10 Best Solar Watches Under $100: (2024 Reviews & Buying Guide)

Last Updated on December 19, 2023 by Luis Cooper

The best solar watches under $100 are worth the hype as they get charged with natural light and are time-saving compared to ordinary watches.

If you are looking to get one to turn your boring watch collection into a trendy and modern one, then you have landed on the right spot.

If you are unsure what a solar watch does, it’s a unique watch from different models that gets charged through natural or artificial light.

For you, we have fetched some of the best solar watches under $100, so let’s dive into the article to know more about this.

Which are the Best Solar Watches Under $100?

Here are my recommended top 10 Best Solar Watches Under $100:-

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Casio: (Best Cheap Tough Solar Sport Watch)

I always wanted to give solar watches a try.

So I came to know about this Casio men’s G-shock sports watch.

I bought it and used it for adventures.

Its uncountable features and incredible look make it worth every penny.

However, it is affordable compared to other expensive watches, but its functions are the same as high-end watches.

As it was my first experience, I bought this watch for its affordable price.

Its durability and stability are outstanding.

Also, it’s water resistant and can be used for everything. 

WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE?

Durability/Stability:

This Casio men’s watch is the most durable digital watch.

It’s trusted by military personnel, law enforcement and other outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world.

Moreover, this Casio solar charging system converts the dim light of the lamps into expansive energy to achieve a stable operation of high charge function. 

Water Resistant/Shock Resistant:

I can wear this G-shock for every situation, whether working in the water daily or participating in water activities, including swimming or surfing.

Also, it has a backlight that helps me see the watch’s face in any situation without light.

Furthermore, it has a shock-resistant structure made with resin that guarantees it can withstand the most adventurous weather. 

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this is the best solar watch for under $100.

If you are on a budget and want to get a watch of the same high-end quality, get this Casio watch.

Its easy readability and easy operation help beginners use this fantastic watch.  

Specs: 

Measurements of the package: 4.8 x 3.3 x 2.4 inches

Mass of the package: 0.16 kilograms

Measurements of the product: 1.97 x 0.7 x 2.09 inches 

Mass of the product: 113 grams

Products model number: GW6900-1

The material used: Resin 

Reasons To Buy
  • Easy to read.
  • Affordable price.
  • Easy to operate.
  • Durability is outstanding.
  • Light in weight.
Reasons To Avoid
  • No world clock.
  • No reverse button.

Casio: (Best Affordable Men’s Solar Watch)

I bought this Casio men’s solar-powered watch last year.

I wanted to try a solar watch, but as I was on a budget, I was looking for a watch under $100.

So considering my budget, this was the best option for a solar watch.

It gets charged with natural sunlight and does not require artificial light, making it great for adventures. 

WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE?

Impressive SST Box with Mineral Glass/Comfortable Blue Silicone Strap: 

This fantastic men’s Casio watch comes with 1,732 in a silver SST box with a mineral glass that looks elegant while packed in.

It has a blue dial that prominently features my hands with luminous padding.

The blue silicone strap features a decompression scale and accurately fits my wrist.

It fits into a wrist of 7.9 in circumference.

Furthermore, it has a pressure crown on the back of the pressure box.

It looks unique and elegant.

Also, I love to use it for swimming or even in the rain.

It does not get harmed as it’s water resistant. 

Conclusion:

This is the best solar watch for under $100.

So if you are on a budget and looking for a high-end solar watch, there is no other best option.

Also, Its colour looks elegant with all the outfits you wear. 

Specs: 

Case diameter: 46.9 millimetres 

Case thickness: 10.9 millimetres 

Case Material: Stainless steel 

Band Material: Fabric 

Size of the band: Standard

Width of the band: 22 millimetres 

Band colour: Green 

Unique features: Second hand 

Reasons To Buy
  • This colour looks elegant with all attire you wear.
  • A perfect gift for a guy.
  • The price is affordable.
  • The blue strap is eye-catching.
  • Face dial is easy on the eyes.
  • Good functioning.
  • Water-resistant.
  • Comfortable. 
Reasons To Avoid
  • Not durable. 

Timex: (Best Solar Watch Under $100)

Last year one of my friends gifted me this timex men’s expedition Gallatin watch.

I never knew this watch would be this much beneficial for me.

I always love to experience adventures, so this is my perfect companion there.

It does not require extra artificial charging.

Instead, it gets charged with sunlight. It’s the best solar watch. 

WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE?

Charged By Any Light/Well-Built For Outdoors:

This incredible Timex men’s watch can be charged with every light with 120 days of power reserve, which is enough compared to other watches.

This Gallatin watch is sustainable and a perfect match for adventure lovers.

As I’m an adventure lover, it’s my favourite companion that is powered by natural energy.

This solar-powered watch is constructed for outdoor use with plain black fabric for a fast wrap.

With a fabric strap, it has a black resin case and a black dial that gets paired with all my attires. 

Conclusion:

In summary, this is the best solar watch under $100 because it’s a perfect choice for everyday living.

It does not weigh more. Instead, it’s comfortable and easy to wear.

Also, it’s water resistant and does not get harmed by water. 

Specs: 

Case diameter: 44 millimetres 

Case thickness: 13 millimetres 

Case Material: Resin

Band Material: Nylon 

Size of the band: Standard 

Width of the band: 22 millimetres 

Band colour: Black 

The movement featured: Quartz 

Reasons To Buy
  • Easy to set up.
  • Water-resistant.
  • Reasonable price.
  • Lightweight and comfortable.
  • Great for fewer light environments.
  • Ideal for everyday living.
Reasons To Avoid
  • It can be a little tricky to read.
  • Not for people who want a variety of features. 

Casio: (Best Water-Resistant Watch Under $100)

While going to mountain areas, my parents suggested I buy a solar watch.

I knew nothing about solar watches, so I went through different websites.

I came to know about this Casio Wave Ceptor tough solar watch.

I bought this watch because of its reasonable price.

Plus, I was a little nervous about getting this.

But when I got this fantastic watch, I was glad to use its unique features.

I used it in mountainous areas, and it worked amazingly.   

WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE?

Water-Resistant And Multilingual Switching Functions: 

This high-quality watch comes from the Wave Ceptor series, imported from Japan.

It’s water resistant for around 5 bars, so I have used it for swimming and showering even in the rain.

It also has a fully automatic calendar that accurately shows the day and date to ensure I know everything about my meetings.

Furthermore, the blow function makes it stand in the crowd.

It has Neo bright LED light that is hardly featured in any watch, but it has this feature.

The multilingual switching function shows English, Japanese, Chinese, Spanish, and German on my watch, so I can quickly understand and learn all these languages.  

Conclusion:

This is the best watch under $100 because of its unique features.

For such an affordable price, it provides the user with high-end functions.

The atomic clock and tough solar features are outstanding. 

Specs: 

The model number of the item: Is WVA-M630B-3AJF

Item’s Part Number: WVA-M630B-3AJF

Year for the model: 2013

Form of the product: Round

Sphere material type: Inorganic glass

Screen type: Analog

Brooch: Fold-down closure

Material of the case: Fold-down closure

Case diameter: 42.1 millimetres

Case thickness: 11 millimetres

Band Material: Synthetic leather

Width of the band: 19 millimetres

Band colour: Synthetic leather

Colour of the dial: Black

Unique features: Tough Solar MULTIBAND6

Reasons To Buy
  • Dial is easy to read.
  • The atomic clock is great.
  • Tough Solar and Multiband 6.
  • LED is not hard to read.
  • Easy to wear.
  • It has World Time, five alarms, a stopwatch, a timer, and a bright light.
  • The led display is the backlight.
Reasons To Avoid
  • The light on it is a little strange.

CASIO: (Best Stainless Steel Solar Watch)

I started using this Casio wave ceptor multi-band six watches as it does not require artificial power.

Plus, this masterpiece is budget-friendly.

It provided me with features like a high-end watch.

Moreover, its design and functionality are unbeatable compared to other watches. 

WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE?

Sapphire Crystal Glass with Folding Method: 

This Casio solar watch comes with a sapphire crystal stainless steel glasses case strap material which is adjustable.

It has three band adjustment methods.

It includes a monthly precision folding method with 15 seconds of Lumi Brite that can eliminate radio-resistant magnetic features of overload prevention features and other functions.

This solar watch is made to target working women who are adults.

It has Roman numerals and indexes an icon that looks classy and glamorous.

The band has a shiny look and looks like a bracelet.

It gets paired with all my attires perfectly. 

Conclusion:

It’s the best Casio solar watch for under $100.

This watch’s unique and elegant design looks perfect with all your attires.

Its bracelet-like band gives an excellent look.

Also, analogue and digital displays combine the best technology. 

Specifications: 

The model number of the product: is LWA-M141D-7AJF

The shape of the item: Round

Type of material of the dial window: Glass, Sapphire Crystal

Type of display: Analogue 

Clasp: Development clasp 

Material of the case: Stainless steel

Diameter Of the case: 38.6 millimetres

The thickness of the case: 11.5 millimetres

Material of the band: Stainless 

Width of the band: 34.6 millimetres

Colour of the band: Multicolour 

Colour of the dial: Blue white 

Reasons To Buy
  • Inexpensive stainless steel bracelet.
  • Attractive style.
  • Multi-band 6.
  • Solar-powered drive.
  • Hybrid analogue and digital displays combine best-of-both-worlds.
  • The packaging looks great. 
Reasons To Avoid
  • Tiny digital display.
  • Stainless steel edges aren’t the smoothest.

Anne Klein: (Best Women’s Solar Powered Bracelet Watch)

Last month I was looking for a solar watch for under $100.

But for every option, they demand a considerable amount.

So I chose to buy this Anne Klein women’s solar-powered watch.

It gets charged through sunlight and does not require artificial power.

The incredible features and the rechargeable battery is unique compared to other watches.

Also, it’s water resistant, and water does not harm its design and quality. 

WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE?

Incredible Features/Rechargeable Battery:

It has a mineral glass lens with a rose gold-tone for central areas.

The outer zone has Roman numerals in rose gold, premium glass markers, and a black exterior minute tracker.

Moreover, its battery is recharged by a solar panel integrated into the sphere.

It’s functional for around four months when every type of light quickly charges it. 

Adjustable Link Bracelet/Water Resistant: 

This fantastic watch also has adjustable link bracelets in rose gold with petroleum-free resin central links in pearly pink.

It also works as a jewellery accessory to pair with all my outfits.

Furthermore, I use this excellent watch for swimming or showering as it’s water resistant for up to 98.4 ft.

It does not get harmed even if I use it for hours.

Conclusion:

The attractive design makes sure to look luxurious and gives a high-end type look.

It’s subtle colours and classy design looks elegant with all your attires.

Plus, it’s comfortable for daily wear or Occasional events. 

Specs: 

The model number of the product: Is AK/3610RGPK

Sphere material type: Mineral

Screen type: Analogue 

Type of brooch: Jewelry closure 

Case Material: Metal 

Case diameter: 34 millimetres 

Case thickness: 8 millimetres 

Band material: Resin 

Size of the band: Standard for women’s 

Width of the band: 14 millimetres 

Band colour: Rose

Colour of dial: Silver 

Reasons To Buy
  • Attractive and luxurious design.
  • The subtle colour of the band and the dial makes it classy and elegant.
  • Comfortable on the wrist.
  • Environment friendly because it’s solar powered.
  • 80 clear Swarovski crystals.
  • Water-resistant.
  • Low power option. 
Reasons To Avoid
  • The price is a little high.

Casio: (Best Tough Solar Analog Display Watch)

I chose to buy this Casio men’s tough solar watch because of its unique technologies and also the no hassle of changing batteries.

It does not require extra artificial power or the replacement of batteries.

This watch is comfortable to wear for daily wear and Occasional events.

It provided me with high-end features for such an affordable price. 

WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE?

Digital Technology with No Hassle of Replacing Batteries: 

Casio was the one that entered the watch industry when they discovered digital technology.

After pocket calculators, Casio introduced wristwatches and ensured they led the market.

Moreover, a unique solar technology has been introduced that helped me greatly in eliminating the hassle of repeatedly charging the battery.

The atomic time ensures the user does not have to reset the watch’s time again.

Thanks to its unique automatic charging solar energy system, this analogue/digital combination sports model provides many features.

This makes it a versatile option with a shiny black resin strap and a solar digital analogue watch with a black and golden face. 

Conclusion:

This is the best solar watch for under $100.

Its comfort, water resistance, lightweight material, and backlight make it worth buying.

These features help this watch stand out in the crowd. 

Specifications: 

The model number of the item: is EAW-AQ-S810W-1A3V

Item’s Part Number: AQ-S810W-1A3VCF

Year for the model: 2020

Form of the product: Round

Sphere material type: Mineral 

Screen type: Analogue 

Brooch: Buckle 

Material of the case: Resin 

Case diameter: 47 millimetres

Case thickness: 12 millimetres

Band material: Resin 

Width of the band: 21 millimetres

Band colour: Black 

Colour of the dial: Black

Unique features: Second hand

Reasons To Buy
  • Very comfortable for everyday wear.
  • Water-resistant.
  • Having hands to make the light see easily.
  • Economical and lightweight.
  • It’s easy to clean.
  • backlight for the digital time display.
  • Affordable price.
  • Easy to read. 
Reasons To Avoid
  • Difficult to set a time.

Casio: (Best Budget Shock Resistant Watch for Men)

I used this Casio men’s G-shock watch on my friend’s recommendation.

I always wanted to try a solar watch, and this was the best option I could opt for.

The battery for this watch gets charged through natural sunlight and does not require artificial power.

It also has a power-saving mode that saves energy and does not require quick charging.

For such an affordable price, this watch featured all high-end features. 

WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE? 

Shock Resistant/Battery Level Indicator:

This watch by Casio is shock resistant and tough solar powered, which helps me use this watch anytime and anywhere.

It’s also water resistant for 200 meters so I can use this incredible watch underwater.

I also use this for swimming or snorkelling.

Also, it has a double LED light, making it perfect for use at night.

For the night, I can never switch to any other watch than this because of its luminous light.

Furthermore, it shows world time with a countdown timer.

It also has five alarms that I can utilise daily.

This watch comes with a hand shift feature with a battery level indicator to show the level of the battery. 

Power Saving/Battery Operating Time: 

This camera comes with power saving, and the display goes blank to save power when the watch is placed in the dark.

A full automatic calendar features a 12/24 hour format and button operation.

Furthermore, it can be used for eight months on a rechargeable battery for regular use without exposure to light.

Also, it can be used for 19 months on a rechargeable battery, that is, when the watch is stored under complete darkness with a power save feature after a full charge. 

Conclusion:

I recommend buying this watch for people looking for an affordable solar watch.

It looks elegant with all your attire.

It’s thin and lightweight and comfortable for daily wear. 

Specifications: 

The model number of the product: Is GAS-100B-7ACR 

Sphere material type: Mineral 

Screen type: Analogue-digital 

Type of brooch: Buckle 

Case Material: Resin 

Case diameter: 5.2 centimetres 

Case thickness: 16.5 millimetres 

Band Material: Plastic 

Size of the band: Standard size 

Width of the band: 29 millimetres 

Band colour: White 

Colour of dial: Black 

Reasons To Buy
  • Looks so elegant.
  • Thin and lightweight that makes it comfortable.
  • World time feature.
  • Inexpensive. 
Reasons To Avoid
  • The digital display is tiny and difficult to read.
  • No solar or atomic sync feature.

Nautica N83: (Best Comfortable Watch for Daily Wear)

I used this Nautica N83 men’s watch after my brother bought it from the UK.

I  never knew this watch would be this much beneficial for daily wear.

Its high-end functions can beat the most expensive watches.

Also, the silicone strap is comfortable all day. 

WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE?

Impressive SST Box with Mineral Glass/Comfortable Blue Silicone Strap: 

This fantastic men’s Casio watch comes with 1,732 in a silver SST box with a mineral glass that looks elegant while packed in.

It has a blue dial that prominently features my hands with luminous padding.

The blue silicone strap features a decompression scale and accurately fits my wrist.

It fits into a wrist of 7.9 in circumference.

Furthermore, it has a pressure crown on the back of the pressure box.

It looks unique and elegant.

Also, I love to use it for swimming or even in the rain.

It does not get harmed as it’s water resistant. 

Conclusion:

I recommend this watch to people looking for affordable solar watches.

Its elegant colours look elegant with all your outfits.

The face dial of this watch is easy on the eyes and features unique functions. 

Specs:  

The model number of the item: Is NAPFWS219

Item’s Part Number: NAPFWS219

Form of the product: Round

Sphere material type: Mineral crystal

Screen type: Analog

Brooch: Buckle

Material of the case: Stainless steel

Case diameter: 44 millimetres

Case thickness: 12 millimetres

Band material: Silicone

Width of the band: 22 millimetres

Band colour: Blue 

Colour of the dial: Blue 

Movement: Quartz

Reasons To Buy
  • This colour looks elegant with all attire you wear.
  • A perfect gift for a guy.
  • The price is affordable.
  • The blue strap is eye-catching.
  • Face dial is easy on the eyes.
  • Good functioning.
  • Water-resistant.
  • Comfortable. 
Reasons To Avoid
  • Not durable for too long.

Timex: (Best Lightweight Watch Under $100)

I always love to gather advanced technology watches.

So I learned about the Timex men’s expedition watch and bought it.

Among all my watches collection, this is the best daily wear option.

It gets charged with natural light, which is a great thing.

Plus, it does not hurt my pocket. 

WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE?

Fully Loaded with Quality Materials:

This incredible watch, timex expedition, features solar expedition technology that grabs energy from every light source, including indoor lighting, with this power reserve that lasts for months with single charging.

It will continue to mark zero matter where the trail turns.

On the other hand, it’s well-built for every adventure.

The classic analogue design of this watch is made resistant and significant thanks to the durable natural leather strap with resin casing which is resistant and has a top tactical ring. 

Water-Resistant And Classy Design: 

Thanks to its 164 ft or more water resistance rating, it also helps me use this fantastic watch underwater.

This also helps timex expedition watches prepare to handle rainstorms and river crossings.

Moreover, if we talk about its design, it has an impressive design.

The adjustable leather strap fits my wrist accurately.

As I listed above, any light can charge with a four-monitor reserve.

It also has a black dial with Arabic numerals that look elegant and worn daily. 

Conclusion:

For such an affordable price, this is the best solar watch.

Its lightweight materials make it comfortable for daily wear.

Also, it’s easy to read and use for beginners.

The elegant leather band makes it unique among all other watches. 

Specifications: 

Width of the case: 40 mm

Material of the case: Brass

Colour of the band: Tan

Buckle or clasp: Buckle

Colour of the case: Gunmetal 

Finishing off the case: Bead blasted

The shape of the case: Round 

Size of the case: Full 

Crystal or lens: Mineral glass

Colour of the dial: Grey 

Reasons To Buy
  • Lightweight and easy to read.
  • Great for the price tag.
  • Water-resistant.
  • Elegant leather wristband.
  • Durability is excellent.
  • Long-lasting battery life.
Reasons To Avoid
  • No box is included for packaging.
  • The strap of the leather must be improved. 

Buying Guide: 

Whether you go for an analogue or digital watch, you will never lose your time tracking time with this solar-powered wristwatch.

For now, we have mentioned the best solar watches for you to pick.

If you still need clarification about selecting the best pick, give this guide a read.

Knowing all these watches will always make the selection more accessible and a quick buying decision.

Let’s read about the factors to look for while shopping for a solar watch. 

Case Size:

The most significant thing to consider while purchasing any watch is ensuring case size.

It determines the form factors that help you ensure that the watch bought looks and fits accurately on your wrist.

People mostly purchase watches with case sizes ranging between 40 mm to 46 mm.

So the case size of 46 mm is excellent for large hands, while the small hands wear a 40 mm case size designed to be used in the lightest watches. 

Charging Time:

As I have mentioned above, a solar watch’s battery gets power through solar light or artificial light, depending on its regular exposure.

So it keeps the watch functional and features unique functions.

Furthermore, solar charging takes a few minutes or hours when kept under the sun.

At the same time, artificial light takes longer to get charged and does not provide the same power as direct solar sunlight charging on a cloudy day. 

Power Reserve:

The power reserve of a solar watch determines how long a watch can work without proper charging.

Based on the watch model, they usually range from a few months to a year, as different brands come with varying power reserves.

It’s essential for those who love to wear watches more often before buying a solar watch to know when they have less energy.

So make sure to check the specifications to see the watch’s power reserve. 

Design And Style:

There are a variety of solar wristwatches available.

They are designed for men or women or unisex to give an elegant look after wearing them.

Either they have a classy or sporty style.

The watch bands are made from rubber, stainless steel, leather, and nylon, while some models have gold or diamond-coloured bands.

Moreover, you must select the type of watch according to your occasion.

For a formal event, wear a dress watch with your formal attire.

And the sports watch for casual occasions. 

Watch Type:

Before getting a solar watch, check the timepiece you will buy.

This includes analogue and digital clocks that get started through solar energy.

In most cases, a digital watch offers a variety of functions and features perfect for many users.

Conversely, analogue watches are slim and classy, making them ideal dress watches.

You can also find hybrid watches for hands and digital displays. 

Water Resistance: 

Like all other electronic gadgets, you must protect your solar watch from water damage to its work.

You can wear a water-resistant watch anytime for swimming, snorkelling, or in the rain.

So you must check if your watch is water resistant before purchasing it.

Even a beginner-level solar watch needs water resistance for up to 50 meters.

At the same time, high-end solar watches are made for heavy-duty usage that can withstand up upto 200 meters. 

FAQs:

Are solar-powered watches good?

Solar watches are the most reliable timepieces.

They get charged once the dial is exposed to natural or artificial light.

The excess energy is stored in lithium ions.

These batteries help the watch work even in the dark or when no reliable light source exists. 

How many years will solar watch last? 

The most used alternative to a typical quartz watch is a solar-powered watch.

They can last for more than 25 years without any maintenance. 

Which is better: quartz or solar watch? 

Like quartz watches, solar watches are also accurate and can be even better than quartz watches.

In a solar watch, you can find a GPS and other elements to provide better accuracy for the watch. 

Ending Paragraph:

We have finalised our discussion about the best solar watches under $100. 

Do you guys have experience with the best solar watches under $100

What are your thoughts on them?

Are there any solar watches under $100 you used that I haven’t highlighted in this article?

Kindly drop your comments below.

Related Articles:

Hi, I'm Luis, the guy behind this site. I love wearing watches, especially ones that look great on small wrists (mine are about 6.3" around). The Watches Geek is dedicated to helping you learn about and buy watches that you will love wearing. I want this website to be the last destination for people to pick the best watches to fit their needs. You can find our unbiased reviews here on Thewatchesgeek.

Leave a Comment