Apple Watch pre-orders are slated to land in the hands of consumers is select countries worldwide starting Friday, April 24th. After unboxing the Apple Watch and testing out its many features, most owners will begin hunting for accessories to personalize or extend the functionality of the device. Some of the most popular add-ons will be Watch bands that add a splash of color or even extend your Watch battery life.
The market for these accessories is in its infancy, but there are still some interesting options that consumers can consider now. Below you will find some of our top picks for band-related accessories.
Official Apple Watch bands
Apple is offering a variety of band styles on its website with prices ranging from $49 for the colorful Sport bands and climbing up to $449 for the Link Bracelet. You can easily switch between bands as long as you choose the version compatible with your Watch size (38 or 42mm) and model (Sport, Watch, Watch Edition).
Band Options on Amazon
If you are looking for a one-stop shopping experience, then you should check out Amazon. There is a variety of affordable options from third-party accessory makers such as MyCell, Baseus and others. The list includes:
- Baseus classic genuine leather band ($19.99) The Baseus band is your classic leather band available at an affordable price.
- MyCell Bands ($24.49 – $74.49) MyCell bands include a variety of options including a Milanese loop, a link bracelet, a classic buckle and Sport Band. Bands are easily removed and do not require any special tools or a trip to the jeweler to replace.
- ChiTronic Classical Buckle Leather Watchband Strap ($16.99) As its name implies, the ChiTronic band features a leather strap and stainless steel buckle in a classic design. It also includes mini screwdriver and screws to replace the strap yourself.
- Hi5Gadget Luxury Leather Band ($22) A replacement for Apple’s classic buckle or modern buckle, the luxury band features a steel buckle with matching leather strap. Available in 38mm and 42mm sizes.
- Bear Motion ($4.99) If you are looking for the least expensive replacement band, then look no further than the offerings from Bear Motion. Note that this is a replacement Band only for 38mm or 42mm Apple Watch with Classic or Modern Buckle. Available in 38mm and 42mm sizes.
- Timpo ($15.36 – $19.99) The 38mm and 42mm Timpo band ships with a stylish genuine leather strap and stainless steel clasp.
- Ulak ($15.99) Ulak added Watch bands to its repertoire of Apple accessories, including a leather and leather canvas strap in both 38mm and 42mm sizes.
Monowear Apple Watch bands ($59–99)
Following a successful Kickstarter campaign, Monowear is now accepting orders for a variety of nylon, leather, and metal straps ranging from $59-$99. Besides the attractive bands, Monomer also is including a mechanism that’ll allow for the easy swapping of bands, allowing you to purchase multiple bands and switch them in a flash.
Reserve Strap ($249 MSRP)
The Reserve Strap is unique in that it offers an embedded battery to charge your Apple Watch while you wear it. The product is still in the early stages of development with a ship date and final pricing details not yet known. If you enjoy being on the cutting edge and don’t mind investing in a product that is still under construction, then the Reserve Strap may be a good place to start.
Wipowerband ($99)
Similar to the Reserve Strap, the Wipowerband ships with a 250 mAh lithium polymer rechargeable battery that’ll almost double the battery life of the Apple Watch. The strap itself is composed of a polypropylene plastic core with a silicone rubber skin in several different colors. It is available now for pre-order in 38mm and 42mm sizes for $99 and $89, respectively. It is expected to ship in May to June of this year.
Casetify ($50)
Casetify is one of the most creative bands options for Apple Watch owners. The service allows you to choose from one of a handful of pre-made creative designs as well as create your personalized Apple Watch strap using your Instagram and Facebook photos. The band is priced at $49 with an expected starting ship date of early June.
Lunatik’s Epik Apple Watch Kit (Pricing TBD)
Accessory maker Lunatik is getting into the Watch game with an upcoming Kickstarter campaign to fund the production of its Epik Apple Watch kit. The Kit includes both a protective case with a matching strap, which includes the TikTok + LunaTik watch straps. The case includes an aluminum housing with hydrophobic vents for the speaker and microphone.
Click ($10)
Click is an Apple Watch band adapter designed to accommodate standard 22mm watch straps. With this accessory, Watch owners can accessorize their device using any third-party 22mm band already on the market. Click already has been funded through KickStarter and is now available via pre-order.
The Watch accessory market is changing every day. If there is a replacement strap or battery band not on this list, please share them in the comments below.
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