Apple Watch Bands

Check the back of your watch: the case size (38mm, 40mm, 41mm and so on) is engraved there. That number, not the series, decides which band you need. Every series was made in a smaller and a larger case, so two people with the same series can need different bands.

Smaller band: 38–41mm (any series) or 42mm (Series 10+)
Fits every Apple Watch with a 38mm, 40mm or 41mm case, whatever the series, from the original Apple Watch through Series 9 and SE. It also fits the 42mm Series 10, 11 and 12.

Larger band: 44–49mm (any series) or 42mm (Series 3 or older)
Fits every Apple Watch with a 44mm, 45mm, 46mm or 49mm case, whatever the series, including every Ultra. It also fits the 42mm original Apple Watch and Series 1, 2 and 3.

Find your watch
Original Apple Watch and Series 1 to 3: 38mm takes the smaller band, 42mm takes the larger band
Series 4 to 6 and SE: 40mm takes the smaller band, 44mm takes the larger band
Series 7 to 9: 41mm takes the smaller band, 45mm takes the larger band
Series 10 to 12: 42mm takes the smaller band, 46mm takes the larger band
Ultra (every model): 49mm takes the larger band

42mm is the only case size where the series matters, because Apple has made two very different 42mm watches.

42mm Series 10, 11 or 12 (2024 or newer): the smaller watch of its generation, so it takes the smaller band, 38–41mm (any series) or 42mm (Series 10+).
42mm Series 3 or older (the original Apple Watch and Series 1, 2 and 3): the larger watch of its generation, so it takes the larger band, 44–49mm (any series) or 42mm (Series 3 or older).

No Apple Watch from Series 4 to Series 9 was made in 42mm. So if you got your 42mm watch before September 2024, it is a Series 3 or older and needs the larger band.

Silicone sport bands are the safe default for workouts and swimming. Woven nylon loops are lighter and stay comfortable in heat. Leather suits the office but should be kept dry. Stainless steel links, titanium and magnetic Milanese mesh give the dressiest look, and mesh is easy to adjust to an exact fit.

Hold the watch face down, press and hold the band release button on the back of the case, then slide the band sideways out of its channel. Slide the new band in from the same side until it clicks. No tool is needed.

Usually yes, as long as the case sizes fall in the same group. A band made for a 44mm or 45mm case will fit the 46mm and the 49mm Ultra. The exception is 42mm, which appears in both groups depending on series: a 42mm Series 10 or later takes the smaller band, while a 42mm Series 3 or earlier takes the larger one.

Our silicone and nylon Apple Watch bands handle sweat, showers and swimming. Rinse with fresh water after the pool or ocean. Leather bands are not made for water.