Change your Apple Watch strap

Use these steps to remove your strap and put on a new one.

Before you buy a new strap, make sure it fits your Apple Watch case size. You can use a strap thatʼs designed for other Apple Watch models as long as the sizes are compatible.

• Straps for 38mm, 40mm and 41mm cases are compatible with each other.

• Straps for 42mm, 44mm and 45mm cases are compatible with each other.

• Straps for 46 mm cases are compatible with 44 mm, 45 mm and 46 mm cases.

• Straps for 49 mm cases are compatible with 44 mm, 45 mm or 46 mm cases.

• Straps for 44 mm, 45 mm or 46 mm cases are compatible with 49 mm cases.

Changing your strap

1. Place your Apple Watch face down over a clean surface like a lint-free, micro-fibre cloth or soft, padded mat.

2. If you have a Link Bracelet, press the quick release button on a link to separate the strap into two pieces.

3. Hold down the strap release button, then slide the strap across to remove it. If the strap doesn't slide out, press the strap release button again and make sure you hold it down.

   

4. Make sure the text on the strap is facing you, then slide the new strap in until you feel and hear a click.

   

Using the Solo Loop or Braided Solo Loop

If you have a Solo Loop or Braided Solo Loop, simply pull from the bottom of the strap to stretch it over your wrist when you put it on and take it off.

Using the Milanese Loop

In 2018, the Milanese Loop was redesigned so you could open the strap completely by sliding the magnetic closure through the strap connector, or lug. On earlier Milanese Loop models, the closure won't slide through the lug.

Using the Ocean Band, Alpine Loop and Trail Loop

The Ocean Band, Alpine Loop and Trail Loop are all 49 mm straps that are specifically designed for use with Apple Watch Ultra and later when engaged in rugged activities, such as hiking, running, climbing, kiteboarding, diving and more. These straps are designed with a precision fit. Before inserting the strap, make sure the strap edge (lug) is parallel to the watch case. Once in position, push the lug towards the case gently, with the metal tooth facing down.

Apple Watch Ultra is also compatible with 44mm, 45mm and 46mm straps, but these strap sizes should only be worn for casual, everyday use.

If you like the Braided Solo Loop or Solo Loop and want to use one with Apple Watch Ultra, you may need to use a smaller size than you're used to due to the larger case size of Apple Watch Ultra. Before purchasing a Solo Loop or Braided Solo Loop to use with your Apple Watch Ultra, try the strap with your Apple Watch Ultra.

Adjusting the Modern Buckle

You can adjust the fit of the Modern Buckle. To open the strap, press the release buttons on the sides of the magnetic closure. Use the adjustment holes to resize the strap. To close the strap, line up the two-piece magnetic closure until the strap locks into place.

Removing the Link Bracelet

You must separate the Link Bracelet into two pieces before removing the strap from your Apple Watch. While removing the strap, don't force the strap or twist it. Use the steps below to avoid damaging the strap or clasp.

Close the butterfly closure

If it's open, fold in the butterfly closure one side at a time until you feel and hear a click.

Hold down a quick release button

The quick release buttons are on the inside of the bracelet. You only need to hold one down.

Gently pull the links apart

Hold down a quick release button while you pull. You should separate the strap into two pieces before removing the strap from your Apple Watch.

Remove your strap

Hold down the strap release button, then slide the strap across to remove it.

Adjusting the Titanium Milanese Loop

To adjust the Titanium Milanese Loop, lift the clamp. With one finger on each side of the buckle, slide the buckle to the desired position, keeping the buckle parallel with the strap as you adjust. Press down to close the clamp.

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Never force the strap into the slot. If you don't feel or hear a click, slide the strap to the left, then to the right. If the strap is installed properly, it won’t freely slide until you hold down the strap release button.

If the strap still doesn’t lock, centre the strap and push it into place. Then carefully wiggle the strap up and down. Don't wear your Apple Watch if the strap is sliding.