outside the labs

Best Apple Watch Bands

We tried out 30 watch bands to find the best for various lifestyles and style preferences

By Perry Santanachote

December 5, 2022

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Several Apple Watch models top our smartwatch ratings. In addition to the watches’ Excellent and Very Good scores for accuracy, durability, and versatility, among other lab-tested categories, one of the factors that appeal to many Apple Watch users is the large selection of band options—from silicone and fabric to metal and leather.

Some people are happy with the sports functionality of silicone bands, while others crave a dressier look—or options for both. But like smartwatches, not all bands are created equal, and one that suits some people best might make others uncomfortable . . . or break out in a rash.

How We Evaluated Apple Watch Bands

For this outside-the-lab evaluation, we had four CR staffers wear 30 watch bands over the course of two months. We had a range of Apple Watches, including the Series 7 and SE, in sizes ranging from 40 millimeters to 45 millimeters. Each person tried out these Apple Watch bands: braided solo loop, leather link, link bracelet, Milanese Loop, modern buckle, Nike sport band, solo loop, sport band, and sport loop.

And then, each person was assigned a band material/style—leather,, metal, nylon, silicone—to do head-to-head evaluations comparing five to six third-party bands with Apple brand bands of the same material. Some of the bands were clearly trying to copy the Apple bands while some were their own designs that were compatible with the Apple Watch. (Prices below are what we paid in September 2022.)

We wore each band in various conditions, including during exercise, daily activities, showers (if the band was water resistant), and sleep. We assessed the bands for:

Ease of use: How easy the band was to put on and take off the Apple Watch, put on and take off the wrist, adjust, and clean.
Comfort: Whether the band stays put, makes your skin sweaty or irritated, or snags skin or hair.
Fit: The band must achieve—and maintain—a proper fit (not too tight, not too loose) for accurate heart-rate readings as well as more advanced functions like skin temperature and blood oxygen levels. The Watch should be centered on your wrist and not get pushed to one side.
Durability: Does the band show wear or damage after use?
Style: Versatility in the kinds of outfits you can wear it with and subjective opinion on how it looks.

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Perry Santanachote

As a multimedia content creator at Consumer Reports, Perry Santanachote covered a range of trends—from parasite cleanses to pickleball paddles. Perry was also a main producer of our Outside the Labs content, evaluating products in her tiny Manhattan apartment.