Apple Watch Band Size Explained: 4 Steps to a Perfect Fit (2024)

EachApple Watch, except the Ultra, comes with a simple Sport Band, which can be made to fit any wrist size.However, the world of Apple Watch bands is as diverse as the people who wear them, and if you're looking for a Solo Loop or another band that's not adjustable, you'll need to know how to use the Apple Watch band size chart and other metrics to find the right fit.

Jump To:

• How to Order the Perfect Apple Watch Band Size
• FAQ: Best Apple Watch Ultra Bands

How to Order the Perfect Apple Watch Band Size

Apple Watch band sizes coordinate with the size of each device to ensure a comfortable fit and proper wear. When buying a new Apple Watch band, it's crucial to choose one that fits the size of your watch.Luckily, the same band will fit every Apple Watch model as long as it's the same device size. The following five steps will ensure that your future band will fit your Apple Watch model and wrist perfectly.

Step 1: WhichApple Watch Do I Have?

"What size is my Apple Watch,"is a common question.The quickest way to find out which Apple Watch size you have is to remove the watch from your wrist and look at the engraving on the back.

You can also check the model in the settings on your iPhone. If you'd like to know more about the different Apple Watch models and their many distinguishing features, we can help with that. If you are shopping around for a new model, check out which Apple Watch you should buy!

Related:How to Change Your Watch Band

Step 2: WhichBand Fits My Apple Watch?

The smaller Apple Watch will be 38–42mm, depending on the model. The larger Apple Watch will be44 mm–49mm, depending on the model. Thedifference in millimeters is in the display rather than the watch. That means that an Apple Watch bandthat fits a 38 mm Series 3 Apple Watch will also fit the 40 mm Series 6 Apple Watch. Likewise, a band that fits a 44 mm Series 5 will fit a 42 mm Series 2. The44 mm, 45 mm, and 49 mm Apple Watch bands will fit the new large Apple Watch Ultraand Apple Watch Ultra 2.

Step 3: How to Measure Wrist Size for an AppleWatch Band

Now that you understand how to measure Apple Watch band size, you need to learn how to measure wrist size. The safest thing to do for the best results is tousethe Apple Watch band size chart. This official guidelets you cut out a paper band to help you get the perfect fit, and it really works.

It can be easy to simply estimateApple Watch band sizes when it comes to the Sport Band and Sport Loop because the options are S/M for shorter bands or M/L for longer bands, and they're adjustable. However, not all bands are.The Solo Loop, for example, does have some stretch to it, but it's not possible to adjust it.

If you don’t have a printer and you want to measure your wrist in a pinch, cut a strip of paper or a string. Use a pen to mark the size of your wrist on the paper or string, then measure it with a ruler. You can then input the measurements on Apple’s website by clicking theStart your measurementbutton to get the correct size.

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Using a Hand Measurement App

If you have ameasuring tape or aruler, skip to step 4.If you don't have a printer or a ruler, you can always use a hand measurement app to help you measure your wrist. Keep in mind that this is not the most accurate measurement and may result in an ill-fitting band.

1. Open theMeasure app(It's a free stock app that comes with your iPhone).
2. Follow the on-screen directions until the white semicircles appear in bold, indicating that you are ready to measure.
3. Position the spot in the middle of the white semicircles at the starting point of your measurementand tap the plus button.
4. Move the spot in the middle of the semicircles to the ending point of your measurement and tap the plus button.
5. Tap the measurement to see it in centimeters.

To test the accuracy of the measurement, I used a ruler. The Measurement app was 3mm (0.1) off. Depending on the type of band you are considering buying, this could be a small enough margin of error to be just fine. However, if you are considering a Solo Loop, I strongly recommend waiting until you can use a printer and taking advantage of Apple’s official measuring guide tool. Apple's printed guide offers an Apple Watch size comparison on wrists for a powerful visual reference.

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Step 4: Understanding Different Band Sizes

Apple sells some great Apple Watch bands for women and men on their website and in their stores. These are size options forofficial Apple Watch bands:

• Apple Watch Sport Band: S/M (shorter) and M/L (longer) are available for each watch size. These are adjustable Apple Watch bands, they have notches like a belt.
• Apple Watch Sport Loop Band: One size band for each watch size. The Velcro allows for custom adjustments.
• Apple Watch Solo Loop Band: Comes in 12 sizes for each watch size. They are not adjustable, so make sure to use Apple’s sizing guide.
• Apple Watch Braided Solo Loop Band: Comes in 12 sizes for each watch size. They are not adjustable, so make sure to use Apple’s sizing guide.
• Apple Watch Leather Bands: One size band for each watch size. Bands are adjustable like a belt with notches.
• Apple Watch Milanese Loop Band: One size band for each watch size. The magnet allows for custom adjustments.
• Apple Watch Silver Link Bracelet: One size band for each watch size. Links can be removed or added to achieve the perfect fit.
• Apple Watch Alpine Loop Band:Three size bands for the 49 mm Apple Watch Ultra (will also fit 44 & 45 mm Apple Watch models). A G-hoot slides in and out of loops.
• Apple Watch Trail Loop Band:Two size bands for larger size models. Has a pull tab that allows for custom adjustments.
• Apple Watch Ocean Band:One size band for larger size models. The corrosion-resistant band can beadjusted like a belt with notches. The Ocean band is one of the best Apple Watch bands for men and women who scuba dive because you can buy an extension to fit over the thickest wetsuit.

These are the best new Apple Watch bands that were released alongside Apple Watch 9and Apple Watch Ultra 2:

• Apple Watch FineWoven Band with Magnet: One size band for each watch size. Comes with either a magnet for custom adjustments.
• Apple Watch FineWoven Band with Modern Buckle: Three size bands with three different lengths(S/M/L) and the Modern Buckle hasnotches like a belt.

Although you can’t beat the quality of original Apple Watch bands, you can also shop on Etsyor Amazon for more unique designs at affordable prices. There are also options to get custom Apple Watch bands. These might have different sizing guides, as Apple does not make or endorsethem.

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Step 5: Buying the Correct Size on Apple.com

Buying your Apple Watch band on Apple’s website is a great way to ensure you're getting topquality. Plus, if you get the wrong size, you will be able to exchange it for a better fit.

1. Select the band you want to purchase. For this example, I will use the (PRODUCT)RED Solo Loop.
2. Pick your color andcase size. Remember that the 40 mm will fit a 38 mm watch and the 44 mm will fit a 42 mm watch.
3. Select Start your measurement.
4. If you don’t already know your wrist size, download the printable tool and follow the provided instructions. There is a video guide that can help you. If you already measured your wrist with a ruler, tap Everyday items.
5. Tap Got it. What’s next?
6. Enter your measurements in inches or centimeters. Tap Get your band size.
7. From here, you can proceed with the on-screen directions to make your purchase!

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Apple Watch Model Sizes, Official Bands & Quick Metric vs. Imperial Conversions

Knowing the measurements of your wrist and Apple Watch isn't always enough to get the perfect fit. Some Apple Watch bands have confusing measurements or awkward closures so even if you measure everything correctly, you may end up with the wrong fit because your wrist size fallsright in between two notches or loops. If your watch doesn't fit correctly, your heart rate and calorie burning stats will not be correct. However, there are some bands that can be adjusted just right.

Apple Watch Model Sizes

The following is Apple Watch size guide, showing the Apple Watch band measurements by watch model:

• Apple Watch Series 1: 38 mm and 42 mm
• Apple Watch Series 2: 38 mm and 42 mm
• Apple Watch Series 3: 38 mm and 42 mm
• Apple Watch Series 4: 40 mm and 44 mm
• Apple Watch Series 5: 40 mm and 44 mm
• Apple Watch Series 6: 40 mm and 44 mm
• Apple Watch Series 7: 41 mm and 45 mm
• Apple Watch Series 8: 41 mm and 45 mm
• Apple Watch Series 9:41 mm and 45 mm
• Apple Watch Ultra: 49 mm
• Apple Watch Ultra 2:49 mm
• Apple Watch SE (Gen 1 & 2): 40 mm and 44 mm

What is the difference between 38and 49mm Apple Watch sizes? This refers to the size of the height of the Apple Watch display.Keep in mind that larger Apple Watches have longer band options, and smaller watches will offer shorter band options. The Sport Loop band for the 40 mm watch can fit 130–200 mm wrists, while the band for the 44 mm watch can fit 140–220 mm wrists. You can get the perfect fit if you just follow this Apple Watch band size guide.

Quick Metric vs. Imperial Conversions for Apple Watch Sizing

These can come in handy when measuring your wrist circumference in order to calculate your Apple Watch band size.

Apple Watch Sizes: Apple Watch sizesrefer to the length from the top of the device to the bottom, not from one side to the other.

• 38 mm is 1.49 inches
• 40 mm is 1.57 inches
• 41 mm is1.61 inches
• 42 mm is 1.65 inches
• 44 mm is 1.73 inches
• 45 mm is 1.77 inches
• 49 mm is 1.93 inches

Apple Watch Band Lengths:These lengths can be added to the Apple Watch size to approximately equal the circumference of your wrist, give or take a few millimeters. We recommend using Apple's watch band size chart for the best fit, but these measurements can still come in handy.

• 130 mm is 5.12inches
• 140 mm is 5.51 inches
• 200 mm is 7.87 inches
• 220 mm is 8.66 inches

If you are looking for akid size Apple Watch band, the 130 mm may be your best option. You can also shop third-party watch bands specifically made for children with smaller wrists.

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Bonus: Caring for Your Apple Watch Bands

People often wonder, "is it bad to change my Apple Watch band daily?" The answer is no. According to Apple, it is perfectly safe for your watch and bands to change them as often as you wish.As long as you remove and put on Apple Watch bands correctly, there shouldn’t be any wear and tear associated with changing them. However, if you are using third-party Apple Watch bands, the band could potentially wear out over time.

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Whether you are shopping for Apple Watch bands for women or men, figuring out how to measure wrist size to achieve the perfect fit can be challenging. We hope this article helped you make a more informed decision when deciding betweenApple Watch band sizes! Next, learnwhy does my Apple Watch keep locking while I’m wearing it?