Xiaomi Watch S4 Review: AMOLED Display Worth Your Money?
The Xiaomi Watch S4 brings style and smart features together. It has a 1.43 inch AMOLED display that looks sharp and bright. The circular design feels classic, yet modern.
This watch offers interchangeable bezels. You can choose ceramic, copper carbon, or fluoroubber with nylon. It fits your mood and your outfit.
Fitness fans will love the tracking tools. The watch monitors your health and workouts with ease. It also charges fast, getting you back on your wrist in under an hour.
Xiaomi made this watch for everyone. A compact 41mm option suits smaller wrists perfectly. Straps come in leather or nylon, so comfort is never an issue.
Is the Xiaomi Watch S4 the right pick for you? Let’s explore its design, features, and performance in detail.
In a Nutshell
Here is a quick summary of what makes the Xiaomi Watch S4 stand out.
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Display: The watch has a 1.43″ AMOLED circular screen. It looks sharp and bright in daily use.
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Size options: You get a 47.3mm main model or a 41mm compact version. Smaller wrists get a comfortable fit too.
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Battery reality check: Xiaomi claims 7 days of battery life. Real world testing shows closer to 2 days with GPS and tracking on.
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Fast charging: The watch charges to full in under an hour. This makes it easy to top up before you head out.
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Build quality: The watch feels premium with its metal body and glass finish. Some users report durability concerns after long term use.
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Competition: It faces rivals like the Redmi Watch 5 Lite and Amazfit Bip 6. Each offers different strengths in the smartwatch space.
This smartwatch mixes good looks with solid features. It suits people who want a stylish tracker for daily wear.
Design and Build Quality
The Xiaomi Watch S4 impresses right away with its classic circular design. The watch feels substantial in your hand thanks to its metal construction and protective glass finish. You get a real sense of quality the moment you strap it on your wrist.
The main model measures 47.3mm in diameter with a slim 12mm thickness. If you prefer something smaller, the 41mm variant fits wrists between 135–210mm perfectly. Both sizes maintain the same premium aesthetic without compromise.
One standout feature is the interchangeable bezel system. You can swap between ceramic, copper carbon, and fluoroubber plus nylon options to match your mood or outfit. This customization keeps the watch fresh and lets you express your personal style.
The strap options deserve attention too. Xiaomi offers calf leather for a formal look and nylon for active days. Both materials feel durable and comfortable during extended wear. The strap range accommodates different wrist sizes without issues.
The 1.43 inch AMOLED display sits flush with the body and features a circular shape that enhances the watch’s elegant appearance. The screen quality is exceptional with vibrant colors and deep blacks. You’ll notice the glass has excellent clarity from any viewing angle.
Build durability shows attention to detail throughout. The materials resist scratches and daily wear reasonably well. However, long term durability remains a question mark based on real world usage reports. The watch handles normal activities without obvious stress points.
The overall thickness of 12mm keeps the watch slim and comfortable under shirt cuffs. The heart rate sensor adds just 2.13mm more when activated. This thoughtful engineering means the watch never feels bulky or intrusive on your wrist.
The design strikes a balance between modern functionality and timeless aesthetics. It works equally well in professional settings or casual environments. The watch appeals to people who want smart features without sacrificing style or comfort. Every element from the bezel to the strap reflects careful consideration of how a smartwatch should look and feel.
Last update on 2026-09-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Display and Interface
The display on the Xiaomi Watch S4 is where this watch truly shines. You get a 1.43 inch AMOLED screen that delivers vibrant colors and deep blacks. The circular design matches the watch’s overall aesthetic perfectly.
AMOLED technology means each pixel produces its own light. This gives you crisp text and bright images even under direct sunlight. The colors pop without feeling oversaturated or fake.
The interface responds quickly to your taps and swipes. Navigation feels smooth whether you’re checking your heart rate or scrolling through notifications. The circular layout makes everything easy to access without fumbling through menus.
Brightness adapts automatically to your environment. You can read the screen in bright daylight without squinting. At night, the display dims appropriately so it won’t disturb your sleep.
The watch offers multiple watch faces to choose from. You can customize them with different colors, layouts, and information widgets. Some faces show your daily steps, while others focus on time and date only.
Touch responsiveness matters when you’re on the go. The S4’s screen registers your input instantly. You won’t experience lag or missed taps during workouts or daily activities.
The display quality remains consistent across both the 47.3mm and 41mm models. Both versions use the same AMOLED panel technology. The smaller model simply packs the same tech into a more compact frame.
Text remains readable thanks to the high pixel density. Small fonts don’t blur or become difficult to read. This matters when checking detailed fitness metrics or messages.
The always-on display feature keeps basic information visible. You can see the time and date without raising your wrist or tapping the screen. This drains battery faster, but the option exists if you prefer constant visibility.
Overall, the display experience feels premium and responsive. The AMOLED technology combined with the circular design creates an interface that looks elegant and functions smoothly. Whether you’re checking stats or reading notifications, the screen delivers clarity and speed.
Fitness Tracking and Health Features
The Xiaomi Watch S4 excels in fitness tracking capabilities that go beyond basic step counting. The watch monitors your heart rate continuously throughout the day and during workouts. You get accurate data for over 100 different exercise modes, from running and cycling to swimming and yoga.
The heart rate sensor sits on the back of the watch and provides real time feedback. Blood oxygen tracking helps you understand your respiratory health during intense activities. The watch also measures sleep patterns, including REM and deep sleep phases. This information syncs to the companion app for detailed analysis.
GPS functionality works reliably during outdoor runs and bike rides. The watch records your route accurately and calculates distance with precision. You can store multiple routes on the device itself without needing your phone nearby.
Stress monitoring is another useful feature included here. The watch detects stress levels throughout your day and suggests breathing exercises when tension builds up. Women get period tracking and pregnancy mode for personalized insights.
The watch syncs all fitness data wirelessly to your smartphone. The companion app displays your weekly and monthly trends in clear graphs. You can set custom goals for steps, calories, and exercise minutes. The watch sends reminders when you’ve been inactive for too long.
Water resistance reaches 5ATM, which means the watch handles swimming and snorkeling safely. You can track swimming workouts with specific metrics for laps and stroke types.
Battery performance during fitness tracking deserves mention. Continuous GPS with heart rate monitoring drains the battery faster than normal use. Expect around 2 to 3 days of heavy fitness tracking before needing a charge. This differs from the claimed 7 day battery life under lighter conditions.
The fitness features feel smooth and responsive during workouts. Data transfers instantly to the app after you finish exercising. Overall, the Xiaomi Watch S4 delivers serious fitness tracking tools that satisfy both casual users and serious athletes.
Top 3 Alternatives
Apple Watch Series 9
- S9 SiP Processor: Advanced processor improves overall performance and enables on-device Siri functionality.
- Double Tap Gesture Control: Allows quick control of calls, notifications, and apps using simple finger gestures.
- Bright Always-On Retina Display: Clear OLED display provides excellent visibility of apps and activity data.
Last update on 2026-09-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Apple Watch Series 9 keeps you connected with its bright LTPO display. You get accurate fitness tracking across running, cycling, and swimming. The watch works seamlessly with your iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices.
This model includes blood oxygen monitoring and ECG functionality. You can detect irregular heart rhythms and track your wellness trends over time. The device runs watchOS, which offers thousands of apps from the App Store.
Battery life reaches about 18 hours on a single charge. You’ll appreciate the fast charging speed when you need a quick top-up before heading out.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
- Rotating Bezel Design: Classic rotating bezel enables precise control and smooth navigation.
Last update on 2026-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 6 delivers a rotating bezel for easy navigation. The AMOLED display shows vibrant colors and sharp text. Health monitoring features include heart rate tracking, sleep analysis, and stress detection.
This watch pairs perfectly with Android phones and some iOS devices. You get access to Samsung Health, which consolidates all your wellness data in one place. The watch supports contactless payments through Samsung Pay.
The battery lasts up to 40 hours with normal use, giving you more days between charges. Running Wear OS 3, the watch offers a wide selection of compatible apps and watch faces.
Garmin Epix Gen 2
- Ultimate high-performance smartwatch features a 1.3” always-on, stunning AMOLED display and a scratch-resistant...
- Built-in LED flashlight with variable intensities and strobe modes gives you greater awareness while you train at night...
- New hill score feature measures your running strength and endurance during ascents and gauges your progress over time
Last update on 2026-09-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Garmin Epix Gen 2 targets outdoor enthusiasts and athletes. The AMOLED screen displays maps and data clearly even in bright sunlight. Advanced GPS functionality tracks your exact location during hikes, runs, and adventures.
This watch includes multi-GNSS support for reliable positioning worldwide. You get topographic maps preloaded and the ability to download more for offline use. The training features help runners and cyclists analyze performance metrics.
Battery life extends to 11 days in smartwatch mode. Garmin Connect app syncs your data automatically, showing detailed activity summaries and progress trends.
Battery Life and Charging
The Xiaomi Watch S4 packs a battery that keeps up with your busy schedule. You get up to 7 days of runtime when using continuous health tracking and GPS features together. This means you can wear the watch all week without constantly hunting for a charger.
Real world usage tells a different story though. Most users report about 2 days of battery life during normal daily wear. Your actual battery drain depends on how often you use GPS, enable always on display, and track workouts. Heavy fitness enthusiasts might see shorter battery windows than casual wearers.
Fast charging is one of the watch’s best features. You can charge the watch to full capacity in under one hour. The proprietary charging dock connects magnetically to the back of the watch. This means no fumbling with cables or connectors. Simply place the watch on the dock and it starts charging immediately.
Battery drain accelerates when you enable certain features. The always on display setting consumes more power than normal mode. GPS tracking during outdoor workouts drains the battery faster than step counting alone. Continuous heart rate monitoring also impacts how long the battery lasts between charges.
The battery management system works intelligently to extend runtime. The watch learns your activity patterns and adjusts power consumption accordingly. You can also manually switch to battery saver mode for extended use. This mode disables background features but keeps essential functions active.
Charging frequency depends on your usage habits. If you track workouts daily and use GPS regularly, plan to charge every 2 to 3 days. Lighter users might stretch it to 4 or 5 days between charges. The fast charging means you can top up quickly during your morning routine or lunch break.
The battery performance meets expectations for a premium smartwatch. You won’t experience the multi week runtime that some competitors claim. However, the combination of fast charging and solid battery life makes the S4 practical for everyday use without daily charging anxiety.
Customization and Strap Options
The Xiaomi Watch S4 lets you make this smartwatch truly yours through extensive customization options. You get far more control over appearance than most competitors in this category.
The watch features interchangeable bezels that transform the entire look. You can choose from ceramic, copper carbon, or fluoroubber with nylon materials. Each bezel option gives the watch a different personality. Ceramic feels premium and elegant. Copper carbon adds a sporty edge. The fluoroubber nylon combo works best for active users who want durability.
Strap selection matters just as much as the bezel choice. Xiaomi offers calf leather straps for a classic, professional appearance. Nylon straps appeal to fitness enthusiasts who prioritize comfort during workouts. Both materials feel well made and comfortable against your skin. The straps fit securely without pinching or sliding around.
Strap sizing accommodates most wrist sizes with the 135–210mm range. This flexibility means both the 47.3mm and 41mm variants work for different wrist shapes. The 41mm compact model suits people with smaller wrists perfectly. Larger wrists benefit from the standard 47.3mm size. You won’t feel restricted by sizing limitations.
The real strength here is mixing and matching. You can swap bezels and straps based on your mood or activity. Heading to the office? Grab the ceramic bezel with leather straps. Going for a run? Switch to fluoroubber nylon for maximum grip and sweat resistance. This flexibility keeps the watch feeling fresh without buying multiple devices.
Installation happens quickly without special tools. The bezels click on securely and stay put during normal wear. Straps attach using standard spring bars that most users already understand. You can complete a full customization swap in under two minutes.
The customization options elevate this watch beyond basic smartwatches. You’re not stuck with one fixed appearance. This adaptability makes the Xiaomi Watch S4 work for different situations and personal styles. Whether you prefer minimalist elegance or sporty functionality, the customization system delivers.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Battery lasts up to 7 days with continuous tracking and GPS enabled
- Charges to full capacity in under one hour, making top-ups quick and convenient
- Premium build quality with a 1.43″ AMOLED circular display that looks sharp and vibrant
- Fitness tracking covers heart rate, GPS, stress monitoring, and syncs wirelessly to your phone
- Water resistant at 5ATM so you can swim and snorkel without worry
- Interchangeable ceramic, copper carbon, and fluoroubber bezels let you change the watch’s appearance instantly
- Compact 41mm option fits smaller wrists comfortably alongside the standard 47.3mm size
Cons
- Real world battery life drops to around 2 days despite the 7 day claim when using continuous features
- Long term durability concerns exist with potential wear on the build quality over extended use
- Premium materials and design come with expectations that may not hold up as well as hoped
Who Should Buy It
The Xiaomi Watch S4 works best for people who want a premium smartwatch without compromises. If you care about design and build quality, this watch speaks your language.
Fitness enthusiasts should pay attention here. The watch tracks heart rate, stress levels, and GPS data with solid accuracy. You get real time feedback during workouts. The responsive interface makes logging activities feel natural and quick.
Active users who swim and snorkel will appreciate the 5ATM water resistance. You can wear this watch through your entire day, from the gym to the pool. The durability holds up during intense training sessions.
People with smaller wrists have options too. The 41mm compact variant fits comfortably without looking oversized. Standard wrist sizes work perfectly with the 47.3mm model. Both sizes feel balanced and lightweight.
Fashion conscious buyers love the customization potential. You can swap bezels in ceramic, copper carbon, or fluoroubber materials. Strap choices include calf leather and nylon options. This flexibility means your watch matches your style and mood.
Those who charge devices frequently should know the reality. Real world battery life sits around 2 days with continuous features enabled. The claimed 7 day battery applies mainly to light usage scenarios. If you’re comfortable charging every other day, this watch works fine. Fast charging under one hour makes top ups convenient during your routine.
Professionals seeking a sophisticated accessory will appreciate the classic aesthetic. The circular AMOLED display looks sharp and vibrant. The premium materials feel substantial on your wrist.
Tech users who sync data wirelessly to their phones benefit from seamless integration. Health metrics transfer automatically. You get a complete picture of your fitness and wellness data.
Avoid this watch if you need extreme battery longevity between charges. Skip it if you prefer sporty rubber straps exclusively. Pass if you want the absolute lowest entry point into smartwatches.
The Xiaomi Watch S4 targets people who balance style, fitness tracking, and daily smartwatch features. You get quality construction and thoughtful customization. This watch rewards users who value appearance alongside function.
Final Verdict
The Xiaomi Watch S4 stands out as a smartwatch that blends style with substance. It brings a mix of features that few competitors match at this level.
Compared to rivals like the Redmi Watch 5 Lite or Amazfit Bip 6, this watch feels more premium. The build quality and display clarity set it apart from cheaper alternatives.
Huawei Fit 3 and Mibro A3 offer decent fitness tracking too. But they lack the same level of personalization that Xiaomi brings to the table.
Durability remains a valid concern for long term use. Some users report wear issues after extended daily use. This is something potential buyers should keep in mind before committing.
The gap between claimed and actual battery performance stands out as the biggest drawback. Marketing promises don’t always match daily reality. Buyers should set realistic expectations from the start.
Still, this watch delivers where it matters most. The display quality impresses every time you check it. Fitness tracking stays accurate and responsive throughout daily use.
Should you buy the Xiaomi Watch S4? The answer depends on your priorities. If style and customization matter to you, this watch checks every box.
If you need a device that lasts a full week without charging, look elsewhere. The real world battery life won’t meet that expectation.
For most users, though, the Xiaomi Watch S4 offers a well rounded package. It combines good looks with solid performance in the areas that count.
This smartwatch works best as a daily companion rather than a rugged, long term investment piece. Treat it that way and you’ll likely enjoy the experience.
Overall, the Xiaomi Watch S4 earns its place among top choices in its category. It doesn’t try to be everything for everyone.
Instead, it focuses on doing a few things really well. That focused approach makes it a smart pick for the right kind of buyer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Xiaomi Watch S4 work with both iPhone and Android phones?
Yes, the Xiaomi Watch S4 syncs wirelessly with both platforms. You’ll get full data integration on Android devices. iPhone users can also connect, though some features may have limits depending on your iOS version. The pairing process is simple and takes just a few minutes through the Xiaomi Wear app.
Can you really swim and snorkel with this watch?
Absolutely. The 5ATM water resistance rating means you can take it into the water safely. You can swim laps, snorkel, and enjoy water sports without worry. Just avoid diving or high pressure water activities. The watch handles chlorine and saltwater well, so beach trips are fine too.
What’s the actual battery life in everyday use?
Here’s the honest answer: expect around 2 days of real world use. The manufacturer claims up to 7 days, but that’s with specific settings and light usage. If you use GPS tracking, continuous heart rate monitoring, or keep the display always on, your battery drains faster. Fast charging gets you back to full power in under an hour though.
Is the 41mm version actually smaller, or just marketing?
The 41mm variant is genuinely compact. It fits smaller wrists comfortably without looking oversized. The 47.3mm standard size works better for larger wrists. Both versions have the same features and display quality. Your choice really depends on wrist size and personal preference, not on performance differences.
Can you change the watch’s look with different bezels?
Yes, and this is a standout feature. You swap between ceramic, copper carbon, and fluoroubber bezel options instantly. The interchangeable straps in calf leather and nylon give you even more customization. You essentially own multiple watches in one purchase.
Tian is a passionate technology enthusiast and reviewer who explores the latest in AI tools, gadgets, and digital innovations to help readers make informed tech decisions.