Introduction: Why These Watches Still Matter
Three years after launch, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic remain shockingly relevant. With prices now under $200, they offer 90% of the Watch 6’s features at half the cost. But are they still worth buying in 2024? Let’s find out!
(🔗 Prefer newer tech? Check the Galaxy Watch 7)
Design & Display: Classic vs. Modern
1. Galaxy Watch 4: Sleek & Lightweight
The standard Watch 4 sports a minimalist aluminum body (just 25.9g!) with a 1.2″ or 1.4″ Super AMOLED display. It’s the perfect gym companion—you’ll forget you’re wearing it.
Color Options & Customization
Choose from Black, Pink Gold, Silver, or Green, with thousands of watch faces to match your style.
2. Watch 4 Classic: The Rotating Bezel King
The Classic model brings back Samsung’s tactile rotating bezel—a fan favorite for navigating menus without smudging the screen.
Stainless Steel Durability
Its 42mm or 46mm stainless steel body screams premium, though it’s heavier (46g+) than the standard model.
(🔗 Protect your Classic with these scratch-resistant bezel rings)
Health & Fitness Tracking Capabilities
1. Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA)
Get body fat %, muscle mass, and water retention metrics in 15 seconds—a feature still missing from many competitors.
2. Advanced Sleep Tracking
The Watch 4 analyzes REM, light, and deep sleep stages, plus snore detection if you use a Galaxy phone.
3. 90+ Workout Modes
From HIIT to swimming, it auto-detects 6 exercises and tracks GPS routes accurately.
Performance & Software
Wear OS 3 + One UI Watch
The switch to Wear OS means access to Google Maps, Spotify, and Gmail—finally fixing Samsung’s app gap.
Exynos W920 Chipset Performance
While not the latest chip, it still handles multitasking smoothly with 1.5GB RAM.
Battery Life: Can It Last a Full Day?
- Watch 4: 40 hours with light use
- Classic: Up to 2 days (larger battery)
Pro tip: Disable always-on display for 30% more juice.
Galaxy Watch 4 vs. Competitors
vs. Apple Watch SE (2024)
The SE wins for iPhone users, but Watch 4 offers more sensors (BIA, SPO2) at a lower price.
vs. Fitbit Sense 2
Fitbit has better sleep analytics, but Watch 4 smokes it in smart features and performance.
Who Should Buy in 2024?
Best for Android Users
Still the best Wear OS watch under $200, especially with Samsung phone integration.
Value Seekers vs. Premium Buyers
- Watch 4: Budget pick
- Classic: Worth the extra 50–50–80 for the bezel and steel build
(🔗 Students: Check Amazon Renewed deals* for under $150*)
Current Pricing & Best Deals
| Model | Original Price | 2024 Price |
|---|---|---|
| Watch 4 (40mm) | $249 | $179 |
| Watch 4 Classic (46mm) | $349 | $229 |
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Unbeatable value
- Rotating bezel (Classic)
- Accurate health tracking
❌ Cons:
- Battery life just “okay”
- No blood pressure monitoring in US
Final Verdict: Should You Buy in 2024?
If you want premium features without the premium price, the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is a steal. For ultra-budget buyers, the standard Watch 4 delivers 90% of the experience.
Conclusion
The Galaxy Watch 4 series proves that great tech ages well. Three years later, it still outshines newer budget watches—making it one of the smartest buys of 2024.
FAQs
1. Does the Watch 4 work with iPhones?
Yes, but with limited features (no ECG/BIA).
2. Can I upgrade to Wear OS 4?
No—stuck on Wear OS 3, but it still runs smoothly.
3. Is the Classic too heavy for small wrists?
The 42mm model (46g) works for most; try the Watch 4 if you prefer lightweight.
4. How accurate is the heart rate monitor?
95% as accurate as chest straps during steady workouts.