One of the strong points of smartwatches is their ability to be customized. And while a lot of the customization happens on the software side, with the ability to swap in unique digital watch faces, you can change the hardware to your liking as well.
Since the release of the first Apple Watch and its numerous associated wristbands, we’ve seen what a huge difference a strap can make. Just compare the rubberized Sports Band with the Milanese Loop and you’ll see what we mean.
Maybe you didn’t realize you had different strap options when you bought your smartwatch, or perhaps your taste has simply changed. In any case, whether you’re rocking an Apple Watch Series 1 or 6 or some other wrist-bound wearable, you have options if you’re looking to upgrade your smartwatch wrist strap.
Check to See if Your Smartwatch Is Compatible With All Bands
Step one is to do a bit of research to see if you can indeed swap out the strap. If you’re content to purchase another, standalone band from the smartwatch manufacturer, then you should be good to go. But if you have your heart set on a certain third-party strap, you need to make sure that your watch is compatible. Most smartwatches need a strap that’s 22mm wide. That measurement refers to the distance between the holes on the watch where the spring bar fits in.
Below we go through each of the major smartwatches to give you an idea of what each one allows in terms of swapping out straps.
Pebble
Pebble has a standard 22mm watch band, so you can customize it with any other 22mm strap. You need a small screwdriver (1.5mm or less) to make the switch.
Pebble’s fancier sibling, Pebble Steel, doesn’t work with just any old band. Its 22mm watch strap is custom, so you’re limited to the leather and metal bands sold by Pebble. Also keep in mind that Pebble is no longer selling products since the company shut down in late 2016. So your options are definitely limited.
Wear
There are several smartwatches running Google’s Wear (formerly Android Wear) software, and many of them work with third-party watch straps. There are even some official watch strap partners for Wear devices, including E3 Motorcycles, Worn & Wound, and Clockwork Synergy. Additionally, the MODE “snap and swap” watch bands are available directly through the Google Store and are compatible with Wear watches from ASUS and Huawei.
Apple Watch
There are many Apple Watch bands to choose from, including options in various sizes and material, especially since more versions of the smartwatch have been released. That said, there are several reasons why you might want to consider a third-party band. Maybe you want to purchase the entry-level model and buy another band elsewhere to cut down on cost, or maybe none of Apple’s options appeal to you.
Luckily, there are several Kickstarter campaigns and third-party manufacturers offering alternative watch bands for Apple Watch owners. Moreover, Apple has launched an official third-party accessory program that shares design guidelines with companies looking to make their own straps. One option currently available is the Monowear store, which offers a number of options priced under $100.
Another option is available via Casetify; if you want a more customized strap, check out this site where you can upload photos from Instagram and Facebook to create a personalized band.
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