The G-Shock series is back in the spotlight in the premium watch market in India. This time, Casio has launched a new upgraded model of their popular square design, the DWH5600, which is not just a rugged digital watch—but a hybrid device with full-fledged fitness tracking and smart features. Priced at around Rs 22,000, this model has already caught the attention of tech lovers and fitness enthusiasts.
This new version has added a built-in heart rate sensor, solar charging support, Bluetooth connectivity, and advanced activity tracking features. As a result, the traditional G-Shock’s rugged design has been combined with the convenience of a modern smartwatch.
Rugged design, but smart inside
The DWH5600 model carries the classic G-Shock square look at first glance. The resin casing, sturdy buttons, and 20 bar (200 meters) water resistance—all remain the same. As a result, it is suitable for outdoor use, trekking, cycling or gym workouts.
However, the big change is seen on the back of this model. There are multiple sensors, one of which is the optical heart rate sensor. It can continuously monitor the heart rate through a green LED light. There is also a charging point on the back, where USB charging can be done by attaching a special clip-dock.
Solar charging: the promise of a long-lasting battery
One of the attractions of this watch is solar power support. The solar panel around the dial collects energy from sunlight and helps the battery.
Although solar charging cannot fully fill the battery 100%, it still significantly increases the battery life with minimal use. Especially if the user keeps the airplane mode on, the watch can last for several months—only with the help of sunlight.
On the other hand, with heart rate monitoring and Bluetooth connectivity active, an average of 5 to 6 days of battery life is available. If necessary, a USB charge once a week is enough.
Airplane Mode: Smart Battery Management
The DWH5600 has an airplane mode, which when activated turns off Bluetooth and sensor-based features. As a result, the watch works like a regular digital timepiece and the battery lasts longer.
Heart rate and activity tracking are automatically disabled in low battery conditions, which helps save power. This smart power management system is a big advantage for users.
Smartphone Connectivity and Auto Time Sync
The watch can be connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth. Once connected:
- Time updates automatically
- Timezone auto-sync for international travel
- Workout setup via app
- Watch face customization
Auto time update is an important feature, especially for those who travel regularly.
Activity Tracking: From Daily to Interval Training
Step count tracking is enabled by default on this watch. There are also multiple sports modes:
- Walking
- Running
- Gym Workout
- Interval Training
- Cardio Status
- Life Log
- Nightly Recharge (Sleep Tracking)
Users can set specific workout profiles through the app. As a result, it is not just a general fitness band, but a sports-focused smartwatch.
Step Count and Heart Rate Accuracy
The step count is relatively accurate and consistent in daily use. Although there are slight differences when compared to other fitness bands, the overall results are close.
Heart rate monitoring is also reliable. It automatically detects when the watch is not being worn and stops monitoring—which prevents unnecessary battery drain.
Additional Features: Not Just Fitness
The DWH5600 has some other important features:
- World Time
- Notification Support
- SpO2 (Blood Oxygen) Measurement Option
- Breathing Exercises
- Stopwatch and Timer
- Almanac
These features make it a versatile lifestyle device.
Price and Market Position
The approximate price of this model in India is Rs 22,000. In comparison, the price of ordinary G-Shock models is around Rs 13,000. As a result, the DWH5600 is clearly positioned in the premium segment.
However, market analysts believe that this price is reasonable for those who want rugged build, solar power, heart rate monitoring and long-term reliability.
Who is it suitable for?
According to experts, this watch is suitable for:
- Gym and fitness enthusiasts
- Outdoor adventurers
- Regular travelers
- Those who want a rugged yet smart watch
On the other hand, it may not be the right choice for those looking for a full-screen AMOLED display or an app-heavy smartwatch.
The Casio G-Shock DWH5600 proves that traditional digital watches can also keep up with modern technology. Solar charging, heart rate sensor, smartphone connectivity, and rugged construction—all in all, it is a well-balanced hybrid smartwatch.
This model has emerged as a strong option for premium users in India’s competitive wearable market. Considering its long-term use, reliability, and versatile features, the DWH5600 is undoubtedly a significant addition to the G-Shock family.
It can continuously monitor your heart rate. If you take it off and put it aside, after a while it will detect that you are not wearing it and it will stop monitoring your heart rate. Now I reviewed this watch a few days ago. The design of this watch is also quite different. It does not have a heart rate sensor. It can connect to your smartphone and update the time.
It has a button cell battery that will last for two years or more. Of course, it can also track your physical activities. This watch is unique because it comes with solar power. Now this is solar charging. It will not charge the battery completely, but if you talk about minimal usage, i.e. the display of the watch, i.e. the watch is running.
If you look at it from this perspective, solar charging can be quite effective. During testing, one more thing I noticed is that when the battery level gets too low, the heart rate and tracking feature turns off, so it works like a normal watch. If you want to use it as a normal watch, then activate the airplane mode, it will continue to run. If you want to track physical activities as well, keep airplane mode off and you can use it.
Of course, you will have to charge it frequently, even once a week. This watch costs around Rs 13,000 and this solar powered watch costs around Rs 22,000. So it is Casio G-Shock model number DWH5600.
