Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic isn’t worth the money

Samsung Galaxy Sentinel 4 Classic isn't worth the money — here's why

(Prototype credit: Future)

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 lineup gives shoppers a few design options depending on what all-time suits their lifestyle. Whether yous want a big-screened device that still looks similar a traditional timepiece or a sleek and pocket-sized smartwatch, there's a Milky way Watch 4 for you. Your style preferences could result in spending over $100 more than than other customers, though.

If you've read our Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 review or our guide to the Samsung Galaxy Watch four vs. Galaxy Lookout man iv Classic, you lot'll know the 2 models have essentially identical internals, which start at $249.99 and $349.99 for the 40mm and 42mm sizes, respectively.

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The larger sizes of each model (44mm for Galaxy Watch iv and 46mm for Galaxy Watch 4 Classic) accept slightly higher battery chapters than the smaller sizes, only that's about it in terms of technical specs.

Instead, all the differences lay on the outside. Though Samsung dropped the 'Active' branding, the standard Galaxy Watch 4 is slim and sporty-looking while the 'Archetype' version carries on the iconic characteristics of last year's Samsung Galaxy Scout iii.

Amend all the same, this twelvemonth'southward Archetype version starts at a lower price than the Galaxy Watch 3. You can find the previous-generation smartwatch on sale right now, but it cost $399.99 at launch. Sounds like a score, right? Perhaps to some, but subsequently spending time with both versions of Samsung's new smartwatches, I'yard not convinced the Archetype option is worth the money.

The rotating bezel is fun, but Samsung is belongings onto it the same way your dad is holding on to your family unit'due south old VCR thespian. Except your dad probably isn't expecting anyone to pay $100 for it.

In my video review of the Milky way Sentinel 4 smartwatches shared to YouTube, I joked how the $100 premium for the Galaxy Lookout man four Classic but gets you a fidget spinner. I meant that in respect to the fan-favorite rotating bezel that first debuted on the original Samsung Galaxy Watch, I promise.

But my sarcasm didn't seem to state with some commenters, who pointed out the Galaxy Watch 4 Archetype's premium too includes a stainless steel case, rather than an aluminum i. Thanks, I know. I just didn't call back most people care about materials as much as functionality.

I'm not proverb $349.99 for stainless steel wrist candy isn't enticing. For comparing, the Apple Watch 6 in stainless steel starts at $799.99. Even so, if you actually care nearly luxury materials, what are yous doing ownership a Samsung smartwatch over a designer timepiece? The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic doesn't even include leather straps. Those cost actress, and don't come in the contoured shape similar the silicone ones included in the box.

The Milky way Sentinel 4 Archetype gives me dad vibes, and that's the all-time way I can describe my opinion. Information technology doesn't quite make the fashion statement Samsung attempted. While the bezel is fun, it's like Samsung is belongings onto the mechanism the same style your dad is holding on to your family unit'south sometime VCR player. Except your dad probably isn't expecting anyone to pay $100 for it.

Expect, if y'all're attracted to the chunkier look of the Milky way Lookout 4 Archetype, don't let me cease you lot. Information technology has all the best Samsung Milky way Watch 4 Clothing OS features, and so spend your money how you please.

But if you wanted to hear from someone who used both the standard Samsung Galaxy Watch four and Milky way Watch four Classic whether the price for the latter version lives up to the higher price, it's doesn't. For the lower price, slimmer shape and modern blueprint, the $249.99 Galaxy Watch 4 is the ultimate steal.

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Kate Kozuch is a senior writer at Tom's Guide covering wearables, TVs and everything smart-dwelling house related. When she'due south not in cyborg mode, you can discover her on an exercise bike or channeling her inner celebrity chef. She and her robot ground forces volition rule the world i day, but until and so, accomplish her at kate.kozuch@futurenet.com.