I recently tested the GSI All-In-One Outdoor Exercise Data Wrist Watch for a period of two weeks. I did this as part of my quest to review all the top pedometers, although this unit is certainly does much more than just count steps. I wore the GSI wrist watch during all my waking hours for the two-week review period, so that I would get a clear idea of how this unit functions with regular use. Here is my review.
First, this wrist watch packs a lot of function into a small unit. Let's go over what it promises to do. It is a pedometer that measures steps, distance and speed. This unit also measures altitude and temperature. It is also a chronograph, stopwatch and barometer. This watch costs about $60, including the shipping costs. That is higher than the standard run-of-the-mill cheap pedometer, but it seems very reasonable to me considering all the added functions. I unpacked my GSI wrist watch and looked it over. The visible parts of this watch are mainly plastic, which doesn't lend itself to a high-end look, but you wouldn't be able to get a regular watch that looks high-end for this price.
I read through the user's manual and noticed two things. First, if you want an accurate temperature reading, you must remove the watch for 15 to 30 minutes first and keep it out of direct sunlight. This prevents the result from being affected by your own body temperature. I would say that makes this unit a somewhat ineffective thermometer, since I intend to wear it most of the time. Second, the instructions say that any altimeter that does not have GPS (this unit does not) will be affected by barometric pressure, possibly resulting in inaccurate results. I suppose that makes this unit also a somewhat ineffective altimeter as well. My main reason for wanting this unit is for its pedometer function, so I am okay with this. However, I think anyone considering purchasing this unit ought to be aware of those two issues before making up their mind.
I carried another pedometer with me that I know is accurate in the beginning of the review period, so that I could test the accuracy of this unit when it comes to steps, distance and speed. It was very accurate when measuring these things. During the review period I noticed it to remain accurate when it came to those three items. However, the altimeter is indeed inaccurate. It fluctuated wildly at times while I was on flat ground. The thermometer seemed to be fairly accurate, even while on my arm, if I was not involved in strenuous exercise. It was usually within 2 degrees of the temperature on a nearby bank marquis, if I was walking and not jogging. I never actually needed the chronograph or stopwatch during the review period, but that function seems to work well. The barometer also appears to function well, but I don't really know how much I need a barometer on my wrist at all times.
Overall, I found this to be a decent pedometer. The watch is a bit bulky compared to other watches I own, but not compared to other watch pedometers. The readout on the screen looks a bit old-fashioned and pixellated, yet is easy enough to read. I found it to be comfortable to wear and I thought it was easier to keep it with me than a pocket or hip pedometer. I tend to forget to bring other types of pedometers with me when I change my clothes after work or before a workout. I also like that I can carry this pedometer with me even when I don't have pockets. I think GSI should have left out the altimeter and perhaps even the thermometer, since even they know these functions don't work optimally. I feel that nothing should be included that isn't likely to work well most of the time. However, if you look at this more simply as just a pedometer and stopwatch, I think this unit is well-priced and a good value. There are better watch pedometers out there, but not at this price.
Visit Pedometer Reviews for more information on this pedometer and many more. You'll find thousands of customer reviews as well as a handy buying guide to help you along the way. Find your pedometer today and start walking your way to better fitness!
Heather Krasovec, creator of http://best-pedometer-reviews.com/, is dedicated to helping consumers find the best products to stay fit and healthy.
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