Casio G-Shock vs Casio Pro Trek: Which watch should I buy?

The Japanese brand Casio has two ranges of watches that are quite similar… but very different: Casio G-Shock vs. Casio Pro Trek. Who are these watches for? Which one is worth buying? We have tried a few and we can tell you first-hand.

Small introduction? They differ, apart from having a quite different design, in that the Casio G-Shock watches are much more resistant to drops and shocks than the Pro Trek models. However, the Casio Pro Trek always offers the Triple Sensor (ABC), while many G-Shocks do not.

Pro Trek models have quick access buttons to those sensors. The Pro Treks typically have “only” 100-meter water resistance versus 200 meters on the G-Shock.

  • The G-Shock range dates back to 1983. Its first model was the G-SHOCK DW5000. The first Pro Trek went on sale in 1994, the ATC-1100.

But we are going to see it more calmly so that you can compare both collections of watches.

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Casio G-Shock vs Casio Pro Trek: Main Features Compared

Casio g-shock vs casio protrek comparison

Watch numbers in each range

There is no comparison here. G-Shock wins by a landslide.

  • There are only about 10 Casio Pro Trek watches in the current range that Casio sells.
  • In the Casio G-Shock range, we can find almost 200 models at the moment.

Clearly, Casio’s sweet tooth and its biggest bet for sales are in the Casio G-Shock range.

In the following articles you can find more specific information about certain G-Shock models with very specific characteristics:

Dimensions

Casio G-Shock watches are generally bigger and bulkier than Pro Trek watches. But within the cheap G-Shock models, there are pieces of an equivalent size perfect for small wrists, such as the Casio G-Shock GA-2100 Casioak (46.2 × 42.9 × 11.2 mm) or the Casio G- Shock GW-M5610 (46.7 x 43.2 x 12.7mm).

Casio g-Shok vs Protrek

Pro Trek models can also be large, but they tend to have a slimmer profile and are quite light. For example, the Casio Pro Trek PRG-650Y.

Display and use

Lately, things are changing and the truth is that it is more difficult to separate both ranges of watches in this regard.

As a general rule, Casio Pro Trek watches have larger displays with very legible digits on the digital models. Its dial design is usually cleaner and less ornate.

Many models are analog with small digital screens and others like the WSD-F30, WSD-F21 or WSD-F20 are smartwatches with Wear OS, which allows you to change the screen design at will.

Sensor operations are done more clearly with the Pro Trek models. They have specific buttons for quick access to the altimeter, compass, and barometer. Access to the data from these sensors is very simple and clear in digital models such as the PRG-330. The Pro Trek all have a round screen.

  • Full digital screens have always been more popular in the Pro Trek range, but lately, there are a lot of analog and digital models with very small screens.

In the case of G-Shock, the mix is ​​even bigger. Large digital screens, small, analog, and digital models, and only one model with Wear OS the G-Shock GSW-H1000-1JR. The screens are usually more overloaded with information and dials.

There are also models like the G-Shock GBD-H1000 which has a fully digital screen and offers all kinds of first-hand information (or the new GSW-H1000). G-Shocks can have a round or square screen.

Button combinations tend to be more complex on G-shock models, but the most basic G-shock models are very easy to use.

In general, data readout is friendlier on the Pro Treks than on the G-Shocks.

Resistance to shocks and falls. Waterproof

  • The water resistance of the Pro Trek is usually 10 Bar (100 meters), although there are models like the PRW-7000TN that offer up to 20 bar.
  • In the case of G-Shock, they offer up to 200 meters (20 bar).

Under normal conditions, the difference in water resistance will not be noticeable. With both, you will be able to get into the water and even dive, but if you are going to do scuba diving you may prefer a G-Shock.

The G-Shocks are true watchmaking tanks. They are designed to last and withstand all kinds of abuse and falls. They are practically unbreakable.

In the 1980s, they created the Triple 10 concept: battery life of up to 10 years, resistance to a water pressure of up to 10 bar, and impact resistance to falls from a height of up to 10 meters. And since then these specifications have not stopped improving in many models.

Having said that, although a Casio Pro Trek cannot withstand a big fall from 20 meters or submersion of 200 meters, they are also very resistant watches that will withstand normal shocks: they are designed to be worn for climbing, hiking, we go for all kinds of activities outdoor.

The G-Shock will better withstand scratches and other vicissitudes due to their manufacture, but the Pro Trek models are perfect to combine their daily use in the office and then take them for a walk in the countryside or do all kinds of sports.

Features and sensors

Casio’s Pro Trek range has more defined functionalities in all its models. This means that you will find the Triple Sensor in all its models:

  • Digital compass
  • Altimeter / Barometer
  • Thermometer

Whereas in G-Shock, the low-end models only have basic functionalities. Of course, from 200 to 300 dollars almost all G-Shock models have different sensors, GPS, pedometer, etc.

If you are only interested in Triple Sensor technology, possibly in the Pro Trek range you will find very good options for less than 200 dollars, while in G-Shock you will have to go to the Rangeman 9400 at least.

With GPS? Things have become much the same in terms of models and price. For example, in G-Shock, we have the G-Shock GBD-H1000 for less than 400 dollars.

While in Pro Trek we have to go to the Pro Trek Smart range and take some of their models with Wear OS, which means that the watch will have a shorter life cycle due to the operating system. In addition, its price rises to 500 dollars.

Where the Casio Pro Trek watches stand out is that they have a very interesting function for hikers and climbers, as altitude values ​​(high altitude / low altitude, cumulative ascent/descent) are automatically checked and updated at regular intervals. It activates in altimeter mode, and Trek Hold appears on the screen.

There are G-Shock models with this function, especially those that have GPS and connection to a smartphone, but it is not something that comes by default in all models.

Bluetooth? More and more watches from both collections have a Bluetooth connection to link the watch with smartphones. This allows the watch to send information to the phone and save data such as routes, GPS values, etc. Or we can directly configure the clock through the phone, saving us several combinations of buttons.

Casio G-Shock with Bluetooth? You’ve got a few at Best Casio G-Shock Bluetooth Watch. Pro trek with Bluetooth? For example the Casio Pro Trek PRT-B50

The problem that Casio has with these Bluetooth watches is that they offer too many apps in the Android and iOS stores: there are 5 in operation at the moment. G-Shock Move, G-Shock Connected, Edifice Connected, Casio Watches, and Pro Trek Connected. They should simplify this mess a bit.

A few Casio models offer Google’s Wear OS, but we honestly don’t think that’s Casio’s strong suit. Smartwatches that last only 4 years are not the way forward for the Japanese company.

Basic functions shared by both collections?

  • Alarms and wake up
  • Auto Calendar
  • Carga solar Tough Solar
  • Stopwatch and timer
  • World time in many models and 12/24 hours
  • Automatic lighting
  • Resistance to low temperatures (down to -10º C on many occasions)
  • Time synchronization by Multiband 6 Radiofrequency
  • Sunrise and sunset
  • Tide and moon phase graphs (some)

Casio G-Shock vs Casio Pro Trek: Price

Well, the truth is that Casio has always stood out for offering very good prices on its watches and very good manufacturing quality.

In the case of Casio G-Shock watches, we have a price range that starts from the most basic models that you can get for around 70, 80 dollars, such as the Casio G-Shock 5600.

A great mid-range that offers all kinds of sensors such as the Casio G-Shock GWG-1000 or classic designs made of metal such as the GMW-B5000.

Then we move on to the MTG-B1000 or MTG-B2000 models whose price goes up to 800, 1000 dollars. We are not talking about the ultra-expensive MRG models.

SaleBestseller No. 1
Casio Men's G-Shock Quartz Watch with Resin Strap, Black, 20 (Model: DW5600E-1V)
13,030 Reviews
Casio Men's G-Shock Quartz Watch with Resin Strap, Black, 20 (Model: DW5600E-1V)
  • Black resin sport watch featuring shock resistance, comfortable resin strap, and multi-function rectangular dial
  • Quartz digital movement with accuracy of +/- 15 seconds per month
  • To prevent accidental adjusting of settings,the top left button on this watch is designed to be pushed in further.
  • Functions include multi-function alarm, 1/100-second stopwatch, countdown timer, hourly time signal, auto calendar, and 12- and 24-hour formats
  • Water resistant to 660 feet (200 M): suitable for recreational scuba diving
SaleBestseller No. 2
Casio Men's G-Shock DW9052-1V Shock Resistant Black Resin Sport Watch
8,709 Reviews
Casio Men's G-Shock DW9052-1V Shock Resistant Black Resin Sport Watch
  • 200 M Water Resistance
  • Casio G-Shock Watch featuring Shock Resistance
  • Electro-Luminescent Backlight with Afterglow ensures easy reading during day or night
  • 1/100-Second StopWatch (Measuing Capacity: 00'00"00~59'59"99 (for the first 60 minutes) 1:00'00~23:59'59 (after 60 minutes)
  • Auto-calendar out until the year 2099, the watch does not have to be adjusted for the number days in month even leap year until 2099
SaleBestseller No. 3
Casio G-Shock GWM5610-1 Men's Solar Black Resin Sport Watch
3,893 Reviews
Casio G-Shock GWM5610-1 Men's Solar Black Resin Sport Watch
  • Casual solar-powered watch with multiple functions including multi-band atomic timekeeping, shock resistance, LED backlight, world time (29 time zones, 48 cities), city code display, five daily alarms, 1/100-second stopwatch, countdown timer, full auto-calendar, battery indicator, and power-saving function
  • Approximate battery life: 10 months on full charge (without further exposure to light)
  • Water resistant to 200 m (660 ft): In general, suitable for professional marine activity and serious surface water sports, but not scuba diving

In the case of the Pro Trek, we have more moderate prices. For the quality price, they offer very good options from 150, 200 dollars. Placing the Pro Trek Smart models in the range of 500 dollars.

Dry Pro Trek models usually cost between 200 and 300 dollars and all offer Triple Sensor. For example, the PRW-30 or the PRW-B50. Then the prices go up a little if we put sapphire crystal or a titanium strap, and can reach 500, 600 dollars like the PRW-50T.

Conclusion: Should we buy a Casio G-Shock or a Casio Pro Trek watch?

Protek’s tend to be more versatile, functional, and stylish watches, perfect for the office or taking to the field. They are slimmer with a less ornate dial and more traditional styling. A 100-meter WR is enough for almost everyone. They are Triple Sensors. Sensor information is easily accessed.

The G-Shocks are unbreakable watches with many functions in their mid and high range and with water resistance up to 200 meters. They can be Triple Sensors or not. The design of their models is more military. The data may be more hidden.

We recommend a few Casio G-Shock models at 14 Best Casio G-Shock Tough Solar Watches In 2023 [Reviews]

Advice! Normally, it is a good choice to buy a Casio watch that has solar charging and radio frequency. If you can get one with sapphire crystal all the better. Choosing between a digital or analog-digital model depends on you and your needs.

  • Do you want a tough watch with an aggressive, military design? Possibly a G-shock is the best option
  • Do you want a watch for hiking or mountaineering with a Triple Sensor? You have to go to a Casio Pro Trek.
  • Do you want a slim watch with a more mixed profile (office and field trips)? You have to go to a Casio Pro Trek, although the low-end and high-end G-Shock offer very interesting watches in this regard.
  • Do you want a cheaper watch? G-Shock offers the largest price range, including watches for less than 80 dollars.

And what if you want a sportier Casio watch? You have to go to the Casio Edifice range: The best Casio Edifice watches for men.

What if you want other types of Casio watches? We have chosen the best value among Casio Classic, Edifice, Pro Trek, and G-Shock watches: The best cheap Casio watches for men and women.

And if you are looking for military models:

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