Hiking with the help of ABC Watches (Altimeter, Barometer, Compass)

These devices, which go by the abbreviation "ABC," combine an altimeter, barometer, and compass into one convenient gadget. Going for a hike in the woods? A reliable ABC watch will keep you informed and secure on your travels.

ABC altimeter watches - Key features

For those unfamiliar, an altimeter monitors changes in air pressure whereas a barometer estimates the height attained during a voyage. As you would expect, both of these techniques are critical for trekkers who wish to keep track of their progress while also avoiding severe weather.

These are, of course, just the fundamental characteristics of the most basic ABC watch accessible. According to Superwatches, many ABC watches come with a long number of features that are impossible to enumerate. Temperature sensors, lap timers, automatic time zone change, backlights, and enhanced altitude visualization maps are all popular features on these devices nowadays.

Potential purchasers should be aware that finding a fully working ABC watch that isn't too bulky is challenging. Many of the most useful components weigh six ounces or more, making them feel noticeably heavier on the wrist.

ABC altimeter watches from reputable brands

Suunto and Casio ABC watches now dominate the market because they provide a broad variety of extra functions. Garmin, on the other hand, has lately made a strong push into the high-end market by introducing solar-powered ABC watches with improved GPS features.

Check out the Garmin ABC Watches, which are widely regarded as among the finest multi-sport altimeter watches available. Based on both the Fenix 5X and Fenix 6 range, the new Fenix 7 will have links to GPS and GLONASS satellites for the most precise position tracking, thanks to its full ABC functionality.

In addition, this little gadget has advanced topographical mapping for trekking, climbing, and other outdoor activities.

Top 5 ABC watches

1. Fenix 6X from Garmin
Although the Garmin Fenix 6X is expensive, you get what you paid for. To begin with, it is the greatest multisport altimeter smartwatch available. This device has all ABC features as well as a heart rate monitor, GPS, and GLONASS satellite capabilities. In-screen topographical mapping is included on the Fenix 6X, which is useful for navigation.

For activities such as trekking and climbing, the contour lines provide comprehensive information. It's a tough, reliable timepiece that you can rely on. It also performs and looks great — it's purpose-built for outdoor use and is one of the finest smartwatches on the market.

2. Casio Pro Trek PRW-6000Y-1A
Casio's Pro Trek line of watches has always been known for being tough and long-lasting. However, a lack of flair has been a typical drawback. Usually, they're fashioned of clumsy plastics. Finally, Casio addresses this with the PRW-6000Y-1A, which is undoubtedly Casio's best-looking watch.

3. Suunto CoreThis is a less expensive choice that may be used as a daily multisport watch. It can tell you the time of dawn and sunset in 400+ places, as well as the change in pressure due to daylight decrease and a 7-day altitude record for hikers.

4. Suunto 9 Peak/Baro
Suunto's flagship ABC watches are the Suunto 9 Baro and Suunto 9 Peak, which are available at a higher price point. The battery life is the finest feature of these gadgets (which is lithium-ion). You may choose how often the GPS feature checks your position, which can have a big influence on how rapidly the battery drains.

Other features like the compass, gyro, and accelerometer will compensate for the lack of GPS tracking on the Baro 9. This provides a precise image of the position, speed, and distance.

5. Garmin Instinct GPS
This Garmin product has a classic design on the outside but has all the technology you could desire on the inside. The Instinct GPS, which was released in late 2018, is ideal for hikers and trail runners. It includes a complete ABS system, as well as GPS navigation, and is housed in a tough body.

A heart rate monitor and specialized activity modes for cycling, trekking, and open water swimming are among the fitness features. The Instinct Solar model, which is newer and has a longer battery life, is also an option.

Conclusion

The watches on this list will undoubtedly do the job if you're seeking an ABC watch and like navigation. You may get a solar version of some of them, which will offer you more battery life, which will be useful when using GPS.

The ABC watch collection continues to develop, and more models are on the way. Check out the Fenix 7, which is set to be launched this year, as well as other ABC/Altimeter watches from manufacturers like Suunto and Casio.