Is the Apple Watch Series 4 still worth buying in 2026?

Yes, the Apple Watch Series 4 is still worth buying in 2026, especially if you're looking for a budget-friendly Apple Watch. It features the same body and display as newer models and includes all the best Apple Watch features like accurate fitness tracking, activity rings, and smooth performance. The main features it lacks compared to newer models are the always-on display and blood oxygen monitoring, but if these aren't essential to you, the Series 4 offers excellent value as a refurbished device.

How long does the Apple Watch Series 4 battery last?

The Apple Watch Series 4 requires daily charging, lasting approximately 18 hours on a single charge with typical use. This means you'll need to charge it overnight, similar to most Apple Watch models. If you prefer a fitness tracker that doesn't require daily charging, consider options like Garmin watches, which can last up to a week between charges.

Does the Apple Watch Series 4 still get software updates?

While the Apple Watch Series 4 was released in 2018, it performs smoothly without any hiccups or sluggishness. It delivers the same fast, responsive experience as newer Apple devices and supports the native Apple activity app plus a wide variety of third-party fitness and health apps available for download.

What are the main differences between Apple Watch Series 4 and newer models?

The Apple Watch Series 4 is missing just two main features compared to the Apple Watch Series 6 and newer models: the always-on display and blood oxygen level monitoring. However, it retains all other essential Apple Watch features, including accurate heart rate tracking, GPS, the motivating activity rings, and a comfortable, lightweight design. The Series 4 also has the exact same body and display as the newest Apple Watches, making it virtually indistinguishable in terms of design and comfort.

Can the Apple Watch Series 4 still track fitness accurately?

Absolutely. The Apple Watch Series 4 features some of the best fitness tracking sensors on the market. It accurately tracks heart rate and GPS coordinates better than most competitors, regardless of your workout type. The device performs exceptionally well for running and other activities, and while the native Apple activity app offers a simple interface, you can install numerous third-party apps for more detailed workout insights and data analysis.

What's the environmental impact of buying a refurbished Apple Watch vs. a new one?

Buying a refurbished Apple Watch instead of new significantly reduces environmental impact. Refurbished smartwatches produce 92% less greenhouse gas emissions, avoiding approximately 77 kg CO2e per device. This matters because 80% of a device's carbon footprint occurs before it's even used, with manufacturing accounting for nearly 40% of digital tech's carbon footprint. Since the digital sector represents 4% of global emissions, choosing refurbished helps combat climate change while saving money. At Back Market, refurbished Apple Watches come with a 12-month warranty, 30 days to change your mind, and pass a 100-point professional inspection following a strict quality charter.

Refurbished Apple Watchs Series 4

Name: Refurbished Apple Watchs Series 4
Brand: Back Market
Price: 99 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.35 (2192 reviews)

The pioneering Series 4 design introduced larger Retina screen and revolutionary ECG in refurbished form. Its 50m water resistance and fall sensor support durable daily-use confidence....

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Apple Watch Series 4

(2,005)

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Refurbished price:$99.00

Versus $499.99 new

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Customer reviews for Refurbished Apple Watchs Series 4

Overall rating

2,192 verified reviews

Rating details

Shipping
4.6/5
Packaging
4.5/5
Overall performance
4.3/5
Appearance
4.3/5

Reviews

Zachary H.
Verified purchase
Reviewed 3/21/26, United States.
Everything worked perfect got it in good condition and it looked almost brand new with only one small scratch my battery health was at 88% witch is pretty decent especially for the price I wood definitely buy from back market and this seller again
Apple Watch Series 4 (2018) GPS 44 mm - Aluminium Space Gray - Sport band Black
Apple Watch Series 4 (2018) GPS 44 mm - Aluminium Space Gray - Sport band Black
See item
Condition
Good
Light signs of wear. The body may have light micro-scratches. For items with screens, the screen will have no scratches.
Purchased
2/21/26
Cameron M.
Verified purchase
Reviewed 8/31/24, United States.
My apple watch was in amazing condition, easy to set up, and price was very affordable! It was delivered before its estimated time and only took 2 days to get to me! Was able to easily track the package the whole time!
Apple Watch Series 4 (2018) GPS + Cellular 44 mm - Aluminium Space Gray - Sport band Black
Apple Watch Series 4 (2018) GPS + Cellular 44 mm - Aluminium Space Gray - Sport band Black
See item
Condition
Excellent
Almost no signs of wear. The body may have very light micro-scratches. For items with screens, the screen will have no scratches.
Purchased
8/27/24
Lynne I.
Verified purchase
Reviewed 4/19/26, United States.
My husband had Parkinson Disease plus other major health issues and many medications. Setting alarms on the watch has helped him with independence in taking meds on time all day and into the evening. He rarely missed doses now.
Apple Watch Series 4 (2018) GPS + Cellular 44 mm - Aluminium Space Gray - Sport band Black
Apple Watch Series 4 (2018) GPS + Cellular 44 mm - Aluminium Space Gray - Sport band Black
See item
Condition
Good
Light signs of wear. The body may have light micro-scratches. For items with screens, the screen will have no scratches.
Purchased
4/2/26
Vurtrice A.
Verified purchase
Reviewed 7/25/24, United States.
My order came on time. I also received daily updates on shipping. The watch came with a charger, charger box and white band. The screen is in absolute great condition! I would definitely recommend to anyone.
Apple Watch (Series 4) September 2018 - Cellular - - Aluminium Silver - White. Apple .
Apple Watch (Series 4) September 2018 - Cellular - - Aluminium Silver - White. Apple .
See item
Condition
Fair
Signs of wear. The body may have a few visible scratches and dents. Items with screens may have light scratches.
Purchased
7/20/24
Gabriela R.
Verified purchase
Reviewed 6/23/24, United States.
I love it. I ordered in fair and it only came with a few nicks and scratches. However there not visible with my screen protector and the type of Watch band that I use. Overall, I would definitely order again from here. This is my second time ordering and it has been nothing but awesome so far
Apple Watch Series 4 (2018) GPS + Cellular 40 mm - Aluminium Gold - Sport band Pink
Apple Watch Series 4 (2018) GPS + Cellular 40 mm - Aluminium Gold - Sport band Pink
See item
Condition
Fair
Signs of wear. The body may have a few visible scratches and dents. Items with screens may have light scratches.
Purchased
6/7/24
Sam S.
Verified purchase
Reviewed 4/28/25, United States.
It came with a couple scratches but it was good shape and easy to sync to my phone ,it even came with the charger and band
Apple Watch Series 4 (2018) GPS 40 mm - Aluminium Silver - Sport band White
Apple Watch Series 4 (2018) GPS 40 mm - Aluminium Silver - Sport band White
See item
Condition
Fair
Signs of wear. The body may have a few visible scratches and dents. Items with screens may have light scratches.
Purchased
4/13/25
Ana L.
Verified purchase
Reviewed 4/15/25, United States.
The watch has minor scratches but it works just fine. I love the way it was packaged and I am very happy with the delivery time too.
Apple Watch Series 4 (2018) GPS + Cellular 44 mm - Aluminium Space Gray - Sport band Black
Apple Watch Series 4 (2018) GPS + Cellular 44 mm - Aluminium Space Gray - Sport band Black
See item
Condition
Fair
Signs of wear. The body may have a few visible scratches and dents. Items with screens may have light scratches.
Purchased
4/10/25
Kerry O.
Verified purchase
Reviewed 12/2/24, United States.
It’s actually very good , But The Only that’s bad is , the Battery Life Starts to go low very Quickly, other than that , it’s one of the best things I bought this year bar none
Apple Watch Series 4 (2018) GPS + Cellular 44 mm - Aluminium Space Gray - Sport band Black
Apple Watch Series 4 (2018) GPS + Cellular 44 mm - Aluminium Space Gray - Sport band Black
See item
Condition
Fair
Signs of wear. The body may have a few visible scratches and dents. Items with screens may have light scratches.
Purchased
11/21/24
Takeyah R.
Verified purchase
Reviewed 6/9/25, United States.
I love it, i’m glad i purchased my very first apple watch from backmarket. I have been using it about to make two weeks tomorrow. i purchased it to track my steps and just to get the experience of having one as well.
Apple Watch Series 4 (2018) GPS 40 mm - Aluminium Silver - Sport band White
Apple Watch Series 4 (2018) GPS 40 mm - Aluminium Silver - Sport band White
See item
Condition
Excellent
Almost no signs of wear. The body may have very light micro-scratches. For items with screens, the screen will have no scratches.
Purchased
5/24/25
Phillip P.
Verified purchase
Reviewed 12/4/24, United States.
My wife loves the watch. It has many features that she[s using, and some features we didn't even know existed on a smartwatch. Also, I got her an Apple Watch specifically because she has an iPhone and an iPad. These work together extremely well.
Apple Watch Series 4 (2018) GPS + Cellular 40 mm - Aluminium Gold - Sport band Pink
Apple Watch Series 4 (2018) GPS + Cellular 40 mm - Aluminium Gold - Sport band Pink
See item
Condition
Fair
Signs of wear. The body may have a few visible scratches and dents. Items with screens may have light scratches.
Purchased
11/14/24

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Refurbished Apple watch 4 FAQ

Yes, the Apple Watch Series 4 is still worth buying in 2026, especially if you're looking for a budget-friendly Apple Watch. It features the same body and display as newer models and includes all the best Apple Watch features like accurate fitness tracking, activity rings, and smooth performance. The main features it lacks compared to newer models are the always-on display and blood oxygen monitoring, but if these aren't essential to you, the Series 4 offers excellent value as a refurbished device.
The Apple Watch Series 4 requires daily charging, lasting approximately 18 hours on a single charge with typical use. This means you'll need to charge it overnight, similar to most Apple Watch models. If you prefer a fitness tracker that doesn't require daily charging, consider options like Garmin watches, which can last up to a week between charges.
While the Apple Watch Series 4 was released in 2018, it performs smoothly without any hiccups or sluggishness. It delivers the same fast, responsive experience as newer Apple devices and supports the native Apple activity app plus a wide variety of third-party fitness and health apps available for download.
The Apple Watch Series 4 is missing just two main features compared to the Apple Watch Series 6 and newer models: the always-on display and blood oxygen level monitoring. However, it retains all other essential Apple Watch features, including accurate heart rate tracking, GPS, the motivating activity rings, and a comfortable, lightweight design. The Series 4 also has the exact same body and display as the newest Apple Watches, making it virtually indistinguishable in terms of design and comfort.
Absolutely. The Apple Watch Series 4 features some of the best fitness tracking sensors on the market. It accurately tracks heart rate and GPS coordinates better than most competitors, regardless of your workout type. The device performs exceptionally well for running and other activities, and while the native Apple activity app offers a simple interface, you can install numerous third-party apps for more detailed workout insights and data analysis.
Buying a refurbished Apple Watch instead of new significantly reduces environmental impact. Refurbished smartwatches produce 92% less greenhouse gas emissions, avoiding approximately 77 kg CO2e per device. This matters because 80% of a device's carbon footprint occurs before it's even used, with manufacturing accounting for nearly 40% of digital tech's carbon footprint. Since the digital sector represents 4% of global emissions, choosing refurbished helps combat climate change while saving money. At Back Market, refurbished Apple Watches come with a 12-month warranty, 30 days to change your mind, and pass a 100-point professional inspection following a strict quality charter.

The Apple Watch Series 4 brought a significantly larger display and groundbreaking ECG capability to Apple's health monitoring ecosystem for comprehensive wellness tracking. Choosing a refurbished smartwatch gives you access to advanced health features while making an environmentally conscious decision. Find the watch that revolutionized wearable health technology with expanded screen space and FDA-cleared heart monitoring.

What are the key features of the Apple Watch Series 4?

Larger Retina display: over 30% more screen area than Series 3 with 40mm and 44mm case sizes
ECG capability: FDA-cleared electrocardiogram app for on-demand heart rhythm analysis
Irregular heart rhythm notifications: passive monitoring alerts you to potential atrial fibrillation
Fall detection: automatically detects hard falls and calls emergency services if you're unresponsive
Enhanced heart rate sensor: optical and electrical sensors provide more accurate readings and enable ECG
S4 dual-core processor: twice as fast as Series 3 for smoother performance
Digital Crown with haptic feedback: tactile clicks when scrolling enhance the navigation experience
Built-in GPS: accurate outdoor tracking for running, cycling, and walking without your phone
Water resistant to 50 meters: swim-proof design for pool and open water activities
Louder speaker: 50% louder for clearer calls and alerts
iPhone compatibility: works with iPhone 6s or later running iOS 13 or higher

What are the differences between a refurbished and a used Apple Watch Series 4?

A used Apple Watch Series 4 is resold without professional inspection or warranty. The ECG sensors and electrical heart monitoring can degrade from wear, affecting the accuracy of heart rhythm analysis. Water resistance seals may be compromised. A refurbished Apple Watch Series 4 from Back Market has been thoroughly tested by trusted refurbishers following our Quality Charter.

Each watch undergoes comprehensive inspection of ECG functionality, electrical and optical heart rate sensors, fall detection accelerometer and gyroscope, GPS accuracy, Digital Crown haptic feedback, speaker and microphone quality, display condition, battery health, water resistance seals, and charging capability. Every device comes with a minimum 1-year warranty and 30-day returns. You get pioneering health monitoring technology without the premium new price, while reducing electronic waste.

Who is the Apple Watch Series 4 best for?

The Apple Watch Series 4 serves several types of users particularly well:

People monitoring heart health: ECG capability and irregular rhythm notifications help track cardiovascular wellness
Older users or those with medical conditions: fall detection provides safety monitoring during daily activities
iPhone users upgrading from Series 3 or earlier: significantly larger display and ECG offer meaningful improvements
Fitness enthusiasts: accurate GPS, comprehensive workout modes, and heart rate tracking support active lifestyles
Budget-conscious buyers wanting health features: Series 4 offers ECG at lower refurbished prices than Series 5, 6, 7, or 8
Users wanting expanded screen space: 30%+ larger display makes text, notifications, and apps much easier to read

Apple Watch Series 4 vs Series 5 and newer: which should you choose?

The Apple Watch Series 5 added Always-On Display, built-in compass, and international emergency calling over the Series 4. All other features—ECG, fall detection, heart rate monitoring, case sizes, and water resistance—remain essentially identical. The S5 processor performs similarly to the S4 for daily tasks. If Always-On Display matters (seeing the time without raising your wrist), choose Series 5. If you're fine with the screen sleeping when your wrist is down, Series 4 offers the same health tracking at better refurbished prices.

The Apple Watch Series 6 added blood oxygen monitoring and an always-on altimeter over the Series 4. The S6 processor is faster, and the display is brighter outdoors. Series 6 charges slightly faster. Both share ECG, fall detection, and the same larger display size introduced in Series 4. Choose Series 6 if you want SpO2 tracking for respiratory wellness or altitude monitoring. Choose Series 4 if those sensors don't matter and you want to save money.

Series 7 and 8 brought an even larger display (nearly 20% bigger than Series 4), faster charging, crack-resistant crystal, and dust resistance. Series 8 added temperature sensing and crash detection. These are meaningful upgrades, but the Series 4 still delivers comprehensive health monitoring including ECG and fall detection at the lowest price point among models with these features.

Choose Series 4 if you want ECG capability, fall detection, and the expanded display at the most accessible refurbished price. It remains a capable health and fitness tracker. Choose newer models if you want Always-On Display (Series 5+), blood oxygen monitoring (Series 6+), or the absolute largest screen with latest features (Series 7+).

Buy a refurbished Apple Watch Series 4 at the best price on Back Market

Back Market offers refurbished Apple Watch Series 4 models at competitive prices with pioneering health monitoring features. Each watch is:

Tested by trusted refurbishers: ECG functionality, fall detection, heart rate sensors, GPS, and all health features verified working
Backed by warranty: minimum 1-year coverage protects your investment
Returnable for 30 days: test it through daily use and workouts to ensure it meets your health tracking needs
Better for the environment: choosing refurbished reduces e-waste and extends product lifecycles

Browse different cosmetic grades from Premium (like-new condition) to Fair (fully functional with minor cosmetic wear). Choose between 40mm and 44mm sizes, GPS or GPS + Cellular connectivity, and various case materials including aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium. The Series 4 represents excellent value for users wanting ECG and advanced health monitoring without paying for the latest generation.

How does the ECG feature work on Apple Watch Series 4?

The ECG app uses electrical heart sensors built into the back crystal and Digital Crown. Place your finger on the crown while wearing the watch for 30 seconds, and the sensors measure electrical signals across your heart. The app classifies the reading as sinus rhythm (normal), atrial fibrillation (AFib), low or high heart rate, or inconclusive. Results save to the Health app and can be exported as a PDF to share with your doctor. The ECG feature is FDA-cleared but isn't a diagnostic medical device—it helps identify potential irregular heart rhythms worth medical consultation. The Series 4 was the first consumer device to offer FDA-cleared ECG capability.

What is fall detection and how reliable is it?

Fall detection uses advanced motion sensors (accelerometer and gyroscope) to identify when you've taken a hard fall. If the watch detects a fall, it taps your wrist, sounds an alarm, and displays an alert asking if you're okay. If you're moving, it assumes you're fine. If you remain motionless for about one minute, it automatically calls emergency services and sends a message with your location to your emergency contacts. You can enable fall detection for all ages or just ages 65 and older in settings. It's not perfect—false positives and missed falls can occur—but it provides valuable safety backup, especially for older users or those with medical conditions.

How much bigger is the Apple Watch Series 4 display?

The Series 4 display is over 30% larger than the Series 3 while keeping similar overall case dimensions. Apple achieved this by significantly reducing the bezels around the screen and rounding the display corners. The 40mm Series 4 has more screen area than the 42mm Series 3. Text is noticeably larger and easier to read. Complications show more information. The keyboard for typing messages works much better with the extra space. The display expansion was one of the Series 4's most significant improvements and remains valuable—the screen feels spacious compared to Series 3 and earlier models.

Does the Apple Watch Series 4 have Always-On Display?

No, the Series 4 doesn't include Always-On Display. You need to raise your wrist, tap the screen, or press the Digital Crown to wake the display and see the time. Always-On Display was introduced with Series 5. The Series 4 screen turns off when your wrist is down to conserve battery. Many users adapt to this and don't miss Always-On Display, while others find it inconvenient compared to traditional watches. If seeing the time without wrist movement matters, consider Series 5 or newer. If you're fine with raise-to-wake, the Series 4 works perfectly well.

What's the battery life on the Apple Watch Series 4?

Expect up to 18 hours of typical use with standard settings including notifications, occasional workouts, heart rate monitoring, and ECG checks. This matches Apple's battery estimate for most Apple Watch models. During continuous GPS tracking for running or cycling, expect roughly 5-6 hours before needing to recharge. The watch charges fully in about 2-2.5 hours using the included magnetic charging cable. Most users charge nightly and get through a full day comfortably with typical use. Battery capacity may be slightly reduced on refurbished units depending on age and usage history.

Can I track sleep with the Apple Watch Series 4?

Sleep tracking became available on Series 4 through watchOS updates. The watch monitors sleep duration, sleep stages (REM, Core, Deep), heart rate, and respiratory rate during sleep. Sleep data syncs to the Health app. The watch needs at least 30% battery to track sleep through the night, so you'll need to charge at another time—many users charge while getting ready in the morning or during the evening before bed. The Series 4's sleep tracking experience and accuracy are similar to newer models, though it lacks features like temperature sensing found on Series 8.

Does the Apple Watch Series 4 have blood oxygen monitoring?

No, the Series 4 doesn't include blood oxygen (SpO2) monitoring. This feature was introduced with the Apple Watch Series 6. The Series 4 monitors heart rate continuously and includes ECG capability, but it can't measure oxygen saturation levels in your blood. If blood oxygen monitoring matters for altitude training, sleep tracking, or respiratory health monitoring, consider Series 6 or newer models. For most users focused on fitness tracking and general heart health, the Series 4's sensor suite remains comprehensive.

Is the Apple Watch Series 4 still supported by Apple in 2026?

The Apple Watch Series 4 (released in 2018) is approaching the end of official watchOS support. Apple typically supports Apple Watch models for 5-7 years with software updates. The Series 4 may not receive the latest watchOS versions, meaning you'll miss new features and eventually security updates. However, the watch continues to function with its current software for fitness tracking, ECG, fall detection, notifications, and core Apple Watch features. If you want guaranteed long-term software support, consider newer models like Series 8 or 9. The Series 4 works well for current needs but has limited future update potential.

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Reviews

Reviews

Zachary H.

Cameron M.

Lynne I.

Vurtrice A.

Gabriela R.

Sam S.

Ana L.

Kerry O.

Takeyah R.

Phillip P.

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Refurbished Apple watch 4 FAQ

Is the Apple Watch Series 4 still worth buying in 2026?

How long does the Apple Watch Series 4 battery last?

Does the Apple Watch Series 4 still get software updates?

What are the main differences between Apple Watch Series 4 and newer models?

Can the Apple Watch Series 4 still track fitness accurately?

What's the environmental impact of buying a refurbished Apple Watch vs. a new one?