Best digital watches in the UK (2026)
Our top digital watch is the Casio G-Shock GW-M5610U: tough, rated to 200 m, solar charged and radio controlled, so it sets itself and never needs a battery. The runner-up is the Casio F-91W, the cheap, light, accurate digital that has barely changed since the 1990s. This page is for anyone who wants the most practical kind of watch: easy to read, with an alarm, stopwatch, timer and light. We compared G-Shock, Casio retro and Timex Ironman digitals on toughness, power, water resistance, light, functions and size.
By The Watch Sorted desk · Updated 6 November 2026 · 30 products, all price-tracked
Our picks
Photo: AmazonCasio F-91W-1YEF
The cheapest good watch there is: a lifetime of use for the price of a lunch.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Photo: AmazonCasio G-Shock DW-5600E-1V
The cheapest way into a proper G-Shock, and still one of the best.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Photo: AmazonCasio G-Shock GW-5000U-1ER
The square G-Shock to keep for life, if you can justify the price.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.All 30 compared
Photo: AmazonOur top pickThe cheapest good watch there is: a lifetime of use for the price of a lunch.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The cheapest good watch there is: a lifetime of use for the price of a lunch.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want something that feels solid: it's very light plastic.
Read the full review →Photo: AmazonRunner-upThe cheapest way into a proper G-Shock, and still one of the best.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The cheapest way into a proper G-Shock, and still one of the best.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
Read the full review →Photo: AmazonAlso goodThe square G-Shock to keep for life, if you can justify the price.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The square G-Shock to keep for life, if you can justify the price.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a mechanical watch to look at and look after: this runs on light and a quartz movement.
Read the full review →
The gold Casio: a cheerful, low-cost gift that suits almost anyone.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The gold Casio: a cheerful, low-cost gift that suits almost anyone.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
Read the full review →
Solar and radio control in the classic square, if you like a dark display.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
Solar and radio control in the classic square, if you like a dark display.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a mechanical watch to look at and look after: this runs on light and a quartz movement.
Read the full review →
The small gold Casio: a classic, low-cost present.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The small gold Casio: a classic, low-cost present.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
Read the full review →
The cheapest way to a watch that is always on time.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The cheapest way to a watch that is always on time.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
A sensible first digital watch for a school-age child.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A sensible first digital watch for a school-age child.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if your child wants a smartwatch with games: this just tells the time.
Read the full review →
For G-Shock fans who want the original, not just the shape.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
For G-Shock fans who want the original, not just the shape.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
A neat everyday digital for a few pounds more than the basic A158.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A neat everyday digital for a few pounds more than the basic A158.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
The pick of the cheap training digitals.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The pick of the cheap training digitals.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
The square G-Shock with a bit of colour.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The square G-Shock with a bit of colour.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
A modern square G-Shock that sets itself from your phone.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A modern square G-Shock that sets itself from your phone.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a mechanical watch to look at and look after: this runs on light and a quartz movement.
A light fitness G-Shock for someone who doesn't want a smartwatch.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A light fitness G-Shock for someone who doesn't want a smartwatch.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want solar charging: this one takes a battery.
The retro Casio with a darker, smarter look.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The retro Casio with a darker, smarter look.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
The F-91W with a touch of gold.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The F-91W with a touch of gold.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want something that feels solid: it's very light plastic.
A tough, light digital for a smaller wrist.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A tough, light digital for a smaller wrist.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
A no-nonsense training watch.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A no-nonsense training watch.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
A sports digital that's easy to use mid-run.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A sports digital that's easy to use mid-run.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
A square G-Shock that's comfier on a nylon strap.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A square G-Shock that's comfier on a nylon strap.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
A collector's take on the best square G-Shock.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A collector's take on the best square G-Shock.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a mechanical watch to look at and look after: this runs on light and a quartz movement.
A retro analogue-digital Casio with more going on than the A168.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A retro analogue-digital Casio with more going on than the A168.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a watch that never needs a battery.
A fun, tough watch for sport and holidays.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A fun, tough watch for sport and holidays.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
A cheap, light sports digital.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A cheap, light sports digital.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
Our pick of the square G-Shocks: no battery to change and always on time.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
Our pick of the square G-Shocks: no battery to change and always on time.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a mechanical watch to look at and look after: this runs on light and a quartz movement.
Read the full review →
A cheap, light digital that looks as good now as in the 1980s.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A cheap, light digital that looks as good now as in the 1980s.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
Read the full review →
The classic square G-Shock at a fair price: it does everything and lasts for years.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The classic square G-Shock at a fair price: it does everything and lasts for years.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
A cheaper gold Casio than the A168.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A cheaper gold Casio than the A168.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
A warmer-coloured retro digital.
Our verdict
A warmer-coloured retro digital.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
A low-fuss sports digital for a smaller wrist.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A low-fuss sports digital for a smaller wrist.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
ⓘ Some links are affiliate links: a purchase may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you. It never decides what we pick or how we rank it. Prices shown may have changed since they were checked.
Before you buy
What a digital watch does well.
It shows the exact time at a glance, and even a cheap one adds an alarm, stopwatch, countdown timer and light. Digital watches are also very accurate and long-lived on a battery. For running, the gym, work shifts or travel, they are more useful than most analogue watches.
Casio retro digitals.
The F-91W, A158W, A168W and LA670 are the classic Casio digitals: thin, light and cheap, with a resin or folded-steel strap. They are rated 30 m or Water Resist, so splashes only. The A168W adds a brighter electroluminescent backlight; the LA670 is a smaller ladies size. Gold-coloured versions are plated and wear over time.
G-Shock digitals.
The square DW-5600 and DW-5000 are the classic G-Shocks, built around shock-absorbing resin and rated to 200 m. The GW-M5610 and GW-5000 add Tough Solar and radio time; the DW-5000R is a reissue of the 1983 original with a screw-down steel case back. G-Shocks are bigger and heavier than the retro Casios but far tougher.
Solar and radio time.
A solar digital charges from light and runs for months; a radio-controlled one picks up the UK time signal overnight and corrects itself, including the clock changes. Together they make a watch you never need to set or open. The Casio WV-58R is a cheaper radio-controlled digital without solar.
Backlight.
Basic Casios use a small LED that lights one side of the display, which is dim. The A168W, DW-5600 and newer G-Shocks use an electroluminescent or full LED backlight that lights the whole screen evenly. Some G-Shocks have an auto-light that switches on when you tilt your wrist.
Display types.
Positive displays (dark digits on a light background) are easiest to read. Negative or reverse displays (light digits on black) look striking but are harder to read in daylight and at angles. If readability matters, choose positive.
Sports digitals.
The Timex Ironman is designed for runners and swimmers, with lap memory, interval timers and a button layout that works on the move. G-Shocks with Bluetooth, like the GBD-200, add step counting via a phone app. Neither is a full GPS smartwatch, but neither needs charging every few days.
Strap.
Resin straps on cheap digitals are comfortable but eventually split, usually after years. Replacement straps are cheap and easy to fit. Steel bracelets on the A158W and A168W are light but can pull arm hairs. Some G-Shock straps are specific to the case, so buy genuine replacements.
Size and weight.
The retro Casios are tiny and weigh almost nothing, which is part of their appeal. Square G-Shocks are around 43 mm and still compact; round G-Shocks and Mudmasters can be 48 mm or more. If you wear a digital to bed or under a cuff, smaller is better.
We haven't tested every watch by hand. We chose from the digital watches UK shops stock and compared the makers' published specs: power source and battery life, water resistance, shock resistance, backlight type, functions and size. We favour long-running designs with years of owner feedback, such as the F-91W and G-Shock DW-5600. UK prices and stock are tracked through the day. Read our full methodology →
More buying guides
Common questions
What is the best digital watch?
The G-Shock GW-M5610U for most people: tough, 200 m, solar and radio controlled. If you want something cheap and light, the Casio F-91W or A168W. For running and swimming, a Timex Ironman.
Is the G-Shock DW-5600 worth it?
Yes. It is one of the best value tough watches there is: 200 m water resistance, a long battery life, a full backlight and the classic square design. If you want it to set itself and never need a battery, the solar GW-M5610 is the upgrade.
How long does a Casio digital battery last?
Casio quotes several years for many basic digitals; the F-91W is around seven years. Using the light and alarm often shortens it. Solar models do not need battery changes in normal use.
Can you swim with a Casio F-91W?
Not really. It is rated Water Resist (30 m), which covers rain and hand washing but not swimming. For swimming choose a G-Shock (200 m) or a Casio rated 100 m or more.
What is the difference between the Casio A158W and A168W?
They look almost identical. The A168W has an electroluminescent backlight that lights the whole display evenly, while the A158W has a small LED to the side. The A168W is slightly dearer and slightly thicker.
Do G-Shocks need batteries?
Plain models like the DW-5600E run on a battery that lasts several years. Tough Solar models, such as the GW-M5610U and GW-5000U, charge from light and do not need battery changes in normal use.