The Galaxy Watch 4’s release was eagerly anticipated as one of the most important Android Watch launches. Samsung made a bold move to abandon Tizen OS and partnered with Google to create a new and improved software experience.
The Galaxy Watch 4 had a lot to live up to, and fortunately, it exceeded expectations. Its software was both smooth and intuitive, representing a significant improvement over previous iterations of Wear OS. All in all, the Galaxy Watch 4 proved to be a game-changer in the world of Android smartwatches.
The watch also boasts a sleek and lightweight design, a bright and sharp display, a fast processor, and a range of health and fitness features, including a sensor that can measure body fat and composition.
But is the Galaxy Watch 4 still worth buying in 2023? How does it compare to other smartwatches on the market, such as the Apple Watch Series 8 or the Fitbit Sense 2? And what are some of the pros and cons of owning this smartwatch? Let’s find out!
Pros of the Galaxy Watch 4
Excellent performance
The Galaxy Watch 4 runs on the Exynos W920 Dual-Core processor, which is faster and more efficient than the previous generation. It also has 1.5GB of RAM and 16GB of internal storage, which allow you to store more apps and music on your watch. The watch supports LTE connectivity, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and GPS, so you can stay connected and use various services without your phone.
Great software experience
The Galaxy Watch 4 is the first Samsung watch to run on Wear OS 3, which is a collaboration between Samsung and Google. This means that you can access more third-party apps than before, such as Spotify, Strava, Google Maps, and Google Pay. You can also use Google Assistant or Bixby as your voice assistant, depending on your preference. The watch also retains Samsung’s One UI interface, which is easy to navigate with the touch screen or the digital bezel.
In addition, the Watch still has years of software support and security updates.
Lightweight and durable design
The Galaxy Watch 4 has an aluminum case that makes it lighter than the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, which has a stainless steel case and a physical bezel. The watch comes in two sizes: 40mm and 44mm, and multiple colors, including black, silver, green, and pink gold. The watch has a water resistance rating of 5ATM+IP68, which means it can withstand splashes and swimming. The watch also has a variety of bands to choose from, including leather, silicone, nylon, and hybrid.
Advanced health features
The Galaxy Watch 4 has a BioActive Sensor that can measure your heart rate, blood oxygen level, blood pressure, and electrocardiogram (ECG). It also has a Body Composition Analysis feature that can estimate your body fat percentage, muscle mass, bone mass, and water level using electrical impedance. These features can help you monitor your health and fitness goals more accurately. The watch also tracks your sleep quality, stress level, menstrual cycle, and snoring.
The Galaxy Watch 4 is fun
The Galaxy Watch 4 boasts an abundance of unique and enjoyable features. With its internal storage, you can download Spotify or Google Play music and enjoy jogging without a phone. You can also watch YouTube videos straight from the small screen using the Samsung browser and more.
Great fitness Watch
The Galaxy Watch 4 has over 90 workout modes that you can choose from or the watch can detect automatically. It also has an active zone feature that tracks your intensity based on your heart rate zones.
Cons of the Galaxy Watch 4
Limited compatibility
The Galaxy Watch 4 only works with Android phones running Android 6.0 or later with 1.5GB of RAM or more. It does not work with iPhones or older Android phones. Moreover, some features such as blood pressure or ECG measurements are only available if you have a Samsung phone. This means you can’t fully utilize the Watch if you own other Android smartphones.
However, to use those features on a non-Samsung phone, you’d need to install a modded Samsung Health monitor app from XDA Developers.
Lacks rotating bezel (for Samsung fanatics)
The Galaxy Watch 4 has a digital bezel that you can swipe on the screen to scroll through menus and widgets. However, some users may prefer the physical rotating bezel that the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic has, which offers more tactile feedback and precision. The physical bezel also adds some protection to the screen from scratches and bumps.
Poor battery life
While the Galaxy Watch 4 can last throughout the day, depending on usage. Battery life falls in the line of average. However, if you’re a heavy user, you will likely be disappointed.
Should you buy the Galaxy Watch 4?
The simple answer is yes! The Galaxy Watch 4 is a great smartwatch for Android users who want a fast and smooth performance, a sleek and comfortable design, a rich app ecosystem, and a comprehensive health monitoring system. It is especially worth it if you have a Samsung phone and are on a tight budget.
However, if you have an iPhone or an older Android phone, you may want to look elsewhere for a compatible smartwatch. You may also want to consider the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic if you prefer a physical bezel and value battery life.
