The longer you have worn square G-SHOCKs, the more you may find yourself curious about the G-SQUAD series.
These training-focused G-SHOCKs can transform your strength training and running.
Although my reviews have mainly focused on squares, readers have begun asking which G-SQUAD they should choose.
So this time, I researched and compiled the history of G-SQUAD models in detail.
The conclusion: the GBD-200 series is the best choice for a first purchase.
Thin, light, and strong in smartphone connectivity, it remains a popular, highly refined choice in 2025.
This article will help you find a G-SQUAD that suits you without regrets.
What Is G-SQUAD? Features Across the Series
G-SQUAD is a G-SHOCK offshoot with enhanced fitness and sports functions.
- Running and walking measurement
- Step and time measurement
- Smartphone connectivity through Bluetooth
- Notifications
- Lighter than a regular G-SHOCK
- A design suited to everyday use
Retaining G-SHOCK durability, it is a line that adds sports-oriented convenience.
MIP displays have now arrived in the main G-SHOCK lineup in earnest, but G-SQUAD adopted them earlier.
G-SQUAD History: From the First Model to the Latest
Although its history is relatively short, G-SQUAD's year-by-year evolution is easy to follow.
Here is the progression, with every release year checked accurately.
■2018: GBA-800, the Model That Launched G-SQUAD
- Released in February 2018
- The first model under the G-SQUAD name
- 3-axis accelerometer and Bluetooth connectivity
- Steps and exercise logs recorded in a dedicated app
- Easy-to-read analog-digital display and many colors
G-SQUAD started here.
■2018: GBD-800, a More Capable Compact Digital Model
- Released in September–October 2018
- A digital model positioned as a successor to the GBA-800
- High legibility and enhanced timing functions
- A series popular among runners
■2020: GBD-100, a Core Running Model
- Released in May 2020
- MIP display greatly improves legibility
- Smartphone GPS connectivity enables distance and pace tracking
- A major expansion of running functions
The GBD-100 established G-SQUAD's core running-watch role.
The GBD-100 also remains on sale as a current model.
Where to Buy the Casio GBD-100SM-1A7
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■2020: GBD-H1000, Dedicated GPS and Heart Rate Sensor
- Released in May 2020
- GPS, heart rate monitoring, and multiple sensors
- A fusion of running watch and G-SHOCK
- A model favored by long-distance runners
With this model, G-SQUAD became an established serious sports line.
Where to Buy the Casio GBD-H1000BAR-4JR
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■2021: GBD-200, a Revolutionary Thin Square
- Released in July 2021
- G-SQUAD's first square
- A lighter design, approximately 15mm thick and 58g
- Enhanced smartphone connectivity
- A design that works for daily wear
A representative G-SQUAD that blends sports functions with strong appeal for square G-SHOCK fans.
Where to Buy the Casio GBD-200-1
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■2023: GBD-H2000, the Flagship Successor to H1000
- Released in March 2023
- Approximately 38% lighter than the H1000
- GPS and 6 sensors
- Training analysis using POLAR algorithms
- Greatly enhanced multisport functions
The H2000 is the definitive serious-sports G-SQUAD.
Where to Buy the Casio GBD-H2000-1AJR
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■2024: GBD-300, the Latest Thin Round G-SQUAD
- Released in 2024
- The series' slimmest round design
- Highly legible MIP LCD
- Time measurement, steps, and smartphone connectivity
- A new-generation basic model focused on workouts
A well-balanced round model sitting between the square GBD-200 direction and the H series' more serious sports focus.
Where to Buy the Casio GBD-300-1
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Why Is the GBD-200 the Right G-SQUAD Choice?
There are clear reasons the GBD-200 stands out in popularity within G-SQUAD.
①A Distinctive Combination of Square G-SHOCK and Sports Design
An exterior square G fans will love, balancing everyday wear and exercise.
②Thin and Light: 15mm / 58g
Much lighter than a typical G-SHOCK.
Comfortable even over long periods.
③Smartphone Connectivity: Steps, Timing, and Notifications
- Steps
- Timing records
- Estimated calories
- Call and notification display
It feels like a G-SHOCK that records all your daily activities.
④Affordable: Around ¥20,000
Despite its sports functions,
it offers outstanding value for square-watch fans.
Where to Buy the Casio GBD-200-1
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⑤Plenty of Color Choices
Choose the right 1 color for your needs from black, red, navy, yellow, and others.
Where to Buy the Casio GBD-200-9
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GBD-200 Series: Key Models
Here are
the main GBD-200 colors that readers are most likely to consider buying.
This section is where the photographs really shine.
■GBD-200-1: Black
The bestselling classic. Choose this if you are unsure.
Where to Buy the Casio GBD-200-1
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■GBD-200-1A1: Black
Normally, a model number ending in 1A1 often indicates an all-black version. With the GBD-200, however, it instead indicates a positive-display model.
An interesting detail once you understand it.
Where to Buy the Casio GBD-200-1A1
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■GBD-200-9: Yellow
A strong, sporty accent color.
Where to Buy the Casio GBD-200-9
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■GBD-200-2: Navy
An understated, versatile color for everyday wear.
Where to Buy the Casio GBD-200-2
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Image: GBD-200-2
There Is Also the DW-H5600-1, Combining Sports Functions with the 5600 Series
The DW-H5600 series is a special model that combines the square 5600 design with
G-SQUAD sports functions, including optical heart rate monitoring and workout functions.
If you like the 5600, it belongs on your shortlist alongside the GBD-200.
Where to Buy the Casio DW-H5600-1JR
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GBD-200 vs. GBD-H2000 vs. GBD-300: Compare Before Choosing
| Model | Design | Main functions | Weight | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GBD-200 | Square | Steps, notifications, timing, and smartphone connectivity | Very light | Everyday use and light exercise |
| GBD-H2000 | Large and round | Extensive running functions | Somewhat heavy | Fans of Large G-SHOCKs Serious sports |
| GBD-300 | Round | Steps, notifications, timing, and smartphone connectivity | Light | Running, strength training, and everyday wear |
GBD-200 for square fans
GBD-300 for the latest round model
H2000 for serious sports
Their roles are clearly differentiated.
Where to Buy the Casio GBD-300-1
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Choose the GBD-H2000 for Serious Sports
The GBD-H2000 is a high-end model with GPS.
- GPS
- Heart rate
- 6 sensors
- Training analysis
- Long-distance running support
However, its price sits in the ¥30,000–¥40,000 ranges, making it somewhat expensive, so
the GBD-200 is far more appropriate if everyday use is your priority.
Where to Buy the Casio GBD-H2000-1AJR
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Where to Buy the Casio GBD-H2000-1A9JR
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Choosing a G-SQUAD: A Beginner's Guide
■Choose by Activity Level
- Everyday walking and light exercise → GBD-200 / GBD-300
- Primarily strength training → GBD-300
- Square G-SHOCK enthusiasts → GBD-200
- 5600 fans who want sports functions → DW-H5600
- Serious running → GBD-H2000
■Choose by Price
- The ¥10,000 range → GBD-200 / 300
- The ¥30,000–¥40,000 ranges → GBD-H2000 / DW-H5600
■Choose by Design
- Square → GBD-200 / DW-H5600
- Round → GBD-300 / H2000
The Verdict: Choose the GBD-200-1 if You Are Unsure
Every G-SQUAD model is capable, but
the GBD-200 series is the most balanced choice for a broad audience.
- Easy to wear every day
- Does not get in the way during exercise
- Light and comfortable
- Affordable
- A simple design suited to long-term use
An ideal first sports-oriented G-SHOCK.
Where to Buy the Casio GBD-200-1
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Where to Buy the Casio GBD-200-2
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Where to Buy the Casio GBD-200-9
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Conclusion
G-SQUAD combines G-SHOCK toughness with sports-oriented convenience.
Tracing its models accurately shows
- 2018: G-SQUAD launches
- 2020: Running-focused refinement improves
- 2021: Square GBD-200 launches and becomes a hit
- 2023: The serious-sports H2000 brings maturity
a clear progression of evolution.
For a first purchase, GBD-200-1 is my strong recommendation.
It combines lightness, usability, price, and design for a purchase without regrets.