The customizable smartwatch from Xiaomi is back and this time it comes with a crown.

The Xiaomi Watch S4 has been presented with a renewed design, including a crown on the side to facilitate its use. However, inside, the specifications haven't changed much. Is this a negative aspect? After testing this affordable smartwatch, we've been able to draw some conclusions.

The evolution of the design is noteworthy. Compared to the Xiaomi Watch S3, which had a couple of buttons next to the touchscreen, the S4 model introduces a crown at two o'clock, allowing users to navigate through a rotating system. This new mechanism provides a noticeable vibration when turned, and the interface responds quickly, making for a significant improvement. Nevertheless, navigating with the S3 wasn't particularly complicated.

The Watch S4 also features an intelligent interchangeable bezel system, providing greater customization than a conventional smartwatch. Each bezel comes with its own watch face and matching strap. Changing the bezel is very simple; you just need to turn and click it into place. Although I wasn't entirely convinced by the standard bezel and strap, as the rainbow colors gave it a less sophisticated look, I did find the model with the orange band, similar to the Sport Loop bands of the Apple Watch, to be comfortable and attractive.

Regarding specifications, the watch has a 1.43-inch display with a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels, which is very bright with 1,500 nits in sunlight and a peak of 2,200 nits. There's no difficulty in viewing the screen. The case is made of aluminum, and the bezel material varies by model, with ceramic options available. Additionally, it features a 486 mAh battery that offers up to 15 days of use on a single charge, which is done via a magnetic charger that attaches to the back of the watch. However, care must be taken, as the magnets are not very strong, and the charger can attach even if the pins are not properly aligned.

On the back, there is a heart rate sensor, and the watch connects to the Mi Fitness app on Android devices, with an updated algorithm. This model tracks heart rate, blood oxygen, stress, and sleep, and includes a health review feature with a 60-second check that alerts users to abnormal results. Similar functionalities can be found in the OnePlus Watch 3.

The software of the Xiaomi Watch S4 is HyperOS 2, which includes interesting features for connectivity with other brand devices. For example, it allows users to advance slides on a Xiaomi tablet by making a fist or reject calls by snapping their fingers. As a left-handed person, it would be impossible for me to use this feature with my left hand, leading me to think that this option would go unused. Overall, the software is functional, though its layout is somewhat peculiar since it doesn't follow the typical side-swipe system of Google Wear OS and instead uses the rotating bezel to navigate through the various screens.

In summary, although the interchangeable bezel system is appealing, once I choose a combination I like, I may stick with it. Nonetheless, the ability to change it up occasionally is a welcome addition that enhances the design's durability. Although the price of the Xiaomi Watch S4 has not yet been revealed, it is estimated to be below £130 (approximately $160) of the Watch S3, making it a more accessible option than the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 and the OnePlus Watch 3. Its main competitor will be the CMF by Nothing Watch 2 Pro, which also offers interchangeable bezels. The Xiaomi Watch S4 seems to have a superior design and quality, and although its software is somewhat quirky, it has proven to be reliable. If it does not experience a significant price increase, it appears to be a good option in terms of affordable smartwatches, offering customization features, solid performance, and health technology that most users will need.