Apple Watch Strap Adapter Guide

Apple Watch uses its own strap attachment system, but an adapter lets you use a standard watch strap instead. Holben's Apple Watch adapters are designed for standard 22mm watch straps, giving you a much wider choice of materials, colors and styles.

This guide explains which adapter size you need, how to choose a compatible strap and what to check before ordering.

How Apple Watch strap adapters work

An Apple Watch adapter slides into the watch case in place of an Apple strap. The other side of the adapter accepts a standard watch strap using spring bars, much like the lugs on a conventional watch.

Our adapters are designed for 22mm watch straps and are compatible with both standard and quick-release spring bars.

Shop Apple Watch adapters or browse Apple Watch-compatible straps.

Choose the correct Apple Watch adapter size

The adapter must match your Apple Watch case size. Check the case size engraved on the back of your Apple Watch if you are unsure which model you have.

Small adapter

• Apple Watch Series 1, 2 and 3: 38mm
• Apple Watch Series 4, 5 and 6: 40mm
• Apple Watch SE, SE 2 and SE 3: 40mm
• Apple Watch Series 7, 8 and 9: 41mm
• Apple Watch Series 10 and 11: 42mm

Large adapter

• Apple Watch Series 1, 2 and 3: 42mm
• Apple Watch Series 4, 5 and 6: 44mm
• Apple Watch SE, SE 2 and SE 3: 44mm
• Apple Watch Series 7, 8 and 9: 45mm
• Apple Watch Series 10 and 11: 46mm
• Apple Watch Ultra, Ultra 2 and Ultra 3: 49mm

What strap width do I need?

Both sizes of our Apple Watch adapter are designed for 22mm watch straps. The Small and Large designations refer to Apple Watch case compatibility, not the width of the strap.

Once you have selected the correct adapter for your watch, choose a 22mm strap.

Browse Apple Watch-compatible straps.

Choosing a strap for your Apple Watch

Because the adapter creates a standard 22mm attachment, you can choose from many of the same two-piece straps used on conventional watches. The main considerations are sensor clearance, material, length and spring-bar type.

Choose a strap that leaves the sensors uncovered

For normal Apple Watch operation, the back of the watch needs direct contact with your skin. Avoid single-pass and other strap designs that run underneath the watch case, as the material can cover the sensors and interfere with features such as wrist detection and heart-rate readings.

For an easier way to shop, browse straps marked Fits Apple Watch: Yes (with adapters).

Material

Choose the material based on how you plan to wear the watch. Leather works well for everyday or dress wear. Rubber is well suited to water, exercise and active use. Textile straps tend to be lightweight and casual.

For a more detailed comparison, see our Watch Strap Materials Guide, Leather Watch Strap Guide or Rubber Watch Strap Guide.

Length

Strap length determines how the strap fits your wrist. Check the Fits wrists measurement on the product page for the specific strap you are considering. The Apple Watch should fit snugly enough that the back of the watch maintains contact with your skin without being uncomfortably tight.

For more help, see our Strap Length Guide.

Spring bars

Our Apple Watch adapters can be used with straps that have standard spring bars or quick-release spring bars. Quick-release straps can make changing straps easier because the spring-bar lever can be operated without a tool.

How to use a standard strap with Apple Watch

1. Choose the Small or Large adapter that fits your Apple Watch model and case size.
2. Choose a compatible 22mm watch strap.
3. Attach each half of the strap to an adapter using the strap's spring bars.
4. Slide each adapter into the corresponding Apple Watch strap slot until it locks into place. Never force an adapter into the Apple Watch. If it does not slide into place and lock securely, remove it and check its orientation before trying again.
5. Before wearing the watch, gently check that both adapters are fully seated and secure.

If you need to remove a standard spring bar from the adapter, use the side access holes to reach the spring bar.

Common questions

Do I need to buy adapters for every watch strap?

No. You can move the adapters from one compatible 22mm strap to another. Quick-release straps make this especially easy because the spring bars can be removed without a spring bar tool.

Can I use a regular watch strap on an Apple Watch?

Yes. An adapter converts the Apple Watch attachment to a conventional spring-bar connection. Holben's adapters are designed for standard 22mm watch straps.

Do I need different strap widths for the Small and Large adapters?

No. Both adapter sizes accept 22mm watch straps. Choose the adapter size according to your Apple Watch, then choose a compatible 22mm strap.

Why are there two different 42mm Apple Watch adapter sizes?

Apple has used 42mm cases in different generations. Series 1, 2 and 3 models with a 42mm case use our Large adapter. Series 10 and 11 models with a 42mm case use our Small adapter.

How do I find my Apple Watch case size?

The case size is engraved on the back of the Apple Watch. Because 42mm has been used for different generations, also identify the Apple Watch series if you have a 42mm model.

Can I use a quick-release watch strap?

Yes. Our adapters are compatible with both standard and quick-release spring bars.

Will every 22mm watch strap work with Apple Watch?

Not necessarily. Although the adapters accept 22mm straps, some strap designs can obstruct the sensors on the back of the watch. Browse our Apple Watch-compatible straps to see the straps we've identified for use with our adapters.

Ready to choose a strap?

Start with the Apple Watch adapter that fits your watch, then browse straps marked Fits Apple Watch: Yes (with adapters). From there, you can narrow the selection by material, color, brand and other features.

Need help choosing a strap? See our Watch Strap Sizing Guide or contact us.