Introduction to the Xiaomi Watch S4
The Xiaomi Watch S4 emerges as an impressive contender in the affordable smartwatch market, succeeding the popular Watch S3. Known for delivering exceptional value through its smart bands and fitness trackers, Xiaomi has sought to carve its niche in the premium smartwatch segment with devices like the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro. In this review, we’ll focus on the Xiaomi Watch S4, examining its features, design, and overall performance as it stands out amongst its competitors.
What’s New:
- Features a rotating crown for easy navigation
- Enhanced display brightness with up to 2200 nits peak brightness
- Runs on Hyper OS 2.0 for intuitive user experience
- Equipped with two microphones for improved voice commands
Table of Contents:
Xiaomi Watch S4 Specifications, Models, and Pricing
Currently, the Xiaomi Watch S4 comes in a single model, but it offers versatility with interchangeable bezels and standard 20 mm straps for personalization. Available in three color variants—Silver, Rainbow, and Black—consumers can select different strap and bezel combinations, with additional kits available for further customization.
The watch is devoid of LTE support, meaning it doesn't offer a cellular version. Check out the detailed specs table below for more insights.
| Specs | Xiaomi Watch S4 |
|---|---|
| Dimensions, Weight, Price | 47.3 x 47.3 x 12 mm, 44.5 grams, 159.99 Euros |
| Display | 1.43-inch AMOLED |
| Processor, RAM, Storage | Undisclosed chipset and RAM, 2.2GB internal memory |
| Operating System | HyperOS 2.0 |
| Battery Capacity | 486 mAh |
| Sensors | Heart rate monitor (with SpO2 sensor) |
| New Features | Interchangeable bezels |
The standout feature in this spec sheet is the display; with a brightness level of 1500 nits in High Brightness Mode, it is particularly impressive (the brightness can peak at 2200 nits in direct sunlight). The resolution also offers great clarity, contributing to a high pixel density. With a claimed battery life of up to 15 days, which we have verified, and an accessible price point of 159 Euros, this smartwatch ticks many boxes for shoppers.
Xiaomi Watch S4 Design, Dimensions, and Straps
Stylish and Customizable
A stylish glance at the Xiaomi Watch S4! | Image by PhoneArena
The Xiaomi Watch S4 presents a sleek and polished design. Our review unit in Silver features a subtle silver bezel that seamlessly integrates with the watch, making it appear non-detachable. The innovative rotating crown with a black accent adds a touch of elegance, enhancing the overall look.
The rotating crown adds an appealing black accent | Image by PhoneArena
The default watch face on the Silver model resembles a classic chronograph, featuring luminous hands that glow fluorescent white-green when in always-on mode, mimicking traditional luminescent watch hands.
The size and weight of the Xiaomi Watch S4 make it suitable for a variety of wrist sizes. At 47 mm, it is not overly compact, yet it remains flattering even on smaller wrists, like our reviewer’s. Weighing in at 44 grams, it delivers a premium feel without feeling cumbersome for all-day wear.
Flexibility to change straps with 22 mm standards | Image by PhoneArena
With the use of standard 22 mm watch straps and quick-release pins, this smartwatch allows for easy customization, enabling owners to switch out the bundled strap for any strap of their preference.
Xiaomi Watch S4 Software & Features
Comprehensive Core Features
Essential smartwatch features executed effectively | Image by PhoneArena
The Xiaomi Watch S4 operates on HyperOS 2.0, Xiaomi's proprietary operating system. Users can connect the watch to their smartphones via the Xiaomi Mi Health app by either scanning a QR code or searching for devices manually. While it is compatible with various Android devices, a Xiaomi phone is needed for optimized smart home features. In terms of essential smartwatch capabilities, the watch performs adeptly.
Workout Features
The Xiaomi Watch S4 is capable of tracking numerous fitness activities—over 150 by specification, including 17 aquatic sports, 11 outdoor endeavors, 40 workout regimes, 14 dance forms, 12 combat sports, and more, making it a competitive choice against models like the Galaxy Watch 7 and Apple Watch SE. Its heart rate and blood oxygen readings perform commendably, aligning with industry standards for health tracking.
Sleep Tracking
Insights into sleep habits | Image by PhoneArena
Equipped with sleep tracking capabilities, the watch offers comprehensive insights, tracking breathing rates and blood oxygen levels. Users receive breakdowns of their sleep stages, including light sleep, deep sleep, REM cycles, and periods of wakefulness.
Health Features
For general health tracking, the Xiaomi Watch S4 provides essential insights based on data collected from its onboard sensors and user activity. Users benefit from familiar activity goals displayed through rings, tracking movement and calories burned, alongside heart-rate variability, blood oxygen levels, stress levels, and sleep metrics.
Xiaomi Watch S4 Battery Life and Charging
Is Two Weeks of Battery Life Achievable?
Charging can be slightly inconvenient | Image by PhoneArena
One of the significant selling points of the Xiaomi Watch S4 is its battery life, which is rated at two weeks under optimal conditions, with a quick five-minute charge providing an additional two days of usage. The 486 mAh battery is impressive for a smartwatch of this caliber.
However, in real-world usage, expect about five days of battery life with intensive features like continuous heart-rate monitoring, always-on display, sleep tracking, and daily exercise lasting 2-3 hours.
Xiaomi Watch S4 Competitors
This smartwatch finds itself in a competitive market with few peers that match its price with the same premium quality. The biggest rivalry comes from its predecessor, the Watch S3—many customers may prefer the older model if it can be found at a better price. For a slightly higher investment, buyers can also consider the Galaxy Watch 7, the Pixel Watch 3, or the Apple Watch SE, though all have distinct designs and specific platform requirements for optimal performance.
Xiaomi Watch S4 Conclusion
Beauty and functionality without the hefty price tag | Image by PhoneArena
The Xiaomi Watch S4 impressively balances style and functionality across the smartwatch spectrum. With a vibrant AMOLED display, responsive battery life, and a range of features, it successfully appeals to consumers looking for affordability without sacrificing quality.
Highlights
- Stylish and sleek design
- High-quality AMOLED display
- Long-lasting battery (up to 5 days in real-world usage)
- Wide array of fitness tracking features
- Highly customizable with interchangeable straps
Drawbacks
- No cellular connectivity option
- Charging method can be cumbersome
- Limited to Android and Xiaomi ecosystem for full integration
