G-Shock and Garmin are two well-known watch brands in the sports and outdoor market. As you would imagine, both of these brands focus on modern technology and functionality rather than sticking with tradition. While these brands are mostly ignored by watch connoisseurs, they are well-respected among a specific group wants in a wristwatch – outdoor enthusiasts, competitive athletes, and adventurers that prioritize future rich watches with unbeatable durability.
So, it is inevitable to have these two outstanding multi-functional watches go head-to-head. Read on to know more about each brand’s specific strengths as well as their weaknesses to get a better grasp as to which watch is best suited for you.
Garmin Watch Overview
Garmin is a relatively young company and was founded in Lenexa, Kansas around 1989, the same decade when G-Shock debuted. Garmin’s proficiency in implementing GPS technology into their devices landed them a contract with the U.S. military and by the new millennium, their company was one of the leading developers of GPS technology in the world. This has been Garmin’s main claim to fame as their current lineup of watches all feature some of the most advanced navigational features on this side of the wristwatch market.
Garmin watches are also well-known for featuring a slew of activity tracking functionalities which makes their wristwatches a highly popular accessory with athletes and for gym rats. Garmin watches have also transitioned quite nicely into the smartwatch market with their fantastic Bluetooth connectivity features.
As for Garmin watches, some of their most popular watch lines include the Fenix, Forerunner, Vivofit, and Vivosmart series. When it comes to modern multi-functional smartwatches, Garmin is definitely one of the most prominent and highly recommended of the bunch with sport-specific watches and its Marq line of premium smartwatches. It also made news in 2020 by introducing a whole line of solar-powered Garmin models, increasing the battery life to levels not seen on other full-featured watches and upping the game against other competitors in the sector.
G-Shock Brand Overview
G-Shock is quite possibly one of the most popular outdoor watches in the business with a reputation based on its absolute durability that other watch brands can only dream about. G-Shock watches are also consumer-friendly and come with a highly flexible price bracket ranging from entry-level to premium-grade. The good news is that even their most affordable watch models are equipped with their signature tough-as-nails build. Of course, if you are looking for higher-end features then you will need to shell out extra.
G-Shock was introduced to the market in 1983 by Japanese tech manufacturer company, Casio. The first-gen G-Shock watches focused their marketing on their impressive ‘Triple 10’ design. The three 10s represent 10-feet fall resistance, 10 ATM water resistance, and 10-year battery life. If there was one aspect about G-Shock watches that you can consider as divisive, it is with the large and typically tank-like build.
While some of the modern G-Shock watches offer a sleeker and more compact build, the standard design for most stays the same. This is why G-Shock watches are mostly worn by men. Fortunately, for women (and kids) who are interested in what G-Shock watches offer, Casio released the Baby G collection which utilizes a more compact design without affecting the signature G-Shock performance too much.
When it comes to thrill-seekers and those with an adventurous spirit, G-Shock will perfectly complement your lifestyle in both design and performance.
G-Shock vs. Garmin Watch Comparisons
Fitness Tracking Watches
G-Shock G-Squad GBD-H1000-1JR
🏆 #1 Best Overall
- 【1.83" HD Display & Customizable Watch Faces】Immerse yourself in a vibrant 1.83" IPS display, boasting a sharp resolution of 240*284 for crystal-clear visuals. Effortlessly personalize your smart watch with a wide array of customizable watch faces to suit your personal style for every occasion—whether trendy, artistic, or minimalist—ideal for casual, sporty, or professional. Its sleek, modern design complements any outfit, blending technology and fashion seamlessly for everyday wear
- 【120 Sports Modes & Advanced Health Tracking】Our TG08 smart watches for women men come equipped with 120 sports modes, allowing you to effortlessly track a variety of activities such as walking, running, cycling, and swimming. With integrated heart rate and sleep monitors, you can maintain a comprehensive overview of your health, achieve your fitness goals, and maintain a balanced, active lifestyle with ease. TG08L is your ideal companion for a healthier and more informed lifestyle
- 【Stay Connected Anytime, Anywhere】Stay informed and in control with Bluetooth call and music control features. Receive real-time notifications for calls, messages, and social media apps like Facebook, WhatsApp, Twitter, and Instagram directly on your smartwatch. Easily manage calls, control your music playlist, and stay updated without needing to reach for your phone. Perfect for work, workouts, or on-the-go, this watch keeps you connected and never miss important updates wherever you are
- 【IP67 Waterproof & Long-Lasting Battery】Designed to keep up with your active lifestyle, this smartwatch features an IP67 waterproof rating, ensuring it can withstand splashes, sweat, and even brief submersion, making it perfect for workouts, outdoor adventures, or rainy days. Its reliable 350mAh battery offering 5-7 days of active use and up to 30 days in standby mode, significantly reducing frequent charging. Ideal for all-day wear, whether you’re at the gym, outdoors, or simply on the go
- 【Multifunction & Wide Compatibility】Seamlessly handle heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and enjoy conveniences like camera/music control, Seamlessly handle heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and more-all directly from your wrist. This 1.83" HD smartwatch is compatible with iPhone (iOS 9.0+) & Android (5.0+), ensuring smooth daily connectivity and convenience throughout your day. More than just a timepiece, it’s a stylish, all-in-one wearable for smarter, healthier living
When it comes to G-Shock watches, you can always expect them to have a top-tier build that provides outstanding durability. This claim holds true with the GBD-H1000-1JR model with its robust build and capable design. The GBD-H1000-1JR model is also equipped with Bluetooth connectivity which means you can pair it with your smartphone to unlock more functionalities via the G-Shock Connected app.
The GBD-H1000-1JR includes a slew of fitness tracking features such as a heart rate monitor, accelerometer, multiple time zones, and weekly training progress tracker as well as physical recovery rate. This is quite a handful and while it will quite an advantage for those who plan their workout routine in detail, it might be too much for casual use.
This G-Shock watch also comes with a tracking mode that uses GPS to display your location, route, and travel duration. Overall, this is a pretty well-rounded fitness tracking watch that is also incredibly well-built, as is expected from a G-Shock watch. While it may not have the same streamlined UI navigational features as Garmin’s watches, it still manages to deliver what is needed.
Garmin Forerunner 45
Rank #2
- 【1.43-inch 3D-AMOLED Screen, 250+ Customized Dial】The Soudorv military smart watch features a 1.43-inch AMOLED color screen and 3D curved tempered glass. The body is as thin as 13mm and as light as 50 g, bringing a thin and delicate experience. Manually adjust the brightn so that you can clearly view the displayed time and exercise data even in direct sunlight. You can also choose from more than 250 online watch faces in the "FitCloudPro" APP or upload photos as smart watch backgrounds.
- 【2026 New Bluetooth 5.4 Call, Message Reminder】The smartwatch has a built-in microphone and HD speaker, allowing you to make/receive/reject calls, synchronize contacts, and save call history. The watch also supports message notifications (Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, Twitter, etc). When you enable the "FitCloudPro" App to receive messages, notifications will be displayed on the smartwatches.
- 【LED Flashlight, Military Grade Standard】Soudorv rugged military smart watch is equipped with a bright LED flashlight and compass, with a lighting distance of up to 5 meters, so you are no longer afraid of the dark and getting lost when traveling! Ideal for camping, hiking and night-time adventures. Soudorv rugged smart watches successfully passed 12 military tests, is rugged, waterproof, dustproof, and can handle all the extreme environments.
- 【130+ Sports Modes, IP68 Waterproof】This Soudorv fitness watch supports over 130 exercise modes (running, cycling, hiking, skipping rope, dancing, yoga, skiing, etc.) to meet your outdoor and indoor needs. Soudorv activity trackers can record steps, distance, calories, and more in real-time, helping you train scientifically and achieve optimal results. Thanks to the IP68 waterproof sports watch, it can be worn even on rainy days and when washing hands, making it perfect for your daily waterproof requirements.
- 【Comprehensive Health Monitoring】The fitness tracker is equipped with a high-precision VC30F photoelectric sensor, which can monitor heart rate and sleep (deep sleep, light sleep, wake-up time), allowing you to better understand your physical health. In addition, fitness watches also provide a menstrual cycle recording function specifically designed for women to help them live a healthy life.
Garmin has been at the forefront of smartwatches for years now and their products have only gotten better with time. The Forerunner watch line is definitely one of their flagship models and the Forerunner 45 continues the brand’s stellar reputation with some of the best performance and functionalities that you can find in this particular market.
In terms of aesthetics, the Forerunner 45 incorporates a modern minimalistic approach which gives it a clean and almost clinical appearance. The Forerunner 45 features a sleek 39mm diameter case with silicon straps for optimum flexibility and comfort. The simplistic design of this fitness tracking watch conceals a fantastic collection of features and functionalities; a perfect example of the ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’ idiom.
When it comes to the Garmin Forerunner 45’s features, you can expect the best that this brand has to offer and then some. First off, it comes with all the standard fitness tracking capabilities such as a heart rate monitor and GPSS. In fact, the Forerunner 45 takes advantage of three satellites – the GLONASS, Galileo, and GPS which it uses to track your pace, distance traveled, intervals, and many more. All of this can be done with a touch of a button, making the Forerunner 45 incredibly user-friendly as well.
Solar-Powered Watches
G-Shock G-Steel GST-B100-1ACR
Rank #3
- 【 Military Grade Standard 】This smart watch uses special composite materials and a robust aluminum alloy bezel, having undergone rigorous durability testing. The IOWODO smart watch has passed various tests, including drilling, extrusion, high-temperature steam, salt spray, and liquid contamination tests. Waterproof, low-pressure resistant, and dustproof, it fears no harsh environment and is a reliable companion for outdoor adventures.
- 【960mAh Super Long Battery Life, Up to 100 Days】This men's outdoor smartwatch features a built-in 960mAh high-density battery 5 times the capacity of traditional watches. In smart mode, it boasts an impressive 30 days of battery life, and in extreme mode, this can be extended to 100 days. Say goodbye to low battery and fully enjoy your adventures.
- 【LED Flashlight and Navigation Compass】The smart watches for men features a high-brightness LED flashlight with a beam distance of up to 10 meters, offering both constant-on and SOS distress modes. The light is stable and has strong penetrating power, providing excellent illumination even in harsh environments such as dusty or foggy conditions. Meanwhile, its high-precision antimagnetic compass provides reliable directional guidance for outdoor activities. Designed specifically for dense forests and rugged terrain, it's an essential navigation and survival tool.
- 【24-Hour Health Monitoring】This smart fitness tracker watch features advanced sensors that accurately monitor heart rate, and saturation, helping you better understand your health. The automatic sleep tracking function observes sleep stages (deep sleep, light sleep, wakefulness) and provides comprehensive sleep quality analysis to improve your overall health. You can view your health overview on the Dafit app.
- 【120+ Sports Modes】The fitness tracker watch boasts over 120 sports modes, allowing you to choose your preferred activity. It tracks activity data such as heart rate, steps, distance traveled, and calories burned. Its excellent water resistance effectively protects against sweat, splashes, and rain. With this powerful men's sports watch, you can enjoy the fun of exercise and the sense of accomplishment that comes with self-discipline anytime, anywhere.
The G-Steel series is G-Shock’s top-tier model and it features some notable upgrades from the standard G-Shock design. The most prominent is its use of a combination of resin and stainless-steel components for its shell. This combination of materials is pushed to its full potential thanks to G-Shock’s excellent build and design which features multiple layers to ensure complete shock resistance.
When it comes to features, the G-Steel GST-B100-1ACR is equipped with all the advanced watch technologies to push its capabilities past the proverbial glass ceiling. Its Bluetooth connectivity further expands upon its capabilities which is already substantial by default thanks to its chronograph dial design. Connecting it to your smartphone will unlock a bunch of other features, thanks to the G-Shock Connected app. We highly recommend you take full advantage of this to reach the GST-B100-1ACR’s potential.
The GST-B100-1ACR is also equipped with Casio’s excellent Tough Solar technology which allows it to operate (normal mode) for up to 24 months even without being exposed to sunlight. Additionally, this solar-powered G-Shock watch also has a water resistance rating of 200-meter, making it ideal for both land and sea operations.
When it comes to the G-Steel series, you can bet that it will hold all the fantastic qualities of previous G-Shock watches with the addition of its Bluetooth capabilities. This is as close as we can get to the complete G-Shock experience, for now.
Garmin Instinct Solar (010-02293-10)
Rank #4
- 1.95" Touch Screen & Customizable Faces: T80 smart watches for women men feature a 1.95-inch HDdisplay paired with 3D tempered glass for superior picture quality and touch sensitivity. Through the "Dee Fit" app, users gain access to over 100 stylish watch faces and the ability to create custom designs, allowing for personalized expression. Brightness adjusts automatically for perfect visibility indoors and outdoors.
- Bluetooth 5.3 Call: The mens smart watch are equipped with the latest Bluetooth 5.3 chip, which increases the connection speed by 80%, and a highly stable connection with no delay. Answer and make calls right from your wrist, and easily sync multiple mobile contacts.
- All-Day Health & Fitness Companion: T80 smart watch is equipped with a high-precision optical sensor that supports 24h real-time heart rate monitoring, helping you stay informed about your physical condition. This smart watch records 100+ sports modes like running, cycling, and yoga. The Fitness tracker is IP68 waterproof, allowing you to wear it during outdoor activities, rainy days, and while washing hands (Note: Do Not use in showers, saunas, swimming etc)
- Long-Lasting 7-Day Battery & Fast Charging: No daily charging needed! This smart watch for men has a large built-in 300 mAh battery that ensures up to 5-7 days of use and about 20 days of standby time with just 2 hours of charging. The magnetic charger snaps on quickly—just 2 hours for a full boost, so you stay powered through workouts and busy weeks.
- Lightweight, Comfortable: Made from durable, skin-friendly materials, this sleek watch weighs only 40.3g and fits all wrist sizes. The adjustable strap ensures all-day comfort, while its rugged design withstands dust, shocks, and water—perfect for active lifestyles.
The Garmin Instinct Solar is definitely one of the brand’s more rugged models and is designed specifically for outdoor use. The Instinct Solar features a military standard 810 case which means it is shock, thermal, and water-resistant (up to 100-meters), making it a highly viable option for those who enjoy going on road trips, hiking, and camping trips.
Add to the fact that this is a solar-powered watch and you get a highly functional timepiece with, basically, an unlimited power source. If you wish to fully maximize its battery, the Instinct Solar also has a power-saving mode that allows users to check how each feature is affecting its battery life. This will allow users to adjust the Instinct Solar so that it becomes as energy-efficient as possible.
When it comes to features, this Garmin smartwatch is filled to bursting. With its Bluetooth connectivity, users can utilize sports app via their smartphone to track and develop training regimens. You will also have access to the Pulse Ox app which is designed for sleep monitoring and altitude acclimation.
This watch also comes with a heart-rate monitor and even a stress tracking feature. As for its navigational capabilities, the Garmin Solar Instinct utilizes GPS, Galileo, and GLONASS satellites to offer accurate tracking of your current position. Thanks to its impressive GPS capabilities and extremely long solar-powered battery life, the Garmin Instinct Solar is a great option for outdoor enthusiasts who wish to bring the convenience provided by modern technology into the wilds.
Conclusion: G-Shock vs. Garmin – Which is Better?
So, which has the edge between these two multi-functional watch brands? If you love going on outdoor adventures you are looking for a more fitness-oriented smartwatch with a ton of features, you can’t go wrong with a Garmin watch. That particular category has been Garmin’s bread and butter for years. However, for those who prioritize toughness and shock-resistance, a G-Shock watch is indispensable.
💰 Best Value
- Bluetooth 5.3 Call and Message Notification: Cillso smart watch features an advanced single-chip processor and sensitive microphone, enabling direct call making and answering. When you enable the "VeryFit" App to receive messages, notifications will be displayed on the smartwatch. Get all your messages and notifications (Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, Instagram, Messenger, Linkedin,Skype etc.) sent straight to your smartwatch with intuitive customizable vibrations
- Built-in Alexa Voice Control: This smartwatch integrates Amazon Alexa's intelligent voice assistant, delivering a comprehensive hands-free experience directly from your wrist. Simply speak commands to instantly access news, weather, and calendar updates, set reminders, control smart home devices, and manage music playback. This full suite of voice-activated functionalities streamlines daily routines, enhances multitasking efficiency, and keeps your hands free for the moments that matter most.
- 1.83" HD Display and Personalized Customization: IDW26 smart watches for women men feature a 1.83-inch HDdisplay paired with 3D tempered glass, boasting a resolution of up to 320×385 for excellent image quality and high touch sensitivity. The 4-level adjustable brightness ensures clear visibility even under bright sunlight. Through the "VeryFit" app, users gain access to over 130 stylish watch faces and the ability to create custom designs, allowing for personalized expression
- 120+ Sport Modes and IP68 Waterproof: Fitness tracker supports 120+ professional sport modes, covering diverse indoor/outdoor activities like running, cycling, and soccer to suit all fitness levels. Equipped with high-precision sensors, fitness watch accurately tracks steps, distance, calories burned, and workout duration to help analyze performance and optimize training plans. With an IP68 rating, it's resistant to sweat, rain, and handwashing (Not for swimming or hot showers)
- All-Day Health Monitoring: Android smart watch is equipped with a high-precision optical sensor that supports 24h real-time heart rate monitoring, helping you stay informed about your physical condition. It also intelligently analyzes sleep quality, accurately identifying deep sleep, light sleep, and awake phases to help improve your sleep habits. Paired with its dedicated app, you can view long-term health trends and receive personalized insights to gradually develop a healthier lifestyle