Suunto X-lander vs Casio Pathfinder

The Suunto X-Lander and Casio Pathfinder are both popular outdoor watches, each with its own set of features and strengths, catering to different preferences and needs.

The Suunto X-Lander is a rugged and feature-packed watch designed for serious outdoor enthusiasts. It boasts a durable construction, including a barometer, altimeter, compass, and thermometer. The X-Lander excels in its accuracy and precision, making it an excellent choice for hikers, climbers, and adventurers who rely on detailed data for navigation and decision-making. Its robust build can withstand harsh conditions, and it even offers a depth meter for diving enthusiasts. On the downside, its complexity may overwhelm casual users, and the price tag can be steep.

On the other hand, the Casio Pathfinder is a more budget-friendly option that still provides a solid set of outdoor features. It includes a digital compass, altimeter, barometer, and thermometer, making it suitable for various outdoor activities. What sets the Pathfinder apart is its solar-powered battery, ensuring it never runs out of juice during extended trips, and its user-friendly interface. While it may not match the Suunto X-Lander in terms of precision or build quality, it offers good value for the price.

Suunto X-lander review
I collect watches, and I am NOT one to shy away from big watches, and in some cases, the bigger the better. What I really love about the X-Lander is that it is big but also very light-weight. Normally when you see a wrist watch this large you have to exercise your arm quite a bit just to get used to telling time, but not so with the Suunto X-Lander watch. And best of all: it does WAY MORE than just tell time!

Interested in knowing where you are going? How about the current temperature? Are you just the slightest bit interested in what your current altitude may be? GO BUY THIS WATCH! ‘Course for those Suunto enthusiasts, this ISN’T a watch, its a Wristop Computer that just so happens to be able to tell time. Unlike the Suunto Observer which is about half the size (and more than a little extra spendy), this baby will do all that and still look great doing it. From the 3 different Suunto models I personally own, I must admit that they make a great wristop computer, or for the picky out there, watch. I mostly use mine to tell simple time, but I must say that as I drive over the mountains up to Montana or over to Oregon and Washington, it IS handy to know a few extra details just by looking down at my wrist. Oh, I almost forgot the barometer! It tracks the barometric pressure and helps you track and even predict the weather! I must say that I haven’t been able to figure out the finer points of how to do that just yet, but I AM working on it.

Suunto X lander unboxing

Casio Pathfinder review
I have had a lot of watches in my time, and this one has a lot to offer. I don’t have any problems with the size, I’ve never had the pinching that some talk about, and I know the altimeter is going to fluctuate with the barometric pressure (basic science). The main aspect that I love is that you can see the barometric trend graph in timekeeping mode. I can just look down and figure out if the weather will be fair or not. As a runner, I have a Garmin Forerunner GPS watch that functions better for running, so I’m not beholden to the chronograph or countdown time. I am glad I have them on this watch though. I missed having a countdown timer on my last watch. I still use a military lensatic compass when orienteering, but in a pinch, this compass will get you out of a jam. Sunrise/sunset, temperature sensor, alarms, automatic tilt lighting, all work just fine. I’m very happy with this product and would recommend it to others. With solar power, it may be the last watch I ever own.

In summary, the Suunto X-Lander is the go-to choice for serious adventurers who require top-notch accuracy and durability, even if it comes at a higher cost. Meanwhile, the Casio Pathfinder is a more budget-friendly option that still offers a respectable array of features and convenience, making it a solid choice for those who want outdoor functionality without breaking the bank. Ultimately, the choice between these two watches depends on your specific needs and budget.

Question: Do you know any Special Forces guys that are wearing these watches? Yes; several of my Navy SEAL buddies use both brands.

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