If you’re an adventurer or frequent traveler, a reliable outdoor watch is essential. Whether you need to track time zones or navigate rough terrain, a durable and functional watch can make all the difference. One that has caught our attention is the Suunto Core.

This iconic ABC (altimeter, barometer, compass) watch has been on the market for over a decade, and we’ve had the chance to take it on multiple trips to test its performance. In this review, we’ll break down the key features of the Suunto Core, discuss its strengths and weaknesses, and compare it to some other popular models.

Design and Build Quality

The Suunto Core is a lightweight yet durable tool watch weighing just 2.84 oz (80g). It features a black composite plastic body and an aluminum bezel, which offers protection to the mineral glass screen. While the watch has a sturdy design, it is not without its flaws, as the plastic body can accumulate scratches over time. The rubber strap, while comfortable, has a tendency to wear out after extensive use.

The watch runs on a single CR2032 battery that powers the watch for about a year or more. The battery compartment, which is easily accessible, is equipped with a rubber gasket for a waterproof rating of 30m, making the watch suitable for activities like swimming and snorkeling, though not for deep-water diving.

Pro Tip: To maintain the waterproof feature, always grease the gasket with silicone grease when changing the battery. This will prevent cracking and help maintain a tight seal.

The large digital screen is fairly easy to read, but glare can make it difficult under direct sunlight. The watch’s display is customizable; you can choose a positive display (black on white) for better readability if you find the standard negative display challenging.

ABC Functions: Altimeter, Barometer, and Compass

The Suunto Core is packed with useful features for outdoor enthusiasts. It includes a barometric altimeter, a barometer to track air pressure, and a digital compass.

Barometric Altimeter: The altimeter works by measuring air pressure to determine altitude. For better accuracy, the watch needs to be calibrated before use, using known altitude or sea-level pressure data. Weather changes can impact the accuracy, so recalibrating regularly is important for precise readings.

Pro Tip: Use the current altitude or sea-level pressure reference to calibrate the watch for accurate altitude data.

Barometer: The barometer measures fluctuations in air pressure, which can indicate weather changes. A downward trend suggests poor weather is approaching, while a rising trend indicates better conditions. The watch also has a storm alarm feature that alerts you if the pressure drops rapidly, signaling an incoming storm. However, this alarm cannot be customized, which might occasionally lead to false alarms.

Digital Compass: The digital compass is handy for navigation on the trail. It can be adjusted for declination and provides real-time directional readings. You can lock a bearing to guide you toward a specific point, making it a great tool for navigating unknown terrain.

Pro Tip: Always calibrate the compass before use, especially if you’ve been near magnetic fields or metal objects that could throw off the reading.

Additional Features

Dual Time Zone: The Suunto Core makes it easy to check the time in another time zone, a handy feature for travelers. The dual time feature shows both your local time and the time in your destination, which is perfect for coordinating with friends or family back home.

Sunrise and Sunset Times: For outdoor activities, knowing when the sun rises and sets can be crucial. The Suunto Core provides accurate sunrise and sunset times for over 400 locations, helping you plan your hikes or camping activities more effectively.

Stopwatch and Alarms: The watch comes equipped with a stopwatch, countdown timer, and three alarms, all essential for keeping track of time during activities.

Thermometer: The built-in thermometer measures ambient temperature in Celsius and Fahrenheit. Keep in mind, though, the thermometer is not accurate while worn on the wrist due to body heat. Remove the watch for at least 10 minutes to get an accurate reading.

How Does It Compare?

Casio Pro Trek PRG-270-1: The Pro Trek is another popular ABC watch, but it features a solar-powered battery and higher water resistance. However, its altimeter and barometer readings were less accurate compared to the Suunto Core. The Suunto Core offers a more minimalist design and a more readable display.

Garmin Instinct 2: The Garmin Instinct 2 is a more advanced outdoor smartwatch with GPS, Bluetooth, and route navigation. It offers greater functionality and precision but comes at a much higher price point. If you don’t need the extra features like GPS, the Suunto Core offers better value.

G-Shock GW-9400 Rangeman: The Rangeman is known for its superior ruggedness, water resistance, and solar-powered battery. While the Suunto Core has a more legible display and accurate sensors, the Rangeman is more durable overall, making it a great option for extreme conditions.

Final Thoughts: Should You Buy the Suunto Core?

After testing the Suunto Core thoroughly, we can confidently say it’s an excellent watch for outdoor enthusiasts. With its precise sensors, durable design, and practical features like dual time and sunrise/sunset times, it’s an ideal companion for hiking, camping, and travel.

At $199, it’s an affordable option compared to some other high-end outdoor watches, especially considering its durability and versatility. If you’re looking for a rugged, functional watch for your outdoor adventures, the Suunto Core is definitely worth considering.

Does this iconic ABC watch deserve a spot in your gear kit? Let us know your thoughts or share your favorite outdoor watches!