Best Hiking Watches Under $200

  • Post author:
  • Post last modified:September 1, 2023
  • Post category:Outdoor Gear
  • Reading time:15 mins read

Watches are more than just a way to tell time…

…they are also a fashion statement.

But, when it comes to hiking, a watch needs to be much more.

It needs to be able to stand up to the elements…

…and have all the features that a hiker needs.


Best Hiking Watches Under $200

SUUNTO Core, Outdoor Sports Watch

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just getting started, the Suunto Core hiking watch is a great choice. It’s packed with features like:…

  • Storm Alarm
  • Altimeter
  • Barometer
  • Compass

…to keep you informed of conditions while you hike.

All these features make it one of the best hiking watches under $200.

Other reasons to choose Suunto Core:

The watch has dual times, a date display, and an alarm, making it perfect for hikers who want to be able to keep track of time and conditions while on the trail.

What’s more, it’s a reliable and durable hiking watch that can withstand virtually any condition.

This classic model features a lightweight composite case, an aluminum bezel, and a comfortable elastomer strap.

In addition, it’s 30-meter water-resistant, which allows you to go for a swim without any worry.

Negatives/Caution: Avoid pressing the buttons when you’re using the watch underwater.


Garmin fenix 3 GPS Watch, Gray

The Garmin GPS watch features a Chroma display that is 1.2 sunlight-visible and high-resolution.

The Chroma optically-bonded display makes it so that the colors on the screen are vibrant and easy to see, even in direct sunlight.

Moreover, the watch is water-rated up to 10ATM/ 100 Meters1.

This just means that you’ll never have to worry about getting your watch wet again. Whether you’re out swimming, caught in a rainstorm, or accidentally drop your watch in the water, you can rest assured knowing it will be just fine.

Water-resistant watches are often more durable than their non-water-resistant counterparts. This means they’ll last longer and stand up to wear and tear better over time.

In addition, the company also claims to provide an even more accurate position than GPS when it’s coupled with EPO and GLONASS.

Negatives: There’s been a report that the heart rate monitor is inconsistent.


Amazfit T-Rex 2 Smart Watch

Super Bright Display

The Amazfit T Rex 2 is a premium GPS smartwatch that features an AMOLED always-on display. This feature improves the screen’s visibility, making it easier to see in all conditions.

Moreover, the watch withstands extreme environments, making it perfect for hiking and other outdoor activities.

Accurate Positioning

Moreover, the watch has dual-band positioning and support for five satellite positioning systems. This promises more accurate position tracking than a single-band GPS watch.

By triangulating signals from multiple satellite constellations, the watch can more accurately pinpoint its location.

Not only does the watch provide more accurate position information, but it also offers other benefits. The dual-band receiver is less susceptible to interference than a single-band receiver, making it more reliable.

Moreover, the tracking system will show you the shortest distance (or displacement) back to the start of your hiking expedition. So, you won’t have to take unnecessary twists and turns on your way back, saving you energy and time.

Battery Timing

The battery of this smartwatch can last up to 24 days with typical usage and 45 days on Saver Mode. This means you won’t have to recharge your watch every time you’re going on a long hike.

Heart-Rate Monitor

Plus, it lets you test your:

  • Heart rate
  • Blood-oxygen saturation
  • Stress level
  • Breathing rate

Negatives: Although the GPS of this watch is great, other features might not be accurate, including the sleep app.


SUUNTO Core, Outdoor Sports Watch

Smart Features

This watch is equipped with features like:

  • The storm Alarm (notifies you of approaching storms)
  • Altimeter
  • Barometer
  • Compass

All of them keep you informed of the conditions while you hike.

As a result, you can move forward on the trail with confidence.

Plus, it’s equipped with:

  • A date display
  • Dual times
  • Predicted times for sunset and sunrise (This helps you maximize your hiking time)
  • A depth meter (up to 30 meters accuracy)

Durability

The Suunto Core is one of the best hiking watches under $200. It’s a great watch for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts because it’s rugged, reliable, and has all the features you need without being too bulky or heavy.

What sets the Suunto Core apart from other hiking watches is its durability.

Negatives: Although the display might not be the brightest out there, it’ll be good enough.


Garmin 010-01769-11 Vívoactive 3

Built-in GPS

Built-in GPS in this Garmin watch allows you to monitor daily activities and track location when outdoors. This can help you to stay on track with your fitness goals or maintain a regular workout regimen.

And, of course, it lets you track your distance, pace, and location when you’re hiking.

Bright Screen

Thanks to the Garmin Chroma display, you’ll be able to see the screen even in direct sunlight. This means you can go for a hike whenever you feel like it, no matter the light condition.

Durable

Moreover, because it’s built with gorilla glass, you also won’t have to worry about durability, and can use the watch with peace of mind.

Connects with Your Smartphone

Because it connects seamlessly with your smartphone, you can monitor everything, including…

  • Social media
  • Text messages
  • Emails

…on your wrist!

Easy to Use and Customizable

The best thing is that the watch is easy to use and you can customize its screen according to your needs.

Negatives: Although the watch is advertised to work 13 hours, the battery life might be a couple of hours less.

Plus, while you can always reconnect the Bluetooth, the watch might not stay in sync with your phone.


Casio Men’s Pro Trek PRG-270-1

Smart Features

The Casio Men’s Pro Trek comes with:

  • Altimeter (Measures and shows your altitude)
  • Barometer/Thermometer (Measures pressure and temperature)
  • Digital Compass (Helps you locate your position – A lifesaver in case you get lost on a trail)

Full Auto LED Backlight

The automatic LED backlight illuminates the display, allowing you to see your watch at night time or in low-light conditions.

To activate this feature, all you’d need to do is turn your wrist to view your watch.

Durability

The watch is water-resistant to 100 meters, so you won’t have to worry about water affecting its electronics.

You also won’t have to worry about its overall durability since the brand name Casio speaks for itself.

Solar-Powered Battery

One of the stand-out features of this Casio Men’s watch is that its battery gets recharged with sunlight and UV light.

So, you won’t have to worry about juicing up this watch’s battery every day.

It’ll charge itself while you’re on your day hikes.

Negatives: The compass won’t probably work if there’s a magnet nearby, but that shouldn’t be a deal breaker.


Best Hiking Watches Under $200: A Buyer’s Guide

So, what features should you be looking at while selecting a hiking watch?

Hiking watches are becoming more popular as people become more interested in outdoor activities. There are a lot of features to consider when selecting a hiking watch, so it is important to know what to look for. Here are some key features to look for:

1. Brand loyalty: Make sure the hiking watch you choose is from a reputable brand. Many of the best hiking watches are made by brands like Casio, Garmin, and Suunto. This will ensure that you receive quality products and support if there are any problems.

2. GPS functionality: A GPS hiking watch allows you to track your location and speed while on your hike. This is helpful in case you get lost or need to find your way back home quickly.

3. Water resistance: A hiking watch should be water resistant up to a certain depth. It should also have a water lock feature that seals the crown so you don’t accidentally flood the device.

4. Display size: The display should be large enough for you to see easily as you hike along.

5. The backlight: The backlight should be easy to press and should light up the screen well so you can see it even in poor lighting conditions.

Conclusion: Best Hiking Watches For Under $200

This was all about the best hiking watches under 200. All of these watches are great for hikers and offer a variety of features that are perfect for any hike.

Each of these watches is capable of tracking and recording your hiking activities. They all have a large display that is easy to read while you’re hiking. You can easily view the time, temperature, and altitude, and even see your heart rate when you need it.

Barry

I'm an outdoor enthusiast and serial entrepreneur, with a splash of digital marketing and telecom engineering in my DNA. When I'm not working, you'll find me spending time traveling with my son, and loving on my dog, Tobster.