All > Samsung Galaxy Watch 4

Samsung Galaxy Watch 4

Retail Price

$199.99

Lowest Price

$84.73

Release Date

August 27, 2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 stands as the premier Android watch, characterized by its intelligent Google Wear OS and a design reminiscent of its predecessor, the Galaxy Watch 3. While it feels more like a Samsung product with an underlying Google layer, it promises a unified OS ecosystem in the future. This watch, priced from $250, combines advanced health sensors with smartwatch connectivity, offering a superior blend of fitness and health features. The Classic model, which costs less than its predecessor, is enhanced by the popular rotating bezel, providing a sharp design and smart software.

Overview

  • Summary
  • Overview - Build
  • Overview - Features
  • Overview - Performance
  • Overview - Worth
  • Recommendation
  • Positive
  • Negative
Summary - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 stands as the premier Android watch, characterized by its intelligent Google Wear OS and a design reminiscent of its predecessor, the Galaxy Watch 3. While it feels more like a Samsung product with an underlying Google layer, it promises a unified OS ecosystem in the future. This watch, priced from $250, combines advanced health sensors with smartwatch connectivity, offering a superior blend of fitness and health features. The Classic model, which costs less than its predecessor, is enhanced by the popular rotating bezel, providing a sharp design and smart software.

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, being the first Google Wear OS-enabled watch, sets the pace for the future Android watches. However, it still feels more like a Samsung product with a Google layer underneath, rather than a unified OS ecosystem. Despite this, the Galaxy Watch 4 is currently the best Android watch option available, with a promising future. It carries over much of the design and features of its predecessor, the Galaxy Watch 3, while adding more health sensor technology and a new OS. The watch, starting at $250, offers a commendable blend of fitness, health features, and smartwatch connectivity.

Summary Build Features Operating System Sensors Connectivity Options Price
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is a promising upgrade with a sharp design, intelligent software, and superior health sensor. It costs less than the previous version, with the Classic model featuring the popular rotating bezel.

Summary Upgrade Design Features Software Sensors Price Bezels
Source
Overview - Build - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic are lightweight, comfortable, and maintain a satisfactory build quality with a variety of appealing color options. They offer an 'always-on' circular OLED display, which is recessed and protected by Gorilla Glass in the Classic model, but may make swipe interactions challenging. The basic Watch 4, while more affordable and stylish, has an exposed glass display that could be prone to scuffs. Both watches accommodate a range of wrist sizes, with options from 40mm to 46mm, and are compatible with standard 20mm pin-release straps. The minimalist design includes two side buttons for navigation and a sharp 1.4-inch amoled screen with a resolution of 450 by 450.

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, along with the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic offer lightweight and comfortable wear. The Classic features a physical rotating bezel and a recessed Gorilla Glass display, providing additional protection but making swipe-based interactions more challenging. On the other hand, the basic Watch 4 is more affordable and stylish, though its exposed glass could be prone to scuffs and its touch-based bezel is harder to turn. Both watches are interchangeable with standard 20mm pin-release straps, but the fit may appear slightly stiff due to the straps bulging out from the lugs.

Overview Build Weight Comfort Bezels Design Material Controls Price Strap Fit
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 models maintain the consistent quality of previous Samsung smartwatches, with circular OLED faces that offer an ‘always-on’ feature. Despite not reaching the construction level of an Apple Watch, they offer a satisfactory build quality, appropriate size, and a comfortable fit.

Overview Build Display Shape Size Fit Finish
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022
3.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 presents a familiar yet refined design that can transition from gym to dinner. It comes in various appealing colors including Silver, Pink Gold, and a Green version that matches the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3. However, the Green version is only available in the 44mm size. The watch is versatile in size options, accommodating different wrist sizes with models ranging from 40mm to 46mm.

Overview Build Design Variants Size Color Options Alternatives
Source

Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021
4.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 stands out with its minimalist design, variety of color options for cases and straps, and flatter edges on the case. Two side buttons aid navigation, while the improved display offers a sharper and larger viewing experience, with a 450 by 450 resolution on a 1.4 inch amoled screen.

Overview Build Design Style Color Options Case Buttons Display Bezels Resolution
Source
Overview - Features - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers a vivid Super AMOLED screen with stunning pre-installed watch faces that feature animated animals and lively effects. These faces are highly adjustable, enabling varied app data presentations. Furthermore, Google Play provides an extensive selection of additional faces for enhanced customization.

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 boasts a vibrant Super AMOLED display complemented by beautiful preloaded watch faces featuring animated animals and dynamic effects. The watch faces are highly customizable, allowing for various app data displays, and a vast array of additional faces can be found on Google Play.

Overview Features Display Watchfaces Apps
Source
Overview - Performance - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 impresses with its robust performance and speedy app loading capability, positioning it as one of the top Android watches. The new chipset promises future improvements in responsiveness. The watch features visually appealing animations, extensive fitness tracking, Google Wear OS support, and manages an average battery life of two days. The 44mm LTE model offers a comfortable wear and a scratch-resistant screen, providing around 40-45 hours of use even with extensive daily tracking and GPS usage. Samsung Health and Bixby also offer a satisfying user experience, making it a recommended choice for first-time smartwatch users.

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 delivers impressive speed, with the ability to load apps faster than many other Android watches. Although it may not match the speed of the latest Apple Watch, it still provides a satisfying user experience. The performance of its new chipset indicates promising potential for future Google watches in terms of responsiveness.

Overview Performance System Software Apps Chipset
Source

CNET

08/27/2021
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 stands out as the top Android watch due to its excellent performance, visually appealing animations, extensive fitness features, and Google Wear OS support. However, its battery life is a bit disappointing, averaging around two days with the display off.

Overview Performance System Trackers Operating System Battery
Source

@mk45232 – CNET

08/27/2021
3.

The 44mm LTE Galaxy Watch 4 provides approximately 40-45 hours of runtime, even with extensive daily use, including sleep tracking and GPS-enabled runs. Despite its size, the device is comfortable to wear and doesn’t feel oversized or heavy. The screen is scratch-resistant, and performance is fast and efficient. Transitioning from other platforms is manageable, with Samsung Health offering comparable features to Google Fit and Bixby functioning well as a voice assistant. As a first-time smartwatch user, the reviewer found it exceeded expectations and would recommend it to others.

Overview Performance Battery Trackers Sleep GPS Comfort Durability Software Assistant
Source
Overview - Worth - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is highly valued for its advanced features, notably its ability to monitor blood sugar levels and its discreet step tracking, enhancing user convenience by reducing the dependency on a phone or insulin pump.

r/gaming

02/18/2022
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is highly appreciated for its ability to display blood sugar levels, eliminating the need to frequently check a phone or insulin pump. While most active features are disabled, the unobtrusive step tracking feature is a welcomed addition.

Overview Worth Features Sensors Monitoring
Source
Recommendation - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, transitioning to Wear OS, presents enhanced Android integration akin to Apple's ecosystem, yet shows a side-by-side redundancy with Samsung and Google apps. Although a robust Android watch, especially with a Samsung phone, the future of Wear OS watches makes its recommendation challenging.

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, despite its shift to Wear OS, is more of a lateral progression from the Watch 3 rather than a significant leap forward. It offers better integration with Android phones, similar to the Apple Watch-iPhone synergy. However, the presence of Samsung and Google apps side-by-side may feel redundant. The watch is currently one of the most feature-rich and well-constructed Android watches, especially when paired with a Samsung phone, but the uncertainty of future Wear OS watches makes it a challenging recommendation.

Recommendation Compatibility Operating System Features
Source

Sources

Tags

  • Summary
  • Overview - Build
  • Overview - Features
  • Overview - Performance
  • Overview - Worth
  • Recommendation

Sources

  • CNET
  • tom’s guide
  • The Verge
  • YouTube
  • Reddit

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, being the first Google Wear OS-enabled watch, sets the pace for the future Android watches. However, it still feels more like a Samsung product with a Google layer underneath, rather than a unified OS ecosystem. Despite this, the Galaxy Watch 4 is currently the best Android watch option available, with a promising future. It carries over much of the design and features of its predecessor, the Galaxy Watch 3, while adding more health sensor technology and a new OS. The watch, starting at $250, offers a commendable blend of fitness, health features, and smartwatch connectivity.

Summary Build Features Operating System Sensors Connectivity Options Price
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is a promising upgrade with a sharp design, intelligent software, and superior health sensor. It costs less than the previous version, with the Classic model featuring the popular rotating bezel.

Summary Upgrade Design Features Software Sensors Price Bezels
Source

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, along with the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic offer lightweight and comfortable wear. The Classic features a physical rotating bezel and a recessed Gorilla Glass display, providing additional protection but making swipe-based interactions more challenging. On the other hand, the basic Watch 4 is more affordable and stylish, though its exposed glass could be prone to scuffs and its touch-based bezel is harder to turn. Both watches are interchangeable with standard 20mm pin-release straps, but the fit may appear slightly stiff due to the straps bulging out from the lugs.

Overview Build Weight Comfort Bezels Design Material Controls Price Strap Fit
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 models maintain the consistent quality of previous Samsung smartwatches, with circular OLED faces that offer an ‘always-on’ feature. Despite not reaching the construction level of an Apple Watch, they offer a satisfactory build quality, appropriate size, and a comfortable fit.

Overview Build Display Shape Size Fit Finish
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 presents a familiar yet refined design that can transition from gym to dinner. It comes in various appealing colors including Silver, Pink Gold, and a Green version that matches the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3. However, the Green version is only available in the 44mm size. The watch is versatile in size options, accommodating different wrist sizes with models ranging from 40mm to 46mm.

Overview Build Design Variants Size Color Options Alternatives
Source

Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 stands out with its minimalist design, variety of color options for cases and straps, and flatter edges on the case. Two side buttons aid navigation, while the improved display offers a sharper and larger viewing experience, with a 450 by 450 resolution on a 1.4 inch amoled screen.

Overview Build Design Style Color Options Case Buttons Display Bezels Resolution
Source

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 boasts a vibrant Super AMOLED display complemented by beautiful preloaded watch faces featuring animated animals and dynamic effects. The watch faces are highly customizable, allowing for various app data displays, and a vast array of additional faces can be found on Google Play.

Overview Features Display Watchfaces Apps
Source

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 delivers impressive speed, with the ability to load apps faster than many other Android watches. Although it may not match the speed of the latest Apple Watch, it still provides a satisfying user experience. The performance of its new chipset indicates promising potential for future Google watches in terms of responsiveness.

Overview Performance System Software Apps Chipset
Source

CNET

08/27/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 stands out as the top Android watch due to its excellent performance, visually appealing animations, extensive fitness features, and Google Wear OS support. However, its battery life is a bit disappointing, averaging around two days with the display off.

Overview Performance System Trackers Operating System Battery
Source

@mk45232 – CNET

08/27/2021

The 44mm LTE Galaxy Watch 4 provides approximately 40-45 hours of runtime, even with extensive daily use, including sleep tracking and GPS-enabled runs. Despite its size, the device is comfortable to wear and doesn’t feel oversized or heavy. The screen is scratch-resistant, and performance is fast and efficient. Transitioning from other platforms is manageable, with Samsung Health offering comparable features to Google Fit and Bixby functioning well as a voice assistant. As a first-time smartwatch user, the reviewer found it exceeded expectations and would recommend it to others.

Overview Performance Battery Trackers Sleep GPS Comfort Durability Software Assistant
Source

r/gaming

02/18/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is highly appreciated for its ability to display blood sugar levels, eliminating the need to frequently check a phone or insulin pump. While most active features are disabled, the unobtrusive step tracking feature is a welcomed addition.

Overview Worth Features Sensors Monitoring
Source

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, despite its shift to Wear OS, is more of a lateral progression from the Watch 3 rather than a significant leap forward. It offers better integration with Android phones, similar to the Apple Watch-iPhone synergy. However, the presence of Samsung and Google apps side-by-side may feel redundant. The watch is currently one of the most feature-rich and well-constructed Android watches, especially when paired with a Samsung phone, but the uncertainty of future Wear OS watches makes it a challenging recommendation.

Recommendation Compatibility Operating System Features
Source
See All Sources

Pros & Cons

  • Pros
  • Cons
  • Positive
  • Negative
Pros - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is lauded for its affordability, snappier interface, sleeker design, new watch faces, and improved support for third-party apps. Its advanced Wear OS mirrors Tizen, extending the app range. It distinguishes itself with a pioneering feature, the body composition analysis, and extensive health tracking capabilities.

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers a snappy interface, enhanced support for third-party apps, and extended health tracking capabilities.

Pros Interface Software Support Sensors Trackers
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is a more affordable option than its predecessor, boasting a slimmer design, new watch faces, and an enhanced Wear OS that mirrors Tizen with a broader app range. Its standout feature is the first-of-its-kind body composition analysis.

Pros Affordability Design Watchfaces Operating System Software Body Composition Analysis
Source
Cons - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, while primarily tied to Samsung's ecosystem and reliant on Bixby, could benefit from a more transparent privacy policy. There are also concerns regarding the reliability of the BIA sensor and inconsistency in battery life.

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s downsides include being restricted to Samsung’s ecosystem, reliance on Bixby, and a need for clearer privacy policy.

Cons System Compatibility Assistant Privacy
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 has issues with the reliability of the BIA sensor and inconsistent battery life.

Cons Performance Sensors Battery
Source

Sources

Tags

  • Pros
  • Cons

Sources

  • The Verge
  • tom’s guide

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers a snappy interface, enhanced support for third-party apps, and extended health tracking capabilities.

Pros Interface Software Support Sensors Trackers
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is a more affordable option than its predecessor, boasting a slimmer design, new watch faces, and an enhanced Wear OS that mirrors Tizen with a broader app range. Its standout feature is the first-of-its-kind body composition analysis.

Pros Affordability Design Watchfaces Operating System Software Body Composition Analysis
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s downsides include being restricted to Samsung’s ecosystem, reliance on Bixby, and a need for clearer privacy policy.

Cons System Compatibility Assistant Privacy
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 has issues with the reliability of the BIA sensor and inconsistent battery life.

Cons Performance Sensors Battery
Source
See All Sources

Build & Design

  • Build - Buttons
  • Build - Water Resistance
  • Positive
  • Negative
Build - Buttons - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, available in two versions, has a redesigned frame for a more seamless integration with the straps and features two uniformly-shaped side buttons. These buttons provide access to various functions such as Samsung Pay, Google Pay, Bixby, home/back navigation, and recently used apps. The buttons can be customized for additional limited actions via the Samsung Wear app, and long-pressing each button triggers unique functions, enhancing the efficiency of the watch.

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 features two side buttons that serve multiple functions including access to Samsung Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung’s voice assistant Bixby. The buttons can also be used for home/back navigation and can be assigned a few other limited actions via the Samsung Wear app.

Build Buttons Functionality
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 features two buttons for efficient navigation; the top button brings you to the home screen or switches to the last used app when double-clicked, while the bottom button displays recently used apps. Long-pressing each button triggers unique functions.

Build Buttons
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022
3.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, available in two versions, showcases a reimagined frame for seamless integration between the smartwatch body and straps. It also features uniformly-shaped crown buttons, moving away from the traditional design of one round, protruding crown paired with a flush side button.

Build Buttons Shape
Source
Build - Water Resistance - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 boasts impressive durability and water resistance, capable of enduring water or sweat exposure up to a depth of 50 meters.

Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is highly durable and water-resistant, capable of withstanding exposure to water or sweat up to a depth of 50 meters.

Build Water Resistance
Source

Sources

Tags

  • Build - Buttons
  • Build - Water Resistance

Sources

  • CNET
  • The Verge
  • tom’s guide
  • YouTube

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 features two side buttons that serve multiple functions including access to Samsung Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung’s voice assistant Bixby. The buttons can also be used for home/back navigation and can be assigned a few other limited actions via the Samsung Wear app.

Build Buttons Functionality
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 features two buttons for efficient navigation; the top button brings you to the home screen or switches to the last used app when double-clicked, while the bottom button displays recently used apps. Long-pressing each button triggers unique functions.

Build Buttons
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, available in two versions, showcases a reimagined frame for seamless integration between the smartwatch body and straps. It also features uniformly-shaped crown buttons, moving away from the traditional design of one round, protruding crown paired with a flush side button.

Build Buttons Shape
Source

Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is highly durable and water-resistant, capable of withstanding exposure to water or sweat up to a depth of 50 meters.

Build Water Resistance
Source
See All Sources

Features

  • Controls
  • Sensors
  • Software
  • System
  • Updates
  • Positive
  • Negative
Controls - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is equipped with fixed settings for long-press actions, such as Samsung Pay and Bixby, Samsung's digital assistant, with the potential for customization being unclear. Additionally, the watch offers detailed health data including body fat, water percentage, BMI, and skeletal muscle mass, accessible via a 15-second touch on the side buttons, although the precision of these metrics has not been professionally evaluated.

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 features fixed settings for long-press actions, with the bottom button activating Samsung Pay and the top button accessing Bixby, Samsung’s digital assistant. The possibility of customization or replacement of Bixby with Google Assistant remains uncertain.

Controls Shortcuts Software Apps Assistant
Source

CNET

08/27/2021
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 provides comprehensive health data, including body fat, water percentage, BMI, and skeletal muscle mass, with a simple 15-second touch on the side buttons. The accuracy of these metrics, while seemingly consistent, hasn’t been compared to professional body analysis services.

Controls Shortcuts Monitoring
Source
Sensors - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers an enhanced sensor array including FDA-cleared ECG for heart arrhythmia testing, blood pressure monitor, and an impedance-based electrical sensor. The watch also introduces a 3-in-1 health sensor for heart rate monitoring, ECG reading, and bioelectric impedance analysis (BIA) to calculate body composition, including body fat percentage, skeletal muscle mass, and body water. However, the use of some features like Health Monitor app and body analysis tool might be challenging and requires specific handling techniques. Comprehensive health tracking, including calories, steps, activity goals, and sleep tracking, are also provided, with additional features like snoring detection when synced with a phone. It boasts a sleek design with less bulkiness compared to previous models, although usage restrictions apply in certain regions.

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 features an FDA-cleared ECG for heart arrhythmia testing, similar to the Apple Watch Series 4 and Fitbit Sense, but is not a substitute for professional cardiac care. It also offers a blood pressure monitor, which requires calibration with a physical cuff and is currently not approved for use in the US. Additionally, usage of the Health Monitor app necessitates a Samsung phone in certain regions.

Sensors Compatibility Monitoring Apps
Source

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 features a sleek, redesigned sensor array on the back, which includes an electrical ECG sensor, optical heart rate, and a new impedance-based electrical sensor. It offers an aesthetic appeal and a less bulky feel compared to previous models.

Sensors Size
Source

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021
3.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 introduces an electrical impedance sensor that estimates body water content to calculate body fat percentage, skeletal muscle mass, and body water. The app requires daily weight input and a 15-second scan for analysis. However, the new sensor may be challenging to use and the body analysis tool can be intimidating, potentially discouraging consistent use.

Sensors Trackers Monitoring
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022
4.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 introduces a 3-in-1 health sensor, a significant upgrade from its predecessor. This new feature enables heart rate monitoring, ECG reading, and bioelectric impedance analysis (BIA) to measure body composition. The innovative BIA feature, commonly found in high-end smart scales, analyzes body fat percentage, BMI, muscle mass, bone mass, and body water percentage. However, taking a BIA reading requires a specific handling technique.

Sensors Body Composition Analysis
Source

CNET

08/27/2021
5.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 comes with Samsung Health for comprehensive health tracking including calories, steps, and activity goals. It also incorporates sensor readings like blood oxygen and ECG, along with a new bioimpedance sensor.

Sensors Monitoring Trackers
Source

The Verge

08/18/2021
6.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is a versatile health tracker, featuring step counting, 95 different workout tracking, GPS, ECG for A Fib detection, and blood oxygen measurement. Its advanced features include sleep tracking, snoring detection when synced with a phone, and a bioelectric impedance sensor for measuring body composition such as body fat percentage and skeletal muscle mass.

Sensors Trackers Monitoring
Source
Software - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is deeply integrated with both Samsung's ecosystem and Google Play, featuring a wealth of default Samsung apps, Google apps, and third-party apps. It primarily uses Samsung Health for health and fitness data management and tracking, though it also supports Google Fit. The watch is enhanced with numerous sensors for tracking health metrics and supports 95 workout options. Despite this, its readings are occasionally inaccurate and should not be used as diagnostic tools. The watch's setup process is Samsung-centric, and some default apps can be replaced, albeit with varying levels of complexity.

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 primarily uses Google Play as its app store, allowing access to Google apps such as Fit, YouTube, and Maps. However, it retains a Samsung-centric setup process, using the Samsung Wear app for pairing and Samsung Health as the primary fitness/health application.

Software Apps Compatibility
Source

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 allows for integration with Google Fit apps for fitness tracking, however, it primarily relies on Samsung Health for data management. Although Fitbit’s Wear OS apps are anticipated, full tracking capabilities of Fitbit on this watch are not expected in the near future.

Software Apps Google Fit
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021
3.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is heavily integrated with Samsung’s ecosystem, featuring a majority of default Samsung apps such as Calendar, Calculator, Contacts, and Weather. It also supports automatic settings transfer from Samsung phones and auto-switching for Galaxy Buds headphones. While some of these apps can be replaced, many are permanent.

Software Apps
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021
4.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 boasts of a significant hardware upgrade in health features, laden with multiple sensors for tracking various metrics including pulse, step count, and sleep patterns, including blood oxygen levels. It supports 95 different workout tracking options and includes an ECG for atrial fibrillation and blood oxygen detection. However, these should not be used as diagnostic tools due to occasional inaccurate readings. The watch also features a bioelectric impedance sensor for estimating body fat percentage. These health metrics are all consolidated and tracked using the Samsung Health app, offering a robust platform for users who are keen on monitoring their health trends over time.

Software Apps Samsung Health Trackers Monitoring Accuracy
Source

Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021
5.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, now running on Google Play Store, provides a wealth of third-party apps previously unavailable on Samsung’s Tizen. It also includes superior Google apps such as Google Maps, Google Keep, YouTube Music, and Gboard, which offers a QWERTY keyboard for easier typing.

Software Apps Third Party Operating System Compatibility
Source

CNET

08/27/2021
6.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is equipped with numerous health and fitness features, all of which are integrated into the Samsung Health app for comprehensive health tracking.

Software Apps Compatibility
Source

The Verge

08/18/2021
7.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is embedded with Samsung’s proprietary software and default apps, with a few being replaceable with Google alternatives, while others require more complex solutions for replacement.

Software Apps
Source
System - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 utilizes a unique operating system, resulting from a fusion of Google's Wear OS and Samsung's Tizen platform, with an added layer of Samsung's One UI for a simplified navigation system. This interface provides easy access to settings, notifications, app tray, and Tiles. The watch supports a variety of apps from Google Play Store and Samsung, including exclusive health features from Samsung Health. The watch also boasts a wide array of customizable default and third-party watch faces available from the Google Play store, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. Although some health features require a Samsung phone, the watch functions efficiently for non-Samsung users as well, requiring just a few apps installations.

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 features a new Wear OS-based operating system, which is primarily designed for Android users. This watch offers quick access to settings, an app tray, notifications, and tiles for mini-app readouts. The Galaxy Watch 4 supports Google Play apps and Samsung apps, with certain health features like ECG and body analysis measurements exclusive to Samsung Health. However, some health features require a Samsung phone for functionality.

System Operating System
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, born from a collaboration between Google and Samsung, merges Google’s Wear OS platform with Samsung’s Tizen platform. This combination results in a swift watch that outlasts a full day without requiring power-saving modes. It supports Google Maps and will soon introduce new versions of third-party apps like Strava and Spotify. Despite running on Google’s Wear OS 3, the watch’s interface, apps, NFC payment system, health tracking, and assistant are all integral parts of Samsung’s Galaxy ecosystem.

System Operating System Apps
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021
3.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 utilizes a combination of Google’s Wear OS and Samsung’s Tizen-inspired One UI for its core interface, offering a simplified navigation system that includes swipes for apps, notifications, quick settings, and Tiles. The inclusion of Tiles, small information widgets, reduces the need to overload the main watchface with numerous complications, enhancing user experience.

System UI Navigation Settings
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021
4.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 comes with a variety of default watchfaces that balance both functionality and aesthetics. These can be easily switched and are superior to those seen on most Wear OS watches recently. For customization, users have the option to install new watchfaces from the Google Play Store or create their own using apps like Facer or Pujie Black.

System Watchfaces Operating System
Source

Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021
5.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 boasts a vast selection of customizable third-party watch faces available directly from the Google Play store and through apps like Facer.

System Watchfaces
Source

CNET

08/27/2021
6.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 boasts a familiar and appealing design, complemented by a variety of beautiful and dynamic watch faces, including unique animations and playful animal themes, offering a visual experience not commonly found in Android watches.

System Watchfaces
Source

@eduardguerra – The Verge

08/18/2021
7.

Another user pointed out that the watch works well even for non-Samsung users, requiring only a few apps to be installed.

System Compatibility Software Apps
Source
Updates - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 series is expected to receive updates, introducing Google Assistant, that are anticipated to enhance user experience and functionality, with some users already noting improvements over time.

@Siri_Duffa – Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021
1.

Another user has found the watch improving over time, especially with updates and the inclusion of Google Assistant.

Updates Software Assistant
Source

r/GalaxyWatch

02/10/2022
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 series is set to receive an update in the upcoming months that will introduce Google Assistant, enhancing the user experience.

Updates Software Apps Assistant
Source

Sources

Tags

  • Controls
  • Sensors
  • Software
  • System
  • Updates

Sources

  • The Verge
  • YouTube
  • CNET
  • tom’s guide
  • Reddit

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 features fixed settings for long-press actions, with the bottom button activating Samsung Pay and the top button accessing Bixby, Samsung’s digital assistant. The possibility of customization or replacement of Bixby with Google Assistant remains uncertain.

Controls Shortcuts Software Apps Assistant
Source

CNET

08/27/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 provides comprehensive health data, including body fat, water percentage, BMI, and skeletal muscle mass, with a simple 15-second touch on the side buttons. The accuracy of these metrics, while seemingly consistent, hasn’t been compared to professional body analysis services.

Controls Shortcuts Monitoring
Source

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 features an FDA-cleared ECG for heart arrhythmia testing, similar to the Apple Watch Series 4 and Fitbit Sense, but is not a substitute for professional cardiac care. It also offers a blood pressure monitor, which requires calibration with a physical cuff and is currently not approved for use in the US. Additionally, usage of the Health Monitor app necessitates a Samsung phone in certain regions.

Sensors Compatibility Monitoring Apps
Source

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 features a sleek, redesigned sensor array on the back, which includes an electrical ECG sensor, optical heart rate, and a new impedance-based electrical sensor. It offers an aesthetic appeal and a less bulky feel compared to previous models.

Sensors Size
Source

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 introduces an electrical impedance sensor that estimates body water content to calculate body fat percentage, skeletal muscle mass, and body water. The app requires daily weight input and a 15-second scan for analysis. However, the new sensor may be challenging to use and the body analysis tool can be intimidating, potentially discouraging consistent use.

Sensors Trackers Monitoring
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 introduces a 3-in-1 health sensor, a significant upgrade from its predecessor. This new feature enables heart rate monitoring, ECG reading, and bioelectric impedance analysis (BIA) to measure body composition. The innovative BIA feature, commonly found in high-end smart scales, analyzes body fat percentage, BMI, muscle mass, bone mass, and body water percentage. However, taking a BIA reading requires a specific handling technique.

Sensors Body Composition Analysis
Source

CNET

08/27/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 comes with Samsung Health for comprehensive health tracking including calories, steps, and activity goals. It also incorporates sensor readings like blood oxygen and ECG, along with a new bioimpedance sensor.

Sensors Monitoring Trackers
Source

The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is a versatile health tracker, featuring step counting, 95 different workout tracking, GPS, ECG for A Fib detection, and blood oxygen measurement. Its advanced features include sleep tracking, snoring detection when synced with a phone, and a bioelectric impedance sensor for measuring body composition such as body fat percentage and skeletal muscle mass.

Sensors Trackers Monitoring
Source

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 primarily uses Google Play as its app store, allowing access to Google apps such as Fit, YouTube, and Maps. However, it retains a Samsung-centric setup process, using the Samsung Wear app for pairing and Samsung Health as the primary fitness/health application.

Software Apps Compatibility
Source

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 allows for integration with Google Fit apps for fitness tracking, however, it primarily relies on Samsung Health for data management. Although Fitbit’s Wear OS apps are anticipated, full tracking capabilities of Fitbit on this watch are not expected in the near future.

Software Apps Google Fit
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is heavily integrated with Samsung’s ecosystem, featuring a majority of default Samsung apps such as Calendar, Calculator, Contacts, and Weather. It also supports automatic settings transfer from Samsung phones and auto-switching for Galaxy Buds headphones. While some of these apps can be replaced, many are permanent.

Software Apps
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 boasts of a significant hardware upgrade in health features, laden with multiple sensors for tracking various metrics including pulse, step count, and sleep patterns, including blood oxygen levels. It supports 95 different workout tracking options and includes an ECG for atrial fibrillation and blood oxygen detection. However, these should not be used as diagnostic tools due to occasional inaccurate readings. The watch also features a bioelectric impedance sensor for estimating body fat percentage. These health metrics are all consolidated and tracked using the Samsung Health app, offering a robust platform for users who are keen on monitoring their health trends over time.

Software Apps Samsung Health Trackers Monitoring Accuracy
Source

Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, now running on Google Play Store, provides a wealth of third-party apps previously unavailable on Samsung’s Tizen. It also includes superior Google apps such as Google Maps, Google Keep, YouTube Music, and Gboard, which offers a QWERTY keyboard for easier typing.

Software Apps Third Party Operating System Compatibility
Source

CNET

08/27/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is equipped with numerous health and fitness features, all of which are integrated into the Samsung Health app for comprehensive health tracking.

Software Apps Compatibility
Source

The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is embedded with Samsung’s proprietary software and default apps, with a few being replaceable with Google alternatives, while others require more complex solutions for replacement.

Software Apps
Source

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 features a new Wear OS-based operating system, which is primarily designed for Android users. This watch offers quick access to settings, an app tray, notifications, and tiles for mini-app readouts. The Galaxy Watch 4 supports Google Play apps and Samsung apps, with certain health features like ECG and body analysis measurements exclusive to Samsung Health. However, some health features require a Samsung phone for functionality.

System Operating System
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, born from a collaboration between Google and Samsung, merges Google’s Wear OS platform with Samsung’s Tizen platform. This combination results in a swift watch that outlasts a full day without requiring power-saving modes. It supports Google Maps and will soon introduce new versions of third-party apps like Strava and Spotify. Despite running on Google’s Wear OS 3, the watch’s interface, apps, NFC payment system, health tracking, and assistant are all integral parts of Samsung’s Galaxy ecosystem.

System Operating System Apps
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 utilizes a combination of Google’s Wear OS and Samsung’s Tizen-inspired One UI for its core interface, offering a simplified navigation system that includes swipes for apps, notifications, quick settings, and Tiles. The inclusion of Tiles, small information widgets, reduces the need to overload the main watchface with numerous complications, enhancing user experience.

System UI Navigation Settings
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 comes with a variety of default watchfaces that balance both functionality and aesthetics. These can be easily switched and are superior to those seen on most Wear OS watches recently. For customization, users have the option to install new watchfaces from the Google Play Store or create their own using apps like Facer or Pujie Black.

System Watchfaces Operating System
Source

Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 boasts a vast selection of customizable third-party watch faces available directly from the Google Play store and through apps like Facer.

System Watchfaces
Source

CNET

08/27/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 boasts a familiar and appealing design, complemented by a variety of beautiful and dynamic watch faces, including unique animations and playful animal themes, offering a visual experience not commonly found in Android watches.

System Watchfaces
Source

@eduardguerra – The Verge

08/18/2021

Another user pointed out that the watch works well even for non-Samsung users, requiring only a few apps to be installed.

System Compatibility Software Apps
Source

@Siri_Duffa – Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021

Another user has found the watch improving over time, especially with updates and the inclusion of Google Assistant.

Updates Software Assistant
Source

r/GalaxyWatch

02/10/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 series is set to receive an update in the upcoming months that will introduce Google Assistant, enhancing the user experience.

Updates Software Apps Assistant
Source
See All Sources

Performance

  • Battery
  • Charging
  • Chipset
  • Sensors
  • Software
  • Positive
  • Negative
Battery - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4's battery life is a notable concern, lasting up to two days under optimal conditions and requiring daily charging with GPS and activity tracking features enabled. The battery life may be shorter on smaller or LTE-equipped models. However, the watch's battery saving mode notably enhances its longevity, even with frequent screen use. Despite the inconsistent battery performance, it remains competitive with other top-rated smartwatches and fitness trackers.

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 has a disappointing battery life, lasting no more than two days without the always-on watch face. If the always-on watch face is enabled or the watch is used for GPS-enabled workouts, the battery drains faster, requiring daily charging. The smaller model and the LTE-equipped variant may have even shorter battery lives.

Battery
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022
2.

While the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 doesn’t deliver on the rumored week-long battery life, its 40-hour estimated lifespan is standard for daily use. Despite needing daily charging with GPS, activity tracking, and the always-on display enabled, it still competes with many top-rated smartwatches and fitness trackers. However, the inconsistency in battery performance is a minor drawback.

Battery
Source

Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021
3.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s battery life is quite limited, potentially lasting up to two days under optimal conditions.

Battery
Source

The Verge

08/18/2021
4.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers satisfactory battery life that can last for a day even with heavy use including GPS track workouts, constant notifications, and sleep tracking. For lighter use, it may extend up to two days.

Battery
Source

r/GalaxyWatch

02/10/2022
5.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s battery saving mode significantly improves battery life, even with frequent screen use.

Battery Low Power Mode
Source
Charging - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 delivers a rapid charging speed, achieving enough battery life for a day within approximately 30 minutes of charging.

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers a fairly quick charging speed, providing sufficient battery life for the day with just about half an hour of charging.

Charging
Source
Chipset - Despite having a faster CPU and additional RAM, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 experiences performance issues with Wear OS, including intermittent animation freezes and slow app launches, affecting the overall user experience.

Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, despite being equipped with a faster CPU and more RAM than its predecessor, struggles to smoothly run Wear OS. Occasional freezes in animations and delayed app launches detract from the refined experience expected from a new smartwatch.

Chipset CPU RAM
Source
Sensors - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is a comprehensive fitness and health monitoring device with detailed workout tracking features for various activities, including real-time heart rate updates, mileage, activity summaries, and automatic detection of movements like walking. It offers enhanced sleep tracking with blood oxygen measurements, snoring tracking when paired with a smartphone, and monitors stress levels while suggesting breathing sessions. Despite minor issues with calorie count accuracy and sleep recording, it also incorporates social features for friendly competition among Samsung Health users.

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers versatile workout tracking features for both indoor and outdoor exercises, including niche sport selections. It provides real-time updates on heart rate, mileage, and a summary of activities every 30 minutes. The watch has an auto-pause function and can automatically detect and track activities like walking. Additionally, the Galaxy Watch 4 boasts enhanced sleep tracking metrics with frequent blood oxygen measurements and snoring tracking when used with a compatible smartphone. It also offers a stress app to monitor stress levels and suggests breathing sessions. Despite some issues with overestimated calorie counts and separate sleep recording, it proves to be a competent fitness and health monitoring device.

Sensors Trackers Accuracy Sleep Blood Oxygen SpO2 Monitoring
Source

The Verge

08/18/2021
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers a comprehensive health tracking feature, including detailed workout tracking for activities like biking with stats, geo-tracking, heart zones, sleep and stress level monitoring. It also includes social features for competition among other Samsung health users.

Sensors Trackers
Source
Software - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 provides a comprehensive health tracking package, inclusive of sleep scoring, activity goals, blood oxygen measurement, and live heart rate readouts during workouts. It also offers a superior Wear OS experience with seamless navigation and integration into the Samsung ecosystem through One UI Watch. The device includes key features from Tizen, Google's new app cloud, and an extensive watch face library, despite having a limited app selection and lack of Google Assistant.

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers a robust health tracking package with features like sleep tracking and scoring, running analysis, blood oxygen measurement, food and water tracking, steps, activity goals, and team activity sharing challenges. The sleep tracking feature is particularly commendable for promoting better sleep habits. The watch also automatically tracks activity, providing live heart rate readouts during workouts, making it an excellent fitness companion.

Software Apps Samsung Health
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers a superior Wear OS experience with seamless navigation between apps, menus, and settings. It maintains key features from Tizen such as rotating tiles and priority for Samsung Pay and Health, while also incorporating Google’s new app cloud, including Google Maps. Despite limited app selection and lack of Google Assistant, the watch significantly integrates into the Samsung ecosystem through One UI Watch, which automatically transitions settings between Samsung devices. It also boasts an extensive watch face library and proprietary editing suite for developers.

Software Apps Operating System
Source

Sources

Tags

  • Battery
  • Charging
  • Chipset
  • Sensors
  • Software

Sources

  • CNET
  • tom’s guide
  • YouTube
  • Reddit

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 has a disappointing battery life, lasting no more than two days without the always-on watch face. If the always-on watch face is enabled or the watch is used for GPS-enabled workouts, the battery drains faster, requiring daily charging. The smaller model and the LTE-equipped variant may have even shorter battery lives.

Battery
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022

While the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 doesn’t deliver on the rumored week-long battery life, its 40-hour estimated lifespan is standard for daily use. Despite needing daily charging with GPS, activity tracking, and the always-on display enabled, it still competes with many top-rated smartwatches and fitness trackers. However, the inconsistency in battery performance is a minor drawback.

Battery
Source

Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s battery life is quite limited, potentially lasting up to two days under optimal conditions.

Battery
Source

The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers satisfactory battery life that can last for a day even with heavy use including GPS track workouts, constant notifications, and sleep tracking. For lighter use, it may extend up to two days.

Battery
Source

r/GalaxyWatch

02/10/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s battery saving mode significantly improves battery life, even with frequent screen use.

Battery Low Power Mode
Source

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers a fairly quick charging speed, providing sufficient battery life for the day with just about half an hour of charging.

Charging
Source

Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, despite being equipped with a faster CPU and more RAM than its predecessor, struggles to smoothly run Wear OS. Occasional freezes in animations and delayed app launches detract from the refined experience expected from a new smartwatch.

Chipset CPU RAM
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers versatile workout tracking features for both indoor and outdoor exercises, including niche sport selections. It provides real-time updates on heart rate, mileage, and a summary of activities every 30 minutes. The watch has an auto-pause function and can automatically detect and track activities like walking. Additionally, the Galaxy Watch 4 boasts enhanced sleep tracking metrics with frequent blood oxygen measurements and snoring tracking when used with a compatible smartphone. It also offers a stress app to monitor stress levels and suggests breathing sessions. Despite some issues with overestimated calorie counts and separate sleep recording, it proves to be a competent fitness and health monitoring device.

Sensors Trackers Accuracy Sleep Blood Oxygen SpO2 Monitoring
Source

The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers a comprehensive health tracking feature, including detailed workout tracking for activities like biking with stats, geo-tracking, heart zones, sleep and stress level monitoring. It also includes social features for competition among other Samsung health users.

Sensors Trackers
Source

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers a robust health tracking package with features like sleep tracking and scoring, running analysis, blood oxygen measurement, food and water tracking, steps, activity goals, and team activity sharing challenges. The sleep tracking feature is particularly commendable for promoting better sleep habits. The watch also automatically tracks activity, providing live heart rate readouts during workouts, making it an excellent fitness companion.

Software Apps Samsung Health
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers a superior Wear OS experience with seamless navigation between apps, menus, and settings. It maintains key features from Tizen such as rotating tiles and priority for Samsung Pay and Health, while also incorporating Google’s new app cloud, including Google Maps. Despite limited app selection and lack of Google Assistant, the watch significantly integrates into the Samsung ecosystem through One UI Watch, which automatically transitions settings between Samsung devices. It also boasts an extensive watch face library and proprietary editing suite for developers.

Software Apps Operating System
Source
See All Sources

Comparison

  • Comparison vs. Apple Watches
  • Comparison vs. Apple Watches & Comparison vs. Garmin Watches
  • Comparison vs. Apple Watch 7
  • Comparison vs. Huawei GTE 2E
  • Comparison vs. Huawei Watches
  • Comparison vs. Original Samsung Galaxy Watch
  • Comparison vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2
  • Comparison vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic
  • Comparison vs. Samsung Gear S3 Classic
  • Positive
  • Negative
Comparison vs. Apple Watches - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, while offering advanced user controls and a vast array of customizable options, needs to enhance its clarity on privacy and encryption policies. The device provides an easy "Erase all personal data" feature and thousands of watch faces, competing with the Apple Watch's offerings. Notable advantages include a 'back button', accurate heart rate and golf course monitoring, and a less intrusive notification system, making it an appealing alternative for analogue watch lovers.

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021
1.

While Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers an easy-to-use “Erase all personal data” button in its settings, the company needs to improve its explanation of privacy and encryption policies, as users express greater trust in Apple’s clear communication regarding inaccessible health data.

Comparison vs. Apple Watches Features Security Privacy
Source

@CameTo – CNET

08/27/2021
2.

Apple’s restrictions on their products have made it simpler for users to understand, however, Android’s less restrictive approach offers more options and functions for customization. Android has become easier to use over the years, with certain functions like creating a hotspot becoming more accessible. A ‘back button’ on Android devices is seen as an advantage over Apple devices.

Comparison vs. Apple Watches System Settings Features Customizability Controls
Source

@philipdw6954 – CNET

08/27/2021
3.

The statement that the Apple Watch has more watch faces than the Galaxy Watch is contested, as Samsung offers thousands of watch faces on the Galaxy store.

Comparison vs. Apple Watches System Watchfaces Availability
Source

@leakstan – The Verge

08/18/2021
4.

One user expressed satisfaction with the Galaxy Watch 4’s accuracy in golf course measurements and heart rate monitoring, even comparing it favorably to the Apple Watch.

Comparison vs. Apple Watches Sensors Accuracy Monitoring
Source

r/gaming

02/18/2022
5.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers advanced user control capabilities, which could be perceived as more advanced compared to devices like the Apple Watch.

Comparison vs. Apple Watches Features Security Privacy
Source

r/gaming

02/18/2022
6.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is a preferred choice for those who appreciate analogue watches and desire a less intrusive notification system, offering a viable alternative to the Apple Watch.

Comparison vs. Apple Watches System Alerts Purpose
Source
Comparison vs. Apple Watches & Comparison vs. Garmin Watches - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 provides fairly accurate heart rate readings, on par with Apple Watch and Garmin during biking activities. However, it falls slightly short in GPS distance accuracy. While it supports data syncing to Strava, it doesn't match the comprehensive third-party app integration found in Apple Health.

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 demonstrates fairly accurate heart rate readings, closely matching those of the Apple Watch and Garmin during bike rides. However, it’s slightly less precise in measuring distance via GPS, showing a 5 percent discrepancy. While data can be synced to Strava, it lacks the extensive third-party app integration offered by Apple Health.

Comparison vs. Apple Watches Comparison vs. Garmin Watches Performance Sensors Accuracy Monitoring Software Apps
Source
Comparison vs. Apple Watch 7 - The Galaxy Watch 4, while appreciated for its sleep tracker and Galaxy Health interface, has some bugs and quickly drains battery in its LTE version. It's often used as a secondary device during the charging of an Apple Watch 7.

@MikeHightower1 – Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021
1.

Despite some bugs, one user enjoys the Galaxy Watch 4, especially its sleep tracker and the Galaxy Health interface. However, they mention the LTE version drains the battery quickly, and are using the watch as a backup device while their Apple Watch 7 is being charged.

Comparison vs. Apple Watch 7 Features Software Apps Sensors Trackers Performance Battery
Source
Comparison vs. Huawei GTE 2E - The Huawei GTE 2E is praised for its impressive two-week battery life and good performance in displaying notifications and tracking exercises, although it might lack the extensive features offered by the Galaxy Watch 4.

@Flyezx – The Verge

08/18/2021
1.

A user of the Huawei gte 2e praised its two-week battery life and noted that while it may not have as many features as the Galaxy Watch 4, it performs well in terms of showing notifications and tracking exercises.

Comparison vs. Huawei GTE 2E Performance Battery Features System Alerts Trackers
Source
Comparison vs. Huawei Watches - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 stands out due to its advanced user interface, proving superior when compared to the Huawei watch, as per the experience of a long-term user.

r/Android

02/13/2022
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 impresses with its superior user interface, especially when compared to the Huawei watch, as per a user who has been using it since December.

Comparison vs. Huawei Watches Features System Interface
Source
Comparison vs. Original Samsung Galaxy Watch - Upgrading from the original Galaxy Watch to Galaxy Watch 4 proved to be satisfactory for a user, although the reduced battery life was a concern. The quick charging feature, however, offset this drawback.

@DJGeeks – The Verge

08/18/2021
1.

A user upgraded from the original Galaxy Watch to the Galaxy Watch 4 and was generally happy with the upgrade, except for the decreased battery life. However, the fast charging feature was a saving grace.

Comparison vs. Original Samsung Galaxy Watch Performance Battery Charging
Source
Comparison vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 - The Samsung Watch 4 lacks a disconnect alert feature, unlike its predecessor, the Active 2 Watch. This missing feature, which alerts users with sound and vibration when the watch loses connection with the phone, was useful in preventing accidental misplacement of the phone.

@Snapper314 – CNET

08/27/2021
1.

A negative aspect of the Samsung Watch 4 is the lack of a disconnect alert, a feature present in the Active 2 Watch. This feature would alert the user with sound and vibration when the watch lost connection with the phone, helping prevent accidental misplacement of the phone.

Comparison vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 System Alerts Connectivity
Source
Comparison vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic both offer a unique user experience with a rotating bezel, the former featuring a touch-sensitive version and the latter a physical, clicky one. Despite the difference in navigation, both models deliver an identical software experience powered by the new Wear OS, Samsung's One UI skin, and a 3-in-1 health sensor. The watches also boast customizable interfaces and a variety of sizes, connectivity options, and pricing tiers, starting at $249.99 for the 40mm Bluetooth model of the Galaxy Watch 4 and $349.99 for the 42mm Bluetooth model of the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic. The transition from Tizen OS to Wear OS enhances app availability and functionality, making both models appealing to new and seasoned smartwatch users alike.

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 features a touch-sensitive rotating bezel for swift scrolling, however, it can be a bit tricky to operate. The Watch 4 Classic, on the other hand, boasts a physical bezel with a satisfying click when navigating through screens, which may justify its higher price for some users.

Comparison vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic Build Bezels Features Controls Value
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 retains iconic elements from previous models, including a rotating bezel that serves as a navigation tool. This watch, however, adopts a capacitive version of the bezel, resulting in a slimmer and more modern gadget. The Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic offer identical software experiences, both featuring the new Wear OS software, Samsung’s One UI skin, a 3-in-1 health sensor, and an extensive watch face collection. Both watches come in various sizes and connectivity options, with the Galaxy Watch 4 starting at $249.99 for the 40mm Bluetooth model, while the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic begins at $349.99 for the 42mm Bluetooth version.

Comparison vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic Build Bezels Size Features Controls Performance Operating System UI Sensors Watchfaces Software Price Variants Connectivity Options
Source

CNET

08/27/2021
3.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 models boast a unique interface featuring a rotating bezel, with the Classic version offering a physical, clicky bezel that’s enjoyable to use, akin to a fidget toy. However, the standard model requires touch activation which can be challenging when wet, and doesn’t provide the same tactile response.

Comparison vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic Build Bezels Features Controls Performance
Source

The Verge

08/18/2021
4.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers the versatility of using any 20-millimeter strap and provides a smooth user interface with a touch-sensitive bezel for navigation. Its Classic variant further enhances usability with a physical rotating bezel that clicks. The collaboration of Google and Samsung offers a customizable interface, allowing users to personalize tiles and avoid overcrowding the main watch face.

Comparison vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic Build Bezels Strap Compatibility System UI Controls
Source

The Verge

08/18/2021
5.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is priced at $249 for the basic 40mm model, with options for a larger 44mm model or the Watch 4 Classic at $349 for the 42mm model. There is also a 46mm model and an option for LTE on both versions.

Comparison vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic Price Variants Size Connectivity Options
Source

@GothicDragonX – CNET

08/27/2021
6.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, paired with a Note 20 Ultra 5G, offers a pleasing experience. It’s praised for maintaining the rotating bezel feature and for its transition from Tizen OS to Wear OS, which provides more apps and functionality. The smaller bezel-less Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 has also been well received by first-time smartwatch users.

Comparison vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic Controls Operating System Software Apps Build Bezels
Source
Comparison vs. Samsung Gear S3 Classic - A user, while not fully ready to transition from GearS3 Classic due to certain Wear OS concerns, acknowledges the promising collaboration and anticipates that Samsung has integrated the best aspects of Tizen.

@RedStacheAZ – Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021
1.

One user is not ready to switch from their GearS3 Classic, citing some issues with Wear OS. However, they appreciate the partnership and hope that Samsung has incorporated the best of Tizen.

Comparison vs. Samsung Gear S3 Classic System Operating System
Source

Sources

Tags

  • Comparison vs. Apple Watches
  • Comparison vs. Apple Watches & Comparison vs. Garmin Watches
  • Comparison vs. Apple Watch 7
  • Comparison vs. Huawei GTE 2E
  • Comparison vs. Huawei Watches
  • Comparison vs. Original Samsung Galaxy Watch
  • Comparison vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2
  • Comparison vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic
  • Comparison vs. Samsung Gear S3 Classic

Sources

  • The Verge
  • YouTube
  • Reddit
  • tom’s guide

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021

While Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers an easy-to-use “Erase all personal data” button in its settings, the company needs to improve its explanation of privacy and encryption policies, as users express greater trust in Apple’s clear communication regarding inaccessible health data.

Comparison vs. Apple Watches Features Security Privacy
Source

@CameTo – CNET

08/27/2021

Apple’s restrictions on their products have made it simpler for users to understand, however, Android’s less restrictive approach offers more options and functions for customization. Android has become easier to use over the years, with certain functions like creating a hotspot becoming more accessible. A ‘back button’ on Android devices is seen as an advantage over Apple devices.

Comparison vs. Apple Watches System Settings Features Customizability Controls
Source

@philipdw6954 – CNET

08/27/2021

The statement that the Apple Watch has more watch faces than the Galaxy Watch is contested, as Samsung offers thousands of watch faces on the Galaxy store.

Comparison vs. Apple Watches System Watchfaces Availability
Source

@leakstan – The Verge

08/18/2021

One user expressed satisfaction with the Galaxy Watch 4’s accuracy in golf course measurements and heart rate monitoring, even comparing it favorably to the Apple Watch.

Comparison vs. Apple Watches Sensors Accuracy Monitoring
Source

r/gaming

02/18/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers advanced user control capabilities, which could be perceived as more advanced compared to devices like the Apple Watch.

Comparison vs. Apple Watches Features Security Privacy
Source

r/gaming

02/18/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is a preferred choice for those who appreciate analogue watches and desire a less intrusive notification system, offering a viable alternative to the Apple Watch.

Comparison vs. Apple Watches System Alerts Purpose
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 demonstrates fairly accurate heart rate readings, closely matching those of the Apple Watch and Garmin during bike rides. However, it’s slightly less precise in measuring distance via GPS, showing a 5 percent discrepancy. While data can be synced to Strava, it lacks the extensive third-party app integration offered by Apple Health.

Comparison vs. Apple Watches Comparison vs. Garmin Watches Performance Sensors Accuracy Monitoring Software Apps
Source

@MikeHightower1 – Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021

Despite some bugs, one user enjoys the Galaxy Watch 4, especially its sleep tracker and the Galaxy Health interface. However, they mention the LTE version drains the battery quickly, and are using the watch as a backup device while their Apple Watch 7 is being charged.

Comparison vs. Apple Watch 7 Features Software Apps Sensors Trackers Performance Battery
Source

@Flyezx – The Verge

08/18/2021

A user of the Huawei gte 2e praised its two-week battery life and noted that while it may not have as many features as the Galaxy Watch 4, it performs well in terms of showing notifications and tracking exercises.

Comparison vs. Huawei GTE 2E Performance Battery Features System Alerts Trackers
Source

r/Android

02/13/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 impresses with its superior user interface, especially when compared to the Huawei watch, as per a user who has been using it since December.

Comparison vs. Huawei Watches Features System Interface
Source

@DJGeeks – The Verge

08/18/2021

A user upgraded from the original Galaxy Watch to the Galaxy Watch 4 and was generally happy with the upgrade, except for the decreased battery life. However, the fast charging feature was a saving grace.

Comparison vs. Original Samsung Galaxy Watch Performance Battery Charging
Source

@Snapper314 – CNET

08/27/2021

A negative aspect of the Samsung Watch 4 is the lack of a disconnect alert, a feature present in the Active 2 Watch. This feature would alert the user with sound and vibration when the watch lost connection with the phone, helping prevent accidental misplacement of the phone.

Comparison vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 System Alerts Connectivity
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 features a touch-sensitive rotating bezel for swift scrolling, however, it can be a bit tricky to operate. The Watch 4 Classic, on the other hand, boasts a physical bezel with a satisfying click when navigating through screens, which may justify its higher price for some users.

Comparison vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic Build Bezels Features Controls Value
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 retains iconic elements from previous models, including a rotating bezel that serves as a navigation tool. This watch, however, adopts a capacitive version of the bezel, resulting in a slimmer and more modern gadget. The Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic offer identical software experiences, both featuring the new Wear OS software, Samsung’s One UI skin, a 3-in-1 health sensor, and an extensive watch face collection. Both watches come in various sizes and connectivity options, with the Galaxy Watch 4 starting at $249.99 for the 40mm Bluetooth model, while the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic begins at $349.99 for the 42mm Bluetooth version.

Comparison vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic Build Bezels Size Features Controls Performance Operating System UI Sensors Watchfaces Software Price Variants Connectivity Options
Source

CNET

08/27/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 models boast a unique interface featuring a rotating bezel, with the Classic version offering a physical, clicky bezel that’s enjoyable to use, akin to a fidget toy. However, the standard model requires touch activation which can be challenging when wet, and doesn’t provide the same tactile response.

Comparison vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic Build Bezels Features Controls Performance
Source

The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers the versatility of using any 20-millimeter strap and provides a smooth user interface with a touch-sensitive bezel for navigation. Its Classic variant further enhances usability with a physical rotating bezel that clicks. The collaboration of Google and Samsung offers a customizable interface, allowing users to personalize tiles and avoid overcrowding the main watch face.

Comparison vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic Build Bezels Strap Compatibility System UI Controls
Source

The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is priced at $249 for the basic 40mm model, with options for a larger 44mm model or the Watch 4 Classic at $349 for the 42mm model. There is also a 46mm model and an option for LTE on both versions.

Comparison vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic Price Variants Size Connectivity Options
Source

@GothicDragonX – CNET

08/27/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, paired with a Note 20 Ultra 5G, offers a pleasing experience. It’s praised for maintaining the rotating bezel feature and for its transition from Tizen OS to Wear OS, which provides more apps and functionality. The smaller bezel-less Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 has also been well received by first-time smartwatch users.

Comparison vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic Controls Operating System Software Apps Build Bezels
Source

@RedStacheAZ – Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021

One user is not ready to switch from their GearS3 Classic, citing some issues with Wear OS. However, they appreciate the partnership and hope that Samsung has incorporated the best of Tizen.

Comparison vs. Samsung Gear S3 Classic System Operating System
Source
See All Sources

Price & Availability

  • Price - Variants
  • Value
  • Positive
  • Negative
Price - Variants - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, starting at $249.99 for the 40mm aluminum model, offers a range of options including the robust 42mm stainless steel Classic variant priced at $349.99. Larger sizes and added LTE functionality are available at extra cost, and all models are compatible with standard 20mm straps.

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 starts at an affordable price of $249.99 for the 40mm aluminum model. The chunkier, stainless steel Watch 4 Classic with a rotating bezel is priced at $349.99 for the 42mm model. There are options for larger sizes or added LTE functionality at additional costs for both watches, all of which are compatible with standard 20mm straps.

Price Variants Size Connectivity Options
Source
Value - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, while maintaining a familiar design, offers cost-effective options with a cleaner, bezel-less look, making it $100 cheaper than its Classic variant. Recognized as a top-tier accessory, it allows quick response to texts and Spotify song management without hindering gameplay. Despite some reported battery issues, it is one of the best smart watches on the market and is anticipated to improve with the forthcoming Google Assistant integration.

CNET

08/27/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 presents a familiar design that may not impress everyone. The cleaner look without the bezel is preferred due to its cost-effectiveness, being $100 cheaper than the Classic version which offers a rotating bezel as the primary extra feature.

Value Design Shape Price Variants
Source

r/gaming

02/18/2022
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is seen by some users as a top-tier accessory, offering features like reading and quick responding to texts, and managing Spotify songs without interrupting gameplay.

Value Features Software Apps
Source

r/gaming

02/18/2022
3.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is highly recommended and considered to be one of the best smart watches, despite reported battery issues. It’s expected to become even better with the upcoming integration of Google Assistant.

Value Performance Battery Software Apps Assistant
Source

Sources

Tags

  • Price - Variants
  • Value

Sources

  • The Verge
  • YouTube
  • Reddit

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 starts at an affordable price of $249.99 for the 40mm aluminum model. The chunkier, stainless steel Watch 4 Classic with a rotating bezel is priced at $349.99 for the 42mm model. There are options for larger sizes or added LTE functionality at additional costs for both watches, all of which are compatible with standard 20mm straps.

Price Variants Size Connectivity Options
Source

CNET

08/27/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 presents a familiar design that may not impress everyone. The cleaner look without the bezel is preferred due to its cost-effectiveness, being $100 cheaper than the Classic version which offers a rotating bezel as the primary extra feature.

Value Design Shape Price Variants
Source

r/gaming

02/18/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is seen by some users as a top-tier accessory, offering features like reading and quick responding to texts, and managing Spotify songs without interrupting gameplay.

Value Features Software Apps
Source

r/gaming

02/18/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is highly recommended and considered to be one of the best smart watches, despite reported battery issues. It’s expected to become even better with the upcoming integration of Google Assistant.

Value Performance Battery Software Apps Assistant
Source
See All Sources

Miscellaneous

  • Concerns
  • Drawbacks - Features
  • Drawbacks - Performance
  • History
  • Issue - Features
  • Issue - Manufacturer
  • Issue - Performance
  • Lacks
  • Limitations
  • Reputation
  • Positive
  • Negative
Concerns - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4's BIA measurement feature is potentially inaccurate, especially for users below 20, which may impact body dysmorphia. Despite recognizing this issue, Samsung does not impose any age restrictions for this feature.

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 raises concerns regarding the accuracy of its BIA measurements, particularly for users under 20 years old, with potential implications for body dysmorphia. Samsung acknowledges these inaccuracies but does not enforce an age restriction on this feature.

Concerns Features Sensors
Source
Drawbacks - Features - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, while impressive, offers full functionality primarily when paired with a Samsung phone and lacks strong third-party app integration in Samsung Health, with Strava being the lone exception.

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is a remarkable smartwatch, however, its full functionality is best experienced when used with a Samsung phone.

Drawbacks Features System Operating System Compatibility
Source

The Verge

08/18/2021
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s major drawback is the lack of robust third-party app integration in Samsung Health, with Strava being the only notable exception.

Drawbacks Features Software Apps
Source
Drawbacks - Performance - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 demonstrates mixed performance with features like Samsung Pay and Bixby. Bixby's functionality, while improved, still lacks in certain areas like setting multiple alarms and has occasional response delays. The assistant also struggles to integrate with pre-installed apps like Google Maps, and overall, its capabilities are considered behind those of older versions of Siri.

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 functions well with Samsung Pay, but struggles with Bixby. While Bixby’s performance is somewhat better than its reputation suggests, it lacks some basic features such as setting multiple alarms and occasionally has response delays. It also fails to recognize the pre-installed Google Maps for directions.

Drawbacks Performance Software Apps Assistant
Source

The Verge

08/18/2021
2.

The Bixby feature in Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is showing progress, though it still lags behind the capabilities of Siri from a few years ago, with noticeable shortcomings like the inability to set multiple alarms.

Drawbacks Performance Software Apps Assistant
Source
History - Samsung's rebranded Galaxy Watch 4 serves as their premier model, boasting a sporty aesthetic, while the 'Classic' edition maintains the luxury features of its predecessor, the Galaxy Watch 3.

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022
1.

Samsung has revamped its branding strategy with the Galaxy Watch 4, presenting it as their flagship model with a sporty design, while the ‘Classic’ variant continues the luxurious traits of the previous Samsung Galaxy Watch 3.

History Manufacturer Build Design
Source
Issue - Features - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 has received mixed feedback on its features and functionalities. While there are privacy concerns regarding its extensive health data collection, the data is encrypted and only accessible with user consent. Its body measurements feature may vary from other devices, and the "Raise to Wake" function has inconsistent performance. The brightness on the Always On Display is limited to protect the OLED display, but manual adjustments may be needed for certain apps. Despite updates, the watch lacks some features like Google Assistant and has issues with heart rate sensor consistency, deep sleep function, and battery life. Lastly, some users have requested the option to remap the long press button to Google Assistant from Bixby.

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021
1.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s privacy policy may raise concerns as it potentially allows Samsung to gather extensive health data. However, it is ensured that the data is end-to-end encrypted and Samsung can only access it if the user chooses to share it. The collected information may be used for creating personalized workouts, enhancing the app, or marketing promotions.

Issue Features Security Privacy
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s body measurements feature may have discrepancies, as the readings differed by up to 5% from other devices like the Wyze Scale. It’s advisable to seek professional medical advice for wellness goals, especially for those with health conditions, instead of solely relying on this smartwatch.

Issue Features Sensors Body Composition Analysis
Source

Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021
3.

The “Raise to Wake” feature on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is inconsistent, functioning approximately 70% of the time.

Issue Features System Raise to Wake
Source

@d35p0 – Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021
4.

A user suggested that the Always On Display’s brightness might be reduced due to the OLED display, which could be damaged by bright white spots over extended periods. It is mentioned that Samsung has limited it to 15% brightness, but other apps do not adhere to this, requiring manual adjustments.

Issue Features Display Always On Brightness
Source

r/Android

02/13/2022
5.

Despite receiving updates, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 still lacks crucial features like Google Assistant, has altered the heart rate graph to mask sensor inconsistencies, and has issues with the deep sleep function and poor battery life.

Issue Features Updates Software Monitoring Sensors Battery
Source

r/GalaxyWatch

02/10/2022
6.

A user hopes for an option to remap the long press button from Bixby to Google Assistant on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, though voice activation is not a priority.

Issue Features Controls Shortcuts
Source
Issue - Manufacturer - Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 users are facing dissatisfaction due to the unspecified release date of the anticipated Google Assistant update for Wear OS 3.0. The ambiguity of the 'coming soon' timeline has led to frustration, particularly as these watches are currently the only devices running on Wear OS 3.0.

r/GalaxyWatch

02/10/2022
1.

The delay in the release of Google’s Assistant app for Wear OS 3.0 is affecting Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 users, as these watches are currently the only ones running on Wear OS 3.0.

Issue Manufacturer Updates
Source

r/GalaxyWatch

02/10/2022
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s promised Google Assistant update has disappointed users due to the lack of a specific release date, causing frustration over the vague ‘coming soon’ timeline.

Issue Manufacturer Updates
Source
Issue - Performance - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 faces performance issues, such as limited display readability in direct sunlight, minor software bugs causing notification issues, inaccurate health monitoring readings, and overheating along with short battery life, especially in the LTE version. Users have expressed dissatisfaction with the battery's longevity, preferring devices that can last a week on a single charge despite having fewer features.

Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s display has limited readability in direct sunlight due to its brightness levels.

Issue Performance Display Brightness
Source

Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s current Wear OS has several minor bugs, including an issue with certain app notifications failing to vibrate the watch in any mode.

Issue Performance Software Apps
Source

The Verge

08/18/2021
3.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 has been reported to provide inaccurate health readings, including false atrial fibrillation detection.

Issue Performance Sensors Monitoring
Source

@vincentvincent4409 – Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021
4.

A user reports issues with the LTE version of the watch, including overheating and short battery life, especially when listening to offline music. They had to return the watch twice due to these issues.

Issue Performance Battery Heat Management
Source

@Johansk182 – The Verge

08/18/2021
5.

A user expressed dissatisfaction with the Galaxy Watch 4’s battery life, preferring watches that can last at least a week on a single charge, even if they have fewer features.

Issue Performance Battery
Source
Lacks - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, despite being a Wear OS device developed with Google, surprisingly lacks Google Assistant support. Currently, it defaults to Samsung's less efficient Bixby, which struggles with numerous text-to-speech commands. Users hope to see the integration of Google Assistant in the future.

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 defaults to Samsung’s Bixby as its voice assistant, with Google Assistant currently unavailable on the device.

Lacks Features Software Apps Assistant
Source

Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, a Wear OS device created in collaboration with Google, currently lacks Google Assistant, which is unusual. It only supports Bixby, which is less impressive and struggles with numerous text-to-speech commands.

Lacks Features Software Apps Assistant
Source

CNET

08/27/2021
3.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 currently uses Samsung Bixby as the default voice assistant, with no Google Assistant available, a feature that is hoped to be changed soon.

Lacks Features Software Apps Assistant
Source
Limitations - The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers an enhanced smartwatch experience with its revamped design, software, and the inclusion of a Body Impedance Analysis system. However, it has limitations in terms of inconsistent battery life and restricted features for non-Samsung Android users who must install multiple Samsung apps to access full functionality. The health features like ECG and blood pressure readings are exclusive to Samsung phones, limiting access for other Android users. The device is also incompatible with iPhones and draws users into the Samsung ecosystem. Despite these restrictions, it seamlessly integrates with other Galaxy devices and operates on Google Play, providing access to a wide range of Wear OS apps.

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s health features, including ECG and blood pressure readings, can only be utilized when paired with a Samsung phone due to the exclusive availability of the Samsung Health Monitor app on the Galaxy App Store. This limits access for users of other Android phones, unlike devices like the Fitbit Sense that pairs with standard Google Play apps.

Limitations Software Apps Compatibility
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers an exceptional smartwatch experience, particularly for Samsung users. However, non-Samsung Android users may find the requirement of installing multiple Samsung apps to access full functionality limiting. The device is incompatible with iPhones and tends to draw users into the Samsung ecosystem, which can be restrictive despite its merits.

Limitations Features Compatibility Software Apps
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022
3.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is a significant upgrade with refreshed design, software and the introduction of a Body Impedance Analysis (BIA) system. However, it falls short in terms of inconsistent battery life and the lack of some features in the initial launch of Wear OS. The BIA feature may pose risks to individuals with certain health conditions. The watch’s standout attribute is its seamless integration with other Galaxy devices, offering a level of convenience similar to the Apple ecosystem.

Limitations Features Sensors Body Composition Analysis Performance Battery Compatibility
Source

CNET

08/27/2021
4.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 requires a Samsung phone for ECG and blood pressure features.

Limitations Features Sensors Compatibility Software
Source

CNET

08/27/2021
5.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 operates on Google Play, allowing users access to a broad range of Wear OS apps, rather than Samsung’s own app store.

Limitations Features Software Apps
Source

The Verge

08/18/2021
6.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 can be paired with any Android phone, but requires the installation of multiple Samsung applications including the Wearable app, Galaxy Watch plugin, Bixby, Samsung Pay, and Samsung Health, making it a more convenient choice for existing Samsung Galaxy phone users.

Limitations Features Compatibility Software Apps System
Source
Reputation - Samsung, the manufacturer of the Galaxy Watch 4, has a strong reputation for providing regular updates and consistent support for Android Smart Wear. The smartwatch has received numerous updates since its release, enhancing its functionalities beyond those of earlier pure Wear OS or Android Wear watches.

r/Android

02/13/2022
1.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s manufacturer, Samsung, stands out as one of the best in the market, offering consistent support for Android Smart Wear.

Reputation Manufacturer Support
Source

r/Android

02/13/2022
2.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 stands out with its numerous updates since release by its manufacturer, Samsung, adding unprecedented additional functionalities compared to earlier pure Wear OS or Android Wear watches like Moto 360 gen 1 and Huawei Watch.

Reputation Manufacturer Updates
Source

r/Android

02/13/2022
3.

Samsung smartwatches typically receive consistent updates.

Reputation Manufacturer Updates
Source

Sources

Tags

  • Concerns
  • Drawbacks - Features
  • Drawbacks - Performance
  • History
  • Issue - Features
  • Issue - Manufacturer
  • Issue - Performance
  • Lacks
  • Limitations
  • Reputation

Sources

  • tom’s guide
  • The Verge
  • YouTube
  • Reddit
  • CNET

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 raises concerns regarding the accuracy of its BIA measurements, particularly for users under 20 years old, with potential implications for body dysmorphia. Samsung acknowledges these inaccuracies but does not enforce an age restriction on this feature.

Concerns Features Sensors
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is a remarkable smartwatch, however, its full functionality is best experienced when used with a Samsung phone.

Drawbacks Features System Operating System Compatibility
Source

The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s major drawback is the lack of robust third-party app integration in Samsung Health, with Strava being the only notable exception.

Drawbacks Features Software Apps
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 functions well with Samsung Pay, but struggles with Bixby. While Bixby’s performance is somewhat better than its reputation suggests, it lacks some basic features such as setting multiple alarms and occasionally has response delays. It also fails to recognize the pre-installed Google Maps for directions.

Drawbacks Performance Software Apps Assistant
Source

The Verge

08/18/2021

The Bixby feature in Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is showing progress, though it still lags behind the capabilities of Siri from a few years ago, with noticeable shortcomings like the inability to set multiple alarms.

Drawbacks Performance Software Apps Assistant
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022

Samsung has revamped its branding strategy with the Galaxy Watch 4, presenting it as their flagship model with a sporty design, while the ‘Classic’ variant continues the luxurious traits of the previous Samsung Galaxy Watch 3.

History Manufacturer Build Design
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021

Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s privacy policy may raise concerns as it potentially allows Samsung to gather extensive health data. However, it is ensured that the data is end-to-end encrypted and Samsung can only access it if the user chooses to share it. The collected information may be used for creating personalized workouts, enhancing the app, or marketing promotions.

Issue Features Security Privacy
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s body measurements feature may have discrepancies, as the readings differed by up to 5% from other devices like the Wyze Scale. It’s advisable to seek professional medical advice for wellness goals, especially for those with health conditions, instead of solely relying on this smartwatch.

Issue Features Sensors Body Composition Analysis
Source

Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021

The “Raise to Wake” feature on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is inconsistent, functioning approximately 70% of the time.

Issue Features System Raise to Wake
Source

@d35p0 – Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021

A user suggested that the Always On Display’s brightness might be reduced due to the OLED display, which could be damaged by bright white spots over extended periods. It is mentioned that Samsung has limited it to 15% brightness, but other apps do not adhere to this, requiring manual adjustments.

Issue Features Display Always On Brightness
Source

r/Android

02/13/2022

Despite receiving updates, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 still lacks crucial features like Google Assistant, has altered the heart rate graph to mask sensor inconsistencies, and has issues with the deep sleep function and poor battery life.

Issue Features Updates Software Monitoring Sensors Battery
Source

r/GalaxyWatch

02/10/2022

A user hopes for an option to remap the long press button from Bixby to Google Assistant on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, though voice activation is not a priority.

Issue Features Controls Shortcuts
Source

r/GalaxyWatch

02/10/2022

The delay in the release of Google’s Assistant app for Wear OS 3.0 is affecting Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 users, as these watches are currently the only ones running on Wear OS 3.0.

Issue Manufacturer Updates
Source

r/GalaxyWatch

02/10/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s promised Google Assistant update has disappointed users due to the lack of a specific release date, causing frustration over the vague ‘coming soon’ timeline.

Issue Manufacturer Updates
Source

Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s display has limited readability in direct sunlight due to its brightness levels.

Issue Performance Display Brightness
Source

Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s current Wear OS has several minor bugs, including an issue with certain app notifications failing to vibrate the watch in any mode.

Issue Performance Software Apps
Source

The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 has been reported to provide inaccurate health readings, including false atrial fibrillation detection.

Issue Performance Sensors Monitoring
Source

@vincentvincent4409 – Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021

A user reports issues with the LTE version of the watch, including overheating and short battery life, especially when listening to offline music. They had to return the watch twice due to these issues.

Issue Performance Battery Heat Management
Source

@Johansk182 – The Verge

08/18/2021

A user expressed dissatisfaction with the Galaxy Watch 4’s battery life, preferring watches that can last at least a week on a single charge, even if they have fewer features.

Issue Performance Battery
Source

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 defaults to Samsung’s Bixby as its voice assistant, with Google Assistant currently unavailable on the device.

Lacks Features Software Apps Assistant
Source

Mark Spurrell

09/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, a Wear OS device created in collaboration with Google, currently lacks Google Assistant, which is unusual. It only supports Bixby, which is less impressive and struggles with numerous text-to-speech commands.

Lacks Features Software Apps Assistant
Source

CNET

08/27/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 currently uses Samsung Bixby as the default voice assistant, with no Google Assistant available, a feature that is hoped to be changed soon.

Lacks Features Software Apps Assistant
Source

Scott Stein – CNET

08/26/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s health features, including ECG and blood pressure readings, can only be utilized when paired with a Samsung phone due to the exclusive availability of the Samsung Health Monitor app on the Galaxy App Store. This limits access for users of other Android phones, unlike devices like the Fitbit Sense that pairs with standard Google Play apps.

Limitations Software Apps Compatibility
Source

Dieter Bohn – The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers an exceptional smartwatch experience, particularly for Samsung users. However, non-Samsung Android users may find the requirement of installing multiple Samsung apps to access full functionality limiting. The device is incompatible with iPhones and tends to draw users into the Samsung ecosystem, which can be restrictive despite its merits.

Limitations Features Compatibility Software Apps
Source

Kate Kozuch – Tom’s Guide

01/06/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is a significant upgrade with refreshed design, software and the introduction of a Body Impedance Analysis (BIA) system. However, it falls short in terms of inconsistent battery life and the lack of some features in the initial launch of Wear OS. The BIA feature may pose risks to individuals with certain health conditions. The watch’s standout attribute is its seamless integration with other Galaxy devices, offering a level of convenience similar to the Apple ecosystem.

Limitations Features Sensors Body Composition Analysis Performance Battery Compatibility
Source

CNET

08/27/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 requires a Samsung phone for ECG and blood pressure features.

Limitations Features Sensors Compatibility Software
Source

CNET

08/27/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 operates on Google Play, allowing users access to a broad range of Wear OS apps, rather than Samsung’s own app store.

Limitations Features Software Apps
Source

The Verge

08/18/2021

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 can be paired with any Android phone, but requires the installation of multiple Samsung applications including the Wearable app, Galaxy Watch plugin, Bixby, Samsung Pay, and Samsung Health, making it a more convenient choice for existing Samsung Galaxy phone users.

Limitations Features Compatibility Software Apps System
Source

r/Android

02/13/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4’s manufacturer, Samsung, stands out as one of the best in the market, offering consistent support for Android Smart Wear.

Reputation Manufacturer Support
Source

r/Android

02/13/2022

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 stands out with its numerous updates since release by its manufacturer, Samsung, adding unprecedented additional functionalities compared to earlier pure Wear OS or Android Wear watches like Moto 360 gen 1 and Huawei Watch.

Reputation Manufacturer Updates
Source

r/Android

02/13/2022

Samsung smartwatches typically receive consistent updates.

Reputation Manufacturer Updates
Source
See All Sources

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