Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is not worth the money — here's why

Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is not worth the money — here's why

Samsung's Galaxy Watch 4 lineup offers several design options, depending on what best fits a shopper's lifestyle. Whether you want a large-screen device that looks like a traditional watch or a sleek, small smartwatch, there's a Galaxy Watch 4 for you. However, depending on your style preferences, it could cost you $100 more than other customers.

If you've read our Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 review or our guide to the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 vs. the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, you'll know that the two models have essentially the same internal construction, with each 40mm size starting at $249.99 starting at $249.99 for the 40mm size and $349.99 for the 42mm size, respectively.

The larger size of each model (44mm for the Galaxy Watch 4 and 46mm for the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic) has a slightly larger battery capacity than the smaller size, but that's about it in terms of technical specifications.

Instead, all the difference is in looks. Although Samsung has dropped the "Active" branding, the standard Galaxy Watch 4 is slimmer and sportier looking, while the "Classic" version carries on the iconic features of last year's Samsung Galaxy Watch 3.

Additionally, this year's Classic version is priced lower than the Galaxy Watch 3. The previous generation smartwatch is on sale now, but it cost $399.99 when it launched. Sounds like a bargain, right? But after spending time with both versions of Samsung's new smartwatch, I'm not convinced the Classic option is worth the money.

In the Galaxy Watch 4 smartwatch review video I shared on YouTube, I joked that the $100 premium for the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic only gets you a fidget spinner. I said this in honor of the fan-favorite rotating bezel, which was first used on the original Samsung Galaxy Watch.

But my sarcasm didn't seem to land with the comments of some who pointed out that the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic premium also includes a stainless steel case instead of aluminum. Thanks. I just didn't think most people cared about the material as much as the functionality.

I'm not saying that a stainless steel wrist candy for $349.99 isn't attractive. For comparison, the stainless steel Apple Watch 6 starts at $799.99. Still, if you're a fan of high-end materials, why not buy a Samsung smartwatch over a designer watch? The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic doesn't even come with leather straps. They cost extra and don't have the contoured shape of the silicone ones included in the box.

The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic makes me feel like my dad. It is far from the fashion statement that Samsung has attempted. The bezel is fun, but it's like Samsung is clinging to the mechanism the same way your dad clings to your family's old VCR player. However, you don't expect your dad to pay $100 for it, though.

If you're drawn to the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic's chunky looks, don't stop me; it has all the best features of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Wear OS, so spend the money however you want.

But if you wanted to hear from someone who has used both the standard Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 and the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic whether the latter version is worth the higher price, it's not. Given its low price, slim shape, and modern design, the $249.99 Galaxy Watch 4 is the ultimate bargain.

Categories