Discover the best tech to wear on your wrist! Below, you'll find a compilation of my favorite Apple Watch accessories and equipment that improve the day-to-day use of my preferred wearable.
Wristcam: The Apple Watch Camera ($299)
Does the Apple Watch have a camera? Year after year, the answer is still no. Wristcam is the perfect accessory for Apple Watch fanatics like me, though not as much for the casual user. This unique band takes 4K photos and 1080P HD videos via its 8MP World-Facing and 2MP Self-Facing cameras that work perfectly even underwater. It also supports video calling, but due to its small size, the battery life is quite short, especially when recording videos.
i.VALUX Portable Travel Charger for Apple Watch ($13.99)
I am not the best at remembering to charge my watch, especially since my Apple Watch Ultra has an extra-long battery life that throws off my regular charging routine. I don’t like bringing my regular charger in case I misplace it, so I prefer using a portable charger that I clip to my purse or keys. This affordable little charger is a returning favorite, and while it won’t give you a particularly fast charge or multiple charges, it can definitely hold you over while you are on the go, so that you don’t have to worry about missing out on steps or workout minutes!
TSOGIA Bumper Case for Apple Watch Ultra with Screen Protector ($9.99)
Nothing ruins your day quite like a scratch on your Apple Watch; believe me, I’ve had my fair share. Even the rugged Apple Watch Ultra isn’t completely accident-proof, so I always recommend taking the extra step and using a bumper. I love that this case is sturdy without being obnoxiously bulky. I don’t wear my bumper on a daily basis, but I always make sure to put it on for outdoor adventures. Just keep in mind that bumpers with screen protectors trap water so you have to dry it out if you get it wet or you can’t use your watch.
Casetify Chain Bracelet ($88)
This team favorite elevatesthe look and feel of your Apple Watch, making it feel luxurious and perfect for pairing with a fancy outfit for a night out. It isn’t as comfortable or snugly fitting as a sports band, but it is an amazing formal option for those special occasions. It is available in four different colors so you can find one that best matches your style. The links are easy to remove if you need to adjust the band to fit your wrist, although it is still a bit loose to track your heart rate and athletic activities. Made from premium stainless- steel, the Casetify Chain Bracelet is water, sweat, and corrosion resistant. Plus, it is super lightweight so it won’t weigh you down.
Wowstrap Stretchy Braided for Apple Watch Band ($8.98)
I have tried just about every Apple Watch band I could get my hands on, yet I always revert to this simple option. This Wowstrap band looks just like Apple’s Braided Solo Loop, except it is adjustable and much cheaper, and it even comes in the same designs and colors. I love how comfortable these bands are, even when I’m typing on my laptop and leaning on my wrist. My only complaint is that the bands for larger-sized watches don’t accommodate small wrists like mine and I wish they had more band-length options for every watch size.
PACMAXI Watch Band Organizer ($28.99)
If you have enough Apple Watch bands to start wondering about how to store or display them, it’s time for a proper organizer. PACMAXI offers a great way to store and organize up to 84 straps in a compact design, easy to bring along when traveling so you have the right material and color for every occasion. This affordable organizer comes in black, dark gray, and purple and has plenty of room to store almost every type of Apple Watch band. I love that it comes with a zipping mesh pocket to store your other Apple Watch accessories, like bumpers.
ErgonBand for Apple Watch ($219.00 – $229.00)
If a traditional Apple Watch band doesn’t work for you for whatever reason, don’t give up hope and try the ErgonBand. It may look like something a time traveler brought from the future, but it has many practical uses. If you have mobility issues that make turning your wrist challenging, just strap your watch on using the ErgonBand and experience this unique way of wearing your watch. It is surprisingly comfortable, even if you have the Apple Watch Ultra, although I prefer how it looks with a smaller watch.
Nomad Sport Band ($60)
Nomad is my go-to for higher end Apple Watch bands, and you can really see the difference in quality. The Sport Bands are my favorite because they have lots of holes for breathability and are super lightweight. If rubber is not your style, Nomad also offers a wide selection of bands made of metal, leather, and even Horween leather that improves over time, changing in color, sheen, and texture as it interacts with the elements. But if you want to go cliff jumping, then the Sport Band is your best choice because it won’t fall off and sink to the bottom of a cenote (true story).
Solace Imperium V2 Loop ($29.99)
The Solace Imperium V2 Loop is another team favorite, loved by Apple Watch fans of all ages. Solo loops can be a stressful choice because they cannot be adjusted, but as long as you get your measurements right, this band will fit snugly and comfortably. Plus, it doesn’t stretch out and it isn’t too tight. You select from a wide variety of colors ranging from bright and bold to more neutral tones, so you’ll definitely find one to suit your preference. Since they are so adorable, you might even buy one in several colors!
Nomad’s 3-in-1 Charging Hub: Stand One Max ($150)
Charging your devices has never looked better! Nomad’s Stand One Max lets you charge your iPhone, Apple Watch, and (wireless) AirPods all at the same time! With 15W charging for Qi2 devices, this charging hub is faster than most wireless chargers, making it practical as well as aesthetically pleasing. It also offers the option of charging your iPhone sideways, allowing you to take full advantage of iPhone’s StandyBy Mode, so it can replace your bedside alarm clock. You can even bring the Stand One Max on the move with you because it is easy to collapse and drop in your bag to take on a trip or between your home and work office.
Buyer's Guide 2023: Apple Watch Gear
Check out last year's picks!
Longvadon Women’s Caiman Series Double Tour ($109)
If you’re looking for a luxury watch band without the price tag of Hermès, look no further. Made of high-quality leather, this watch band offers sophistication and comfort all in one. Its wraparound design leaves room for some fun style play, and there are many options for how tight you want it to fit . It comes in four colors: Midnight Black, Mahogany Brown, Snow White, and Navy Blue with the option of gold or silver details to match your watch. An excellent option for anyone who wants a high-quality watch band without the premium cost.
Le Petit Prince x Bluebonnet Italian Leather Apple Watch Band ($145)
As a literature lover, I’m partial to anything referencing the classics. This collaboration between Bluebonnet and Le Petit Prince offers not only a sweet reference to this timeless story, but also a high-quality watch band for everyday wear or dressy occasions. While you can select other colors that don’t reference beloved books for lower prices, this band comes in a gorgeous dark blue with white stitching that both stands out and goes with anything. The detailing on the clasp sports a subtle but beautiful star straight from the book’s illustration, a perfect tribute for anyone who holds this story close to their heart.
i.VALUX Portable Travel Charger for Apple Watch ($20.99)
While Apple Watch charging may be part of your regular routine, one shift in schedule can make it easy to forget. That’s where this portable charger comes in. Whether your simply blanked on setting it on its charger at your usual time or are traveling and away from your usual power stations, this charger will give you a boost of juice to keep you going. Don’t expect the luxury of several charges from this portable power bank; you’re really only going to get enough to hold you over until your real charge. But still, that little bit can make a big difference.
Solace Imperium V2 Loop ($29.99)
Even besides the fact that my four-year-old said “I love your watch band” when I put this on, this is my favorite band for everyday wear. I’m normally wary of solo loops due to the lack of adjustability, but this one fits snugly and comfortably on my wrist without being too tight or stretching out. You have many color options ranging from neutral tones to bright ones, so it’s easy to find something to suit your preference. Plus, it’s small enough that I often forget I’m even wearing my watch, a plus except for those few panicked moments I check for it.
Casetify Chain Bracelet ($88)
While I’m normally a fan of sports bands that fit snugly around my wrist to ensure accurate readings, sometimes I just want to get a little fancy. This band has the feeling of a luxury watch and is perfect for pairing with an outfit for a night out. Available in four colors, you can choose which one best matches your style and add or remove links to find the perfect fit for your wrist. Its premium stainless-steel build is resistant to water, sweat, and corrosion, and lightweight. While it’s a bit loose for everyday wear, it’s perfect to pull out for special occasions.
