Xiaomi Watch S4 Silver Standard Edition Hands-on Test and Features Review

I. Key Features to Explore:
1. The standout feature is seamless access to WeChat, where you can reply with voice messages or pre-set phrases. While images appear as thumbnails, voice messages can be played directly and even translated for convenience.
2. By linking your device to WeChat Pay and Alipay, you can make payments effortlessly.

Additionally, it integrates with local transportation systems, enabling you to use NFC for smooth metro and bus rides.
3. It offers basic health tracking, including heart rate and blood oxygen levels, which are generally accurate. Step counting aligns well with other apps, though I haven’t personally tested the sleep monitoring, so its precision remains uncertain.

4. Setting up the watch requires downloading Xiaomi Health, a platform rich with customizable watch faces that update regularly—making personalization both easy and fun. You can also download music and offline maps, though storage limitations mean I haven’t explored this feature yet.
5. Equipped with 32MB of RAM and 4GB of usable storage, performance feels more than adequate for everyday tasks.

6. The bezel is snugly attached but removable, allowing for creative customization options. If removed, the watch vibrates gently to alert you.
7. Beyond fitness, it includes practical tools like weather forecasts, calendars, perpetual calendar functionality, and Xiao Ai, Xiaomi’s intelligent voice assistant.

Through Xiaomi Health, you can install various apps and even enjoy some built-in mini-games.

II. Addressing the Downsides:
1. The default strap lacks breathability. My silver model tends to feel warm after extended wear, leading to discomfort and sweat buildup. Fortunately, you can swap it out for a 22mm strap to enhance comfort.
2. Occasionally, the touch response feels sluggish, necessitating multiple taps before registering input.

3. WeChat notifications sometimes fail to sync promptly, requiring a logout and re-login to resolve the issue.
4. The watch’s size leans toward the larger side, making it ideal for men but potentially overwhelming for women.

III. Final Thoughts:
All things considered, this device delivers solid value for its price point, ticking all the essential boxes while offering plenty of extras. It’s a worthwhile choice for those seeking balance between functionality and affordability.