Casio’s $65 F-B100W matches Apple Watch Ultra 4 in step-counting accuracy

A budget watch keeps pace with premium tech

A reviewer compared the step-counting accuracy of Casio’s F-B100W, a $65 Bluetooth-enabled digital watch, with Apple’s $799 Watch Ultra 4. During a test run, the Casio device recorded 4,641 steps, while the Apple Watch logged 4,679 steps—a difference of just 38 steps.

The F-B100W includes basic smart features like step tracking and a Find My Phone function, delivered via Bluetooth. It lacks the advanced health metrics and display quality of the Apple Watch but closely matches its performance in tracking daily activity.

In design, the F-B100W resembles Casio’s iconic F-91W, a long-standing budget watch, but adds a larger display, an extra button, and a dual time-zone mode. Unlike most modern fitness trackers, it returns to a stripped-down approach, focusing on core functionality.

What this reveals about wearable value

The test results challenge the assumption that higher-priced wearables necessarily deliver significantly better accuracy for basic functions like step counting. For users who prioritize simplicity and affordability, devices like the F-B100W may offer sufficient performance without the complexity of premium alternatives.

However, the Apple Watch Ultra 4 provides a broader range of features, including heart rate monitoring, ECG, and workout-specific metrics, which remain unavailable on the Casio model. The F-B100W’s appeal lies in its minimalist design and low cost, positioning it as an entry-level option for casual users or those reluctant to invest in high-end wearables.

What this means

Lazyfounder analysis — our interpretation, not reported fact.

For founders and operators in the wearable technology space, this comparison underscores a growing segment of consumers who prioritize functionality over brand or advanced features. While premium devices dominate marketing narratives, there’s a clear demand for affordable, no-frills alternatives that deliver reliable performance for basic tasks. Startups focusing on niche markets—such as retro design, simplicity, or specific activities—may find opportunities to carve out space without competing directly with tech giants.

The findings also highlight the importance of transparency in marketing wearables. As accuracy gaps narrow between budget and premium devices, brands must articulate value beyond technical specifications—whether through software ecosystems, durability, or user experience—to justify higher price points.

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