Make sure to use a band that matches your Apple Watch case size. You can use bands designed for Apple Watch (1st generation) and Apple Watch Series 1, 2, and 3 with Apple Watch Series 4 and later and Apple Watch SE as long as the sizes are compatible. Straps for 38mm and 40mm cases are compatible with each other, and straps for 42mm and 44mm cases are compatible with each other.
Change the strap
Single lap strap
Milanese strap
Chain strap
Replacing a watch band
Place your Apple Watch watch face down on a clean surface, such as a microfiber lint-free cloth or a soft mat.
If you are wearing a chain strap, first press the quick release button on the link to separate the strap into two parts.
Press and hold the strap release button, then slide the strap sideways to remove it.
The strap release button on the back of Apple Watch.
If the strap does not slide out, press the strap release button again and be sure to hold it down.
Slide the strap off the case.
Make sure the side of the band with the text is facing you, then slide the new band in until you feel and hear a click.
New blue bands on Apple Watch.
If you are using a single loop strap or a woven single loop strap
If you are using a single loop strap or a woven single loop strap, just pull the watch gently At the bottom of the strap, hold the strap over your wrist and you can easily put it on and take it off.
Using the Milanese Strap
For 2018, the Milanese strap was redesigned so you can slide the magnetic clasp through the strap connectors (or lugs) to fully open the strap. On early designs of Milanese straps, the buckle would not slide through the lugs.
How to remove the band from your Apple Watch
Before you can remove the band from your Apple Watch, you must first separate the band into two parts. When taking off the watch strap, do not use excessive force or twist the watch strap. Follow these steps to avoid damaging the strap or buckle.
Close the butterfly clasp
If the butterfly clasp is open, fold it inward, one side at a time, until you feel and hear a click.
The folded butterfly clasp on the chain strap.
Press and hold the quick release button
The quick release button is located on the inside of the strap. You just hold down a button.
Quick release button on the strap link.
Gently pull the link apart
Press and hold the quick release button while pulling. Before removing the band from your Apple Watch, you should first separate the band into two parts.
Separate links.
Removing the watch strap
Press and hold the watch strap release button, then slide the watch strap sideways to remove it.