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I'm Shay! I’m a cookbook author, lifestyle blogger, travel agency owner, wife and mama who loves making every day special for my family.

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Mix & Match Mama

Shay ·

Apple Watch Part 4


Okay, friends, today, I’m sharing my APPLE WATCH 4 REVIEW!

I mean, when did I become someone interested in anything slightly techy?  The Apple Watch is literally the only techy thing I know how to use.  True story, I had to ask Madeley how to turn on the Apple TV the other day.  I’m not even sure she knew exactly what she was doing…she just knew enough more than me that it actually came on.  #sigh

So, if you’re new around here, let me back up a minute…

In May of 2016, I did my first Apple Watch Review with the Apple Watch 1.

One day, I took my iPhone into the Apple Store to get it repaired and while they were fixing it, they had me sit down at one of those tables with the screens that play the same informational Apple commercial over and over again and this particular commercial was about the new Apple Watch.  An hour later, my phone was repaired, and  for inexplicable reasons, I thought I needed an Apple Watch (which was shocking to everyone who knows me because I AM NOT TECHNOLOGICAL SAVVY AT ALL!).  So, I bought one and explained the many, many, many reasons why it changed my life (I mean, not really, but it totally enhanced my life!) in my first review.  Really, the only negative thing I said about the watch in my post was that I wished it were waterproof.  And then…Apple released the Apple Watch 2.  WHICH WAS WATERPROOF…

So, after about a year of owning the 1, I sold that one and bought myself the Apple Watch 2.  I reviewed the Apple Watch 2 in July of 2017.

The biggest difference between the 1 and the 2 was that the new one was waterproof which basically meant I never ever ever ever ever had to take it off.  And friends, I want to wear it all the time, so that made me really happy!

Look at my watch in the water.

I basically thought Apple couldn’t improve on their watch…but silly me, Apple runs the world and can improve on ANYTHING, so it didn’t take long before they came out with…

…their Apple Watch 3.

Bam.

It was brilliant.

I traded in my Apple Watch 2 to the Apple Store and bought myself the 3.  You can read all about it in my review HERE, but basically, the 3 was independent of your phone.  Meaning that you do not have to have your phone anywhere near you to make the texting/email/phone work (if you add it to your phone plan and pay for the watch to have cellular).  So, I could leave my phone at home and drive to the grocery store and still be able to make/receive phone calls, text messages, emails etc.  Does that make sense?  The 1 and 2 require your phone to be somewhat near you for that stuff to work.  I explain it further HERE, but I loved that I could go for a run/walk and still have access to my phone in the event of an emergency but actually leave my phone at home.

So, I was super pumped about my 3 and then, of course, Apple came out with the 4.

And that my friends, is why we’re here today…

Apple Watch 4 Review

GREEN WORKOUT PANTS//NIKES (similar)

So, in December, I traded in my 3 and got money back to put towards my new 4.  I took a picture of my 3 and my 4 together before I mailed off my 3 for my refund.  As you can see, the biggest difference is…

…the size.

So, the 4 comes with a larger screen (mine is the 44mm) and the screen itself is thinner.  The pink one is my 4 and the gray one is my 3.

I’ve been wearing it every day for over a month now, and even though there isn’t this huge difference between the 3 and the 4 (like there was between the 1 and 2 and then the 2 and the 3), I do think it has some updates that make it worthwhile…

…starting with, in my opinion (because I could not find this documented on Apple’s site anywhere), the 4 handles cold weather SO MUCH BETTER THAN THE OTHER ONES.

So, if your watch gets too hot, it shuts down (just like your phone does).  I really think over the years, mine has only gotten too hot like twice (and I am outdoors in 100+ weather all.the.time), but in my experience, my watches would shut down if they got TOO COLD.  My watch would be fine and then all of a sudden, the battery life would zap down to zero (even though like a few seconds before, the life would be like 50%) and my watch would shut down in cold weather.  AND OUR WEATHER ISN’T EVEN REALLY THAT COLD.  I would say that all three of my previous watches did this several times a year.  The battery would just run down to nothing if my watch was too cold outdoors.  So…because that always annoyed me, I decided to take my new watch to Park City after Christmas and put it to the test.  IT NEVER ONCE SHUT DOWN.  Look at those temps!  I skied with my watch on every single day and the battery never went down.

SWEATER//WEDGE BOOTIES

Speaking of the battery, I do think that with every new watch that Apple has released, the battery life has gotten longer and longer.  I always charge my watch at night while I’m asleep, and this 4 is typically around 50% at bedtime (and I put it on at 5:00 AM, so I wear it about 17 hours a day).  I use my watch for at least an hour every day for a workout, I text and make phone calls on my watch daily too, plus, I’m always using the timer on there…so that’s a lot of activity for only 50%.

When you watch the videos on Apple’s website about the new watch, they do emphasize that the activity/calorie counter is more accurate with this one.  I do think that is probably true.  Before, when I did exercises like the Peloton on my former watches, the calorie count wasn’t as high as I thought it should be because when you use a stationary bike, your arms are not moving (they’re on the handle bars), which throws off your watch’s ability to track movement and work…but the new watch is apparently able to read heat and heart rate better, so my very hard Peloton workouts (seriously, they’re so hard!) reads better with the 4.

Speaking of the activity tracker, I honest to goodness from the bottom of my heart think that the Apple Watch keeps me healthier.  As crazy as that seems, when it beeps and tells me I’ve been sitting too long or it beeps and tells me that if I would just get up and take a brisk 15 minute walk, it inspires me!  I love that it tracks my progress for the day, week and month.  I love that it sends me little encouraging messages like “hey, you’ve done six workouts this week, do one more for a perfect week”…call me crazy, but that stuff motivates me!

Here are just a few other facts and tidbits about the 4 (many are the same as the 3):

1: So, the first two Apple watches needed to be near-ish your phone in order to make/receive phone calls and/or texts along with using other internet based apps.  So, at home, I could talk on my watch and such with my phone downstairs in my purse, but the minute I set out to walk the dog, etc., I could no longer do that.  With the 3 or 4, if you call your cellphone carrier and add the watch to your existing plan, then you can use it independently from your phone (it was $10 a month for me to add mine to my plan).  So, I walk the dogs, go for runs, bike rides, etc without my phone every single day.  I don’t bring my phone because I don’t want to carry one extra thing and I also don’t want to be bothered with it while I’m out and about.  BUT, I’ve always been a little nervous because what if I have an emergency?  What if I fall and get hurt?  What if (God forbid) the dogs get hit by a car?  What if I get attacked by a dog OR PERSON?  I am out by myself with no phone.  Now, I can use my watch.  I can call and/or text without having to have my phone out and about with me.  Also, what if there is an emergency at home that I need to return for?  No one could reach me either…but now, they can.   I can also use apps to pay for things with my watch.  We live near a Starbucks, so I’m always walking/running/biking over there and now, I can just open the Starbucks app on my watch to pay for drinks and such without having to have my phone or wallet.  You can also use things like Apple Pay and other apps to make charges with your watch.  Also, if I hop in my car to go pick up my kids, run an errand or whatnot, I don’t necessarily need to bring my phone…if I need to make/receive a call/text while I’m out, I can do so.

2: I bought the 44 mm watch (there is also a 40 mm watch). I love the bigger screen.  I have always bought the watch with the biggest screen (they have always had two versions), but now with the 4, the largest version is 44 instead of 42 and call me crazy, but those 2 mm make a huge difference!
3: I bought the Gold Aluminium case with the Pink Sand Sport Band and love that band…but I love buying other bands too, so I also bought myself the band in Hibiscus (shown above).  Switching out bands takes seconds, and for me, it’s fun to have several choices.
4: Speaking of bands, I always buy my bands at the Apple store.  I bought one a few years ago on Amazon because it was less expensive and it broke the first day I wore it.  Thankfully, I found my watch face on my rug in the living room, but what if I’d been out and about when it broke?  After that, I decided just to stick to bands sold at the Apple store.

I mean, I’m sure there are many, many, many other things I can do with my watch now that I couldn’t before…but let me remind you, I’m technologically challenged, so I’m learning them more slowly 🙂 .

Now, Andrew bought an Apple Watch Series 1 at the same time I did a few years ago and still LOVES HIS!  He has never wanted to change or upgrade his watch to a new version.  He wears his to work every single day and it still works like a charm.  He did want me to point out that he thought there was a big difference between the 1 and the 2 and then the 2 and the 3, but that he’s not as impressed with the 4.  Let’s be real, it’s hard to beat the 3!  When they added cellular to the watch, that really was such a huge improvement.  That being said, my screen is bigger than his and my watch is more thin, so I feel like that’s a pretty nice little victory 😉 .

Whew!  So much info, right?  You really should go back and read my other reviews for even more reasons why I love my Apple Watches.  Here they are again:
Apple Watch 1 Review
Apple Watch 2 Review
Apple Watch 3 Review

One last thing…I just didn’t think I could do an Apple Watch Series 4 Review today without…

Apple Watch Giveaway

…giving one away 🙂 .

I am giving away one Apple Watch today (with a value of $550) to one lucky winner!

To enter to win, you just have to enter the Rafflecopter below.

A review, a giveaway, a pretty great Tuesday, right?!

If you have an Apple Watch Series 4, please share your favorite features!  I seriously probably didn’t mention most of them.  Ha!  Good luck with the giveaway!!  I will announce the winner on FRIDAY!! xo

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Comments

  1. Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says

    I had no idea that the Apple Watch is in its fourth generation now! My my, how time flies! And thank you for the giveaway as well. So generous of you, Shay! 🙂
    –
    Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
    http://charmainenyw.com

    • Jessica W says

      This is my first Apple Watch. I notice when you swipe up there is a water lock screen mode. Do you use that before you go in water?

      • Mix and Match Mama says

        When you get out of the pool, you can do it to get any extra water out. I forget to do it 99% of the time.

  2. Erika Slaughter says

    I should probably refrain from giving any advice on this post but I’ll be sure to come back and read the comments!

  3. Melissa says

    Great review. I am have to upgrade to the 4. I have a couple of other questions, (1) what colors are your booties and (2) can you do a peloton review. I got one for Christmas and really like it. I find it harder than classes I have taken at Soul Cycle, I think because of the metrics used and the higher resistance. It’s been hard to achieve the resistance and cadence recommended as part of the instruction during workouts, but I feel like I’m getting stronger so hopefully it gets easier over time. Also, just wondering about your favorite instructors and any other tips that you can share. I have to say that it is very addictive, but that’s a good thing. Thanks much!

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      They’re gray suede and I have! I did a Peloton review last February! I list my favorite instructors in that post (Robin and Alex!!).

  4. Beth B says

    I upgraded from a Series 2 iWatch to a Series 4 and find that, when cellular is connected, the battery doesn’t last nearly as long. Has anyone else experienced this? I’m thinking about disconnecting the cellular feature for that reason as I’m used to having my phone with me. Other than that, I love my watch and wear it all day, everyday. I bought it initially when I learned it was waterproof. I swim laps and love that it can track laps as well as other exercise that I do. An unexpected feature that I use is the timer. It’s so handy I use it several times a day – cooking, laundry, etc.

  5. Nicole says

    Do you work out every day? I set my calorie goal to 500 and have my own 15,000 steps goal too. I just always have to do an actual work out to get those 30 active minutes!!

  6. Laura says

    Have you ever reviewed your Peleton? I’ve had mine for two months and it is one of the hardest workouts I’ve ever done. When you added the watch to your cellular plan, did it cost as much as adding another phone?

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      I have!! I did it last February. It is so HARD!!! And no, for me (I have Verizon), it only costs $10 a month.

  7. Katie says

    My husband works for a company who sells apple watches and he has told me the biggest advance between the two is the 4 now has fall detection. If you were to fall and can’t get up, the watch calls are me of your three emergency contacts. It is especially helpful living in Atlantic Canada because this has been one of the iciest winters we have had.

  9. Elspeth. Mizner says

    Love the review. I have a Fitbit but I’ve thought about jumping on the apple watch bandwagon. Also, thank you for the giveaway

  12. Lilly says

    I upgraded from 2 to 4 and loving the longer battery. The bands from 42mm fits the new 44mm so I didn’t have to buy new ones. It is thinner and faster and connects better in regards to sound when you get a phone call. Mostly, I love the GPS directions while driving. Great giveaway, thank you¡

  13. Stephanie C says

    I still have the first one, I think it’s time for an upgrade! Thanks for sharing your review & thanks for the Apple Watch!!!

  14. Leann says

    I love my Apple Watch 3, but a few weeks ago, it fell and hit my tile floor and shattered. 🙁 Do you use a screen protector or get the insurance? I was devastated!

  16. Maria Cordero says

    I love apple, but this has been one product i haven’t jumped on for.. i think i might have to soon! love your reviews, so helpful!! 🙂

  18. Erin says

    I had a series 1 and LOVED it, but right before Christmas, it accidently went in the washing machine (because it was in my pants pocket, because it wasn’t water proof and I’d been doing dishes!). So, I’ve been without mine for a month. 🙁

  19. Lindsay Tolbert says

    OH My Gosh!! I was just talking to my husband last night about how I would like an Apple Watch. I was trying to give him different points, but he wasn’t sold! I’m going to show him your post and hopefully sell him on it! My biggest reason for wanting one is for the fantastic activity tracker! It also helps that it is waterproof! We love all things Apple!!
    Thank you for this fantastic giveaway!

  20. Danielle heller says

    I have the series 3 and the big pull for me to upgrade was that I have heard the volume is better on the 4.

  21. Julie B says

    Thanks for the review! I work out and am very active, but sometimes they overwhelm me and I wonder if I need that versus the Fitbit. Awesome reviews! And generous giveaway!

  22. Kathy Lang says

    The Series 4 watch sounds awesome! I love the wireless feature so you don’t have to have your phone nearby, and the bigger screen! I have the Apple 8 plus phone, so I’m definitely a fan of bigger screens. Thanks for this awesome giveaway in the middle of (boring) January! Ha!

  25. LynnW says

    I am getting a Series 4 for my husband because he hates carrying a phone. It frustrates the rest of the family because once he comes home from work he puts his phone away and never picks it up again. We don’t have a home phone anymore so we have no way to get hold of him. The Apple Series 4 solves our problem.
    Funny story (now), husband was trying out my series 2 watch to see if he would like it and was outside working in the yard with work gloves on and didn’t realize that with the way his wrist was twisted he was holding in the button on the side of the watch. That sends out an SOS texts to his emergency contacts. My adult son and I were getting SOS messages at our workplaces and of course my husband’s phone was inside and he wasn’t answering. We both rushed home thinking he was in distress. Being a man he does some crazy things like get on the roof to clean out the gutters or work with power tools so our imagination was going crazy. Thankfully he was fine and oblivious but boy was it scary for few minutes.

  26. Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams says

    I do want to try the Apple Watch for the activity tracker part! The reminders to get up and move all day would be helpful! Thanks for reviewing the newest one Shay!

    Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams

  27. Keely says

    I’ve upgraded every generation too, for various reasons. The 4 is my favorite so far, but the main reason I wanted it was fall detection. I have MS and fall more than I’d like to admit. I like knowing that my watch can alert emergency services in case I’m alone and non-responsive after a fall. *I did have to manually turn on detection since I’m under 60.

  28. Katie N says

    Ahhhh I am so excited about this giveaway! Thanks for doing it! I’ve been wanting an Apple Watch forever. I think it would be great to play outside in the neighborhood with my daughter and not have to worry about lugging my phone with me, but still receive texts and see my calls as well as feel safe to communicate in an emergency! Fingers and toes are crossed!

  29. Haley Bishop says

    I LOVE mine too! I thought the concept was so silly at first! I am not super tech-savvy either and I want my screen to look like yours where the cal/min show in the middle, maybe you can tell me how to do that quick?! ha!

    • Kaytlin Karr says

      On the watch screen you are on, press down firmly in the center of the screen and then choose Customize! It will let you pick different portions of the screen and then you use the scrolling button on the side to go through all the options you can put in various places. Hope that helps! ?

  31. Victoria Chan says

    I Upgraded my 2 for the 3 for the same reason of having the security of cellular and phone call capability! Now I’m tempted to get the 4!

  32. Elizabeth Feldpausch says

    This came at perfect timing! My husband has been going back and forth on wether or not to get an Apple Watch! Just sent him this!

  33. Kristen Sass says

    Okay, you have me sold. My New Years resolution is to be more active and to put my phone away to be more present with my family. I think the Apple Watch would do just the trick! Awesome giveaway!

  34. Mother Henn says

    When you hook the watch up to cellular, does it have a separate phone number, or does it work with your same cell phone number?

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      It is connected to your phone, so when your phone rings or receives a text, your watch does too.

  35. Sherry says

    It is my favorite Christmas gift I feel like Judy Jetson! I love hearing my podcast on a dog walk or workout without my phone. I do have some static with my wireless head phones that I don’t experience with my phone. These aren’t airbids but work great with my phone. Have you experienced this? Also which apps outside of the Apple ones do you use with ease? I love the Breathe app!

  36. Kathy says

    I have the Apple Watch 1. Looking to upgrade at some point but this one is still going strong. I was thinking of getting the 44mm (I have the 38mm now). It looks greatl on your wrist! I have a very small wrist (6.5”) and was wondering what size wrist you have. Thanks!

  37. Cherie says

    That was a very review of the Apple watches. I have the 2 and have been trying to decide whether to upgrade. Thank you!

  38. Bev says

    My husband wanted to buy me an Apple Watch when they first came out and I discouraged it thinking I didn’t need one more distraction. You certainly make a compelling case and Apple should pay you for the great advertisement! I recently looked at them and really liked the rose gold with pink sport band. I’m just afraid mine would be binging me all the time that I’ve been sitting too long! Haha!

  40. Jen says

    I have to admit, we are a Samsung Galaxy family and I just got my first smartwatch for Christmas. I went with a Fossil because I love that the face is round and it looks more like a regular watch. But it is only splash proof, not water proof! Living in Indiana, we don’t get a ton of pool time…maybe 3 months a year? But being water proof might be perfect for my son and he has been wanting to switch to an iphone! Thanks for the chance to win!

  41. Mary W says

    Great reviews on all of your Apple watches. I’d bet they’re sales go up just reading this!! I love following you because you cover such a wide variety of topics. Thanks and keep them coming!!❤❤❤

  42. Leslie S says

    I’ve been tempted to move from my Fitbit to the Apple Watch too. What a generous giveaway!
    2 questions – do you use the sleep tracker? AND can you share some apps that you find helpful or just fun to have? I think I’m overwhelmed by the choices, and I’m not tech savvy either LOL. I think that would be really helpful perspective.

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      I do not use the sleep tracker because my Sleep Number bed tracks that for me (so while I’m sleeping is when I charge my watch). The apps I use the most are the Weather app, the fitness app, the Starbucks app, the American Airlines App, the Evernote App, and The QVC app (I love to check my watch for the deal of the day!!)).

  43. Jan Fisher says

    LOVE my Apply 3 watch, my mom bought me, my sister and herself one this summer. Your band is really nice too!

  44. Renee King says

    My 16 year old daughter works and saved up money to buy herself the Apple 1 watch. I’ve been jealous ever since! i would love to not have to carry my phone around, in case one of them needs to get a hold of me!

  45. Kaytlin Karr says

    I will admit that I am a techy nerd that also loves style and your blog! I love the Apple Watch because not all my outfits have pockets, so I like knowing that I won’t miss important phone calls even when my phone is not physically on me! Even before I had the watch, I keep forgetting where I leave my phone in the house, so one of my frequently used features of my watch when I swipe up is pinging my phone so that it makes a ringing noise for me to find it even if my phone is on silent. I also customize my watch faces for different frequently used features, so Modular is my everyday default (texts, timer, etc); swipe left for a new face, and I’ve customized the adjacent face for workouts (activity tracking, music, etc), swipe right for my “work” face, and I can quickly set alarms/reminders and see what’s coming up next on my calendar, and pay for Starbucks ?…I do this rather than searching through the honeycomb of all apps. Something to try if you have frequently used apps that don’t fit all in your default watch face! ?

    • Kaytlin Karr says

      Shay – I should also mention that your Apple Watch also has an Apple TV remote built into it! Click the side scroller button then find the blue circle icon with a white triangle in it…once you choose your Apple TV, then you click any button to turn on your Apple TV ?

  46. Addison says

    I could not love my series 2 Apple watch more! I switched from a Fitbit about a year and a half ago and I will never go back! I’ve never had trouble with my watch getting too cold and I live in Maine (yesterday the wind chill was -20) so it’s worked well for me.

  48. Lee Ann says

    My husband gave me this watch for Christmas. It was definitely a surprise because I’ve never wanted one ?. He’s always had one. I have yet to figure out how to use it and basically use it for a watch. I need to sit down and figure this thing out!

  49. Abby G says

    I have the cellular Apple Watch 3 and am totally obsessed! I wear it every day and I agree that it keeps me motivated to complete my workouts every week. I love that I can leave for a walk or run and I don’t have to worry about being disconnected from my husband and kids. I also love that I have access to help if an emergency happened. The one thing that I don’t like is how inaccurate the calorie and exercise counts are. I lift weights at the gym a few times a week and on those days my watch registers only 2-3 minutes of exercise when I’ve actually been lifting for 30 minutes! It does motivate me to hop on a treadmill to get my exercise goal on those days, so I guess it does push me to be more active.

    • Deena says

      I use the Workout app and do “other” workout when I’m doing weights at the gym. I also use it when I’m at my line dancing class.

  50. Holi says

    My first Apple Watch was the Series 4 so I don’t have much to compare it to. I do love all of the features especially the activity tracker and I love how the watch faces can show so many different things like the date, weather, activity, email notifications, text messages, etc….

  51. Lee Ann says

    Once I win the watch ;), I’ll come back and read all the reviews to learn how to use it! I’ve never had one and just starting to think about getting one! As a desk worker, I love the idea of it making me be more active.

  52. Tamra Walker says

    I am over 50. Not techy at all, despite working in an IT Department! 🙂 I went to buy the 2 when it came out with a large screen. Apple salesperson talked me into the 1 with a small face… Since I am 50+ now, I cannot see the small screen. I had been considering gifting my daughter my 2 and upgrading. YOU HAVE SOLD ME! Larger screen will be a game changer for me! I pledge now to also go to a class so that I use more functionality. I have a weird photo of my husband’s friend from college and do not know how to fix it!!! lol! Never dull! Speaking of NEVER DULL! My father in law has the 3. Last weekend we had my husband’s iPhoneX connected to the media room screen. Several family members were watching the screen when somehow it flipped to my father in law’s 3…while he was going to the bathroom!!! We were dying!!!! So beware of the camera options!!! I could not begin to tell you how that happened #nottechy, but it did!!!! Let’s just say I got to know my FIL in a whole new way!!! (insert panic face emoji!)

  53. Holly Hopkins says

    My Apple Watch 3 has NEVER shut down on me in the cold and I live in Atlanta Canada. My iPhone does 30seconds after being outside. It is so annoying. I love my watch. It is such a help to me when my hands are full with the kiddos. I love going to Starbucks I have the app for it on my watch face I just click that and pay so handy. I also have the weight watchers app and on my watch face at a glance I can see how many points I have eaten and how many I have left. I would love to have the 4th generation and gift mine to a friend. Share the love!

  55. Sabrina M. says

    I had the Series 2 and I sold it to my sister and have been waiting to get the 4! I love that you reviewed the bigger screen and talked about how you liked it because that’s the one thing I was unsure about-which size to get! I’ve been without a watch for a couple of months now and I realize how much I depended on that thing to keep me straight throughout the day! Time to get a new one! 🙂

  56. Jill says

    Oh my- Shay this is so sweet of you! I’ve entered and am crossing my fingers. I could so use this and am not in the position to treat myself to one on my own- but testing my lucky stars! Lol. Have an awesome day!

  57. Caroline Puvak says

    Has anyone else experienced problems with the Series 2 not accurately counting calories and exercise time? I worked out for 45min yest (doing hard cardio) and I swear it isn’t calculating correctly. Same for the workout time. I did a 60min workout and it only said 12/30min of exercise for the whole day. ??‍♀️

  59. Lauren says

    The best thing about the new watch is it takes an actual EKG. So if I’m not feeling well (I have a heart condition), I take the EKG and then can download it and email or text it to my doctor. It also has a feature where an alarm will sound if your heart rate gets too low or too high for an extended period of time when you aren’t moving to alert someone that there is a problem. Lifesaving features for sure!

    • Emily says

      This is why my husband got me one! I was in the hospital on a Christmas Day and the day after (boo ?) because I woke up to my heart racing and was in afib for over 17 hours before it converted back. I’m still waffling on whether to start the beta blockers and blood thinners my cardiologist wants me on (he gave me until he end of February to wean my one year old), but in the meantime, the watch gives me a lot of peace of mind!

      • Lauren says

        Emily, Afib is no fun! I have it too. It’s a great sign that you converted on your own though. If you ever want to talk over email about it feel free to reach out, as I have been dealing with it for quite some time now. Lauren.Donoghue615@gmail.com.

  60. Abby Conaway says

    My favorite feature BY FAR is the ability to ping my phone and figure out where in the heck I left it in the house! ha ha! I also keep the weather info on my watch face and I love being able to glance down and see the current temp, as well as the low and high for the day!

  62. Tamra says

    Okay, I’m convinced! I love my fitbit alta but now I think I need the Apple watch. I love the prompts from my fitbit. Isn’t it crazy how motivating those little prompts can be?

  63. Amy T says

    I got the 4 as a Christmas gift, my first Apple watch. I like it but don’t know that I use it up to it’s ability. My daughter bought one when they first came out and she loves her. She shows me how to use it! 🙂

  64. Terry says

    Awesome giveaway! I’ve been saving for an Apple 4:watch. We live way out in the country, and I rarely take my phone with if I work outside or go for a walk with the dogs. With the cellular connection, I’d be safer if something unexpected happened. I really only thought the 44 was for men…that it would look too masculine for women.
    Btw, I think Lynnw and I must be married to the same man!?

  65. Rebecca says

    Love this review! I have a Fitbit and have been thinking about switching to an Apple Watch. I love your giveaways!!! Crossing my fingers 🙂

  66. Deb Weber says

    I have been thinking about getting an Apple Watch since your post on the Apple 2. I haven’t bit the bullet yet. I would love to have one for working out, running and walking the dog. Thanks for your posts on it!!

  67. Carrie Ramsey says

    If you leave your phone at home with your children while you’re outside or on a run, could they text or call you from your phone and it go to your watch?

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      No, it couldn’t be from my phone because it’s the same phone number, but they could on my home phone!

      • Meg says

        I leave my phone with the kids (we don’t have a home phone) and tell them to call my husband or parents…I figure then they can help the kids or they can call me on my watch to tell me that the kids need me.

  68. Sara Oliver says

    I switched from the Fitbit years ago and have never looked back. Love all Apple products and have upgraded my watch every time. The timer, workout and Apple pay are my most used features. I do like seeing the number of text messages on the home screen. The exercise tracker is more accurate with the 4. I also use the peloton. Hardest workout ever. Also totally unrelated but if you ever come to Maine, you should go to the Stonewall Kitchen Cooking School. They are based in York. York is only 1.5 hours from Boston. It’s demonstration cooking classes. You enjoy the food and the chef demonstrates how to make the meal. Classes are all different. Everything is made from scratch and delicious. Not sure if you have ever tried their products. Dark chocolate sea salt caramel sauce and horseradish aioli are some of my favorites. Have s great day.

  69. Jennifer Bethune says

    Great review and thanks for the giveaway! I have an Apple Watch 2 and wear it 99.9% of the time. We joke if we forget to start our workout or heavens forbid don’t have our watch on the workout doesn’t count! Lol ? I’m thinking I need to upgrade and I have Birthday next month…perfect!

  70. Debra Hurley says

    I’ve “dreamed” of getting an Apple Watch since they came out with the very first one, but, I didn’t because I would’ve still had to carry my phone. I’m a runner and always hold my iPhone in my hand. I’m used to it, but, this watch, truly does sound life changing! When they made the all great additions to the 3, I really wanted to get it, but…life. The 4 sounds absolutely perfect! Thanks so much for the great review and giveaway!

  71. Sandi says

    I bought the 4 this month, I decided not to go with the cellular because while out I could see there was motion at my door or in my garage, but wouldn’t be able to see what was happening…. and the price difference of about $100 was enough to get the non cellular one. I love it, but have a hard time knowing what all the app symbols are… why do so many look alike 🙂 and I found that telling me to stand up or breath was having the opposite effect on me, I was like ‘shut up, don’t tell me what to do’ so I turned that off. Thanks for the Review!

  72. Chrys says

    I DESPERATELY need a new Apple watch. I still have the first generation one and it is slow as heck. The battery also only lasts me about 10 hours. As a high school teacher, it saves my life (also saves me because I never know where my phone actually is ?). Hoping I can finally win one of your giveaways haha.

  73. Angela says

    I love my series 3!! And it was because of you inspiring me, Shay!! Favorite thing about it…. I’m able to ping my phone in the house when I have no idea where I set it down!? I’m a weather junkie and I love looking down to see the temp. Also, love it when I’m driving and using the map app how to get to a destination. It’ll vibrate when I need to turn, along with my phone announcing the road to turn onto (sometimes I’m with friends and we’re chatting or the kids are being loud LOL while trying to get to a location. The watch vibrating keeps me from missing my turn.)
    I love my Apple Watch!!
    Only bad thing… make sure you and your hubby have different Apple ID accounts. We don’t and you can only hook one watch up to an account. I got him a series 3 before Christmas, but it hasn’t been used yet…I’m going to have to make a new account for me & I might lose a ton of contacts. Oh, the things we do for love!

  74. Kimberly Taylor says

    I have had a #2 and now a #4 and I love my watch! However, I refuse to pay $50 for all the apple watch bands. I have found several wonderful bands on Amazon and have had no problems. I love the bands that velcro. Again, not paying $50 so found an amazing one on Amazon. I like that it has a built in EKG function and that it will send an alert if I were to fall while out walking. Probably never going to have to use and I hope i don’t but while playing with a friends dog, I was running all around and made a jumping motion and my watch said “it appears you have taken a fall, please respond or we will contact emergency contacts” and then you can say “no I haven’t fallen” or “yes, please send help” that was pretty cool.

  75. Tish Ferry says

    Shay, thank you for this review! I have the series 1 and this is so helpful!! I love the activity feature as well but I work hard to get 12,000 steps a day. I also work from home so I am curious how you reach 15,000 steps when you have to work from a computer too. Do you literally get up and walk around the house ever so often for 10 min? I would LOVE some tips! Gotta keep moving during the winter months!

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      Hahaha! Sometimes, yes!! If you don’t move for an hour, the watch beeps and reminds you, so I’ll get up. I also talk on the phone all.day.long with my job, so I stand a lot when I’m talking. I also like to play outside with my kids/walk home from school, so I pick up steps that way too.

  76. Lauren says

    I love my watch! I didn’t know you could trade it in! Do they give you a certain amount of money for trade in?

  78. Courtney Torres says

    Love love love my Apple Watch! I have the series 1, and because it still works great, I have not upgraded. I would LOVE to get the 4!!! Crossing my fingers for this giveaway! 🙂

  79. Molly says

    Love the review and I’ve been thinking about getting an Apple Watch. I know they have gps. Does the gps work without having to have your phone with you? Like can I take it on my walks/runs and leave my phone at home? If so does it show a map after it syncs to your phone?

  81. Tia says

    What an awesome giveaway! I have the smaller version 2 watch but would love a larger upgraded 4. To help with my old lady eyes. LOL. At first I didnt think it was a necessary thing but now I find myself lost without it!

  82. Carol says

    Thank you so much for this review! My husband and I have been looking at the Apple Watch #4 since before Christmas. We could never decide if we really wanted one or not. Well after reading your review, I NEED one!!! Thanks so much and thank you to everyone for sharing all of your tips/tricks/advice!

  83. Ginger says

    I have never had an Apple Watch but now after reading this would love to try one out! Sound super awesome! Thanks for sharing! Hugs! ❤️

  85. Briana says

    Ok, I need to be a part of the Apple watch club. My girlfriends have them and love theirs. My toddler keeps me busy so it would be nice not having to carry my phone every where and have much more convenience with the watch. ?

  86. Holly says

    I still have my series 1, but feel I need to upgrade only for the waterproof feature! I do hot yoga daily and live at the beach! Would love to not have to worry about taking my watch off in the ocean or pool, or even to take a shower!

  87. jen says

    Shay, You are the reason I have an Apple Watch. Mine is a Series 1. I do not swim so I was never motivated to upgrade. My only issue is no one can hear me when I answer calls on my watch. I honestly thought the Apple Watch was so dumb and who would want to be tethered to their phone. Well Shay I remember your original review and how you described it. I find I am on my phone so much less. The biggest factor is I can see if a text or call is important. And it is not like I am going to go on my phone and start getting lost on the internet for hours.

    I have not had any issue with cold and I live near Chicago. What I like the best is in the winter if I am listening to a podcast while walking I can control it via my watch vs having to dig my phone out of my pocket. I like how they work well with air pods too.

    I am thinking I am ready for an upgrade. I might go up in size since my eyes are not what they were… Thanks for this.

    PS I would love to see where and how you have your Peleton set up. I keep wanting to get one but not sure where to put it…

  88. Emily Haynes says

    Great review!!! Would love to experience the new Apple watch. Also, your blog is so inspiring!!!

  89. Paige M. says

    I have had the Series 1 for a couple years now and have loved it. My only complaint was that I could not use it when I did not have my phone on me. Finally this past Christmas, as a treat to myself, I bought myself the Series 4 with the 44mm screen and I love it! I also agree with the battery life, with my 1 it seemed as though by the time I got home from work, which is around 6pm, that my phone would be close to dying but with the 4 when I get home from work my watch is usually still between 50-60% charged, its great!

  90. Regina says

    I love my Series 1 Apple Watch by would LOVE to upgrade to a 3 or 4. I am a pedi PT working with special needs kids and walking from classroom to classroom….it would be nice to leave my phone in my bag instead of carrying it with me. I need my hands free to work with the kiddos ? I just haven’t sunk the money into one yet, I may need to start saving my pennies after this review!

  92. Tara says

    The only think I dislike about the 4 is that is will not last through a marathon. I usually run them in 4 hours and it will die around mile 18. the rest of the run without music is not fun. Lol.

  94. Katy says

    I would LOVE the series 4!! Question though, if you have the apple 4, do you have to connect it to cellular? I have the series 1 and really don’t mind the fact that I have to have my phone nearby. I would rather not have to pay the extra $ monthly for that service 🙂

  95. Michelle says

    I’ve been wanting an activity tracker to keep me motivated, so excited for this giveaway!

  96. Lori Sawyer says

    Does the 4 still have the red dot on the knob thingy? (See how techy I am with all my fancy lingo?) It’s so trivial and dumb but I just hate that red dot they put on the knob. It looks like a sticker you forgot to remove and the wearer can’t even see it so I do NOT see the point of it. I swear I’d upgrade for that reason right there if they got rid of that darn red dot thingamajig!

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      I know what you’re saying! It’s silver with a red outline (instead of solid red).

  97. Edna says

    I love my Apple Watch 4. Instead of taking out my phone now, I use my watch whenever possible. For alarms and timer, I use Siri a lot. I also like the microphone feature to give short responses to texts.

  98. Jill says

    Love my Apple 3 watch!❤️ You convinced me I “needed” one? then, I just needed to convince my husband? I bought the Apple hibiscus band several months ago and love it! I recently ordered 3 bands on Amazon for like $17 total and so far no problems and there really is no noticeable difference.?

  99. Shalimar says

    Been wearing my Apple Watch 1st edition since they’ve been around and every time you do a review, I’m all inspired to do more with it! I’m about to go look up Best Apple Watch apps now. Thanks for the info and the giveaway.

  100. Angie G says

    These posts are why I keep going to back to wanting an Apple watch!! Thank you for such thorough and practical reviews and super fun giveaway!! #fingerscrossed! 🙂

  101. Carrie says

    Tell Andrew it’s so worth it. I just upgraded from the 1 to the 4 and it’s amazing!!!! I gave my hubby my 1 and he does love it but only bc he’s never had one before. I love the cell part. I had the larger 1 and got the smaller 4 and it’s been great. I kind wish I had the bigger but this has worked well!!

  102. Amie says

    After seeing your posts I decided I really wanted one for Christmas so I got the series 3 so I could get it with cellular, since it’s more expensive. I LOVE it!!! This has to be the best invention ever!! Also I bought a band off amazon and haven’t had any issues so far and I wear all the time except for charging. I will keep an eye in it though.

  103. Leah Crouse says

    I have the 3 and love it! I didn’t want one at first because I thought it would be a waste of money. I didn’t think I would use it enough for the price. I was so wrong! The 4 would be an awesome upgrade.

  104. Ashley Gonzales says

    I had a Fitbit that crashed on me, but after reading your reviews I’m going to save and splurge on the Apple Watch!

  105. Amanda @ That Inspired Chick says

    I got the first Apple Watch and rarely used it. Haha. I kept thinking “If only I could use this without my phone around…”. 😉 You KNOW Apple knew how to do that from Day 1 but drug it out so we’d have to keep upgrading! Sneaky sneaky! I need to look in to trading mine in. Love the review!!

  106. Dana Jackson says

    What a great giveaway!! I don’t have an Apple Watch but sure would be excited if I won one!!

  108. Selena Pallas says

    I have the Apple series 1, I won it in a raffle at a my husband’s Christmas party 3 years ago. I absolutely love it…The reason why I will never live without an Apple watch is my son is a Type 1 Diabetic, he wears a device that monitors his blood sugar all day long. This device sends a signal to my phone and my watch, so I can monitor him, from scary lows to dangerous highs. My watch is literally a life line to my kid. I will forever be and Apple watch wearer!!!

  110. Mary says

    This post was perfect timing! I just bought my very fist Apple Watch last week and was researching by re-reading your previous Apple Watch posts! Thanks for all the helpful info! ?

  111. Rebecca W. says

    Great information. My kids have been trying to persuade me to get a watch, but until now I’ve never given it any real consideration. Two questions… Can you listen to music through your Apple watch if your phone is at home and can you connect your Airpods to it?

    Thanks!

  112. Sherry says

    I would love an Apple Watch but haven’t been able to talk myself into it yet! Maybe I’ll win one! ?

  113. Lisa says

    Wow, what a giveaway! 🙂 I would love an Apple watch. It would be so amazing to ride bikes to the kids’ practices and not have to figure out where to stash my phone ‘just in case of emergency’! And when we ride to the pool in the summer….and best of all, I would have phone access if needed when outside with my preschoolers! It’s on my wish list and maybe one day I will be able to get one. 🙂 Congratulations to the winner and thanks for such a great giveaway, Shay!

  114. Dionna says

    Love my Apple Watch!! I have the 3, but would love to win my 16 year old daughter one for her birthday.

  115. Kristen says

    Hi Shay! Just wanted to share that I made your chicken and dumplings recipe from Eats for dinner tonight. It was a big hit with my family! Thanks for your easy, delicious recipes 🙂

  117. Mary Lou says

    every time you do an Apple Watch review you sell me more on getting one..if my pocket book would grow to afford this or I could win it:) I’d so love it for the fitness aspect- I walk, take spin classes 3 times a week and go the gym- 50 now and need to track fitness more – thanks again for all the info on this post!

  118. Kristin Northcutt says

    So thankful for this review. I am not a techy girl either but I do love my Apple products. I have always been curious about the larger face, wondering if it is too big on a petite woman. Sounds like the series 4 is needed in my near future.

  119. WD Clark says

    I LOVE my 3. I was so surprised by how much I really love it. I use the talk to text reply option a lot.
    I love the idea of a bigger screen with the 4. I went with the smaller one, I need to go max size! You’ve made me a beleiver! Thanks for the review and giveaway!

  120. Kristy Moore says

    PLEEEEEE-ASSSSSE tell me that Canadians are eligible??? An Apple Watch has been on my mind ALOT lately. Not loving my Garmin so much anymore. I feel ya on the battery dying in the cold weather. Out snowshoeing in the Canadian rockies, take my phone out for a few beautiful memories, and….it dies. 🙁
    Thanks for the chance!

  122. Tracy says

    Love your review of the newest watch. I find myself always leaving the house to walk the dog and leaving my phone behind. Which I’ve been debating lately if I should have gotten the cell service when I got the 3. I was just so excited that the watch was waterproof!!!!! What do you use for music when you’re out for a walk or run? I always use my phone ? Which causes the hesitation to add / get the cellular service. Such a generous give away, thanks!

  123. Mia Uys says

    I bought myself the 3rd edition last year and loved it! Unfortunately also bought additions (very pretty might I add) writs bands on Amazon and ended up loosing it after 3 months, so leason learned on that one and will also stick to only Apple bands when one dat reinvesting in a new watch.

  124. Melissa MacGregor says

    I have the 3 with cellular and was a bit relieved that they didn’t make too many major upgrades in the 4. I can wait until the 5 to upgrade. Thanks for the review!

  125. Natalie says

    I would love an Apple Watch but haven’t been able to justify purchasing one yet! It sounds amazing with all the features — especially the prompts to get you up and moving. I need those reminders since I’m at a desk most of the day!

  126. Lisa says

    I originally bought my Apple Watch because of your review. Now I think I might need the 4. I use my watch every day for closing my rings and competing with friends! Thanks for sharing about the 4!!

  127. Kristin S says

    So sad! I was on a plane most of yesterday and forgot to sign up for the giveaway when we landed. Man, I’m bummed.

  128. Jennifer Wood says

    I have the 2nd generation and I’ve been wanting a new one for so long! I just keep saying I’ll get it when this one does. It doesn’t work right in workouts sometimes which is what I mainly use it for. I would be sooooo happy to win this!!!

  129. Traci rivard says

    Time for an upgrade! Thanks so much for your post! You have such a gift of sharing information!

  130. Mary Jane McNeill says

    I have the Series 3 Watch, and there are so many things I love about it. For starters, I ride horses (trail ride) and sometimes I ride alone. I love the cellular feature so I can leave my phone in the car and not worry about dropping it when answering calls or texts. If I have a fall, I can call for help. I have family pictures as my screen…one of hubby, and one of each of my four kiddos, and TWO of my horse! 🙂
    When I first got my Series 2, I pulled all my old watches out of my drawer, and I had ELEVEN watches! I have not put on ONE of those watches now for 2 years!

  132. Ann says

    I received the Apple Watch 4 for Christmas and so far I love it! One thing I’m still trying to figure out is if I can listen to Pandora while on my walk (I have cellular so leaving my phone at home). I am not tech savvy at all. I’ve tried researching online, but so far I can’t get Pandora to work. Any ideas?

  133. Beth scholke says

    I would give this watch to my dear sweet daughter Molly as her Apple Watch screen cracked and is no longer working. She would be so surprised…

  135. Mary says

    I don’t have an Apple watch but I would love one, just for the fitness aspect of it! I read your reviews of them and it always makes me want one!

  136. Erin W. says

    As someone who is very tech challenged, I love your reviews! Your past reviews were the reason I got the Apple Watch a few years ago (I have the 2). I love it soooo much, but I bet there are still things I don’t know you can do with it so keep those reviews/tips and tricks coming. I got airpods for Christmas and I have yet to figure them out completely. I’m going to search around your site for an airpod review, and I also want to go read the Peloton review!! Thanks so much Shay!!!

  138. Laura S. says

    Well, hell! I’ve gone all this time thinking I didn’t need one of these, but now you’ve gone and made me a believer! I’m officially saving so I can get one of these. Great reviews! ?

  139. Terry says

    Thanks so much for your Apple Watch reviews, Shay. I asked for $$ for Christmas to get an Apple Watch. It’s february now and I still have not pulled the trigger because I. Undecided which size to get. I would have never considered the 44 if not for your review, because the bigger size seems to big for a woman’s wrist. I’d love to hear from your readers which size they have. Also, we will be traveling to the Middle East next month, and I wondered if the watch would work abroad.

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