Casio G-Shock GW-B5600BC Review & Complete Guide

Casio G-Shock GW-B5600BC Review & Complete Guide

We have reviewed a number of rectangular/square G-Shock watches earlier, but what we have also done is said that there is a G-Shock watch for everyone.

The Casio G-Shock is one of the most popular watch models in the world, and it is Casio’s most popular. If you are here, the G-Shock doesn’t really need any further introduction to what it is about. It is about durability, robustness, performance, and reliability.

And over the years, Casio has consistently released new versions and iterations in the G-Shock collection to serve the wants and needs of its audience. Today, there are a ton of G-Shocks to choose from, all with different functions, purposes, and technology.

As mentioned, we have already reviewed several different square G-Shocks, but this time, we are looking closer at the G-Shock GW-B5600BC, and obviously, this watch exists for a reason.

First and foremost, the square-designed G-Shock watches is one of the most iconic designs from Casio. The G-Shock is generally known for two different designs. The rounded case design with a thick bezel and the square version is a little neater on the wrist and thus is a little more versatile.

The biggest change in this watch is its design. The GW-B5600BC is an alternative to the GMW-B5000, which is the most popular. Its functionality of it remains mostly the same. What stands out about it is its all-black design, and this is also a contributing factor to why it is so popular. The all-black design gives it a sporty and aggressive appearance which many people enjoy.

Before we dig in, it can be good to know that this model comes in three different variants – GW-B5600BC-1B (all-black), GW-B5600-2 (black and blue), and GW-B5600BC-1 (black and yellow). Apart from the color differences, the black and blue variants have a resin band whilst the other 2 variants come with a resin bracelet.

Without further ado, let’s look closer at what this watch has to offer.

Case

First and foremost, this watch is presented with a black resin case. The resin sits slightly raised above the edge of the screen in order to provide maximal protection for the screen, and the sides have”bumpers” in order to increase its resistance against shocks and bangs, as well as provide good protection for the pushbuttons. This is just as usual for this model, and nothing hasn’t really changed here. In fact, the case design is the same as the DW-5600 which was released in 1983. The case is not really squared, but has an octagon shape.

The case size is exactly the same, with a diameter of 42.8mm and a thickness of 13.4mm. With that said, with its unique shape, it works for most wrists, both small and large.

The case has an integrated resin strap that integrates seamlessly with the case. A big difference, however, is the watch’s weight. This watch weighs in at a mere 85 grams, and this is one of the reasons it is so immensely popular. It is extremely light on the wrist, and at times, you may even forget that you are wearing it.

And whilst this is not a dress watch with its resin design and sporty appearance, it works really well for everyday wear.

The strap tapers from 25mm to 18mm for improved comfort.

A resin strap is a good option for this type of timepiece. It is robust, durable, and easy to wash when needed. For improved comfort, the strap tapers, which is a great thing.

On the sides of the case, we find 4 buttons made of steel. Something that some people complain about is that the buttons can be difficult to press and access, but this may also be a positive since it means that they are well-protected.

This watch has a water resistance of 200m which is really great. In practice, it means you can go diving and swimming with this watch without any issues.

Dial/screen

Since this is a digital watch, it is presented with a digital LCD screen.

This is made as a negative LCD screen for good legibility. In terms of the information that it presents, it’s really nothing new. It has mineral glass on top and the LCD has a white LED backlight that you can activate with the press of a button for improved legibility. The legibility of this watch is good, but it is not the best out there. This is helped by the backlight, but it is also not a deal-breaker since it is not a watch that requires the absolutely best legibility since it is not really a field watch designed for the harshest of conditions.

In addition, another nice feature is that you can set the watch so that it lights up every time you bring your watch to your face.

Also, the watch has a solar panel behind the watch face which is discreetly integrated, making it hard to notice. The solar function obviously brings a great benefit to this watch, which is removing the need for replacing or changing the batteries. This is good both for your convenience and the environment.

Movement & functions

This model incorporates tough solar and has a Bluetooth function. It incorporates a world time function which allows you to keep track of the time in different countries and time zones.

This watch can track up to 5 different timezones at a time. In the right corner, it shows your timezone, regardless of which other timezone you are tracking.

It also incorporates an alarm function with the ability to set up to 5 different alarms. This allows you to use it as a minute repeater that activates the alarm after a certain time.

The GW-B5600BC also has a built-in stopwatch function which is activated through the start and stop buttons, with the ability to split the timing. This of course also means that you have a countdown timer.

Now perhaps the most important function is Bluetooth. The Bluetooth function allows you to connect the watch to your Android or iOS smartphone using the G-Shock Connected app.

When your phone is connected, the watch is able to sync the settings as well as synchronize the watch’s time with your phone. There is a lot to explore here and the app is really helpful at telling you what options you have. For example, you can adjust the settings on the watch via the app. This is a convenient and easier way to adjust different functions than doing it manually with the buttons.

For improved battery life, it has a ”hibernation mode” which turns the screen off when not in use. For greater accuracy, the Multi-Band 6 syncs your watch with a nearby radio tower.

Specifications

• Weight: 85 grams
• Dimensions: 48.9×42.8×13.4mm
• Water resistance: 200m/660 feet
• Weight:  85 grams
• Crystal: Mineral glass
• Case/bezel: Resin
• Functions:
• Tough Solar (Solar powered)
• LED backlight (Super illuminator)
• Full auto LED light, selectable illumination duration (2 seconds or 4 seconds), afterglow
• Time calibration signal reception
• Auto receives up to six times a day (remaining auto receives are canceled as soon as one is successful)
• Mobile link (Wireless linking using Bluetooth®)
• 5 World time – 39 time zones (39 cities +coordinated universal time), daylight saving on/off, Home city/World time city swapping, auto summer time (DST) switching
• 1/100-second stopwatch
• Measuring capacity: 00’00”00~59’59”99 (for the first 60 minutes), 1:00’00~23:59’59 (after 60 minutes)
• Measuring unit: 1/100 second (for the first 60 minutes), 1 second (after 60 minutes)
• Measuring modes: Elapsed time, split time, 1st-2nd place times
• Countdown timer: Measuring unit: 1 second: Countdown range: 24 hours, Countdown start time setting range: 1 minute to 24 hours (1-minute increments and 1-hour increments)
• 5 daily alarms (with 1 snooze alarm)Hourly time signal
• Low battery alert
• Power Saving (display goes blank to save power when the watch is left in the dark)
• Full auto-calendar (to the year 2099)
• 12/24-hour format
• Button operation tone on/off
• Date/month display swapping
• Day display (days of the week selectable in six languages)
• Regular timekeeping: Hour, minute, second, pm, month, date, day
• Accuracy: ±15 seconds per month (with no signal calibration and mobile link function)
• Approx. battery operating time:
  10 months on rechargeable battery (operation period with normal use without exposure to light after charge)
  22 months on rechargeable battery (operation period when stored in total darkness with the power save function on after full charge)

Conclusion

All in all, the Casio G-Shock GW-B5600BC is simply a durable, reliable, and robust versatile timepiece that offers everything you’d expect from a G-Shock.

It carries the tough G-Shock DNA, but it is at the same time designed for more versatile wear with its sleek profile and neat design.

In terms of functions, there are plenty of other alternatives that offer even more functions and features, but unless you’re out in the field, hiking, or performing other demanding activities, this will do just fine for everyday wear.

The highlight is certainly its Bluetooth connectivity which enables easier settings and access to information. There is some room for improvement, but nothing substantial, and at its price point, we really cannot complain too much.

In addition, with its price, you really cannot go wrong with the GW-B5600BC. It’s simply an affordable and robust everyday watch.

The Casio G-Shock GW-B5600BC is available to order on Amazon.