Apple Watch SE (2022) vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 4
The Verdict
Both smartwatches compete effectively at the $249 price point, but with different strengths. Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offers superior health monitoring with ECG and blood oxygen sensors absent from the Apple Watch SE, plus a true always-on Super AMOLED display with higher resolution (396x396 vs 324x394 on 40mm). Battery life claims favor Samsung at up to 40 hours versus Apple's 18 hours, though real-world usage typically shows 20-hour performance. Apple counters with the superior S8 processor, faster USB-C charging, watchOS ecosystem integration for iPhone users, and better app availability. Display technology differs significantly,Apple uses LTPO OLED while Samsung employs Super AMOLED with always-on capability. Durability appears comparable with water resistance ratings favoring Samsung slightly (5ATM + IP68 vs WR50). For Android users prioritizing comprehensive health data and longer battery life, Galaxy Watch 4 edges ahead. iPhone owners seeking seamless integration and faster performance will prefer the Apple Watch SE.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple Watch SE (2022) if…
- →Same S8 chip as Series 8 at $150 less — best value Apple Watch
- →Crash Detection included at this price point
- →Lightweight nylon-reinforced composite back is comfortable on the wrist
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 if…
- →First Samsung watch with Wear OS and Google apps integration
- →BIA sensor for body composition measurement (body fat, muscle mass)
- →Lightweight and slim design comfortable for all-day wear
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple Watch SE (2022)
Pros
- Same S8 chip as Series 8 at $150 less — best value Apple Watch
- Crash Detection included at this price point
- Lightweight nylon-reinforced composite back is comfortable on the wrist
- Family Setup lets kids use it without an iPhone
- Full access to the Apple Watch app ecosystem
Cons
- No Always-On display — screen goes dark when wrist is lowered
- No ECG, SpO2, or skin temperature sensors
- Thicker bezels than Series 8 make the screen feel smaller
- 18-hour battery still requires nightly charging
Samsung Galaxy Watch 4
Pros
- First Samsung watch with Wear OS and Google apps integration
- BIA sensor for body composition measurement (body fat, muscle mass)
- Lightweight and slim design comfortable for all-day wear
- ECG and blood pressure monitoring (Samsung phones only)
- Affordable entry into Samsung's smartwatch ecosystem
Cons
- Battery life of 20 hours typical requires daily charging
- Gorilla Glass DX+ scratches more easily than sapphire crystal
- Many health features locked to Samsung Galaxy phones
- Wear OS 3 was buggy at launch with limited app support
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple Watch SE (2022) | Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | watchOS 9 (upgradable to watchOS 11+) | Wear OS 3.0 (One UI Watch 4) |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 26.8 g (40mm) / 33 g (44mm) | 25.9 g (40mm) / 30.3 g (44mm) |
| Case material | Aluminum | Aluminum with Corning Gorilla Glass DX+ |
| Water resistance | WR50 (50m) | 5ATM + IP68, MIL-STD-810G |
| Health & Sensors | ||
| ECG | ||
| SpO₂ | ||
| Skin temperature | ||
| Heart rate | ||
| Sleep tracking | ||
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 40 hrs (typical ~20 hrs) |
| Display | ||
| Size | 40mm / 44mm | 40mm / 44mm |
| Type | LTPO OLED Retina | Super AMOLED |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 324 x 394 / 368 x 448 | 396 x 396 / 450 x 450 |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | Apple S8 SiP | Exynos W920 |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.0 |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in smartwatches, see all Apple products or all Samsung products. View full details for the Apple Watch SE (2022) or the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4.