G-SHOCK has its winners.
These are G-SHOCK watches that have earned the U designation.
- Models with U in the model number are among the few updated models
- The shape stays the same while the internals are updated
- a long time on the market and exceptionally strong sales—a sign of
If you are unsure, you cannot go wrong choosing a model with U.
Consistently strong sales over many years mean a dependable choice.
This article highlights models with U in their model numbers.
Models That Gain U in Their Names Are Winners
A G-SHOCK with U added to its model number.
It is evidence of a G-SHOCK that keeps selling long after its launch.
It signifies an updated model, but among G-SHOCK models, receiving an update is extremely rare.
In a lineup constantly introducing new models, continued sales and an update are very unusual.
Their defining traits are
a long time since their original release
exceptionally strong sales
.
The Definitive G-SHOCK: Radio-Controlled Solar GW-M5610U
The first G-SHOCK to gain the U designation was the GW-M5610U, released in 2021.
This distinguished model had already been updated from GW-M5600 to GW-M5610, making this its 2nd update.
- Predecessor: GW-M5600 (Released in 2008)
- 1st Update: GW-M5610 (Released in 2012)
- 2nd Update with U: GW-M5610U (Released in 2021)
It is also memorable that G-SHOCK creator Kikuo Ibe continually wore it in interviews, describing it as the definitive design.
In the interview article, The Top 5 Memorable G-SHOCKs Chosen by Their Creator, Kikuo Ibe (URL), Ibe said of this model:
"It brings together three qualities: it is hard to break, does not stop, and keeps accurate time.
I enjoy wearing it because it is so convenient."
.
With the original colors and solar power with radio-controlled timekeeping, it is a model that fully achieves G-SHOCK's original Triple 10 goals: surviving a 10m drop, 10-bar water resistance, and a 10-year battery life.
This model truly can be called the definitive G-SHOCK.
Where to Buy the Casio GW-M5610U-1
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Where to Buy a Screen Protector for Casio GW-M5610
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A Comfortable 3-Fold Clasp Band: GW-M5610UBC
Next is my recommendation for a three-fold clasp band: the GW-M5610UBC.
The great thing about this model is that it comes with a three-fold clasp band!
It is extremely comfortable, even in summer.
Where to Buy the Casio GW-M5610UBC-1
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- Predecessor: GW-M5600BC (Released in 2008)
- 1st Update: GW-M5610BC (Released in 2012)
- 2nd Update with U: GW-M5610UBC (Released in 2021)
I still remember seeing it in a glass display case when it first appeared and thinking, "That band looks fantastic!"
I modify this band to fit my watches.
The band can also be purchased separately.
Where to Buy a Genuine Casio Band for GW-M5600BC and GW-M5610BC
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Where to Buy JOREST Watch Band Adjustment Tools
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Made in Japan with a Screw-Back Case: GW-5000U
Next is a model made in Japan with a screw-back case.
This is a 5000-family model.
👉️5000 vs. 5600 Explained: Recommended Models and How to Choose—The Basics of Square G-SHOCKs
The biggest feature of the 5000 family is its screw-back case.
Its functions are actually the same as those of the GW-M5610U.
In fact, the screw-back construction makes it heavier: 53g with a panel back versus 74g with a screw back.
Feeling that weight gives it a subtle premium quality.
Where to Buy the Casio GW-5000U-1
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- Before the Update: GW-5000E (Released in 2009)
- After the Update: GW-5000U (Released in 2021)
A Model That Stands Alone: G-5600UE
The G-5600UE stands alone.
What makes this model unusual is having solar power without radio-controlled timekeeping.
Looking at G-SHOCK rankings, it seems very popular overseas.
Radio-controlled timekeeping is unavailable in many countries, so it may not be needed.
In fact, this is the only current model still using G- at the start of its model number.
That also makes it a special model.
Give it a try if you want an uncommon model you are unlikely to see on someone else's wrist.
- Before the Update: G-5600E (Released in 2009)
- After the Update: G-5600UE (Released in 2021)
Where to Buy the Casio G-5600UE-1
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A Longtime Bestseller That Deserves Its U: DW-5600UE
The DW-5600E is the definitive battery-powered G-SHOCK.
It is the simplest current model and the least expensive to buy.
The first model I bought was also a DW-5600.
With that background, it was only natural for the DW-5600E to be updated as the DW-5600UE.
It is unfortunate that the FOX FIRE lettering disappeared, but that is understandable after the switch to LED.
- Before the Update: DW-5600E (Released in 1996)
- After the Update: DW-5600UE (Released in 2023)
Where to Buy the Casio DW-5600UE-1
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I liked this color scheme for the 5600, but the original-color DW-5600RL also arrived in 2025.
Where to Buy the Casio DW-5600RL-1
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An Unexpected Smash Hit and No.1 Seller in 2025: DW-5600UBB
- Before the Update: DW-5600BB (Released in 2012)
- After the Update: DW-5600UBB (Released in 2023)
A cool G-SHOCK that is black right down to its display: the DW-5600UBB.
Every time I see it, I think its display stands out from other G-SHOCKs.
The DW-5600UBB actually took 1st place in the 2025 sales rankings.
It is pleasing to see it rank 1st in sales even more than 10 years after its release.
Distinctive yet No.1 in sales—try one for yourself.
Where to Buy the Casio DW-5600UBB-1
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A slightly smaller version of this G-SHOCK has also been released for people with slim wrists and for women.
Where to Buy the Casio GMD-S5610BB-1
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A Natural Result of Its Premium Feel: GM-5600U
This series has a long history and is popular.
Its predecessor, the GM-5600, was released after the full-metal GMW-B5000D.
Where to Buy the Casio GMW-B5000D-1
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It has become popular as a carefully balanced model positioned between full metal and resin.
- Before the Update: DW-5600E (Released in 1996)
- After the Update: DW-5600UE (Released in 2023)
Where to Buy the Casio GM-5600U-1
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Other color variants include the all-black GM-5600UB and gold GM-5600UG.
Where to Buy the Casio GM-5600UB-1
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Where to Buy the Casio GM-5600UG-9
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The King of G-Shock: GX-56UBB
In the GX series, G stands for Gravity (gravity and shock), while X stands for extra (extreme).
True to the name, this series offers an especially substantial level of shock resistance even among G-SHOCKs.
GXW models have radio-controlled timekeeping and solar power; GX models have solar power.
The GX-56 was updated with U as the GX-56UBB.
Where to Buy the Casio GXW-56-1A
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Where to Buy the Casio GX-56UBB-1
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📊 Comparing Key G-SHOCK U Models
Here is a comparison to make choosing easier.
| Model number | Release year | Features | Price range | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GW-M5610U | 2021 | Radio-controlled solar / worn by the creator / original colors available | Approximately ¥20,000 | If You Cannot Decide, Choose This One People seeking a classic, definitive design |
| GW-M5610UBC | 2021 | Radio-controlled solar / three-fold clasp band | Approximately ¥23,000 | People seeking a three-fold clasp band and summer comfort |
| GW-5000U | 2021 | Made in Japan / screw-back case / substantial weight | Approximately ¥33,000 | People prioritizing a premium feel and ownership satisfaction |
| G-5600UE | 2021 | Solar only / popular overseas / uncommon model | Approximately ¥15,000 | People wanting a model different from everyone else's |
| DW-5600UE | 2023 | Simple battery-powered model / among the least expensive | Approximately ¥11,000 | Recommended as a first G-SHOCK |
| DW-5600UBB | 2023 | Black right down to the display / No.1 seller in 2025 | Approximately ¥11,000 | Fans of distinctive, monochrome designs |
| GM-5600U | 2023 | Metal-covered / premium feel | Approximately ¥22,000 | People seeking elegance and toughness |
That concludes this introduction to the bestselling G-SHOCK watches that have earned their U designation!
Where to Buy the Casio GW-M5610U-1
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Where to Buy the Casio GW-M5610UBC-1
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Where to Buy the Casio GW-5000U-1
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Where to Buy the Casio G-5600UE-1
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Where to Buy the Casio DW-5600UE-1
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Where to Buy the Casio DW-5600RL-1
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Where to Buy the Casio GM-5600U-1
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