Galaxy Watch 4 Classic: Compare Vs. Galaxy Watch 4
So you’re thinking of buying a Galaxy Watch 4, but you’re not sure if you should go for the standard Edition or the fancier Classic? Well, have no fear – we’re here to help! In this article, we’ll compare and contrast the two models so that you can make an informed decision.
Differences Between Galaxy Watch 4 and the Classic Model
The main differences between the Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic are their price and design.
Galaxy Watch 4 Classic Bring Back the Rotating Bezel
The Classic model brings back the rotating bezel, which fans of the original Samsung Galaxy Watch will remember and love. In comparison, the Galaxy Watch 4 has a digital rotating bezel, like the one you can find on the Galaxy Watch Active 2.
Galaxy Watch 4 vs. Classic: Dimensions
The Classic has a bulkier and larger frame, while the Galaxy Watch 4 has a sleeker, lightweight build. For instance, the Galaxy Watch 4 comes in 40/44mm, while the Classic model is available in 42/46mm sizes.
Galaxy Watch 4 and Classic Size Comparison:
| Galaxy Watch 4 | Galaxy Watch 4 Classic | |
| Size Options | 40 mm 44 mm | 42 mm 46 mm |
| Dimensions | 40.4 x 39.3 x 9.8 mm (40mm) 44.4 x 43.3 x 9.8 mm (44mm) | 41.5 x 41.5 x 11.2 mm (42mm) 45.5 x 45.5 x 11.0 mm (46mm) |
| Resolution | 396 x 396 pixels (40mm) 450 x 450 pixels (44mm) | 396 x 396 pixels (42mm) 450 x 450 pixels (46mm) |
Galaxy Watch 4 vs. Classic: Color Options
The Galaxy Watch 4 also offers more color options than the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic for those pickier about its appearance. Both come in black and silver, but the aluminum version of the standard watch 4 also comes in green (44mm) and pink gold (40mm).
Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is More Expensive
The Classic is usually a bit more expensive than the Galaxy Watch. When you decide to purchase the Classic model, you’re opting for the physical rotating bezel and flashier, more traditional timepiece, and these features come at a premium.
- Compare today’s price on Amazon:
Which Features are the Same on Galaxy Watch 4 vs. Galaxy Watch 4 Classic
In terms of features, you’re getting the same sports smartwatch experience no matter which model you choose. For example, both the Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic come with an always-on display to see the time and your most-used apps without pressing a button or tapping the screen.
- Read our Full Review on Galaxy Watch 4
Galaxy Watch 4 vs. Classic: Hardware and Specifications
The Galaxy Watch 4 and the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic offer LTE and Bluetooth or Bluetooth only variants. Both models run on the Exynos W920 5nm chip and support 1.5GB of RAM and 16GB of internal storage. In addition, both models run the Wear OS 3 system and are Wi-Fi compatible.
- Related Article: Why Wear OS Watches Have Battery Life Issues
Galaxy Watch 4 vs. Classic: Sensors
The Galaxy Watch 4 and the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic can monitor stats like blood pressure, detect AFib irregular heartbeat, measure blood oxygen, and calculate body composition. In addition, both models have the BioActive sensor and built-in GPS.
Galaxy Watch 4 vs. Classic: Water Resistance
Both models have a 5ATM water-resistance rating and IP68 dust and liquid-resistance rating. Both models have swim tracking options.
Most people know that a rating of 5ATM means the watch can withstand water pressure equivalent to being submerged in up to 164 feet / 50 meters of water. What many people are not familiar with is the fact that time limits apply: generally no more than 10 minutes at a depth exceeding 5 feet / 1.5 meters. The IP68-rating on the Galaxy Watch 4 is a great benefit as it both improves resistance and extends those time limits.
Here’s what the combination of 5ATM and IP68 ratings mean for your Galaxy watch 4:
- Watch 4 is tight enough to withstand dust, dirt, and sand.
- Watch 4 can be submerged to a depth of 5 feet / 1.5 meters for no longer than 30 minutes.
- Watch 4 cannot resist water temperature above 113ºF / 45ºC degrees and the closer you get to those temperatures the more you should limit exposure time.
- Water moving at a velocity has inherent pressure – equivalent to being deep into the water. For that reason, it’s risky to wear Watch 4 while jet skiing, surfing, playing in the waves, or jumping from a height.
- If you drop or knock the watch, its structure and therefore water-resistance ability could be weakened. That’s one more reason to be careful and avoid impacts.
Samsung does not cover water damage on its Watch 4 warranty, even if you have used it within the stated restrictions and followed all their water-safe tips. They seem to consistently apply this warranty exclusion, probably because they can’t know for a fact whether their product was defective or whether the watch was used inappropriately. Some customers have had a disappointing and frustrating experience dealing with Samsung’s customer services in that regard.
The next best water-resistance rating is 10ATM. If your main sports or activities are water-based, it’s worth considering a watch with that increased level of resistance. The Garmin Fenix 6 is a 10ATM-rated watch worth considering (it’s also compatible with Android).
Galaxy Watch 4 vs. Classic: Sleep Tracking
If you’re looking for a high-quality sleep tracking system, both models have advanced sleep and continuous SP02 monitoring to provide comprehensive sleep data.
Galaxy Watch 4 vs. Classic: Health and Fitness
You won’t miss out on fitness features with either model; each watch can perform a Body Wellness Assessment, Heart Health Monitoring, Fitness and Auto Workout Tracking, VO2 Max, and Advanced Run Coaching at the touch of a button.
- Read our Full Review on Galaxy Watch 4
Galaxy Watch 4 vs. Classic: Display
Both models feature superior display technology compared to previous Samsung Galaxy models. With the Super AMOLED, full-color Always On Display, and Corning Gorilla Glass DX+, you’ve got a clear and bright screen tough enough to withstand everyday wear and tear. Display resolutions are the same for the large and small variants.
Galaxy Watch 4 vs. Classic: App Store
Fortunately, both Samsung Galaxy Watches are compatible with a wide range of apps, so you can customize your watch to fit your lifestyle. Some of the most popular apps include Spotify, Strava, Samsung Pay, MyFitnessPal, Bixby, Reddit and Samsung Health.
Galaxy Watch 4 vs. Classic: Battery Life
Battery capacity on Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic is dependent on the watch size. The large models in the Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic get the 361mAh, and the small variants get the 247mAh batteries.
Galaxy Watch 4 vs. Classic: Pairing
Fortunately, either option affords the user access to Android 6.0 or higher smartphones, allowing longer device compatibility. The Galaxy Watch 4 and the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic are not compatible with iPhones.
Frequently Asked Questions on
Galaxy Watch 4 and Classic
Galaxy Watch 4 Classic: 46mm vs. 42mm – What’s the Difference?
There are a couple of differences between these two models. For instance, the sizing for the 42mm is 41.5 x 41.5 x 11.2mm and the 46mm is 45.5 x 45.5 x 11.0mm. Next, the weight is different, with the 42mm being 46.5g and the 46mm being 52g. The larger model also has better battery capacity and it is more expensive than the smaller one.
What’s the Battery Life Like on the Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic?
The battery can last multiple days without charge or up to 40 hours with the larger Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic models. Of course, that doesn’t include apps and features requiring heavy GPS usage or tracking. With always-on-display and heavy use, expect around 15 hours between charges. The smaller models have slightly lower battery capacity. and will last a little bit over a day with light use.
Does the Galaxy Watch 4 have Fast Charging?
No. Despite the prevalence of fast charging in newer devices like smartphones, this feature is not available in Samsung Galaxy smartwatches yet. You will still need about two hours to get a full charge out of Galaxy Watch 4.
Is Galaxy Watch 4 Waterproof?
Yes, both models have a water-resistance rating of 5ATM and a dust and liquid-resistance rating of IP68.
Can You Use the Galaxy Watch Without a Smartphone?
You can’t set up a Galaxy Watch 4 or Galaxy Watch 4 Classic without a phone. Once it is set up, and assuming you purchased the LTE model, the Galaxy Watch 4 can operate as a standalone device in regards to making and receiving calls, texts, and other notifications.
Do the Galaxy Watch 4 Models Come in Different Colors?
The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is limited to two colors: black and silver. The standard Galaxy Watch 4 comes in black, silver, green and pink gold.
Does the Galaxy Watch 4 Have a Rotating Bezel?
No, only the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic has the rotating bezel. The Galaxy Watch 4 has a digital rotating bezel.
Does the Bezel Work Well for Navigating Through Menus?
Yes. Arguably, the rotating bezel is the best way to navigate through the Classic’s menus and is very responsive and intuitive.
Is Galaxy Watch 4 Capable of Running the New Wear OS 3 Software?
Yes, both models of the Galaxy Watch 4 come with the new Wear OS 3 software pre-installed.
Which Model of Galaxy Watch 4 is More Durable?
In terms of dings, scratches, and knocks, the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic can more easily handle it with its stainless-steel body and protective bezel.
