9 Best ABC Sport Watches for the Outdoors in 2024

Life involves taking risks and going on extreme adventures. To no one's surprise, hiking, hunting, and camping emerge as the top activities among tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.

While these can bring enjoyment, it is not fun getting lost at any juncture of the trip. You will need to bring a companion that helps navigate the way.

Enter the Altimeter, Barometer, Compass (ABC) watch, your one-stop shop for everything travel-related. Indeed, I'll discuss watches that can record altitude, barometer pressure, and exact location.

Suunto 9 GPS Watch - Top Choice

Suunto is no stranger to producing high-end ABC timepieces with GPS functions. Hence, it is the top choice of ABC watch on the list. Its features are second to none.

The Suunto timepiece blends a Scandinavian design with premium materials. A silicone strap offers maximum elasticity, while a 100-meter water-resistance can combat immense water pressure.

Key features such as an altimeter/barometer profile, pressure resolution, and move altitude graph enhance the user experience.

The watch's FusedTrack algorithm provides superior accuracy of both the GPS and motion sensor data. In terms of battery life, it boasts of 25, 50, and 120-hour lifespans.

Online and mobile compatibility is made possible with Bluetooth Smart connectivity and the Suunto Movescount application. These allow both Apple and Android devices access to the recorded data.

Casio Pro Trek PRG-270-1 Solar Powered Watch - Great Value

Unfortunately, most ABC timepieces will cost you big bucks.

Despite that, the features each timepiece possesses are worth every single penny. If you want to get the most value for money, try out the Casio Pro Trek watch.

It is a solar-powered watch, meaning any light source can fully charge the timepiece. As a result, the Pro Trek watch does not operate with batteries.

The right side contains three large and user-friendly buttons that give you access to ABC features.

Speaking of, Casio has a built-in Barometric Pressure Tendency Alarm, which keeps users updated on the different air pressure changes.

The altimeter has a measuring range of around -2,300 to 32,000 feet, while the digital compass can plot points from 0 to 359 degrees.

Want to see all the data at night? The full-auto LED Illuminator backlight with afterglow allows for easy readability in poorly lit areas.

Finally, a Japanese quartz movement ensures maximum accuracy and reliable time readings.

AOSLSI - Premium Budget Pick

The AOSLSI is one of the few altimeter watches below $100. It is no secret that it is the cheapest option among the rest.

For starters, it uses military-inspired elements for its design. Components such as a polyurethane strap and stainless steel tang buckle ensure maximum protection during outdoor activities.

Case dimensions such as a 53 mm case diameter and 17 mm case thickness enhance the timepiece's durability.

The altimeter records the current height, while the altitude graph gives updates on the changes over the past 24 hours.

The AOSLSI watch also contains a track mode, which measures rising or declining altitude from the start of the journey until the end. The digital compass gives accurate directions in out-of-coverage areas.

The built-in thermometer displays outside temperature from -10 degrees Celsius to 60 degrees Celsius. Lastly, a pedometer tallies the total steps, speed, and calories burned.

LAD Weather Swiss Sensor Altimeter, Barometer, Compass (ABC) Watch

One other watch that goes for a reasonable price tag is the LAD Swiss Sensor watch. Its rugged design and many features can hold its own among other featured watches.

The LAD watch puts a premium on accurate GPS navigation. Once everything is set up, the pointer will aim towards the active waypoint.

Both the average speed and total distance appear on the upper-right-hand corner.

The Workout Mode tabulates and collects the data while navigating directions or doing separate exercises. It displays speed, total distance, etc.

If you need to know your BPM (beats per minute), the LAD Swiss Sensor timepiece does just that with its built-in heart rate monitor. It gives readings that range from 30 BPM to 180 BPM.

One of the features that give the LAD timepiece an upper hand over the rest is its ability to connect with the computer. Statistics like speed, altitude, heart rate, and distance appear on the PC.

SUUNTO Ambit 3 Peak HR Running Watch

SUUNTO comes through with another high-end digital watch. The Ambit 3 Peak HR Running watch offers GPS and ABC features that compete with other outdoor timepieces.

In terms of battery life, it houses a top-tier 200-hour lifespan. That's roughly eight days of superior battery performance without any charging required.

Polyamide fiber makes up the case material, so expect guaranteed comfort for the wrist. The Ambit 3 Peak watch allows syncing with any smartphone device.

The watch has access to calls, notifications, and other data. It also boasts a 1-minute accuracy that delivers reliable and exact time readings.

Additional features such as a heart rate monitor, altimeter, barometer, compass, and weather information make up the rest of the timepiece.

Garmin Fenix 5 Sapphire Watch

Garmin is another formidable provider of GPS timepieces. It handcrafts watches with high-quality materials and features. The Garmin Fenix 5 Sapphire watch is a prime example of the brand's excellence.

Outdoor tracking devices such as GPS, GLONASS satellite reception, barometric altimeter, and a 3-axis compass provide a holistic user experience. With these features, getting lost will not be a problem.

Wi-Fi compatibility allows quick access to data and activity uploading. These include smart notifications, text messages, and instant uploads via the Garmin Connect online fitness community.

The Garmin watch contains a VO2 max estimator, which breaks down more advanced performance metrics such as beats per minute, running speed, and estimated oxygen intake per minute.

Reading time becomes easy with its digitalized analog display, luminous hands, hour, and minute markers.

Battery life ranges from about 24 hours (GPS mode) to 2 weeks (smartwatch mode) based on the watch settings.

Garmin Fenix 3 GPS Watch

The Garmin Fenix 3 timepiece may have slight differences from the Garmin Fenix 5, but it still contains features that are essential for your traveling needs.

The 1.2 Chroma display enables visibility under direct sunlight. Sapphire lenses offer a high-resolution color.

Wireless connectivity is another asset of the Garmin watch. It allows users to utilize multiple Wi-Fi hotspots for automatic data syncing with the complementary Garmin Connect app.

Outdoor navigation tools such as a 3-axis compass, altimeter, and barometer round up the watch features. You can use it while swimming or doing other water activities because of its 100-meter water-resistance rating.

COROS Apex Premium Multisport Watch

COROS may be an underrated brand, but it can cater to watch fans and travelers with high-quality GPS timepieces. The Apex Premium Multisport watch is no exception.

It is fit for outdoor activity thanks to its sapphire glass and stainless steel bezel finish. These are capable of withstanding scratches, rust, and other forms of damage.

Top-tier battery life is another strong suit of the sports watch. The lifespan can last from about 25 hours (Full GPS mode) to 24 days (regular use).

A Satellite Signal Strength tool improves GPS compatibility according to the available satellites and their respective signal connectivity.

The COROS watch also keeps track of the sunrise and sunset times. It enables the gesture sunlight setting to be activated 1 hour before sunset and 1 hour after sunrise.

Extra features such as the AI Trainer, Nutrition Alerts, and Storm Alert complete the user experience.

Quick Verdict: Experience unrivaled durability, precision, and performance with the COROS Apex Premium Multisport watch - the ultimate companion for adventurers.

Casio G-Shock Mudmaster Watch

Last but not least, I cannot leave out a watch from the Casio G-Shock series. After all, military veterans, professional divers, and hiking experts trust the Casio collection.

Unlike most ABC timepieces, the G-Shock Mudmaster watch exhibits reliable shock-resistant qualities.

Indeed, rough surfaces, confusing trails, and multiple forms of impact are no match for the sturdy Casio timepiece.

Durability continues to be the main asset of the watch due to the mineral glass, stainless steel bezel, and rugged watch face design.

A dual analog-digital display gives outdoor enthusiasts easy-to-read time derivations throughout the trip. Multiple global time zones also surround the outer dial.

Besides hiking and hunting, it can also serve as a diving watch with its 200-meter water-resistant depth.

What Are ABC Timepieces?

As you can see in each product review, the most amazing ABC timepieces have an abundance of features. Therefore, it can be hard to go over the timepieces one by one.

You need to understand the basics to simplify your understanding of the ABC wristwatch.

The altimeter tracks the current altitude, which can be measured by your current location and standard sea level. The most excellent altimeter watches can be used for activities like skydiving or parasailing.

The barometer is in charge of sending instant notifications on the changing air pressure. Watches with a built-in barometer can come in handy when the weather starts getting unpleasant.

The compass navigates your current location. Most ABC timepieces come with a 3-axis digital compass for more precise points and readings. [R] Take note that most compasses will point directly toward the north. [R]

Despite the many features ABC wristwatches contain, these are not too difficult to operate thanks to the user-friendly interface.

When choosing an ABC timepiece, make sure to go for one that will not give you headaches from the menus. It also helps that the buttons of most ABC timepieces are easy to find and evenly spaced out.

Why Should You Buy a Watch With Altimeter, Barometer, and Compass Features?

Here are some of the reasons why you should buy a watch with features such as an altimeter, barometer, and compass.

Lightweight Composition

Most travelers carry backpacks with a lot of stuff like a map, compass, thermometer, etc. While it is essential to equip these items, your back may start feeling discomfort due to the bag's excess weight.

With the ABC wristwatch, you don't need to bring extra stuff because it has all the features at your fingertips and wrist. Indeed, you don't need to think about misplacing your items and feeling uncomfortable.

Precise Readings

Some old-fashioned items may provide inconsistent readings. The pocket compass may have some defects, while the paper map may be difficult to read in the dark.

These lapses cannot happen when traversing a complicated trail. Fortunately, ABC timepieces apply modern technology and meticulous craftsmanship to give you all the accurate data you need.

Aesthetic Appeal

While ABC timepieces pack useful and abundant features, these also let you travel in style. Each ABC wristwatch presents a unique look designed for each traveler.

Through a colorful analog display or illuminating digital interface, these adventure timepieces also serve as fashion statements.

Wrap Up

I hope you had fun going over the top-performing ABC timepieces. May you buy the one that fits your style and fulfills your travel needs. For more questions and inquiries, feel free to contact us.