Right from the start, the Apple Watch was all about personalization, thanks to interchangeable bands and watch faces. Now, Apple Watch owners enjoy even more options for making their wearables their own. To aid that quest for customization, we rounded up a bunch of brilliant Apple Watch accessories you can get right now, all for $35 or less.
You’ll find beautiful bands, brilliant bumpers and the coolest charging docks — all reviewed or approved by a member of the Cult of Mac team.
Amazing Apple Watch accessories under $35
Photo: Mifa
Mifa classic leather band
Everyone loves a great leather band, and they don’t have to be expensive. Mifa’s classic option uses genuine cowhide that’s 3mm thick for great durability, and combines it with stainless steel buckles and adapters.
It comes in three colors: black, gray and brown. Perforated dots along the strap allow it to be more breathable, which means it’s perfect for all-day wear. And it looks good whether you’re dressing up for work or dressing down for the weekend.
Mifa’s classic band is so versatile, everyone should have at least one in their collection.
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store — $25
Photo: Elago
Elago retro charging stands
Elago’s spectacular Apple Watch charging stands are my favorite products on this list. And if you’re buying for a fan of anything Apple (or retro gaming), I know they’ll love them, too.
The stands come in a number of outstanding designs inspired by the original Macintosh, the iconic iMac G3, early iPods, and the very first Game Boy. And they come in a number of eye-catching colors.
They’re also surprisingly affordable, with prices starting at just $12.99. The only problem you’ll have is choosing between, them because they’re all so wonderful.
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store — from $12.99
Photo: Elkson
Elkson bumper case
It seems a shame to hide Apple Watch’s gorgeous design. But it’s also a bad idea to leave it exposed. So if you wear yours in harsh environments, pick up the Elkson Quattro Bumper.
It ensures your Apple Watch doesn’t have to fend for itself by protecting it from scuffs and scratches. It covers the sides of the device that are prone to getting knocked, and has a lip that protects its screen.
The Quattro Bumper is made from military-grade thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), so you know it’s up to the task. It’s available in multiple colors, for multiple Apple Watch models (including Apple Watch Ultra).
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store — from $11.99
Photo: Elkson
Elkson Liquid Silicone Rubber Sports Band
Whether you’re jogging dusty planes, surfing crazy waves or lifting heavy weights, the Elkson Liquid Silicone Rubber Sports Band is perfectly suited. And it’s more than durable enough to handle it all.
Made from sturdy silicone, the band is lightweight and flexible, so it won’t feel uncomfortable while you’re on the move. Plus, it’s completely water-resistant, so you can wash it off when it gets dirty.
It has a traditional buckle — not the fiddly “pin-and-tuck” closure you’ll find on Apple’s official Sport band — and it’s a bargain at just $14.99.
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store — $14.99
Photo: Benjamin McKay/Cult of Mac
Carterjett nylon NATO bands
Made of rugged nylon, NATO-style Apple Watch bands from Carterjett are soft, flexible, waterproof and extremely comfortable. That makes them ideal for long days and an active lifestyle.
Carterjett uses unique adapters that don’t use screws, which means you don’t have to worry about them falling apart after a few months. The company also offers XXL size options, so its NATO straps will fit almost any wrist.
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store — $32.99
Photo: Carterjett
Carterjett leather bands
How about a strap made from leather instead? This one offers all the advantages of Carterjett’s NATO fit, but with premium leather — soft and supple right out of the box — that provides a more professional look.
The band sports burnished edges and minimal stitching, and it’s combined with polished black hardware. It’s ideal for Apple Watch owners with more sophisticated taste, and nowhere near as pricey as it looks.
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store — $34.99
Photo: Elago
Elago 3-in-1 charging hub
For Apple Watch owners who also have AirPods, Elago’s excellent 3-in-1 charging hub is a must-have accessory. It tops up an iPhone, an Apple Watch and AirPods simultaneously — and looks good while it’s doing it.
The hub is made entirely out of silicone, so it’s virtually unbreakable. You don’t have to worry about it getting knocked over, and you can take it anywhere without fear of it getting crushed in your bag.
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store — $24.99
Photo: HEDock
HEDock charging stand
The HEDock is made entirely out of high-grade aluminum, and it costs just $15. It looks good no matter where you put it, and it’s crafted to securely hold onto your Apple Watch without falling over.
Its compact, minimalist design means the HEDock will fit anywhere, whether you plan to stick it by your bed or on your desk. And its brushed finish complements other Apple products beautifully.
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store — $15
Photo: Wiplabs
Wiplabs Wall Charging Stand
Frequent travelers need an Apple Watch stand that’s lightweight, compact, and always ready to go. And they don’t get much better than the terrific Wall Charging Stand from Wiplabs.
It’s made from sturdy PVC with a soft, rubberized finish that’s incredibly durable. Simply plug it into any power outlet and it’s good to go. It stays out of your way and means you don’t have to worry about messy cables — and it won’t get broken in your bag.
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store — $29.99
Photo: Carterjett
Carterjett Tire Tread Sport Band
Carterjett’s Tire Tread Sport Band gives you that sporty feel but with a little more to enjoy. It’s super-robust, flexible and waterproof, which makes it ideal for even the toughest workouts.
Like Carterjett’s other bands, this one comes in small, medium, large and XXL sizes to fit any wrist. And you can choose from a bunch of vibrant color options.
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store — $29.99
Note: We originally published this buyer’s guide on December 4, 2020. We update it from time to time with new Apple Watch accessories.
