Casio G-Shock Rangeman GW9400 Review
Sometimes, you need a wristwatch that is going to be capable of enduring all different types of punishment; while maintaining its superb functionality and practicality. That right, there is the perfect way to describe the G-Shock series of watches from Casio. Today, we will be taking a look at a specific entry into the series; the Casio G-Shock Rangeman GW9400.
Without question, lifetime fans of the series will be thrilled. First, to know that this specific model maintains the esteemed durability and second for the well-known ruggedness of G-Shock watches. While it's housing, case, and overall build as a tactical watch make it ideal for military-type situations, its water-resistance also makes it suitable for inclement weather or even swimming.
However, with the implemented triple sensor functionality, the Casio G-Shock Rangeman also holds up on the software end of the spectrum. This sensor combines a barometer, thermometer, and altimeter all into one. As a G-Shock watch, however, it is pretty bulky and will fit big on your wrist. For what it is, though, it is a world-class design.
Equipped with a triple sensor
Built with quartz movement
Features a mineral crystal dial window
Case and band are made of black resin
Easy to use
Aesthetically pleasing
The green color option’s negative display has received criticism
The included manual could be better
Can be bulky on your wrist
Durability
First things first, and this will be discussed later, this bad boy is extremely resistant to water and can be used as a freediving watch. Part of the reason is each of the buttons has been sealed to prevent any debris (such as dust and mud) from entering inside. Also, the case as a whole is resistant to mud and is also shock-resistant. Oh yeah, and not only have the buttons been sealed, but the sensor button has been protected with a metal cover.
Yeah, let’s say that this sucker can handle pretty much any outdoor adventure that you plan to put it through (and it is also great for survival and military uses, as well).
Features
More astounding than the capabilities of this sensor is the fact that Casio got it right on the first try. There are very few glitches and performance issues when operating it.
Now, while you may not have a use for all the functions of the sensor, note that the thermometer measures temperature, barometer measures air pressure, and altimeter measures the altitude of the area. Also, this comes equipped with the ability to tell time (clearly), a stopwatch feature, and also a date feature. It is a pretty impressive package overall.
Accuracy
Of course, this also depends on the standards that you have. If you have used a ton of separate barometers and altimeters in the past, then you may find this to be a step below them. Sure, the implementation of a GPS into this watch would have made it more accurate, but that is not the case. Also, to point this out, you will need to set the altitude reference.
Having all three of these functions (including the thermometer) in one sensor be as accurate as they are is incredible.
Waterproofness
That is not at all what this is referencing as you will permanently damage this watch if you do that. After all, if this were the case, it would be “waterproof” to 200 meters and not just water-resistant to that depth. So, what does this mean, then? It means the Casio G-Shock Rangeman, technically, is capable of recreational scuba diving.
However, you may not want to risk scuba diving (check the guide on the best dive watches) with it. Yes, the buttons are sealed, but if there is too much water pressure, it will not matter. During rainstorms or even while showering or swimming, though, this will be just fine.
Face
Starting with the positive display, this is what you will be most familiar with. On the black model, the numbers and letters are displayed in a black font, and the background is white. This makes a face incredibly easy to view during the day, and the LED backlight makes it easy to see at night.
The negative display, green model is a bit different. Instead of black lettering, the background itself is black, and the letters and numbers are a light color. This specific model has received the most criticism out of the two for being pretty darn challenging to view during broad daylight.
Also, either way, you go, the face will be protected with a mineral crystal dial window. To say that this does a sufficient job of resisting scratches and general damage is an understatement.
Band
In addition to being durable and long-lasting, this band is also quite thin and comfortable to wear. As for the size of the wrists that it will account for, based on user feedback, it seems that 8.5 inches are about the max. With wrists of this size, the fit may be somewhat snug, though, even when the clasp is attached to the farthest hole possible. Still, overall, there are little to no complaints with the band of this watch.
Ease of Use
With one single button accounting for so many different functions, you would think it would be a tad difficult to operate. However, that is not the case at all, and the reason is that each function has its own distinct audible tone. Three beeps will allow you access to the thermometer and barometer, two beeps to the compass, and then one beep the altimeter.
Now, as for everything else, a few users have commented on the rather lackluster manual that is included. To get a better understanding of some of the other functions of this watch and how to utilize them, you may need to resort to online instruction videos.
Power Source
For it to achieve energy, it is also not as if it needs to be exposed to direct sunlight for hours on end. Sure, this is the most efficient way, but even on cloudy afternoons, it can still draw its power. But, what happens if the G-Shock GW9400 is not exposed to any sunlight for an extended period?
If this happens, the watch will be switched to its power save mode. In this mode, you will still have access to alarms and the time, but the display is going to be shut off. This will use very little power, but as soon as you expose it to sunlight, it will switch out of this mode.
Weight
You will notice that this watch is on your wrist, as it is going to weigh your hand down quite a bit. Due to its tactical nature and its overall outdoor design, however, it is also not as if you will be wearing it all day long. Sure, you could, but this may be better suited as a situational timepiece.
Style
The model with the positive display is mostly black, with the addition of red accents. Overall, it is aesthetically pleasing as the colors do blend incredibly well together. But, if you do plan to use this outdoor watch for tactical or survival reasons, you may enjoy the green model more.
Especially for the military, the green camo band and black background will blend in exceptionally well with other likeminded gear. Either way, you are in good hands here.
Bottom Line
Thanks to its multitude of functions (including the raved triple sensor), it also holds up on the performance end of things too. Yes, an integrated GPS would have put it over the top, but beggars can’t be choosers.
The overall size, weight, and negative display of the green model are probably the only real gripes that you can have with this timepiece. As this is a G-Shock watch, though, the size and weight are not precisely new issues.
For some of you, this will be a situational watch. If the situations that arise involve outdoor adventures that require tough gear, the Casio G-Shock Rangeman is an excellent option.