Can you change Apple Watch bands?

Have you been getting sick of the watch band that came with your Apple Watch? Are you looking to switch it out with more interesting colors and patterns so that you can match your watch to your mood? So was I. I was sick of the plain, bland color that my watch came with.

Before you check out the different types of Apple Watch bands below… click here if you just want to know how to change an Apple Watch band.

Sure, it was neutral and went with everything, but I wanted to add a little pop of color to my wardrobe and find something that I could wear when going out on a date with my husband. I have a series 2 and searched on Amazon for different bands that would fit my style and I was able to quickly find a few bands that were exactly what I was looking for.

As long as you make sure the product fits the watch series and case you have, you will be able to find different bands that are compatible with your watch.

Related: What Can You Do With an Apple Watch? | Smartwatch Brands | Apple Watch Series 5 Review | Apple Watch Series 2 Review | Apple Watch Series 6 Review

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Bands that work with Apple Watch

When looking for bands that work with your Apple Watch, make sure it will fit your case size. Most bands that fit 38 mm and 40 mm cases will work with each other. The same goes for bands that fit 42 mm and 44 mm cases. The next thing you have to look for is which series the band is designed for. The description of the product should say which series and case size the band is designed for. Here are a few bands that will work with the Apple Watch:

GBPOOT Wristband Loop Replacement Band

This watchband comes in multiple colors of stainless steel and has a magnetic clasp to make it adjustable to your wrist. It is compatible with Apple Watch Series 1 – 4, Nike+, Sport, and Edition.

Leather Band

The thin leather band is compatible with the Apple Watch Series 1 – 5. You can choose from different leather band colors and patterns and it comes with a matching case protector that makes it a perfect accessory for any style.

AdMaster Silicone Replacement Band

This band has multiple colors with air holes that make it more breathable and comfortable. It is made of silicone with a stainless steel buckle and is compatible with Apple Watch Series 1 – 5, Sport, Nike+, and Edition.

Wearlizer Bling Rhinestone Wristband Strap Mix

This link bracelet comes in black, silver, rose gold, and champagne gold with a crystal design. It comes with a resizing tool so links can easily be removed or added to fit your wrist. It also comes with a matching cover case and would make a perfect gift for a loved one. It is compatible with Apple Watch Series 1 – 5.

Silicone Sport Strap

This silicone watchband comes in multiple colors that will match your personality and style. It is similar in style with the original Apple sport band and is waterproof, sweatproof, lightweight, and comfortable. It is also compatible with Apple Watch Series 1 – 4.

Bands that don’t work well with Apple Watch

As long as the band is compatible with your Apple Watch series and case size, you will be able to swap it with your current band. Make sure the product description says it is compatible, or it will not work.

How to Change your Apple Watch Band

There are three common bands that work with the Apple Watch. The first is the common sport band made of silicone that snaps in and out of your case. The second is a stainless steel link band, similar to a Rolex, that can be adjusted by adding or removing links. The third type is the Milanese Loop which is also made of stainless steel. Due to the bands being different styles, they each have their own way of separating from the case. You can find how to swap out each band below:

Sport-type Band

1. Put your watch face down on a clean, flat surface.
2. Hold down the band release button – one of the two rectangular buttons on the backside of your watch case. Now slide the band across to remove it.
3. If the band doesn’t slide out, press the button again, making sure you hold the button down. If you are having trouble holding the button down, use a paper clip, or try cleaning the case to make sure there isn’t anything preventing the button from working.
4. When adding the new band, hold the band with the text facing you. Then, slide the new band in until you feel and hear a click.

Link Bracelet

1. Make sure the butterfly closure is closed. If it’s not, fold in the closure one side at a time until you feel and hear a click.
2. Hold down the quick-release button found on the inside of the bracelet. You will only need to hold one of the buttons down.
3. Gently hold down the quick-release button as you gently pull the links apart. You should always separate the band into two pieces before you remove the band from the watch.
4. Hold down the band release button to slide the band across and remove it from the case.
5. Never force the band into the slot when adding a new one. If you don’t feel or hear a click, slide the band to the left and to the right. If the band is installed properly, it will not freely slide unless you’re holding down the band release button.
6. If the band still isn’t locking into place, center the band and push it into place. To ensure it’s secure, wiggle the band up and down carefully. You shouldn’t wear your watch if the band is sliding around.

Milanese Loop

The Milanese Loop has been designed so you can easily slide the band through the band connector, or lug, that is connected to the case to change out the band.