Apple Watch Band Sizes Explained: 5 Steps to a Perfect Fit

Each Apple 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.

Apple Watch Band Size Chart

Although there are lots of different Apple Watch Models with varying display sizes, there are technically only two different sizes of watch bands. The chart below can help you understand which bands are compatible with which watch model. If you're interested in a solo loop, make sure to check out the table below to get the correct fit.

So to summarize the watch band measurement chart above, the smaller Apple Watch will be 38–42 mm, depending on the model. The larger Apple Watch will be 44 mm–49 mm, depending on the model. The millimeters are referring to the sizes of the Apple Watch's display rather than the watch body itself, which is why an Apple Watch band that fits a 38 mm Series 3 Apple Watch will also fit the new 42 mm Series 11 Apple Watch. Likewise, band that fits a 42 mm Series 3 will fit a 42 mm Series 6. This means that the 44 mm, 45 mm, and 49 mm Apple Watch bands will fit all three Apple Watch Ultra models, and every 44mm Apple Watch SE and even the new 46 mm Apple Watch 11.

The craziest thing about Apple Watch bands is that, technically, all bands are "compatible" with all watch models, meaning they will fit and can be worn. However, if you wear a larger watch band size with a smaller watch, there you will see that the corners of the band are sticking out slightly.

If you wear a smaller watch band size with a larger watch, you will see little gaps or divots.

When you wear the correct size band, everything will look flush and seamless. So even the smallest Apple Watch size will fit the largest and longest band; it just won't look good.

Apple Watch Band Loop Size Chart

When you buy a band that isn't adjustable, such as the regular Solo Loop or the Braided Solo Loop, there's even more to consider when finding the correct fit. Apple offers up to 12 sizes of Solo Loops.

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 strap, 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: How Do I Know My Apple Watch Size?

"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 For more Apple Watch advice and tutorials, be sure to check out our free Tip of the Day newsletter.

Step 2: Which Band Fits My Apple Watch?

The smaller Apple Watch will be 38–42 mm, depending on the model. The larger Apple Watch will be 44 mm–49 mm, depending on the model. What does the mm mean for Apple Watch? The difference in millimeters is in the display rather than the watch. That means that an Apple Watch band that fits a 38 mm Series 3 Apple Watch will also fit the 42 mm Series 10 Apple Watch. Likewise, a band that fits a 44 mm Series 5 will fit a 42 mm Series 2. The 44 mm, 45 mm, and 49 mm Apple Watch bands will fit the large Apple Watch Ultra and Apple Watch Ultra 2, and even the 46 mm Apple Watch 10. Check out the Apple Watch Band Size Chart above for a quick reference.

Image from Apple.com

Step 3: How to Check Apple Watch Band Size

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

It can be easy to simply estimate Apple 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. When viewing a Solo Loop on the Apple Store app, you'll see an option to use a measurement guide. Simply select this option and tap the Everyday Items tab to input your measurements and find the right band size. While it's not the most reliable, you could also measure your wrist using the native Measure app.

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 for official 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 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 Sport Loop Band: One size band for each watch size. The Velcro allows for custom adjustments.
• 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 be adjusted 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.
• Apple Watch Titanium (Milanese Loop) Band: Comes in three three size bands with three different lengths (S/M/L). It has a secure parachute-style buckle for custom adjustments.
• Apple Watch Milanese Loop Band: This stainless steel band comes in three three size bands with three different lengths (S/M/L). It has a secure parachute-style buckle for custom adjustments.
• Apple Watch Stainless Steel Link Bracelet: One size band for each watch size. Links can be removed or added to achieve the perfect fit.
• 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 has notches like a belt.
• 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 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.

There are also collaborations with third-party brands like Nike and Hermès that offer a wider variety of styles and sometimes, a much steeper price tag.

Apple used to have leather bands but discontinued them in 2023 and replaced them with FineWoven as part of their environmental initiatives. The leather bands were one size band for each watch size and were adjustable like a belt with notches. You can still buy these used on marketplaces.

Although you can’t beat the quality of original Apple Watch bands, you can also shop on Etsy or 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 endorse them.

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 top quality. 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 Neon Yellow Braided Solo Loop.
2. Pick your color and case 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!

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 falls right 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 Series 10: 42 mm and 46 mm
• Apple Watch Series 11: 42 mm and 46 mm
• Apple Watch Ultra: 49 mm
• Apple Watch Ultra 2: 49 mm
• Apple Watch Ultra 3: 49 mm
• Apple Watch SE (Gen 1, 2 & 3): 40 mm and 44 mm

What is the difference between 38 and 49 mm 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 sizes refer to the diagonal length from the top corner of the device to opposite bottom corner, not from side to side or top to bottom.

• 38 mm is 1.49 inches
• 40 mm is 1.57 inches
• 41 mm is 1.61 inches
• 42 mm is 1.65 inches
• 44 mm is 1.73 inches
• 45 mm is 1.77 inches
• 46 mm is 1.81 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 5.12 inches
• 140 mm is 5.51 inches
• 200 mm is 7.87 inches
• 220 mm is 8.66 inches

If you are looking for a kid 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. I hope this helped you understand Apple Watch band dimensions better.

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. Check out our article on how to change an Apple Watch band to be sure you're doing it correctly. However, if you are using third-party Apple Watch bands, the band could potentially wear out over time.

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 between Apple Watch band sizes! Next, learn why does my Apple Watch keep locking while I’m wearing it?