Review: Casio G-Shock Urban Utility GBD-200 Series
Feature type Review
Read time 4 min read
Published Jul 11, 2024
Author Matthew Pink
Photographer Ed Smith
OUR VERDICT
A brilliant semi-smartwatch for those wanting a durable and water resistant adventure timepiece at an affordable price.
| Features | Digital display 12-Hour or 24 Hour Format 200 Metres Water Resistant 4 Daily Alarms Snooze function Soft Urethane band Bluetooth® Connectivity Accelerometer (step counter) Auto Light Mineral Glass Dimensions: 48.4 x 45.9 x 15.0mm |
| Weight | 58g |
Pros
- Accessible price point
- Durability
- Super clear display
- Just enough functionality
Cons
- The grey off-white does take stains a little
- Date format is MM/DD and not changeable to DD/MM
- Basic fitness tracking (but that’s the point, really)
WHAT I’M LOOKING FOR
I’m a bit off-put by the often ginormous prices for smart watches and equally the likelihood that they will come a cropper in some respect while out in the rough and tumble of the more extreme environments. So I want something modestly-sized, tough, an accessible price without too many useless functions and certainly without a poor battery life.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
The new GBD-200 is bringing together the fitness tracking capabilities of the more sport-focused G-Squad range products and permanent Bluetooth connection to create an all-digital G-Shock hybrid semi-smartwatch. On first glance, it looks more in the now classic G-Shock vein.
The high-contrast LCD screen is noticeable from the get-go and the gloom in my shed where I do take a look bodes well that readability in all lighting conditions will be possible. The matte grey finish gives off a sense of, shall we say, understated toughness and navigating the GBD-200’s features is a breeze, thanks to its intuitive interface and responsive buttons. Otherwise, it’s all pretty classic G-Shock in look and feel.
THE TEST
I’ve worn the watch now for about 4 weeks across commutes, international air travel, hiking, biking and paddleboarding. The GBD-200 delivers on the comfort front, providing a secure fit without causing pinch or slippage. It hasn’t ever gotten too hot or clingy either. It’s definitely a watch you can wear all day, whether you’re hitting the trails or the streets. I haven’t worn it for any 200m dives but I’ve no doubt it will stand up deep down too.
The Mode button will cycle you through the full menu: the interval workout, the stopwatch, activity data, and then the notification window. I’ve used it to see how changing my commute from a 35 min cycle to 1hr 15min walk changes my fatigue and energy levels during the week.
WHO IS THIS ITEM FOR?
G-Shock fans are legion and this addition to the series will just reinforce that. The model will suit those who aren’t keen on a touch screen, want buttons that can’t be pressed accidentally and need something for all-day, everyday purposes.
It is also for those who want to enhance their workouts by ‘just enough’ extra means using functions like the accelerometer, distance measurement, and smartphone linkage via Bluetooth® .
If you’d like you can also check the life log and activity history of steps and calorie consumption with the “G-SHOCK MOVE” app to support your workouts too.
WHAT STANDS OUT?
Intuitive design
The interface is great with responsive buttons that are easy to navigate even with gloves on (which I try despite the lukewarm temperature outside).
Practicality
The real-time data tracking is a boon for the fitness-focused, providing insights that can help optimise performance. The vibration alerts, stopwatch, countdown timer, and multiple alarms add layers of functionality that cater to a variety of needs, without being overkill.
Fitness tracking
To track a run is super simple: just pressing the Start button. The display then comes up with time elapsed, distance, and pace. Interval workout tracking is a bit fiddly but worth it. You can store up to 20 different intervals for a single workout and set the time for each stage.
VALUE FOR MONEY
The blend of rugged design, advanced technology, and reliable performance makes it an excellent value at this price point.
BASE BOTTOM LINE
‘Urban Utility’ is a bit of a clumsy name but does tell you what they are trying to achieve with this model. It’s actually a brilliant semi-smartwatch for those wanting a durable and water resistant adventure timepiece at an affordable price.
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