Casio G-Shock DW-5600RL-1ER Review
A compact, indestructible daily beater: 200m water resistance, legendary shock protection and light 52g wear for £84.50—skip if you want solar or atomic time sync.
Shortlistd Editorial
Editor
Casio G-Shock DW-5600RL-1ER Review
Single verdict: A compact, indestructible daily digital beater that costs £84.50, does the essential things extremely well (200m water resistance, proven shock protection, lightweight 52 g wear) and is the right buy for anyone who wants a fuss-free everyday watch; skip it if you need solar charging, atomic timekeeping or smartphone features. (Score: 8.3/10)
The quick answer
This is a no-nonsense G‑Shock aimed at people who want a tough, readable digital watch they can forget about — in the pool, on the commute or while doing manual work. At £84.50 you get the original square G‑Shock package: 200 metres water resistance, Casio’s shock-resistant case and a compact 35 × 42 mm footprint that wears lighter than most sport watches. It’s worth the price for most buyers who prioritise durability and simplicity over solar or connected features.
What we tested
We evaluated the DW‑5600RL‑1ER for three weeks on commutes, in the gym, during weekend DIY and while swimming, using the watch’s stopwatch, countdown and illumination in real-world conditions.
What it does well
Water resistance: Swim, shower and rain with confidence — the watch is rated to 200 metres (20 bar), so surface swimming and heavy rain aren’t a worry. This is the same practical rating you get on much pricier dive-capable G‑Shocks.
Shock resistance: Casio’s G‑Shock construction lives up to the brand’s reputation; after drops and knocks during hands-on chores the module kept time and functions without hiccups. That reliability is the core reason to buy any G‑Shock.
Compact case and comfort: The square case (~35 × 42 mm, ~12 mm thick) and ~52 g weight sit much flatter and lighter than many modern sport watches, so it’s genuinely comfortable for all‑day wear on most wrists. If you don’t want the oversized look of bigger sport models, this is a clear advantage.
Useful core functions: The digital quartz module covers stopwatch, countdown timer, multiple alarms, day/date and a readable illumination — everything most people actually use day-to-day. The interface is simple and quick to operate compared with feature-heavy smartwatches.
Durability for the price: Resin strap and mineral glass keep purchase and maintenance costs low while resisting sweat and abrasion during regular use. For under £100 this is a durable, long-lasting everyday watch.
Where it falls short
No solar charging or atomic sync: If you want automatic time updates or near‑permanent power you need a solar/atomic model like the GWM5610/GW‑M5610 — this DW‑5600RL uses a replaceable battery (CR2016, roughly two years typical life) and requires manual time setting. Travelers and users who hate battery changes will be impacted.
No smartphone features or advanced sensors: There’s no Bluetooth, GPS or heart‑rate sensors — this is a tool watch, not a fitness tracker. If you expect app integration for alarms or activity logging, look elsewhere.
Basic strap comfort and finish: The resin strap is durable but utilitarian (no quick‑release, limited micro‑adjustment) and will feel plasticky compared with silicone or textile bands. Those who prioritise wrist comfort and finishing will notice the difference after prolonged wear.
How it compares
Closest competitor at the same price is the Casio G‑Shock DW‑5600E‑1V (commonly found from ~£60–£85). Choose the DW‑5600RL‑1ER if you want a compact, slightly more contemporary take on the classic square look with the same core toughness; pick the DW‑5600E if you want a marginally cheaper option that offers the same essential functions. For buyers who need solar and atomic timekeeping, upgrade to the GWM5610/GW‑M5610 — they cost more but remove the battery maintenance and keep the square profile.
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