When the Apple Watch Series 4 came out in 2018, it transformed what people expected from a smartwatch. With its larger edge-to-edge display and health-focused features like ECG and fall detection, it quickly became one of Apple’s most popular wearables. Years later, many users still ask the same question: Is Apple Watch 4 still usable in 2026?
Let’s explore its performance, software compatibility, and overall value to see if this classic device can still keep up.
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The Design Still Looks Great
One of Apple’s strongest qualities is making products that age gracefully. The Apple Watch 4 is a perfect example. It introduced a larger and brighter display that still looks modern today. The slim bezels and curved corners make it feel current even compared to newer models.
Available in 40mm and 44mm sizes, the watch remains comfortable on most wrists. Whether you choose the aluminum or stainless steel version, it still looks premium and professional. Visually, the Apple Watch 4 fits right in among 2026 models and doesn’t look outdated at all.
Performance and Everyday Use
The Apple Watch 4 uses the S4 dual-core processor, which was a big step up from earlier versions. While it cannot compete with the raw speed of newer Apple Watches, it still performs smoothly for most daily tasks.
You can expect solid performance when checking notifications, using Siri, tracking workouts, or running essential apps. Some animations or app launches may feel a bit slower, but nothing that makes the watch frustrating to use.
If you use your watch mainly for health tracking, messages, and general convenience, the Apple Watch 4 still handles everything with ease in 2026.
Software Support and watchOS Updates
This is where the limitations begin to appear. Apple usually provides software updates for about five to six years. The Apple Watch 4 supports up to watchOS 10, but it does not receive watchOS 11 or future versions that come out in 2026.
That means you won’t have access to the newest features, and over time, some apps might stop being compatible. Security updates also end eventually, so it’s best to be cautious when connecting to new devices or using sensitive apps.
However, watchOS 10 is still a very capable system. It includes fitness tracking, sleep monitoring, notifications, Siri, Apple Pay, and music controls. For most users, those features cover everything they need from a smartwatch.
Battery Life and Maintenance
Battery performance naturally declines with time, and the Apple Watch 4 is no exception. When it was new, it could last up to 18 hours on a single charge. In 2026, most users can expect around 10 to 14 hours depending on usage.
If your watch doesn’t last through the day anymore, you can easily replace the battery. Apple and several authorized service providers offer replacement options, which can give your watch a fresh life for a small cost.
With a new battery, the Apple Watch 4 can continue performing reliably for at least another year or two.
Health and Fitness Features That Still Matter
Even after several generations, the Apple Watch 4 remains impressive in the health and fitness category. It was the first Apple Watch to include the ECG app and fall detection, features that have saved lives and remain relevant today.
It can track your heart rate, workouts, calories burned, and daily activity rings with accuracy. The automatic workout detection feature also works flawlessly.
While newer models have added advanced sensors like blood oxygen monitoring, body temperature tracking, and improved sleep insights, the Apple Watch 4 still offers the core features that most users care about. For general fitness and health monitoring, it remains dependable.
Compatibility With iPhones in 2026
The Apple Watch 4 connects seamlessly with iPhones up to iOS 18. If you’re using an iPhone 14, 15, or 16, you’ll have no issues pairing and syncing data. Future iOS versions might eventually stop supporting older watch models, but that’s likely to happen after 2026.
For now, the Apple Watch 4 is still compatible with Apple’s ecosystem and supports most essential apps. You can make calls, send messages, use Maps, and control smart home devices just like with newer watches.
Is It Still Worth It?
The short answer is yes, the Apple Watch 4 is still usable in 2026. It continues to offer great value for those who want an affordable smartwatch that looks good and covers the essentials.
Here’s a quick summary of how it performs in key areas:
| Category | Apple Watch 4 in 2026 |
|---|---|
| Design | Modern and premium |
| Performance | Smooth for daily use |
| Battery | Acceptable, replaceable |
| Software | Limited to watchOS 10 |
| Health Features | Reliable and accurate |
| Compatibility | Works with iPhone up to iOS 18 |
If you already own one, it’s worth keeping. It does everything a smartwatch should do, from fitness tracking to notifications, without needing a costly upgrade.
However, if you plan to buy one in 2026, make sure it’s in good condition and priced reasonably. A used Apple Watch 4 should cost under $150 to be considered a smart purchase. Spending more might not make sense when newer models offer faster chips and longer software support.
The Apple Watch 4 might not have the newest sensors or the latest watchOS version, but it’s still a stylish and capable device that performs well in everyday life. Its build quality, design, and core health features ensure that it continues to serve users effectively in 2026.
If you appreciate value, simplicity, and reliability, the Apple Watch 4 remains a worthy companion on your wrist. For those who want cutting-edge tech and advanced health tracking, upgrading to a newer model like the Apple Watch Series 9 or Ultra 2 could be the better move.
