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10 Best Outdoor Watches Under $100 – Reviews and Complete Buying Guide

Best Outdoor Watches Under $100

While you are enjoying any outdoor activities, you want to ensure that all your equipment comes with the proper build to last through harsher use. This means that your clothes, sleeping bags, watches, and gear for fishing or hiking are durable and won’t get damaged. Outdoor activities often put your stuff through much harder conditions than they would endure inside, and you want to be prepared.

In our attempt to find the best outdoor watches under $100, we took a look at different features that make each one a good choice. First, we took a look at the waterproofing of each watch which will allow it to hold up even in the rain. Next, we looked at the material and durability of the strap to ensure that it will last through multiple uses in outdoor conditions. Then, we examined the display of the watch face to see if it is easy to see in dim lighting. Finally, we looked at other features that could be useful for outdoor activities, like an included compass.

  What Are The Best Outdoor Watches Under $100 ?

  • Men’s Aposon  LED Display Large Dual Dial Digital Outdoor Watch

  • Timex Men’s Expedition Model Scout 40 Watch

  • PALADA Men’s Digital Outdoors Waterproof Tactical Watch

  • Timex Unisex Weekender 38mm Outdoor Watch

  • Timex Men’s Expedition Classic Digital Chrono Alarm Timer Full-Size Watch

  • Casio Men’s Outdoor Watch Model FT500WVB-5BV

  • SNE Digital Sports Outdoor Watch Water-Resistant

  • Casio ‘G-Shock’ Quartz Men’s Resin Sport Watch

  • Lad Weather Altimeter Watch and Barometer Digital Compass

  • Naturehike GPS Smart Watch for Android and iOS Phone IP67

 

Best Outdoor Watches Under $100 Buying Guide

When you are looking to buy an outdoor watch, you want to ensure that you get what you are paying for, which means that you want to find the best option available for the price. Whether you want to find a compact and lightweight choice or would rather have a heavy-duty option that will last through harsher conditions, you can find one by making sure that the watch you buy has the features below.

Water-Resistant Vs. Waterproof

When you are going to use your outdoor watch for harsh conditions when hiking or camping, you want to know the difference between water-resistant and waterproof. Although they sound alike, they actually mean two different things.

The term water resistance is when a watch has protection against humidity. This means that the watch can withstand being around humid air and being splashed with a small amount of water. This will not cause the watch to stop working just from a few drops of water or by the sweat you produce on your wrist.

However, waterproofing – when it comes to watches – actually just means that the model is more water-resistant. The term waterproof is not typically used, since watches cannot be completely waterproof, so if it has a higher resistance level then it can withstand being submerged for a few minutes. It could also mean that the water won’t get into the internal parts and cause damage.

 

Depending on what kinds of outdoor activities you usually do, this can make a big difference in how long the watch lasts. If you tend to do long hiking trips where you tread through bodies of water or hike in areas where the weather is rainy, then you will want more protection.

If you hike in the desert where wet conditions won’t apply, then you could opt for a watch that has a lower water resistance rating. The higher the rating, most likely, you will be paying a higher price. So, think about how much you want to spend and how water resistant you will need your watch to be.

best hiking watch under 100

Compass or GPS

For those of you who are nature lovers, but also want to know exactly where you are going, you will want either a compass or GPS that will tell you where you are. This will let you know the direction you are heading and where your camp is if you are going on a multi-day hike.

A compass is a good option for those who know how to read one. However, there are more and more people nowadays that do not know how to do this. This means that this could be an issue if you take a long hike and aren’t experienced with using a compass. They also need to be calibrated to ensure that the direction is correct.

A GPS, or global positioning system, doesn’t just show you the direction you are heading, but it will also be able to tell you the exact position and where you’re headed. In a car, you can put in a destination by typing in the name of a restaurant or home address and it will show you how to get there. When you’re hiking, you can put in a certain location and it will tell you how to get there.

Deciding which one you would rather have in your watch will help you narrow down your choices. Many outdoor watches contain either a compass or GPS, but the watches that have a GPS system often cost more. If you want a cheaper option, but aren’t comfortable enough to use a compass, you might have to go with a higher-priced option. However, with the options on this list, you can find one for under $100.

Things To Look For in an Outdoor Watch

Although there are a few things that you can decide between depending on your personal preference, you also want to make sure that your watch comes with a few features you will need. So, here are a few of the most important things that you should look for when trying to find the best outdoor watch under $100.

Durable Materials

When shopping for a new watch, you want to know that it won’t break down when you need it. This could mean that the watch face cracks, the band rips, or the battery stops. Many things could wrong, especially when you are outdoors in tough conditions, but you can combat that by getting a watch made from durable materials.

best cheap outdoor watch

Rubber is one material that is durable and lasts about two years without issue. Rubber is also a material that is flexible and will move naturally with your wrist as you hike so it can feel weightless at times. The rubber material is also water-resistant as droplets bead up and roll off it. 

Leather might seem like a durable choice, but this is not ideal for outdoor use. This is because leather stretches out and can affect the fit of your watch, and also because it can be damaged when it comes in contact with water.

Nylon is a material that is water-resistant and makes a good option for outdoor use. This is because nylon is a tough fabric that will last a long time without being torn or ripped. It can also absorb waterproofing spray well, which means that you can spray waterproofing liquids on it to help the water bead up and roll off the fabric.

Water Resistant Rating

As mentioned before, you want to decide if you would rather pay more money for higher water resistance. If so, then you will want to look for the rating that comes with each option you look at. The higher the number is, the higher the resistance will be, and the longer the watch will last in wet conditions.

If you live in an area where it rains often when you hike, you will want an option that is closer to 5ATM, which means it is water-resistant up to 160 feet. However, if you don’t think that you need that much, then you can opt for a 3ATM option that will cost a bit less and will be water-resistant up to around 100 feet.

Best Outdoor Watches Under 100 Comparred

Top 10 Outdoor Watches Under $100 Review

Key Features:

This watch comes with a 5ATM waterproofing rating, a silicone rubber band, dual-time displays, and also shows the day and date.

The Aposon men’s outdoor watch is a large option that has a rugged design and is made for use during outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and fishing. The band of the watch is made from silicone rubber and is completely waterproof. The rubber causes the water to roll right off the material and it helps to keep the watch in place so it doesn’t twist around your wrist.

This watch also comes with a dual-display that uses an analog option as well as a digital display. This makes it easy for multiple customers to use it with ease, even for those who are not as quick with telling analog time. The Aposon watch is waterproof up to 164 feet. This allows the watch to be submerged up to 164 feet without sustaining damage.

However, you do not want to press any buttons on your watch while underwater. The watch has a 5ATM water-resistant rating which makes it a high-performance option even when wet, and it can handle rain very well.

Pros

  • Waterproof up to 164 feet for submersion
  • Has military and standard time display
  • Rubber band doesn’t twist around your wrist
  • Shows the day, date, and time
  • Has an LED display for easy to see the watch face
  • Is shock-resistant to prevent damage

Cons

  • Rubber band tends to pull arm hair
  • Green color will not satisfy all customers
  • Band width is 0.82 inches which could be too big for some customers

Key Features:

This Timex watch comes with waterproofing that is good up to 165 feet of submersion, has a mineral glass face, a nylon strap, and a backlit watch face.

The Timex Expedition Scout 40 model is an outdoor watch that has an analog display that comes with the standard 12-hour time as well as the 24-hour military time. For outdoor use, it comes with a nylon watch band that is waterproof and adjustable so you can have it as tight as you want it for the perfect fit.

This watch is fully waterproof up to 165 feet, so you can wear it in inclement weather, or when you are fishing and need to put your hand in the water. It is also ideal for short swimming times when the watch is not fully submerged for the entire time. Plus, with the luminous hands, your watch will still have the right time, even underwater.

Pros

  • Nylon band that won’t tear or rip easily
  • Waterproofing for underwater use in short bursts
  • Has two displays for both 12 and 24-hour times
  • 20-millimeter band for sturdiness and durability
  • Black background with white numbers that are easy to see

Cons

  • The adjustable knob has a tendency to come off easily
  • The date can be a bit tough to read
  • Tends to have a loud ticking sound

Key Features:

This PALADA outdoor watch has large dial numbers that are easy to see, and LED backlight, an alarm clock, and is water-resistant up to 164 feet underwater.

The PALADA watch is an outdoor option that is water-resistant up to 164 feet and comes with multiple useful features when exploring and traveling. This model has a backlight that shines bright so that you can see the face of the watch clearly see the time whenever you need to. 

This watch also comes with an alarm clock that you can set yourself to stick to a schedule, which can help you get through a longer hike on time. It also comes with a Light setting that allows you to see the dial numbers better when the sun is shining bright and it can be difficult to see because of the sun’s glare.

Pros

  • Waterproof up to 164 feet underwater
  • Alarm built-in so you can stay on schedule
  • One-piece construction makes it last longer without breaking
  • Light setting allows you to see the dial numbers in bright light

Cons

  • The band material can crack fairly easily
  • The battery life of this watch is not impressive

Key Features:

This Timex Weekender watch model has a unisex design that both male and female explorers will wear, an adjustable nylon band, dual-time displays, and an Indiglo light-up dial.

The Timex Weekender outdoor watch is an ideal option for customers who want to take it with them on long weekend hikes or camping trips. The unisex design keeps this option available open for all customers to wear and doesn’t have any specific masculine or feminine details. The dual-time display shows you military and standard time.

The band comes in a neutral olive green color and is adjustable up to 8 inches for a good fit for most consumers. The case is polished and is resistant to scratches and is waterproof up to 100 feet. You will not want to submerge this watch for a long time, but it can be used in the rain or snow without being damaged.

Pros

  • Adjustable strap allows for a perfect fit for more customers
  • Suitable design for both men and women
  • Mineral glass crystal watch face for durability and scratch resistance
  • Dial is an off-white that won’t be so harsh when in the sun
  • Numbers are a large size and easy to see

Cons

  • Side knob is not very durable and tends to come out
  • Tends to have a fairly loud ticking noise as the hands move
  • The holes in the strap for sizing begin to fray without much use

Key Features:

This Timex Expedition Classis model comes with leather trims for rugged design, has a 100-hour chronograph, multiple alarm options, water-resistant up to 330 feet underwater.

This Timex Expedition Classic is an outdoor watch model that is water-resistant up to 330 feet. This is one of the best cheap outdoor watch options because of its affordable price and the high water-resistance it comes with. The leather trims add a unique design element that makes it look more durable and tough, which many outdoors will likely enjoy.

The display features two time zones and allows you to see the military time as well. This makes it a useful tactical option for military personnel. This watch also has a stopwatch feature that lets you time your trips or set a time for certain activities. There is also a 24-hour countdown timer that you can use as well.

Pros

  • Has a military time mode for those who want 24-hour timing
  • Has a usable stopwatch for timing outdoor activities
  • Is equipped with multiple alarms for waking up and getting back to camp before dark
  • Acrylic lens for durability and damage resistance

Cons

  • The watchband feels a bit like low-quality material
  • Batteries tend to need changing pretty often, can add to the cost
  • Batteries needed are not rechargeable and needs a jeweler to replace it

Key Features:

This Casio outdoor watch model comes with leather accents for strength, 12 and 14-hour dials, a date window, and has a battery that boasts of a 3-year lifespan.

This Casio watch is an outdoor option that comes with multiple features that allow it to survive harsher conditions. From the nylon band with leather accents to secure it to the watch face, it will stay together longer and last through more activity. The Velcro strap makes it easy to put on and take off so you don’t have to take the time to thread the strap through a metal loop and tighten it.

This outdoor watch also comes with a long battery life that can last as many as 3 years. The analog display features big numbers that are easy to see even in dim lighting. This watch is also water-resistant up to 330 feet and can withstand submersion for short periods of time without stopping. 

Pros

  • Leather additions make the watch look more rugged
  • Has a Velcro strip for strap which makes it easy to put on your wrist
  • Numbers are extra big so they are easy to see at all times
  • Water-resistance is superior to other options by many feet

Cons

  • Watch face tends to get scratched relatively easy
  • The post that attaches the watch face to the strap breaks easily
  • Shouldn’t be used for total submersion for long periods

Key Features:

This SNE digital outdoor watch has a water-resistant build, a built-in night light, a choice of alarm, and a stainless-steel backplate and clasp for durability.

The SNE sports watch is one of my favorites as the best hiking watch under $100 because of the stainless-steel parts that keep it durable enough for major hiking trips, and also the built-in night light that allows you to continue your hike in the evening and at night. The water-resistance lets you take the watch into the water when you need to cross a river, lake, or stream and it can handle being submerged up to 164 feet.

The band of this watch is made for comfort and has a smooth texture that will not rub against your skin and irritate it while you are hiking. This material also makes it easy to move around as the ventilate band is flexible enough to twist and turn with your body as you climb. It is also a lightweight option that doesn’t weigh you down when you take long trips.

Pros

  • Ideal for hiking because of the flexible band that moves with you
  • Night light allows you to see the time when on night hikes
  • Water-resistant enough for short times of submersion
  • Stainless-steel parts keep the whole watch durable

Cons

  • The watch face is large and might be too big for more petite hikers
  • Difficult to view the time if you are not directly looking at it from the center
  • Buttons are small and can be pressed accidentally too easily

Key Features:

The Casio G-Shock Quartz comes with a resin band that is flexible and waterproof, a battery with a 2-year lifespan, a pre-programmed calendar, and waterproof up to 656 feet underwater.

The Casio G-Shock is a sports watch that can be used as one of the best survival watches under $100. This is because it is one of the highest-rated watches for waterproofing and can go underwater up to 656 feet. It also has an alarm that you can use to wake yourself up in the morning to get your day started early. There is also a countdown alarm you can use as well.

The time on this watch is very accurate and comes with only a 15-second difference per month at the most. Also, with the backlight that lets you see the face of the watch at all times, you can go on hikes at night or during harsh weather without losing visibility of the time while it is raining.

Pros

  • Resin band is flexible but also stays on so you won’t lose it
  • It has a high waterproofing option that can be submerged a far distance
  • Backlight is bright and will let you see at night
  • Has both 12 and 24-hour times for military and standard time

Cons

  • The alarm sound is not very loud and some people could sleep through it
  • The face is 46 millimeters and might be too small for some people
  • Mineral dial window may scratch easily with heavy use

Key Features:

The Lad Weather outdoor watch has a negative display, a built-in compass, weather forecasting technology, and has a water resistance rating of 3ATM.

The Lad Weather is an outdoor watch that is my pick for the best tough watch under $100 because of its durable materials and ability to last through many survival scenarios. The water resistance rating is 3ATM, which allows you to use it underwater for a short time if needed. This watch also contains a thermometer that will tell you the current temperature.

This watch has an altimeter that will keep track of your vertical movement, which is ideal for those who like to hike in high altitudes, especially in the snow. It also has a compass that allows you to know your specific location and comes with an alarm built-in so you can start your day at the same time to stay on a strict hiking schedule.

Pros

  • Negative display is easy to see in all different lights, day or night
  • Water resistance rating of 3ATM allows for underwater use
  • Great for hikers who like to take trips in the winter months
  • Altimeter lets you know what altitude you are in

Cons

  • Acrylic watch face gets scratches on it fairly easily
  • Instructions for set-up are really tiny and can be hard for some people to see
  • The compass needs to be recalibrated often which can be a hassle for long trips

Key Features:

The Naturehike Smart Watch comes with a heart rate monitor, alarm clock, it works as a phone and is waterproof against small amounts of water. 

The Naturehike Smart Watch is an outdoor option that can handle many different situations. Though it is a smartwatch, this is not a flimsy choice. This is actually my pick for the best GPS watch under $100 because it is one of the only options that were in this price range come with a GPS. Many others had compasses, but this option offers an accurate GPS, and it also can pick up calls.

The display shows you the current temperature outdoors and, because this also comes with features of a fitness watch, you also get a step tracker and a calorie-burning tracker. This allows you to see how your body is doing during the hike and helps you stay healthier while on a longer trip.

Pros

  • Comes with a GPS that allows you to know your exact location
  • Smartwatch with the ability to receive messages
  • Affordable option for those who have a tight budget
  • Helps you track your physical progress as you hike and travel

Cons

  • Fits up to a nine-inch wrist which could be too small for some customers
  • The battery life on this watch does not last very long and is not ideal for long trips
  • Has a touchscreen which can be hit while you are hiking and could changes settings

FAQs

Do you need a GPS on your watch when you are hiking?

Not all hikers will need a GPS to tell where they are, but for those who are not used to hiking without one, it is a good idea to have one. Even if you only use it when you can no longer tell where you are, they can get you back on track. They can also be useful for tracking where you are on the trail to ensure that you are not going onto another trail in a different direction.

Are outdoor watches worth it?

Having an outdoor watch is something that is well worth it because it has many features that you can use when hiking. This is especially worth it for beginning or intermediate hikers because they can help you stay on track and avoid getting lost on a trail. With the ability to have a compass or GPS, day and date displays, and backlights that let you see the time during the day and night you will likely find that an outdoor watch comes in handy when you are exploring and traveling.

What is the difference between an indoor and outdoor watch?

The big difference between these two types of watches are the way they are made. Indoor watches are made to handle everyday situations, but outdoor watches are built to handle multiple weather conditions. An indoor watch will get ruined in the rain, but an outdoor watch is made to handle a bit of water without stopping.

rugged watches under 100

Wrap Up

Finding the best outdoor watches under $100 shouldn’t be a tough thing to do, but with tons of options on the market, it can be difficult. Well, with the watches that we reviewed above, you can the best choice for you.

The Timex Expedition Scout 40 watch is one of the best overall, but if you can’t afford to have this option, then choosing a cheaper option like the Aposon digital watch will allow you to stay within your budget. However, if you want a smart option with a GPS, then the Naturehike watch will be the best for you.

No matter which one you choose, any of the choices on this list will make a great durable option for you. However, as the Aposon is my personal favorite, if you want to purchase this watch, you can find it here.

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