How to change the band on an Apple Watch

2 min read · 5 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Short answer

Lay the watch face down on a soft cloth. Hold down the band release button on the back and slide the band sideways out of its slot. Slide the new band in, with the text on it facing you, until it clicks. Never force a band into the slot.

Every Apple Watch band slides into the case from the side and locks with a small button, so changing it takes seconds and needs no tools. The one thing to check before buying is that the band matches the size of your case.

These steps are for recent versions of watchOS and iOS.

Step by step

  1. Check that the band fits your case

    Bands for 38, 40 and 41 mm cases fit each other. Bands for 42, 44 and 45 mm cases fit each other. The 46 mm and 49 mm cases take bands made for 44, 45, 46 and 49 mm. The size is engraved on the back of the watch.

  2. Put the watch face down

    Use a clean, soft surface such as a microfibre cloth, so the glass is not scratched.

  3. Hold the release button and slide the band out

    There are two small oval buttons on the back, one next to each slot. Hold one down and slide that half of the band sideways. If it does not move, press the button again and keep it held down.

  4. Slide the new band in

    The small text on the inside of the band must face you. Slide the band in until you feel and hear a click. Do the same on the other side.

  5. Test it

    Pull gently on both halves. A band that slides out is not locked. Move it back and forth until it clicks, and do not wear the watch while the band slides.

Good to know

A Solo Loop has no clasp. Pull on the bottom of the band to stretch it over your hand.

A Link Bracelet must be separated into two parts first: close the butterfly clasp, hold a quick-release button on the inside of the bracelet and pull the links apart. Then remove each part.

Leather and metal bands are not made for water. Change to a sport band for swimming.

Sweat and sunscreen collect in the slots. While the band is off, wipe them out, and if the crown is stiff as well, see Apple Watch Digital Crown stuck or not working: how to fix it.

In short: Face down on a cloth, hold the release button, slide the band out, slide the new one in with the text facing you until it clicks, test it.

Sources
  • Apple Support: Change your Apple Watch band

Rules and prices change. Check the official source before you act.