Looking for an honest Apple Watch Series 8 (GPS Cellular) 45mm vs Casio G-Shock GBM-2100 comparison in 2026? We scored both smartwatches on the same six-dimension framework — performance, battery, display, camera, design and value — using identical methodology, so the numbers below are directly comparable. In our overall scoring the Casio G-Shock GBM-2100 comes out ahead 37/100 to 49/100 — a 12-point gap. The widest gap is in battery life, where the Casio G-Shock GBM-2100 pulls noticeably ahead. On price the Apple Watch Series 8 (GPS Cellular) 45mm undercuts the Casio G-Shock GBM-2100 by 25% ($160 vs $200), which materially changes the value calculus for budget-conscious buyers.

Apple
Prices may vary · We may earn a commission on purchases. Learn more
Casio G-Shock GBM-2100 edges out the Apple Watch Series 8 (GPS Cellular) 45mm in the smartwatches category, especially in battery life (300h vs 18h battery), scoring 49 vs 37. If you want the better overall smartwatches, Casio G-Shock GBM-2100 is the recommended choice.
Picking Casio G-Shock GBM-2100 over Apple Watch Series 8 (GPS Cellular) 45mm means trading these off.
$160
Scores are relative within the smartwatchescategory. Percentages show each dimension's weight in the overall score. A difference of less than 0.5 points is considered a tie.
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
| Spec | Apple Watch Series 8 (GPS Cellular) 45mm | Casio G-Shock GBM-2100W |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 1.9"✓ | 1.2" |
| Display Type | Always-on Retina LTPO OLED | — |
| Resolution | 396 x 484 pixels | — |
| Chipset | Apple S8 SiP | — |
| OS | watchOS 9 | — |
| Heart Rate | Optical HR 24/7 | — |
| SpO2 | Yes (blood oxygen) | — |
| ECG | Yes (FDA approved) | — |
| Temperature | Wrist skin temperature | — |
| GPS | Yes | — |
| Workout Modes | 80+ | — |
| Swim Proof | 50m water resistance | — |
| Battery Life | 18hrs | 300hrs✓ |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.3 | — |
| NFC | Yes | — |
| Case Material | Aluminium | — |
| Water Resistance | IP6X, WR50 | — |
| Weight | 47g✓ | 51g |
| Price | 160$✓ | 200$ |
Buy Apple Watch Series 8 (GPS Cellular) 45mm if…
The Apple Watch Series 8 (GPS Cellular) 45mm is worth considering if you prefer its specific design, ecosystem, or brand — though it scores lower overall in our comparison.
Buy Casio G-Shock GBM-2100 if…
Buy the Casio G-Shock GBM-2100 if you want the best performance in this comparison. It scores higher overall and is the recommended choice for most buyers.
Casio G-Shock GBM-2100 edges out the Apple Watch Series 8 (GPS Cellular) 45mm in the smartwatches category, especially in battery life (300h vs 18h battery), scoring 49 vs 37. If you want the better overall smartwatches, Casio G-Shock GBM-2100 is the recommended choice.
No, Casio G-Shock GBM-2100 scores higher (49 vs 37).
Apple Watch Series 8 (GPS Cellular) 45mm is cheaper at $160 vs $200 for the Casio G-Shock GBM-2100.
The Apple Watch Series 8 (GPS Cellular) 45mm is worth considering if you prefer its specific design, ecosystem, or brand — though it scores lower overall in our comparison.
Buy the Casio G-Shock GBM-2100 if you want the best performance in this comparison. It scores higher overall and is the recommended choice for most buyers.
Casio G-Shock GBM-2100 lasts longer with 300 hours vs 18 hours for the other.
Apple Watch Series 8 (GPS Cellular) 45mm has the larger display (1.9" vs 1.2").
Reviewed by VersusMatrix Editorial Team
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Methodology: AI-powered analysis of technical specifications from manufacturer data. Scores are calculated by comparing products across multiple dimensions and normalized relative to the full category database. Our editorial process is independent and not influenced by affiliate partnerships.