Whether you’re looking for an every day carry watch or an outdoor timepiece, it’s hard to go wrong with the Casio G-Shock line. The G-Shock collection of watches are some of the toughest watches out there and are used by heavy-duty professionals such as law enforcement and firemen.
So, you’ve decided to get a G-Shock and mulling over your top selections: G Shock Mudman vs Rangeman. I’d say that it’s a good problem to have and many will agree that’s indeed a tough choice.
Lucky for you, we’re here to help.
For today’s head-to-head review, we have the G Shock Mudman vs Rangeman. Which top-tier G-Shock is right for your needs?
Contents
G Shock Mudman vs Rangeman: At a Glance
At first look, you’ll swear that the Rangeman and Mudman are the same watch. However, there are numerous key differences that can influence you from choosing one over the other. Here’s a quick look at the specs of both watches.
Model: | ||
Case Diameter: | 53 mm | 53 mm |
Case Thickness: | 17 mm | 19 mm |
Weight: | 93 grams | 68.5 grams |
Barometer and Altimeter: | Yes | Yes |
Thermometer: | Yes | Yes |
Digital Compass: | Yes | Yes |
Solar Power: | Yes | Yes |
Atomic Time: | Yes | No |
Water Resistance Rating: | 200 meters | 200 meters |
Band Material: | Resin | Resin |
Band Width: | 22 mm | 18.2 mm |
Dual Time: | Yes | Yes |
Moon Phase: | No | Yes |
Sunrise/Sunset Times: | Yes | No |
G Shock Mudman vs Rangeman: Comparison Review
Design
If your main criteria for choosing your next G-Shock watch is the looks, the Rangeman and Mudman will not make it easy for you. As you can seen, both watches look nearly identical – especially with the color scheme and display.
Both watches consist of roughly three main parts: the day/date display, the time display, and the compass. But as always, the devil is in the details.
Both watches have a case diameter of 53mm, so both models are fairly large timepieces. The thickness of the case between two watches are not that different either with the Rangeman having a thickness of 18.2 millimeters while the Mudman has a thickness of 19 millimeters.
The Rangeman displayThe layout of the display is also very similar between these two G-Shocks. At the top right part, you’ll see the day/date display, the top left sits the compass, and the half bottom display shows the time. On closer look, you may observe that the Rangeman has a busier display but that’s not entirely the case as all. The Rangeman appears busier because the actual display is smaller when compared to the Mudman.
The Mudman displayAs far as the design and display layout, both watches look similar with some differences in the detail. These watches are packed with many different functions and sensors, and the true differences will come to light as you learn how to use them.
Case and Bezel
As mentioned, both watches have similar case diameter. However, once you look closely, one of the major differences between the two will be revealed. On the Mudman, the case is made from resin while the bezel is made from aluminum. On the Rangeman, both the case and bezel are resin while the buttons are made from stainless steel.
Because of this, the Rangeman weighs more than the Mudman. The former weighs about 93 grams while the latter weighs only 68.5 grams. So at this point, if you want the more lightweight option, the Mudman is the clear choice.
However, the added weight on the Rangeman comes with benefits. Mainly, the stainless steel button covers make the watch more durable and in my opinion, more visually appealing.
Furthermore, the case of the Rangeman (55.2 × 53.5 × 18.2mm) is taller and wider when compared to the Mudman (53 × 50.8 × 18.2mm). The difference is not that significant but it’s there.
Also, if you look closer, you’ll observe some subtle differences to the shape of the cases from both watches. The Mudman case features a softer, more rounded shape which also applies to the side buttons. In general, the Mudman case looks softer and more approachable. On the other hand, the Rangeman case sports many sharp edges and straight lines. It looks more aggressive and rugged when compared to the Mudman.
Sensors
When it comes to outdoor watches, you want a unit that feature sensors. Three of the most common sensors found in outdoor watches are altimeter, barometer, and thermometer. For this particular yardstick, the Rangeman has the upper hand.
The Casio G-Shock Rangeman boasts the venerable Triple Sensor feature. This means that you have an altimeter, thermometer, and barometer right at your wrist. On the other hand, the Casio G-Shock Mudman only includes a thermometer, not the altimeter or barometer.
For outdoor junkies, the barometer is particularly important because it’s used for predicting rainfall and measuring atmospheric pressure. If you love hiking, you’ll likely need the altimeter for measuring your current altitude in elevated terrains.
For outdoor adventurers, the Rangeman’s Triple Sensor makes it the clear winner.
Durability and Water Resistance
Thanks to the signature G-Shock quality, both the Rangeman and Mudman are tough as nails.
These watches can resist temperatures down to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Furthermore, these watches are built to last a lifetime plus they’re shock and mud resistant. Both watches are also fitted with mineral glass windows that provide excellent scratch resistance and seven times more durable than acrylic.
It’s also worth noting that both the Rangeman and Mudman are Tough Solar watches. This means that you only need to charge these watches once – when you buy it. Basically, you’re powered for life!
In terms of water resistance, both watches have a water resistance rating of 200 meters. While these watches can be used for diving, you have to keep in mind that they are absolutely not designed for diving.
Timekeeping Features
Many collectors prefer watches with an atomic timekeeping feature. If you like atomic watches, the choice is easy because between the two watches, only the Rangeman has atomic timekeeping. This is a popular feature among enthusiasts because it adds another layer of timekeeping accuracy. In addition, during DST, the atomic watch will automatically adjust itself – point goes to the Rangeman.
For other timekeeping features, both the Rangeman and Mudman come with a top-notch 1/100th-second stopwatch. Additionally, both these watches feature World Time that’s useful for knowing the time across multiple time zones. However, since the Mudman doesn’t have atomic timekeeping, the time zones don’t automatically update. You’ll have to manually update the time every couple of months.
To Mudman’s credit, it does have a Moon Phase Calendar feature that the Rangeman lacks. If you’re a fisherman or someone who loves night fishing, the Moon Phase function is a great feature to have.
On the other hand, the Rangeman is equipped with auto sunrise/sunset data. Again, this feature should come in handy for people who love spending time in the great outdoors. Unfortunately, the Mudman doesn’t offer this functionality.
Pricing
For starters, let me outright say that both watches offer tremendous value – true bangs for your hard-earned buck. If you’re choosing based on price alone, the Mudman gets your vote since it’s the less expensive model than the Rangeman.
However, if you believe that price isn’t everything, you may want to consider what the Rangeman has to offer.
The Rangeman is simply the more feature-packed option between the two timepieces, thus it’s more expensive. The G-Shock Rangeman has Triple Sensor, Atomic Timekeeping, Auto Sunrise/Sunset Data, just to name a few. Therefore, if you’re taking features into consideration, the Rangeman is certainly worth the extra dollars.
At the end of the day, the difference between the two models is about $50-$60 which is not much of a difference, really. If you’re on a tight budget, the Mudman is a great choice. However, if you have some financial wiggle room, the Rangeman with its extra features is worth the price.
G Shock Mudman vs Rangeman: The Verdict
As per usual, we end this G Shock Mudman vs Rangeman head-to-head comparison with our verdict. Which Casio G-Shock is better?
As it turns out, the answer to this question is not as clear-cut as it seems. At the end of the day, it all comes down to your needs and requirements.
In terms of pure features and versatility, the Casio G-Shock Rangeman GW-9400 wins hands down. With the addition of atomic timekeeping, barometer, and altimeter, all of which that the Mudman lacks, The Rangeman is a functional powerhouse. The Triple Sensor feature is just too good. If you love going outdoors or prefer atomic watches, the Rangeman is the easy choice. However, you have to keep in mind that it’s a bit more expensive than the Mudman.
On the other hand, the Casio G-Shock Mudman G9300-1 is undoubtedly the budget-friendly option. If you’re tight on budget but still want a reliable tough watch, the Mudman won’t fail you. It is a Tough Solar timepiece which means that battery life will never be an issue. Unfortunately, the lower price tag does come with the lack of major features (at least when compared to the Rangeman). It does come with a Moon Phase calendar which the Rangeman doesn’t have.
Overall, both are amazing watches that will serve you well, especially if you’re planning to wear them outdoors. However, if budget is not an issue, I’d say that you should for the Rangeman. The extra features and versatility are certainly worth the extra bucks.
