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Apple has just announced the Apple Watch Series 6, which introduces new features such as an ever brighter screen, faster processor, and a blood oxygen meter. One thing Apple hasn’t changed is the ability to use the latest Apple Watch with all third-party straps. Apple sells its own bands, but they can be quite expensive, so we’ve found alternatives that will work just as well, but are much better value for money.
Whether you’re sticking with your current Apple Watch or preparing to upgrade to the latest and greatest, these are the best third-party Apple Watch bands available right now.
What are the best Apple Watch bands?
There are many factors that should be taken into account when choosing the best Apple Watch band for you; below are the most important, which we took into account when researching this list.
Style: Our recommendations cover the whole range from traditional watch straps with pins and notches, to others with a magnetic clasp that adapts perfectly to your wrist. We’ve covered alternatives to all of the major watch bands that Apple offers in its own store.
Materials: The watches in our guide are made from a variety of materials, from soft plastic to genuine Italian leather. There is plenty of room to mix and match different bands depending on what you’re wearing and your overall aesthetic.
Compatibility: All bands fit all generations of Apple Watch and are available in sizes to fit 38mm / 40mm or 42mm / 44mm cases.
1. NUKELOLO Sport Bracelet
NUKELOLO’s sport bracelet is a good choice if you are looking for a simple and subtle bracelet.
It’s made from silicone, which the company claims is both durable and comfortable, and comes in 25 different colors. Instead of notches, the bracelet has a pair of straps that allow you to adjust its width and lock it in place.
There might not be many, but NUKELOLO’s Sport Band is great value for money, so you can experiment with different color combinations to match your day’s wardrobe.
NUKELOLO Sport Band, from $ 5.99, available on Amazon
2. Jwacct stainless steel mesh bracelet
Jwacct’s Stainless Steel Mesh Bracelet is a minimalist and modern bracelet that will fit your wrist perfectly.
The bracelet clasp is magnetic, so it can adhere to any point on the bracelet body, giving you much more flexibility than using notches on a traditional watchband. Although it is made of metal, this bracelet is made in the style of the Milanese buckle, so it will be light and quite soft on your skin. I’ve used a few third-party Apple Watch bands in this style, and this is my favorite.
If you are struggling to find an Apple Watch band that fits your wrist perfectly, the Jwacct Stainless Steel Mesh Band is here for you.
Jwacct Stainless Steel Mesh Bracelet, $ 9.99, Available on Amazon
3. Power Primacy Top Grain Leather Watch Band
The Power Primary Leather Watch Band is a traditional looking band for your Apple Watch.
It’s made of premium leather, which the company claims is slip-resistant, durable, and breathable, so it should be comfortable to wear for hours at a time.
To tighten the band, you will need to pass the strap through a loop and insert the pin of the clasp into a notch on the strap. This watch band will not fit your wrist perfectly, but you will be very close. The Power Primary Leather Watch Band comes in 20 different colors, so you will be able to find one that matches your style.
This is the most traditional Apple Watch strap in our guide, and if you’re used to wearing an analog watch, this is the best choice.
Power Primacy Leather Watch Band, $ 10.99, Available on Amazon
4. Nomad Stainless Steel Apple Watch Band
The Nomad Stainless Steel Apple Watch Band is a super tough metal band, ideal if you don’t mind a little extra weight on your wrist.
The bracelet consists of 20 custom stainless steel tabs, which can be added or removed using an included tool to achieve the perfect fit. The bracelet clasp is also made of stainless steel, so it must withstand harsh conditions without loosening or being damaged.
The downside to a full stainless steel bracelet is its weight, but Nomad made a similar bracelet out of titanium. The company’s titanium bracelet is almost identical to its stainless steel sibling and uses the same removable lugs. The only difference is that it will be easier on your wrist.
If you want a sturdy Apple Watch band that will last thanks to a lot of watch upgrades, the Nomad band is here for you.
Nomad Stainless Steel Apple Watch Band, $ 119.95, Available at Nomad
5. Casetify Italian leather bracelet
The Italian Leather Strap from Casetify is a 2 in 1 bracelet that takes inspiration from the world famous fashion brand Hermes.
The strap is designed to fit not only Apple Watch, but all analog watches that can use 20mm or 24mm strap. We mentioned that this was a 2 in 1 bracelet earlier, and that’s because Casetify actually ships two bands, so you can choose whether you want to wear a single or double buckle.
Both bracelets are made of genuine Italian leather, are finished with an embossed surface and have a soft leather underside. This is a luxurious watch strap that is best worn on special occasions or formal events like a job interview.
If you are a fashion-oriented person who loves tech and you don’t want your Apple Watch to clash with your fanciest clothes, this bracelet will help it fit in.
Casetify Italian Leather Bracelet, $ 100, available at Casetify [Save 15% With Promo Code ROLLINGSTONE15]