Changing an Apple Watch band usually takes only a few minutes and requires no tools. This guide explains how to remove the old band, install a replacement, check the fit, and recognize when a worn band should be replaced.
You’ll get the best sizing tip for choosing a comfortable band. Discover when worn materials, loose connectors, or skin irritation mean replacement is necessary.
Before You Start — One Thing to Check First
How to Remove an Apple Watch Band
How to Install a New Apple Watch Band
How to Measure Your Wrist for a New Band
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Apple Watch Band
Before You Start — One Thing to Check First
Before buying a band, confirm your case size and model compatibility. No tools are normally required. If an external protective case blocks the band release buttons or connector slots, remove the case before continuing. Apple designed the band release system so you can swap bands in just a few simple steps.
Before ordering a replacement band, confirm these three things:
● The case size printed on the back of your Apple Watch or shown in Settings.
● The replacement band supports your watch's case size.
● Your wrist measurement falls within the band's adjustment range.
Note: If you use an Apple Link Bracelet, separate it into two sections using a quick-release button on the bracelet before removing it from the watch.
Once you have confirmed these details, changing the band is straightforward. Before purchasing a replacement, check our Apple Watch band compatibility guide to confirm the correct size.
How to Remove an Apple Watch Band
Understanding how to remove an Apple Watch band reduces the risk of damaging the locking connector.
Where the Release Buttons Are
Turn your Apple Watch over to find two small oval release buttons. One button sits above the sensor cluster, while another sits below it. Each button releases only the band attached to its side. The band slides horizontally through the built-in channel instead of pulling outward directly.
Pulling downward can damage the connector. Each release button controls the band attached to that side of the watch. Remove one side at a time by holding down the corresponding button while sliding the band horizontally out of its channel.
Steps to Remove an Apple Watch Band
Step 1. Place the watch face down on a soft surface.
Step 2. Press and hold the release button beside the band during the entire removal process.
Step 3. While holding the release button, gently slide the band sideways out of its channel. Apple Support recommends pressing the release button before carefully sliding each band from the watch. If the band sticks, keep holding the release button while sliding it gently. Never force the band or pull it downward.
If dust or residue is visible around the connector slots, gently wipe the exterior with a clean, nonabrasive, lint-free cloth. Do not insert sharp objects or cleaning tools into the slots.
Two Mistakes That Can Damage the Band Connector
● Pulling the Band Downward: Always slide the band horizontally instead of pulling it away from the watch. Pulling downward can damage the connector.
● Releasing the Button Too Early: Keep holding the release button until the band slides out completely. Letting go too soon can lock the band before it fully comes out.
How to Install a New Apple Watch Band
Learning how to put on an Apple Watch band helps keep your watch securely attached. Install both band pieces correctly before wearing the watch.
Installing a Standard Band
Step 1. Make sure the text inside the band faces you. Align the band with the slot, then slide it until it clicks.
Step 2. Gently pull the band to confirm it is locked. Repeat for the second band and check that both sides sit evenly before wearing. If you hear no click, remove the band and slide it in again. Gently pull both sides afterward to confirm they are locked in place.
Note: If the band does not click into place, slide it left and right to center the connector, then check it again. Do not wear the watch if either side of the band still slides freely.
Installing a Band with a Folding Clasp (ESR Equinox)
The Equinox band attaches to your watch the same way as any standard Apple Watch band—slide each half into the channel until it clicks into place. The difference shows up the moment you start wearing it.
Its main difference is the pin-and-fold deployment clasp. After you adjust the pin position for your wrist, you can open and close the folding clasp without threading the band through the adjustment hole again.
| Feature | Pin-and-Tuck Band | Folding Clasp |
|---|---|---|
| Putting it on | Thread the pin through a hole and tuck the tail each time. | Snap the folding clasp shut—the position is remembered. |
| Hands needed | Usually two | One hand after initial setup |
| Adjustment | Re-thread on every wear | Set once; retains your fit |
| Closure | Pin-and-tuck closure | Pin-and-fold deployment clasp |
| Water resistance | Varies by band | 100% waterproof HNBR rubber |
To remove it, open the folding clasp in one motion. The HNBR material is soft, skin-friendly, and PFAS-free. Ventilation cutouts run along the band to encourage airflow and prevent heat buildup, whether you are mid-workout or sitting at a desk.
How to Measure Your Wrist for a New Band
Wrap a flexible measuring tape around your wrist where your Apple Watch normally sits. If you do not have one, wrap a piece of string around your wrist, then measure it with a ruler. See our article “Apple Watch Band Compatibility Guide” or “How to Choose the Best Apple Watch Band” for more details.
Note: Measure the wrist where the watch normally sits, keeping the tape snug but not tight. Compare the result with the adjustment range on the specific product page rather than relying only on the watch case size. Case compatibility and wrist fit are separate checks: a band can fit the watch connector but still be too short or too long for the wearer.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Apple Watch Band
Band damage often develops slowly, making replacement easy to overlook during everyday wear. The signs below show when your Apple Watch band needs replacing.
● Visible cracks or material separation
● A clasp that opens unexpectedly
● Connectors that fail to lock securely
Stop wearing the band if irritation continues after cleaning, drying, and adjusting the fit. Check the material information and consider switching to a different material. Seek medical advice if the reaction is persistent or severe.
Ready for a replacement? Explore ESR Apple Watch bands and choose a compatible design for everyday comfort.
