Remove, change, and fasten Apple Watch bands

Follow these general instructions for removing, changing, and fastening bands.

Make sure that you use a band that corresponds to your Apple Watch case size. You can use a band thatʼs designed for other Apple Watch models as long as the sizes are compatible.

Bands for 38mm, 40mm, and 41mm cases are compatible with each other.
Bands for 42mm, 44mm, and 45mm cases are compatible with each other.
Bands designed for Apple Watch Ultra models are compatible with 44mm and 45mm cases.

Remove and change bands

Hold down the band release button on your Apple Watch.
Slide the band across to remove it, then slide the new band in.

Never force a band into the slot. If you’re having trouble removing or inserting a band, hold down the band release button again.

Two images of Apple Watch. The image on the left shows the band release button. The image on the right shows a watch band partially inserted into the band slot.

Fasten a band

For optimal performance, your Apple Watch should fit closely on your wrist.

The back of your Apple Watch needs skin contact for features like wrist detection, haptic notifications, and the heart rate sensor. Wearing your Apple Watch with the right fit—not too tight, not too loose, and with room for your skin to breathe—keeps you comfortable and lets the sensors do their job. In addition, the sensors work only when you wear your Apple Watch on the top of your wrist.

For more information, see the Apple Support articles Wearing your Apple Watch and Change your Apple Watch band.

See alsoApple Watch models

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Apple Watch User Guide

Remove, change, and fasten Apple Watch bands

Remove and change bands

Fasten a band