The Apple Watch Series 4 (launched in September 2018) marked a significant leap for the line — it was the first with a larger display, ECG, and fall detection. In 2026, with Apple already on the Series 11 and Ultra 3, it's fair to ask: is it still worth it? And if so, at what price? This honest guide shows you how much you should expect to pay for an Apple Watch Series 4 in 2026, what it offers (and what it no longer does), and where to find the best refurbished option with a 24-month iOutlet warranty.
In this article
- Apple Watch Series 4: specifications
- The big problem in 2026: software
- How much does an Apple Watch Series 4 cost in 2026?
- Is it worth it in 2026?
- Yes, it makes sense if:
- It's not worth it if:
- The smarter alternative: refurbished Apple Watch SE 2 or Series 9
- Head-to-head comparison
- Where NOT to buy a used Apple Watch
- Why buy from iOutlet
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Does the Apple Watch Series 4 still receive updates in 2026?
- Does a Series 4 battery still last?
- Is a very cheap Series 4 better value than a refurbished SE 2?
- Does the Apple Watch Series 4 have ECG?
Apple Watch Series 4: specifications
- Launch: September 2018
- Chip: Apple S4 (dual-core, 64-bit)
- Sizes: 40 mm and 44 mm in aluminium or stainless steel
- Display: Retina LTPO OLED, ~30% larger than the Series 3
- Sensors: ECG, optical heart rate (more accurate than S3), 2nd-generation gyroscope and accelerometer for fall detection
- Water resistance: 50 metres (swimming OK)
- Connectivity: GPS or GPS + Cellular (eSIM on cellular models)
- Battery life: up to 18 hours (in 2018 — in 2026, with an aged battery, expect 8–12h)
- watchOS: capped at watchOS 10 (no support for 11 onwards)
The big problem in 2026: software
The Apple Watch Series 4 lost official Apple support in 2024 (with the launch of watchOS 11). The last supported version is watchOS 10. In 2026:
- No new features (Apple Intelligence, advanced gestures, sleep apnoea detection).
- Several updated apps require watchOS 11+ and no longer run.
- No recent security updates.
- Some newer health features (Mental Wellness, enhanced cycle tracking, more accurate REM sleep) are unavailable.
How much does an Apple Watch Series 4 cost in 2026?
The Series 4 is no longer available new from Apple — Apple stopped manufacturing it in 2019. In 2026, you'll only find this model on the secondary market:
- Private sellers (classifieds, Marketplace) — aggressive prices, but zero warranty, battery often degraded, risk of undisclosed issues.
- Professional refurbished — slightly higher price, but with technical inspection, tested battery, and warranty. This is the smartest option for 95% of buyers.
Prices vary depending on condition, size (40 mm vs 44 mm), material (aluminium vs stainless steel), and whether it has cellular. The 44 mm model typically costs a little more than the 40 mm. Stainless steel and cellular versions cost more than aluminium Wi-Fi ones.
Is it worth it in 2026?
Yes, it makes sense if:
- Your budget is very tight and the goal is simply to have a basic Apple Watch.
- You'll use it as a secondary or beach watch (water resistant, little concern about an up-to-date app store).
- For a child or teenager in Family Setup as a first smartwatch (with supervision).
It's not worth it if:
- You want access to modern features — Apple Intelligence, sleep apnoea detection, double-tap gesture, temperature sensors, more advanced SpO2.
- You're buying it for heavy use (serious training, detailed health monitoring).
- You want to keep the watch for 4–5 years — with the loss of support, the useful window is shorter.
The smarter alternative: refurbished Apple Watch SE 2 or Series 9
In 2026, at prices often close to a refurbished Series 4, you can find far superior options:
- Apple Watch SE 2 (2022) refurbished — S8 chip, larger display, watchOS 12 supported, GPS, 50m water resistant, fall and crash detection. For general use, it's unbeatable value for money.
- Apple Watch Series 9 (2023) refurbished — S9 chip, 2,000-nit display, ECG, SpO2, temperature, double-tap gesture, watchOS 12 supported. For those who want serious health tracking.
Browse today's refurbished Apple Watch options available at iOutlet — all with a 24-month warranty, battery tested with specialist technical software, and free delivery within 8 working days in Portugal.
Head-to-head comparison
| Criterion | Apple Watch Series 4 | Apple Watch SE 2 (2022) refurb. |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | S4 (2018) | S8 SiP (2022) |
| Display | 40/44 mm Retina OLED | 40/44 mm Retina LTPO OLED |
| ECG | Yes | No |
| Built-in GPS | Yes | Yes |
| Water resistance | 50 metres | 50 metres |
| Fall and crash detection | Falls (not crashes) | Falls + crashes |
| watchOS | 10 (no recent support) | watchOS 12 supported |
| iOutlet warranty | — | 24-month refurbished |
Where NOT to buy a used Apple Watch
Be wary of classified ad platforms or international marketplaces with no warranty: in 2026, buying an Apple Watch Series 4 without protection could mean ending up with a device with a worn-out battery, an Activation Lock still active (impossible to use), or hidden issues. For the peace of mind of a 24-month warranty, professional refurbished is the only safe choice.
Why buy from iOutlet
Every refurbished Apple Watch at iOutlet undergoes a full technical inspection before dispatch: battery tested with specialist technical software, display, digital crown, heart rate sensors, and communication functions. The warranty is 24 months iOutlet with direct coverage (including the battery, unlike many competitors). We operate 100% online from Coimbra, with free delivery within 8 working days in Portugal and 14 days to return, no questions asked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Apple Watch Series 4 still receive updates in 2026?
Not on the latest version. The last supported version is watchOS 10. No recent security updates from Apple since 2024.
Does a Series 4 battery still last?
The original battery is 7–8 years old. Even well cared for, it has lost a significant portion of its capacity. Expecting 8–12 hours in real-world use is optimistic; many units won't make it through the day. iOutlet refurbished units come with a battery tested with specialist technical software and 24-month coverage.
Is a very cheap Series 4 better value than a refurbished SE 2?
A refurbished SE 2 wins in almost every scenario. It has a chip four generations newer, watchOS 12 support, more health sensors, better battery life, and a 24-month iOutlet warranty. The price difference is justified on every metric.
Does the Apple Watch Series 4 have ECG?
Yes — it was the first Apple Watch with ECG. It works on watchOS 10. For SpO2, temperature, or sleep apnoea detection as well, you'll need a Series 6+ or Series 8+ respectively.
Ready to upgrade? Browse today's refurbished Apple Watch options available at iOutlet — all with a 24-month warranty, free delivery within 8 working days, and 14 days to return, no questions asked.
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