Casio’s latest G-Shock offers a simpler alternative to a full-blown GPS sports watch, packing enough fitness tracking for everyday workouts while keeping the price down to $165.
The new GBA-950 colorways combine G-Shock durability with running and activity features, including Strava compatibility that makes it easier to keep workout data in one place.
From your wrist, the watch can track steps, distance, pace and calories, with memory for up to 45 workout records. Auto Lap can record times over a preset distance, while a five-stage indicator shows how intense your exercise has been.
One of the biggest differences compared with many Garmin watches is the lack of built-in GPS. Instead, the GBA-950 uses a connected smartphone to calibrate distance measurements, which Casio claims helps it estimate running distance and pace more accurately without a phone connection.
Bluetooth also links the watch to the Casio Watches app, where activity history and life-log data can be reviewed before compatible workouts are shared with Strava.
As you would expect from a G-Shock, the hardware is built to take more punishment than the average fitness tracker. The resin case measures 48.5 x 43.9 x 16mm and weighs 53g, with shock resistance and 200 metres of water resistance.
Battery life is another advantage, with Casio estimating around two years of use from a single CR2025 cell, so there is no need to think about charging it every few days.
The latest colours include black with an orange dial, white with blue and a bright yellow-green version.
For anyone who does not need built-in GPS, heart-rate tracking or more advanced training metrics, the GBA-950 covers a surprising amount for $165. It will not replace every Garmin, but for simpler workouts it could be all the fitness watch you actually need.