Best digital watches: buying guide
You have been trying to buy a new digital watch for some time: yours, over the years, has definitely deteriorated and is no longer “performing” as it once was. Therefore, you believe that the time has come to replace it with a quality and efficient product. Or you would like to surprise someone by giving them a digital watch, and would like some advice about it.
In fact, it is not at all easy to orient yourself in this area: the decision is made particularly difficult by the presence of a great variety of models, all very attractive and promising. With this in mind, it is good to evaluate every single aspect, from the materials, to the functionalities, to the type of display, in order to simplify the selection process of the best digital watches: for this reason I have created a purchase guide able to facilitate you in this arduous task.
Just spend a few minutes of your precious time reading the next paragraphs and you will have all the information you need to choose the right digital watch for your needs. Whether it’s a men’s, women’s, children’s or wall-mounted model, I guarantee you will find the right ideas to complete your purchase without hesitation. So what do you think? Do you trust me? Perfect, then get comfortable and relax. I just have to wish you a good reading and a good choice!
Index
- How to choose a digital wristwatch
- Functions
- Display
- Materials
- How to choose a digital wall clock
- Which digital watches to buy
- Best digital watches for men
- Best digital watches for women
- Best digital baby watches
- Best digital wall clocks
How to choose a digital wristwatch
The purchase of a new digital wristwatch is putting you in serious difficulty: you are aware that you will have to combine business with pleasure, that is to know how to identify a product that guarantees excellent technological characteristics and, at the same time, has a design in able to perfectly respond to the stylistic needs and to the outfit of those who will wear it.
Surely, from a functional point of view I will be able to give you more than a simple help by showing you how to choose a digital wristwatch through a detailed description of the most exquisitely technical aspects. Don’t worry, though: after providing you with the general explanation of the functions, materials, display, strap and all other essential features, in this article you will also find a buying guide with a selection of products which, in my opinion, represent a condensation of aesthetics and efficiency (with an eye to the convenience of the price).
Functions
The first fundamental aspect to evaluate when buying a digital wristwatch is undoubtedly that of the functions: nowadays it is possible, in fact, to perform a great variety of operations through this small device, all extremely comfortable and practical.
In addition to the simple display of date and time, in fact, the more classic models can have additional timing features such as calendar, alarm and stopwatch, which always come in handy in many circumstances.
If, then, you are someone who dedicates a lot to outdoor activities, starting from simple walks, you will not be able to refrain from considering the presence of the pedometer. For the more adventurous excursions, however, also check the presence of the altimeter, the barometer and the compass: the latter, in combination with the possible integration of a GPS module, allow the device to calculate the distances traveled with extreme precision. altitude and atmospheric pressure information.
If you love sports and want to take a reliable companion with you during your competitive activities, the best digital wrist watches offer intelligent features that can monitor different types of sports and control body functions with special sensors for detecting temperature, oxygenation of the blood and the heart rate monitor: in this case we are talking about sport watches.
Display
As for the display of the digital clock, the latter is normally LED: this technology, in fact, allows, through the use of tiny semiconductor components with low current absorption ( diodes ), to provide a high emission of light. , always ensuring good visibility and, at the same time, a good battery life.
In other models, however, you may find the presence of an LCD screen: these are in particular brands that try, through a reworking of vintage, to evoke the typical style of the digital wristwatch of the 80s.
In any case, it is very important to also make sure that the backlight function is present, which allows you to easily read the time and any other digital information in different ambient light conditions.
The evaluation of the size of the dial is also very important at this stage: do not be fooled by the photo of the product and always check the actual measurements carefully, relating them to the amount of information and features you want to be able to view on the screen.
Finally, I would like to point out that some products have a dual display, digital and analog: a feature that adds a classic touch and elegance to the product design.
Materials
The materials of which the digital watch is composed in the various components, i.e. case, glass and strap, are decisive according to the intended use of it.
The display protector is often made from hardened mineral glass, which is extremely tough and sturdy and is found in most mid to high-end watches. The latter, in fact, offers excellent resistance to scratches and repairs at affordable prices.
The Plexiglas glass is less expensive than the mineral, but also is used on many brand products in that, although offering a lower resistance to scratches, provides an important protection and is less subject to drastic breakage. Finally, the sapphire crystal is considered the best ever thanks to a level of hardness so high that it is unlikely to damage it, even in the event of accidental impacts.
The watch case is the part that protects the mechanical movement of the device, which in this type of watches is usually quartz: here too we can refer to different types of material that define its resistance, water-resistance and, of course , in large part also the price.
In the best digital wristwatches, the use of steel is preferred, which ensures a high robustness to the product. Other very popular materials are resin (or a mix of composite materials ), particularly used in sports watches due to the remarkable ability to adapt to different environmental situations. On the other hand, cheaper digital wristwatches are more likely to use plastic materials that are more prone to deformation and damage.
Furthermore, in the case of water sports , it is also advisable to consider the waterproofing class, which is usually expressed by indicating the maximum depth that can be reached in meters, bar (air pressure), ATM (atmospheres), or with the IP indication followed by a two-digit number that determines respectively its resistance to the penetration of foreign bodies and to wetness. Therefore, if you are looking for a product suitable for snorkeling, a not particularly high resistance may be sufficient, while for diving it is necessary to evaluate this data more carefully.
In some cases the watches, with particular reference to the underwater models, may have a unidirectional rotating steel bezel, which is essential, during the dive, to check the time spent in depth and those of ascent: in case of professional use, therefore, it is advisable to check that it is made in such a way as to maintain the luminescence for a long time in order to be viewed in poor or absent light conditions.
Finally, the strap can be made of rubber, steel, leather, fabric, gold or titanium. Much depends on the basic choice between practicality and design: leather, for example, is certainly very elegant, but at the same time it is particularly fragile and subject to wear.
For multifunctional digital watches, aimed at an audience that uses them more dynamically, the ideal choice undoubtedly falls on silicone or steel, which have the great advantage of being waterproof and, in general, more resistant to adverse weather conditions.
With regard to silicone, moreover, it is also possible to refer to different colors that make the product more customizable, youthful and, in general, easily matched to your look.
How to choose a digital wall clock
Do you want to embellish your living room, kitchen, or any other room in your home with a digital clock that is visually pleasing yet functional and easy to read? Well, a lot will certainly depend on your aesthetic taste, but if you want to understand how to choose a digital wall clock , I suggest you do not overlook the presence of some additional features that could be particularly convenient.
First of all, you could check, for example, that the device is also radio-controlled: in this way you will avoid having to manually set the time when it comes time to change the summer or winter time. Alternatively, some models are equipped with a convenient remote control that allows you to adjust its functions remotely.
Secondly, as far as functionality is concerned, as you probably already know, the best digital wall clocks often show additional information such as the date, temperature, humidity percentage or even the phases of the moon: in this case it is good to check that the display is large enough to contain all the characters and display them clearly, making it visible even from a distance in a clear and bright way.
In this regard, I have another important recommendation: if the clock is intended for a bedroom, consider purchasing a product whose LEDs do not produce excessively bright light (it could severely disturb your sleep), or have the adjustable brightness function.
Furthermore, the most advanced models also allow you to check the external temperature, thanks to the help of special sensors to be strategically placed on the terrace, garden or balcony and are able to produce weather forecasts that can be consulted through easy-to-interpret icons.
Finally, if you want a versatile product that can adapt to different needs of use, some items have an additional folding support that allows, if necessary, to place the clock even on a table or bedside table.
Which digital watches to buy
Now I would say that you are quite clear on how to value a digital watch. So, let me suggest some interesting models aimed at various user groups.
Best digital watches for men
If you are looking for the best digital watches for men, I have selected for you some products with an attractive design which, for technical and functional characteristics, I also consider particularly interesting.
Suunto Core Crush
If you are looking for an outdoor digital wristwatch, the Core Crush model by Suunto, a Finnish company specializing in the production of sports watches, undoubtedly offers excellent value for money. The product presents itself as one of the best digital sports watches, with a resistant design obtained from the combination of a composite material case, the stainless steel bezel, a soft silicone strap and a protective mineral crystal glass, while the display it is a matrix of LEDs with backlighting. The integrated functions are definitely oriented towards outdoor activities: the possibility of using the altimeter, the barometer and compass (it does not, however, have a GPS module) and special meteorological functions that provide information on the trend of atmospheric conditions. It also has a depth gauge suitable for swimming and snorkeling: consider that the device has a maximum diving resistance of 30 meters.
CASIO GW-M5610-1ER
CASIO has always been a timeless reference point for lovers of the genre. One of the best CASIO digital watches is undoubtedly the GW-M5610-1ER model, in particular for the robustness of the structure, formed by a shockproof resin case, hermetic and resistant to dirt and a mineral glass capable of significantly protecting the object from scratches and unsightly damage. It has many useful features, including stopwatch, timer, alarm and calendar. It has a good waterproofness that makes it capable of withstanding a pressure of up to 20 bar and a LED display capable of offering excellent visibility even in the dark thanks to the self-illumination function which, once activated, illuminates the dial with a simple flick of the wrist. One of the most interesting features, however, is the presence of solar cells that power the clock in an autonomous and ecological way: the excess energy, in fact, is saved in a special battery.
Sector No Limits EX-01
The No Limits series by Sector can undoubtedly represent a reliable and valid choice. I would like to point out in particular the EX-01 model, which presents itself as a robust and dynamic product with considerable dimensions (the case has a diameter of 51 mm). It is certainly suitable for a busy life, but thanks to the use of polycarbonate, an extremely light and functional material, it is quite comfortable, while at the same time ensuring excellent wearability also for the care of style, shape and colors. From a technical point of view it is characterized by the presence of a wide range of smart features such as pedometer, calorie counter,sleep control, e-mail and message notifications, which can be activated by connecting to the dedicated Sector Expander app. It is water resistant, but withstands a maximum pressure of 5 bar (50 meters).
Best digital watches for women
Are you looking for a product that has purely feminine connotations, able to combine elements of style and cutting-edge functionality? In this case, take a look in the next paragraphs at the best women’s digital watches that I have selected especially for you.
Pasnew Zelan
The first model I want to recommend, particularly if you are looking for the best cheap digital watches, is Pasnew’s Zelan-PSE445G-NN4. It is a very simple and modern product that, at an extremely affordable cost, offers a series of very useful features such as night light, timer, stopwatch and calendar. The materials are not particularly resistant (ABS case, resin strap and acrylic glass display protection), however a good waterproofness is guaranteed(up to 30 meters), although it is not recommended to use it during a hot shower due to the steam that could deform the material it is made of. It is available in various colors (white, pink, black) to adapt to different styles and outfits.
Casio LA670WEM-7EF
In this selection, a CASIO model could not be missing and the choice fell on the article LA670WEM-7EF. It is a product designed specifically to adapt to a female wrist, and is characterized by very elegant and sinuous features embellished with a particularly refined and comfortable stainless steel strap with a fine and flexible mesh. In terms of functionality, it has a stopwatch, daily alarm, timer (with 7 presets suitable for different types of sports) and automatic calendar.. This model is waterproof according to DIN 8310 and/or ISO 22810 and can therefore only withstand light splashes: consequently, contact with a greater quantity of water should be avoided.
Nixon Siren
This Nixon model is undoubtedly one of the best wristwatch models for women, both for functional, stylistic and construction reasons. It is very versatile and adapts perfectly to the practice of various types of sports, with particular reference to water sports: it is, in fact, water-resistant, with a water resistance class of 100 meters (10 ATM). It also has a feature that provides basic tide information as well as a date, chronograph and countdown timer. From the point of view of materials, the presence of stainless steel makes the structure particularly compact and resistant and at the same time theMilanese link chain of the strap gives it a very refined, elegant and luxurious style.
Best digital baby watches
It is always nice to witness the smile of a child who unwraps a gift: if you intend to give him a special surprise, in this section you will find an accurate description of the best digital watches for children which, I am sure, will help you a lot in this difficult decision.
Ben Nevis L6606
For its first digital watch you should take a look at the model L6606 of Ben Nevis: it is a cheap product but complete different points of view. In fact, it combines the comfort of a light material such as silicone, the compactness of stainless steel, the resistance of transparent resin glass, with the presence of simple functions ( stopwatch, calendar, alarm, alarm clock ) that will allow the child to learn how it works in a fun way. The waterproofness of which it is equipped guarantees the possibility of making a safe use even in daily activities such as washing hands, showering or swimming.
CASIO F-91WC-2AEF
Are you particularly fond of CASIO digital watches and would like to give one to your child but obviously want a model that is suitable for his age? In this case I suggest you evaluate the product with code F-91WC-2AEF: it is an article available in various and cheerful pastel colors, characterized by a very simple display and by the presence of an extremely comfortable silicone strap, easily adaptable to the size of your wrist. Its retro style also makes it a particularly nice and iconic object, but at the same time it is also sufficiently resistant thanks to the resin case that allows a good resistance to shocks and good impermeability in contact with water. The functions available are simple and intuitive: calendar, daily alarm and stopwatch, in fact, can be easily recalled using the side buttons.
VenSten VS-1163-B
It is one of the best children’s wristwatches on the market, thanks to the presence of a double display that shows the time in both analog and digital: it could therefore represent a good way to learn how to read the time. in both modes. Overall, the structure offers excellent resistance thanks to the use of materials based on solid and waterproof resins, which make it also suitable for water activities. Among the available functions, I would like to point out the calendar, the date window, the alarm and the inevitable stopwatch.
Best digital wall clocks
Have you already identified the wall where you will place your next purchase, considering the decor of the room and the features you want to have? Perfect! Then all you have to do is take a look at the best digital wall clocks that I have selected especially for you.
Technoline WS 8006
If it’s simplicity you’re looking for and you don’t want to spend a particularly high amount on your next digital wall clock, this Technoline article will most likely be for you. The WS 8006 model, in fact, has an essential design that adapts to many furnishing situations. The discrete dimensions, then, allow it to be positioned even in small spaces. The display is high-contrast and the information relating to time, date, temperature and humidity are easily readable thanks to the good size of the characters. It is radio-controlled and has a folding support that, if necessary, allows it to be placed on a flat surface as a bedside clock, with also alarm function.
Explore Scientific RDC8001
Personally I find this Explore Scientific product particularly complete and functional. It is a digital wall clock with a modern design that integrates a weather station capable of providing very precise information on time, temperature and humidity, thanks also to the use of two indoor and outdoor sensors. The large display can clearly show, in addition to the date and time, all the information in question. Furthermore, the product is radio-controlled, while the rear support allows it to be positioned even on flat surfaces. Power is powered by two AA batteries included in the package.
Oregon Scientific Glaze JW208
Oregon Scientific has always been synonymous with reliability: if you are looking for a multifunction and root-controlled digital wall clock, the Glaze JW208 model is undoubtedly one of the best on the market. It is a product of excellent workmanship, with a modern and discreet design, adaptable to different rooms of the house. It has a series of very valid features, starting with the possibility of consulting weather forecasts valid for the next 6 hours, graphically represented thanks to easy-to-read icons. It is able to accurately measure the internal temperature of the house and also has a useful calendar function. The 3 AA batteries required for the operation of the device are included in the package.
