- The Casio G-Shock GW-BX5600-1 gets a new MIP display
- This new screen significantly improves readability in direct sunlight, thus solving a recurring vision problem
- This is the first model in the G-Shock 5000/5600 series to feature this display technology.
Since its introduction, Casio’s G-Shock line has established itself as a design icon. However, there has been an important shortcoming for years: readability. The limited display, which was difficult to read outdoors, made it difficult to read the information displayed. A new update may finally solve this long-standing problem.
With the introduction of the GW-BX5600-1, Casio introduces for the first time a Memory-Pixel (MIP) display for its G-Shock watches, an early development that greatly improves visibility in sunlight.
This display replaces the older STN LCD previously used on the 5000/5600 models, offering sharper, brighter and more readable numbers from an angle. This improvement alone could convince fans of classic G-Shocks to upgrade to this new model.
This makes the watch much more practical for outdoor use. A paradox seemed to persist: G-Shocks were always designed to withstand impact and adventure, even if they were often unreadable in those conditions. A contradiction that becomes even more apparent when we consider that competing brands such as Garmin have been using MIP technology for some time.
With this display, Casio finally places its models among the best all-terrain watches on the market, while strengthening its usefulness for outdoor enthusiasts.
A reinterpreted icon
The power of the GW-BX5600-1 is not limited to the screen. It has a solar battery that lasts up to six months in normal use (or 22 months in power saving mode) on a single charge. It is shock and water resistant up to 200 meters. Multi-band 6 technology enables automatic time adjustment using radio signals and configuration can be done from a smartphone with Bluetooth connection.
Other features include: dual LED lighting, 24-hour automatic calendar, five daily alarms, countdown timer and world time display. The companion app also lets you customize the screen’s appearance, giving you more control over contrast and information density and the ability to choose between two display sources.
Two versions are offered: GW-BX5600-1 with silver details for a brighter style and GW-BX5600-1A1 with a more sober and darker look. These models can be reserved on Casio’s website for 30,800 yen (about 175 euros; price in France not yet confirmed). Casio says the official launch is expected “soon”.
For those looking for a balance between a retro digital watch and an exclusive outdoor model like Garmin, the GW-BX5600-1 could be a must-have.