Built like a tank to survive almost anything.
• Practical features like a Compass, thermometer, and multiple time zones for the adventurous type.
• Despite its size, it sits comfortably thanks to the intelligent strap design.

Cons

• Weak backlight that’s not ideal for reading in the dark.
• A negative display that makes it difficult to read in daylight.
• No Tough Solar (on our the model we reviewed), so you’ll need to replace the batteries every couple of years.