In the evolving landscape of wireless charging, Ugreen has positioned itself at the forefront with the MagFlow 3-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charger — one of the first products to receive official Qi2.2 certification from the Wireless Power Consortium. With that boost from 15 watts (Qi2) to 25W (Qi2.2) for late-model iPhones, it’s great — but not without some minor problems.

Ugreen MagFlow 3-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charger review

Pocket-size

Ugreen MagFlow 25W 3-in-1 Wireless Charger

$99.99

This foldable, magnetic Qi2 travel charger suits iPhone 16/15/14/13/12, AirPods and Apple Watch. Charges iPhone at 25 watts.

Pros:

• Charges iPhone fast at 25W
• Powers up three devices
• Folds down for charging

Cons:

• Might be too bulky for your pants pocket

Buy from Amazon

05/27/2026 06:14 pm GMT

Getting a jump on many competitors as the market starts to move from Qi2 chargers to Qi2.2 chargers, Ugreen rolled out the MagFlow 3-in-1 along a great power bank and some other products in early September. After extensive testing, this comprehensive review of the MagFlow 3-in-1 charger explores whether this compact premium charging station justifies its price point and delivers on its ambitious promises.

Note that the price shown in the boxes may not update to the current sale price, but you’ll see it when you click through ($139.99 $99.99).

Table of contents: Ugreen MagFlow 3-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charger review

• Design and build quality
• Charging performance and Qi2.2 technology
• Multi-device charging capabilities
• Thermal management and safety
• What’s in the box and value proposition
• Compatibility considerations
• The verdict: Premium performance with notable caveats

Design and build quality

The MagFlow 3-in-1 immediately impresses with its premium aesthetic. Though small, the charger features a hefty, substantial feel that conveys quality, with the weight helping ensure devices won’t easily tip or slide off during use. The design combines an adjustable tilt and rotation system that can function as a desk mount, with the stand supporting 70-degree tilt adjustment and 360-degree rotation.

The charging station comes in a single space gray color and maintains a compact profile in its default state, with the phone charging spot capable of lying flat or tilting up to 70 degrees. The aluminum construction and thoughtful engineering create a product that feels distinctly premium. But the hinge quality could be a little higher, perhaps.

The foldable design represents both a strength and weakness. The charger folds up nicely for travel, making it portable enough for those who need a multi-device charging solution on the go. However, the hinge on the phone charger, while staying in position once set, doesn’t move as fluidly as some competing options. It feels a little stiff. 

Charging performance and Qi2.2 technology

At the heart of the MagFlow 3-in-1 is its Qi2.2 certification, representing cutting-edge wireless charging technology. The charger delivers a total wireless output power of 25W maximum, with the iPhone receiving 15W and both the Apple Watch and AirPods receiving 5W each. This represents a significant advance over standard Qi charging.

During testing, the charger achieved 10 percent charge in just 10 minutes, showing respectable charging speeds. The Qi2.2 standard builds upon Apple’s MagSafe architecture with improved magnetic alignment and enhanced heat control for safer, more efficient charging.

The magnetic hold is generally strong and reliable. The charger features powerful magnets that provide a secure attachment, giving users peace of mind during use. I found the charging platform gripped my iPhone 16 Pro tightly in its Mujjo leather case. It’s a MagSafe-compatible case. 

Multi-device charging capabilities

The three-device simultaneous charging is where the MagFlow truly shines for Apple ecosystem users. The charging station seamlessly charges iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods simultaneously, making it an ideal all-in-one solution for bedside tables or desks.

The dedicated Apple Watch charging puck is retractable, contributing to the clean, organized aesthetic when not in use.

Thermal management and safety

Ugreen has implemented comprehensive safety features in the MagFlow 3-in-1. The ThermalGuard system monitors temperatures in real time and cuts power if the stand becomes too warm, with eight layers of protection including overcurrent, short-circuit and foreign object detection. The fire-rated PC and ABS shell construction adds another layer of safety assurance.

During extended charging sessions, the station heated up slightly but not enough to cause concern about device overheating. Some reviewers mentioned detecting a faint humming sound during operation. That could come from internal cooling mechanisms that help maintain safe operating temperatures.

What’s in the box and value proposition

One significant advantage over some competitors comes in what Ugreen includes. In the package I found a 30W USB-C charger and compatible cable, which many competing chargers omit. So this comes as a complete solution out of the box.

However, the included 45W power adapter is slightly bulky. It might not always fit comfortably into power strips shared with other plugs.

The pricing presents a complex value equation. The charger carries a list price of $99, though various retailers offer discounts. At around one hundred forty dollars at some retailers, it represents a premium investment, positioning it against established competitors like Belkin’s UltraCharge Pro and Nimble’s Fold 3-in-1.

Real-world usage and practicality

The adjustable viewing angles make the MagFlow 3-in-1 practical for various scenarios. The stand supports hands-free use for FaceTime calls, video watching or desk work while maintaining charging functionality. The ability to position the phone both vertically and horizontally adds versatility for different content types. iPhone in Standby mode with a clock and other widgets works nicely. 

One notable inconvenience mentioned in the safety instructions requires users to unplug the wireless charger from the power supply after each charging session, which could become tedious for those who prefer leaving chargers perpetually connected. Hard to say if it’s really necessary to unplug it every time. 

Compatibility considerations

The charger fully complies with Qi2 wireless charging standards. But the messy state of Qi2-compatible phones could present challenges. Few devices beyond MagSafe iPhones have built-in magnets for vertical positioning without cases or accessories.

So for users of older iPhone and many Android phones, the value proposition diminishes.

The verdict: Premium performance with notable caveats

Ugreen MagFlow 3-in-1 Qi2.2 Magnetic Wireless Charger represents impressive engineering and future-forward technology, but it’s not without compromises. For those seeking hassle-free multi-device charging with elegant design, it simplifies daily life and makes travel easier. But at about $100, it’s not cheap. 

While the charger performs as advertised and achieves its quoted charging rates, some users might take issue with the somewhat-large power adapter, occasionally stiff hinge and potential low-grade humming sound.

But for dedicated Apple ecosystem users who value the convenience of charging multiple devices simultaneously with cutting-edge Qi2.2 technology, this represents one of the best MagSafe-compatible 3-in-1 chargers currently available. 

The MagFlow 3-in-1 succeeds as a sophisticated, future-proofed charging solution that elegantly solves the multi-device charging problem. Whether it’s worth the investment depends on how deeply embedded you are in the Apple ecosystem and how much you value having the latest wireless charging technology on your desk or nightstand.

Pocket-size

Ugreen MagFlow 25W 3-in-1 Wireless Charger

$99.99

This foldable, magnetic Qi2 travel charger suits iPhone 16/15/14/13/12, AirPods and Apple Watch. Charges iPhone at 25 watts.

Pros:

• Charges iPhone fast at 25W
• Powers up three devices
• Folds down for charging

Cons:

• Might be too bulky for your pants pocket

Buy from Amazon

05/27/2026 06:14 pm GMT

Buy from: Amazon

★★★★☆

Ugreen provided Cult of Mac with a review unit for this article. See our reviews policy, and check out other in-depth reviews of Apple-related items.

Early reviews of Apple Watch Series 11 seem to agree that while it looks just like its predecessor, this incremental update delivers meaningful improvements in some areas.

The biggest upgrade: longer battery life. But those with an Apple Watch Series 9 or 10 can skip this round unless you really want the six-hour battery boost. Check out review notes and review videos below.

Apple Watch Series 11 reviews roundup: Battery life breakthrough ends 18-hour ceiling

Apple unveiled Apple Watch Series 11 alongside Apple Watch Ultra 3, Apple Watch SE 3 and the iPhone 17 lineup at its Awe Dropping event last week. With the new model closely resembling Apple Watch 10, the most significant upgrade across all reviews is the Series 11’s jump to 24-hour battery life. It ends a decade-long plateau at 18 hours for flagship Apple Watch models.

CNET‘s reviewer consistently managed between 27 and 32 hours per charge, even with heavy usage including notifications, workouts and sleep tracking. The Tom’s Guide reviewer noted she could easily go a day and a half between charges.

TechRadar‘s testing showed about 17 hours from half a charge, with the reviewer pulling his watch off the charger at 54% and not getting down to 1% until after 5 p.m. the next day. The improvement comes from battery capacity increases of 9% in the 42mm model and 11% in the 46mm version, according to multiple reviews.

Engadget emphasized how this addresses a major obstacle to sleep tracking, noting that “it’s the first thing I sacrifice when faced with a dead watch.” All reviewers agreed that the battery gains represent the most practical upgrade for daily users.

Health features expand beyond Apple Watch Series 11

The new hypertension alerts feature garnered significant attention, though reviewers noted it’s not exclusive to Apple Watch Series 11. CNET said the feature works similarly to existing heart health alerts, running quietly in the background and requiring about 30 days of data before surfacing notifications. Importantly, Tom’s Guide clarified that this is not a blood pressure monitor but rather uses an algorithm and optical heart rate sensor to alert users to possible hypertension.

The Apple Watch’s new Sleep Score feature also received positive marks. Engadget praised Apple’s approach, noting “it makes it very easy to see at a glance what areas I should strive to improve,” with color-coded rings showing duration, bedtime consistency and interruptions. TechRadar called it “a long-awaited arrival that’s executed perfectly” and noted it retroactively scores past nights.

Both features will be available on older Apple Watch models through watchOS 26, which several reviewers noted reduces the exclusivity of Series 11’s health improvements.

Design stays familiar with durability improvements

Reviewers universally said Apple Watch Series 11’s design remains virtually identical to Series 10. TechRadar said “placing my 46mm Series 11 review device next to a Series 10 I see an identical rounded-square Apple Watch, aside from the updated paint job.” CNET’s reviewer admitted being “notorious for going hard on my electronics” but reported no scratches after six days, crediting the twice-as-scratch-resistant Ion-X glass.

The 9.7mm thickness carries over from the Series 10, with TechRadar noting “there were times when I forgot it was even there during my seven days of testing” due to the ultra-thin profile.

5G connectivity and watchOS 26 refinements

The addition of 5G support received positive mentions across reviews, though with less enthusiasm than the battery improvements. CNET explained the Series 11 uses “5G RedCap, or 5G Reduced Capacity” which is “more power-efficient at maintaining a connection than previous Apple Watches.”

watchOS 26’s Liquid Glass interface divided opinion slightly. Engadget noted “some people love the glassy translucence, others hate it because of its more organic (less contrasty) look.” The reviewer acknowledged that the glossy upgrade makes the Apple Watch “just a bit harder to read at a glance.”

Performance remains unchanged but adequate

All reviewers noted Series 11 uses the same S10 chip as Series 10, with no meaningful performance improvements. TechRadar listed “no major performance gains year over year” as a con, though the reviewer found apps opened quickly and ran smoothly.

Tom’s Guide noted the lack of meaningful AI upgrades to Siri as a missed opportunity, comparing it unfavorably to Samsung and Google’s more AI-capable smartwatches.

Apple Watch Series 11 reviews verdict: An incremental but meaningful upgrade can be skipped

Despite the lack of major design changes or performance improvements, reviewers generally recommended Apple Watch Series 11, particularly for users coming from older models. CNET concluded “the Series 11 is still my favorite of the bunch” while noting “the gap between it and the competition is narrowing.” TechRadar called it “the most capable and balanced Apple Watch yet.”

However, most reviewers agreed that Apple Watch Series 10 owners can skip this generation. TechRadar said “if you’re rocking a Series 10, you likely don’t need an upgrade unless you’re eager for better battery life.” Tom’s Guide said “those who already own the Series 9 or Series 10 might not find enough here to justify the switch.”

The $399 starting price remains unchanged from Series 10, which reviewers appreciated given current economic pressures. For first-time buyers or those with older Apple Watches, Series 11 represents a solid evolution of Apple’s smartwatch formula, even if it doesn’t break significant new ground.

Apple Watch 11 review videos

 

The Apple Watch 11 reviews roundup post first published on September 16, 2025. We updated it on September 17, 2025. 

In a world of look-alike 3-in-1 chargers for iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods, the new Journey Nova 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station stands out. Like its distinctive looks or not, seeing it without any devices charging might make you wonder what the hell it is — an abstract sculpture, or maybe a prop from the original Star Trek? But for many it could be the sleek charger that subtly fits in with modern decor — if they’re willing to pay the hefty asking price ($139.99).

Journey Nova 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station review

Journey Nova’s distinctive design

Journey sent me the Wood Grain version of the charger, released in October. Its two-tone design with white plastic and “wood grain” — like how laminate flooring is wood-like but clearly not like actual wood — looks pretty good, likely to fit in among white and natural wood decor. The other style replaces the wood look with “Sparkly Gray” plastic. The charger stands a bit tall and intentionally takes up less of a footprint than many multi-device chargers to fit in more spots in a home or office.

The faux wood grain finish adds a touch of warmth to what could have been a cold, tech-heavy accessory. I have a lot of natural wood tones in my furniture, so I figured Nova might look good. But looking closely at and handling Nova made me notice the wood grain is obviously artificial. That might be a small disappointment for those seeking authenticity.

Even though the “wood” turned out a little more faux that I expected, the charger’s unusual and attractive design struck me as sleek. It’s not just another bland charging pad. It’s main charging area for iPhone doesn’t even have a target marking that says “this is a charger.” You just find the magnetic spot your handset sticks to (and note the handset sticks up a bit, so you need a bit of headroom where you place the charger).

Nova aspires to be a statement piece that demands at least a bit of attention, even if it’s just your friend saying, “Oh, it’s a charger? Huh. That’s kind of weird. I thought it was an ID verification device from the original Star Trek.”

Powering up: Charging capabilities

I like an unusual gadget as much as the next person, so I was happy to put the Journey Nova through its paces. And true to its 3-in-1 moniker, Nova can simultaneously charge a smartphone, wireless earbuds charging case and a smartwatch. No more juggling cables or playing musical chairs with your devices.

The charging pad for iPhone is the slanted magnetic surface on top of Nova packing 15 watts of MagSafe level charging. A 5W pad in the enclosure below, which includes a night light, juices up an AirPods wireless charging case. And a 5W Apple Watch charging puck folds up from the back. What’s missing is a USB-C port somewhere in the base for a fourth device to charge via cable. Plenty of multi-device chargers have one.

• With Nova charging three devices, my iPhone 16 Pro went from 29% to 44% capacity in 22 minutes. After another 30 minutes, it reached 66%, then hit 86% another 39 minutes later. So that’s from 29% to 86% in one hour and 31 minutes.
• Meanwhile, in the same hour and a half, my Apple Watch 10 went from 10% to 100%. In the first 22 minutes, it bumped up to 49%, then to 74% after another half hour. My AirPods Pro 2 charging case went from 70% to 86% in 30 minutes and then another 10% in 39 additional minutes.

Though I used it to charge Apple gear, Nova’s compatible with Android products, too.

Easy setup and use

Nova’s charging speed seems decent for this style of charger (though not what you’d get from a high-wattage multiport adapter):

Setting up the Journey Nova was a breeze, as it is with many multi-device chargers — truly a plug-and-play affair. Just unbox and place the station on your desk or table. Connect the power adapter. Position your devices on their respective charging spots. And voilà! You’re up and running faster than you can say “low battery anxiety.”

Journey Nova: Weighing pros and cons

Pros:

• Sleek, eye-catching design
• Fast charging for multiple devices
• Easy setup and use
• Works with Apple and Android devices.

Cons:

• Overall design and faux wood finish may not appeal to all.
• Premium price point
• Limited color options

Journey Nova features at a glance

• Fast charges phone, earbuds and watch simultaneously.
• Delivers up to 15W fast wireless charging for iPhones (12 and onwards), 5W fast charging for Apple Watches, and AirPods.
• Distinct hollow form and split-material characteristics for a striking décor statement.
• Vertical build (minimizes desk footprint): 6 inches (15cm) tall with weight of 8.8 ounces (250 grams).
• Weighted base for maximum stability.
• Flip-open Apple Watch charger module tucks in at the rear of the charger.
• LED charging status indicator light automatically turns off after 12 seconds.

Verdict: A Journey worth taking?

After spending a week or so with Journey Nova 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station, I appreciate its blend of functionality and looks. I’m not sure I’m used to the way it looks yet, though. Kind of odd. But it goes with the white monitor riser on my wooden desk, so it could replace my older 3-in-1 charger there.

Is it perfect? Not quite. The unusual design and the faux wood finish might not be everyone’s cup of tea, and the price point — $139.99 unless you find it on sale — could be a barrier. However, for those who value a clutter-free, efficient charging solution that doesn’t sacrifice style, the Journey Nova might be a compelling choice.

Buy from: Journey

Journey provided Cult of Mac with a review unit for this article. See our reviews policy, and check out other in-depth reviews of Apple-related items.

★★★★☆

Rather than Apple Watch Ultra 3, we got the Ultra 2 in a “satin black” titanium finish. This might be more disappointing if early reviewers weren’t raving about the new color.

“It looks sick as hell,” said The Verge reviewer.

Apple Watch Ultra 2: Back in black

The “It’s Glowtime” event on September 9 brought Apple Watch Series 10, but no Ultra 3. Instead, the top-of-the-line wearable got the new satin black finish, which joins the existing natural titanium finish.

The new color option seems to have done something profound to The Verge reviewer:

“This is the Apple Watch Batman would buy. Never mind that it’s a mini brick on my wrists. Sliding it on for a photoshoot, I feel something wash over me. No longer am I a sleep-deprived tech reviewer hunched over an overpriced coffee. I’m a leather-clad vampire assassin calmly sipping espresso on a cobblestone street. With the new Reflections watchface in black, I immediately level up 1,000 mystery points.”

While not everyone goes as over the top, reviewer comments on Apple Watch Ultra 2 in satin black are generally quite positive.

“This finish of the watch is better suited for dressing up, especially when paired with the new Titanium Milanese Loop,” said Tom’s Guide.

But there’s also a warning that the device is not black as hell.

“The black titanium Ultra 2 has a matte finish like the natural model, but the darker color gives it a sleeker look. I wouldn’t call this a true black — in the light it’s more of a very dark gray,” noted PC Mag.

On his DesFit YouTube channel, Des Yap described the black titanium Apple Watch Ultra 2’s color as a subtle gunmetal and talked about the physical vapor deposition process used to create the matte finish. He also showed how the new watch looks with various bands (see the full video below).

“This is the color I always wanted the Ultra to be … and we finally now have it,” he said. “And quite frankly, I think it’s pretty stunning.”

Everything else

Occasionally, Apple upgrades its products on the down low, quietly improving a device without changing the name. That’s not what happened this time. Apple Watch Ultra 2 in satin black is exactly the same as the one introduced in 2023. Which means you need look no farther than previous reviews of the wearable to learn all you need to know about it.

The device in the additional color‌ starts at $799 and is available for preorder now.

Buy it from: Amazon or Apple

I’m sure Bruce has one already, but Batman’s new favorite wearable reaches other customers on September 20.

The charging station’s compact design makes it one of the smaller MagSafe-compatible docks I’ve seen that supports 15W fast charging. Measuring just 3.07 x 2.36 x 2.36 inches, it’s small enough for travel if you have space in your bag or for keeping your workspace tidy because it doesn’t take up much space. The charger’s build quality is top-notch, featuring a tilting top charging panel for MagSafe iPhones that adjusts up to 70 degrees for a better viewing angle. This flexibility allows me to easily see notifications or watch videos while my device charges. It’s great for Standby mode, too. If you’d like to know more about similar charging solutions, check out this review.

Ugreen Uno 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Station 15W

We’ll dive into what makes this charging station, part of a whole lineup of Ugreen Uno charging products, stand out from the crowd. I’ll cover its design and build quality and its charging capabilities for iPhones, Apple Watches and AirPods. I’ll also look at the user experience, highlighting its 15-watt fast-charging feature, and weigh the charger’s pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your charging needs.

Compact design in robotic form

The charging station’s compact design makes it one of the smaller MagSafe-compatible docks I’ve seen that supports 15W fast charging. Measuring just 3.07 x 2.36 x 2.36 inches, it’s small enough for travel if you have space in your bag, or for keeping your workspace tidy because it doesn’t take up much space. The charger’s build quality is top-notch, featuring a tilting top charging panel for MagSafe iPhones that adjusts up to 70 degrees for a better viewing angle. This flexibility allows me to easily see notifications or watch videos while my device charges. It’s great for Standby mode, too.

What really sets this charger apart is its unique robot-like appearance. The front panel sports a TFT screen that displays emoji-style charging indicators. It’s a fun touch that adds personality to the charging experience. However, I can’t help but feel it’s a missed opportunity to provide more valuable charging information. And if you place your iPhone in portrait (vertical) mode, you can’t see the screen.

The magnetic connection is strong and secure, ensuring your phone stays in place while charging. This feature, combined with its compact size and adjustable angle, makes the Ugreen Uno 2-in-1 a standout choice for those seeking a reliable and fun charging solution.

Qi2 charging capabilities

The Ugreen Uno 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Station features solid charging capabilities. It boasts Qi2 certification, delivering an impressive 15W charging speed for iPhones (or Androids), which is double the speed of non-certified chargers. In my tests, I found it can charge an iPhone from 0% to 40% in just under 30 minutes. That’s handy to have on busy days.

The charger’s versatility is another plus. In fact, it probably should be called a 3-in-1, not a 2-in-1. When I lift up the tilting iPhone charging pad, there’s a surface underneath that Ugreen has cleverly made into a second charging surface. It fits an AirPods (or other earbuds) wireless charging case, delivering 5W. So I can charge those two devices at the same time. But there’s also third option. There’s a USB-C port (USB-C to USB-C cable included) on the side for charging other devices, also at 5W. If you have a charging fob for Apple Watch, you can insert it there. Or it would be a handy spot to juice up a wireless mouse or keyboard.

And safety is a top priority with this charger. It’s equipped with overvoltage, overcurrent, overheat and short circuit protection, giving me peace of mind while charging my devices. And I’m always glad when a charger never gets hot to the touch while in use, and this one didn’t (just slightly warm).

Easy and fun to use (‘fun’ for a charger, that is)

User-friendly features are another win for the Ugreen Uno 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Station. The charger’s TFT screen displays smart status emojis, adding a fun element to the charging experience. And it’s perfect for StandBy mode, letting you view widgets on your desk or nightstand.

If I have a quibble about the whole smiling bot thing with this charger, it’s that the emoji indicators on the screen don’t say much. You bet the eyebrows powered on and standby status, or you get the same with an added sideways “v” for a mouth to indicate charging or fully charged status. That’s it.

Ugreen Uno 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Station: Pros and cons

Pros:

• The tilting Qi2 charging spot offers flexibility in viewing angles. Even better, the surface under the tilting pad is perfect for charging AirPods.
• The charger supports StandBy mode, which is great for using widgets on your desk or nightstand.
• The side USB-C port is handy for charging additional devices.
• Who doesn’t like smiling robots? (Er, unless they’re smiling because they know the “rise of the machines” has begun …)

Cons:

• A phone placed on the pad in portrait orientation (vertically) can obstruct the digital face, limiting its usefulness.
• The side USB-C port’s output is relatively low, at 5W. (This charger is only for small devices.)
• Considering its total power output of 25W, the price point is somewhat high (thankfully the launch sale knocks it down a bit).
• A watch charging fob can insert into the USB port, but no such charger is included.

But despite the cons appearing to at least equal the pros, I’ve found the charger to be a welcome addition to my desk setup. It’s convenient for charging my iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods simultaneously in a tight space, like on a messy desk like mine.

Bottom line: A bit pricey for 25W max output, but worthwhile at sale price

So the Ugreen Uno 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Station has an impact on the charging game with its blend of style and function. Its compact design, fast charging capabilities and multi-device support make it a strong contender to consider for Apple users looking to streamline their charging setup. The charger’s unique robot-like appearance and emoji-style indicators add a fun touch, even if they don’t provide detailed charging info.

While the Ugreen Uno 2-in-1 has its drawbacks, like not a whole lot of output power for the price and a potentially obstructed digital face, it still stands out as a handy desk companion. Its ability to charge multiple devices simultaneously and support for StandBy mode enhances its usefulness.

With a list price of $69.99 currently marked down to $48.99, you can check it out at Ugreen.com or on Amazon to see if it fits your charging needs. It costs a bit more than other chargers with a 25-watt maximum output. But it gets the job(s) done in style and with a smile.

Buy from: Amazon

Ugreen provided Cult of Mac with a review unit for this article. See our reviews policy, and check out other in-depth reviews of Apple-related items.

★★★★☆

A multidevice charger like the ESR Qi2 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station is a must-have, especially if you own an iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods. A 3-in-1 charger removes the hassle of dealing with multiple power bricks and cables, which occupy unwanted desk space and power sockets.

ESR recently launched its Qi2 3-in-1 wireless charging station, which stands out for its Qi2 support and detachable Apple Watch charger. Its small footprint, sturdy design and welcome extras make it a solid contender for a prime spot on your nightstand.

This post contains affiliate links. Cult of Mac may earn a commission when you use our links to buy items.

ESR Qi2 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station review

There’s no dearth of MagSafe-based 3-in-1 charging stations. However, ESR is among the first well-known accessory-makers to launch a Qi2-compatible 3-in-1 charger. Since iPhones also support Qi2, the charging station can wirelessly top up your phone at full speed. Plus, it comes with a removable Apple Watch charger that can be used separately.

Table of contents: ESR Qi2 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station review

• A sleek 3-in-1 charging station
• Charge your devices at full speed wirelessly
• The lack of an extra USB-C port is a bummer
• A great 3-in-1 for your bedside table

ESR Qi2 3-in-1 Charging Station

$29.98

This MagSafe-compatible Qi2 wireless charging stand powers up iPhone, Apple Watch [Certified] and AirPods.

Buy now

05/26/2026 03:13 am GMT

A sleek 3-in-1 charging station

The ESR wireless charging station is matte black, with the Apple Watch charging puck featuring a white top. The Qi2 charging base has a glossy finish to help it stand out. The dark shade ensures the 3-in-1 won’t easily get dirty over time, which has been a recurring issue with all my previous charging stations since they were primarily white.

More importantly, the charging station does not use chrome, which is prone to scratches and scuffs over time. The ESR’s understated and stealthy design lacks the bling you might see in similar offerings. But this is a more practical approach that will better withstand daily use. If you want, you can get the charging station in white.

The Qi2 charging stand can hold your iPhone in portrait or landscape orientation. Since Qi2 and MagSafe use magnets for device alignment, you won’t need to worry about placement. Apple added Qi2 compatibility to iPhone 12 and newer models with iOS 17.4, so your iPhone will charge at its peak wireless speed of 15W with ESR’s charging station.

You also can juice up Android phones wirelessly with ESR’s Qi2 3-in-1 charger. However, they will only pull 15 watts of power, even if they support higher speeds. Plus, a MagSafe or Qi2 wireless ring must be installed on their body. Otherwise, they won’t magnetically stick to the ESR charging station.

Unlike some other charging stations, the iPhone’s charging stand on the ESR 3-in-1 sits at a fixed angle. This makes it ideal for placing the phone in landscape mode for StandBy mode or for video calls. I did not encounter any problems when using the charging station on my bedside table, but it might not work for you if the default angle does not fit your use case. There’s a status light at the bottom, but it is so dim that it is barely noticeable. That’s good, since you will not want a charger on your bedside table with a bright status light. That would become annoying in no time.

A removable Apple Watch charger adds versatility

A unique aspect of ESR’s 3-in-1 charging station is the removable Apple Watch charger. It plugs into the back of the stand through a USB-C port. If you don’t own an Apple Watch, you can decide not to install the charger. Or, if you frequently travel, you can remove the Apple Watch charger from the 3-in-1 charging station and carry it with you in your pocket or backpack. It is more convenient and easy to carry than Apple’s official charger. Plus, since it uses USB-C, you can directly plug it into your laptop or a power brick to charge your Apple Watch or AirPods Pro 2.

Unlike many other charging stations, ESR’s 3-in-1 offering has a relatively small footprint. Given my bedside table is almost always filled with unwanted stuff, I like the compact design. There’s more room for me to put my other crap. As mentioned, you can remove the Apple Watch charger from the rear to reduce the charging station’s footprint even further.

Charge your devices at full speed wirelessly

ESR bundles a 30W power brick and a 5-foot USB-C to USB-C cable in the box. So, you won’t need to source your own charger or cable. You get everything in the box needed to use the 3-in-1 charging station. The lengthy cable can come in quite handy, depending on where your power outlets are located.

The Qi2 stand provides 15W of power output, the maximum supported by the standard’s current implementation. The portable Apple Watch and the AirPods charging slot provide 5W of juice individually, which is enough to fast charge these devices. ESR says its Apple Watch charger is an Apple-certified second-gen model. So, it can fast charge your smartwatch at up to 5W speeds, the same as Apple’s official charging puck. My Apple Watch Series 7 topped up its battery from 10% to 80% in around 30 minutes, which is close to Apple’s claim.

The charging spot at the base of the charger has a recessed area, so you know where to place your AirPods or other wireless earbuds. You can even charge other wireless accessories from here. I tried placing an Android smartphone in place of AirPods, and it charged just fine, albeit slowly, since the power output tops out at 5W.

The lack of an extra USB-C port is a bummer

My only complaint with the ESR 3-in-1 charging station is the lack of an additional USB-C port. This would have allowed me to connect my iPad or other USB-C accessories directly to the charger for topping up their batteries. Admittedly, this is not a problem that should affect most users.

A great 3-in-1 for your bedside table

I like ESR’s Qi2 3-in-1 charging station a lot. It works with iPhone 12 and newer and can fast charge your AirPods or Apple Watch. And Qi2 support means it will work with all future Android smartphones that support the wireless charging standard.

The charging station’s compact dimension ensures it does not occupy a lot of space on your bedside table. The portable Apple Watch charger is also a thoughtful addition, as you can carry it with you when needed.

The official MSRP of the ESR 3-in-1 charging station is $89.99. That’s pretty expensive, but it is frequently discounted to as low as $60 or less, making it a stellar deal, especially since it comes with its own power supply and lengthy USB-C cable.

★★★★☆

Buy from: Amazon

ESR Qi2 3-in-1 Charging Station

$29.98

This MagSafe-compatible Qi2 wireless charging stand powers up iPhone, Apple Watch [Certified] and AirPods.

Buy now

05/26/2026 03:13 am GMT

ESR provided Cult of Mac with a review unit for this article. See our reviews policy, and check out more in-depth reviews of Apple-related items.

If you’re looking for a hardy velcro EDC watch band for your Apple Watch, Mifa has you covered. Mifa’s Nylon Sports Leather Apple Watch Band is sturdy, the velcro is strong and the stitched leather is high-quality.

It’s a nice band for daily wear.

It comes in five different styles. The gray-on-black NASA-inspired design is my favorite. Two other designs in brown and black emphasize “EDC-34 Essential Series” with the Mifa name. And two new versions (in green and orange) sport NASA’s classic “meatball” insignia.

This post contains affiliate links. Cult of Mac may earn a commission when you use our links to buy items.

Hands-on with Mifa velcro bands

The Mifa band is dead simple to put on and the velcro forms a strong bond. Tugging on the band, it won’t budge. Pull on the very end of the strap and it comes off in a second.

Best band for EDC

Every-Day-Carry (EDC) Mifa Nylon Sports Leather Apple Watch Band

$25

The Mifa nylon band is a great every-day-carry Apple Watch strap. It's made of comfortable material and is easy to fasten that comes in five different styles. This nylon strap is a high-quality strap at a low price. We gave it a four-out-of-five review on Cult of Mac.

• Durable design
• Five different styles
• Comfortable to wear daily
• Matches Apple Watch Ultra

Buy Now

Style

You have five choices of color. All five styles have the same basic construction of black plastic lugs, a black nylon velcro band with leather accents and a stitched label.

On this first band, with the leather accents in a saddle brown color, you can see all the different elements. The label is yellow on black. I wore this band first because the brown pieces added a pop of color.

The second band I put on (and ended up wearing the most) has a NASA-themed label on the strap. I wore this band while I was rewatching For All Mankind and celebrating the launch of Artemis I on NASA’s SLS rocket. I only wish it had more accent colors. The black leather blends into the black nylon — perhaps blue or red, or even just gray, would pop a little more.

The last band is all black with a solid yellow label. I don’t have enough bright, warm hues in my wardrobe to make this work, but you might. This one will pair well with the Apple Watch Ultra.

This band places the greatest emphasis on “EDC-34,” which stands for “Every-Day Carry,” a phrase that refers to useful items that people carry around on their person. EDC often connotes pens, watches, wallets multi-tools, and other useful tools, but can also mean guns and knives.

The band can be ordered with lugs that make it compatible with any Apple Watch. But it looks best on the larger Apple Watch and the Apple Watch Ultra. I have the smaller model, and as you can see, the width of the band is about equal to the width of the watch case — traditionally, the band should be narrower than the case.

Comfort

The Mifa band’s wide width certainly helps with comfort. If you want a tight fit, a wider band like this will distribute the pressure. It keeps you from feeling handcuffed.

The dense nylon material isn’t as breathable as some other bands. I wouldn’t wear this band while working out, or even casually outdoors on an especially hot and humid day.

I use my Apple Watch for sleep tracking, so I wore the band overnight for a week. I’m a habitual arm-under-pillow sleeper and I was worried the velcro would get caught on my sheets and pull it off. I didn’t have any problems with this.

I do not recommend this band for taking a bath or going for a swim. While the Apple Watch handles water just fine, the nylon material retains moisture for the next few hours.

Except for the summer months, nine months out of the year I put on a button-down long-sleeve shirt. Whereas slimmer bands allow the watch to slide under the sleeve, the bulk of this band will usually keep the watch exposed.

You might consider that a drawback, but for me, it makes it easier to check the time.

I should also mention the length of the band using the universal standard of measurement, equivalent length in Sport Band notches. If you wear the medium-length Sport band on the middle notch, the Mifa band will be snug on your wrist. If you wear your Sport band on the smallest or second-smallest notch, the Mifa band will probably be too big.

Quality

The Mifa bands all have very solid construction. Not a single stitch came loose after a couple weeks of daily wear.

The velcro is pretty strong. On a velcro strap like this, you might expect it to separate a bit at the very end, but this wasn’t noticeable. Occasionally, bits of fuzz and dog hair get trapped in the band. This is equally a testament to the strength of the velcro and the fuzziness of my dogs.

The Mifa Nylon Sports Leather Apple Watch Band is a high-quality product at a low price. I’ve tested worse bands that cost more.

★★★★☆

Best band for EDC

Every-Day-Carry (EDC) Mifa Nylon Sports Leather Apple Watch Band

$25

The Mifa nylon band is a great every-day-carry Apple Watch strap. It's made of comfortable material and is easy to fasten that comes in five different styles. This nylon strap is a high-quality strap at a low price. We gave it a four-out-of-five review on Cult of Mac.

• Durable design
• Five different styles
• Comfortable to wear daily
• Matches Apple Watch Ultra

Buy Now

Note: We originally published this review on February 20, 2023. We updated it with new info on green and orange versions of Mifa’s EDC Apple Watch band that feature a classic NASA logo.

If you only want one charger for your smaller gadgets, Alogic’s new Matrix Ultimate is nearly ideal. You can use the 3-in-1 charger for iPhone, AirPods and Apple Watch at home or easily take it with you on trips.

That’s because the solidly built folding portable charger has a removable power bank and Apple Watch charging puck, plus a very nice felt carrying case. And it comes with a power adapter and USB-C cable. It’s not cheap, but it’s quite useful.

This post contains affiliate links. Cult of Mac may earn a commission when you use our links to buy items.

Alogic Matrix Ultimate Fold 3-in-1 Stand with MagSafe Power Bank

Alogic rolled out the Alogic Matrix Ultimate Fold 3-in-1 Stand with MagSafe Power Bank at CES 2024 in Las Vegas. The company sent me one to try out. To me the white plastic stand with a chome hinge felt solid and well-built, and it worked as advertised.

As the long name implies, Matrix Ultimate is a 3-in-1 folding stand that integrates a MagSafe power bank (5000mAh battery, that is). Assembled as a stand, it holds and charges a MagSafe iPhone at 15 watts of power and Apple Watch (up to 3W) and AirPods wireless charging case (up to 5W). That counts as fast charging for iPhone Series 12 through 15 handsets and Apple Watch 7 and newer.

Fold it up or take it apart

You can fold up the stand for storage or disassemble it by removing the MagSafe power bank to charge your iPhone separately (still at 15W). Adding still more flexibility, Matrix Ultimate also lets you pop out the magnetic Apple Watch charging puck and plug it into a USB-C port somewhere else, like on a laptop.

When you use Matrix Ultimate as a stand, you have a spot on the base where you can zap some power into an AirPods Pro charging case and the earbuds inside it (or another Qi device). That part isn’t magnetic, so you just need to place the case carefully to ensure it charges. Look for the light on the side of the case to come on.

Quick and easy power

In my tests, I used Matrix Ultimate as a stand with three gadgets charging at once and also charged my iPhone 13 Pro separately with the MagSafe power bank alone. As expected, iPhone charging performed the same both ways.

The charger took my iPhone from 26% full to 44% full in 15 minutes, to 57% full after 30 minutes and to 79% full after 50 minutes.

The charging puck juiced up my Apple Watch 6 from 7% to 32% full in 15 minutes, to 49% full in 30 minutes and to 77% full in 50 minutes.

Thanks to my not being careful enough to place the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) charging case just so, my AirPods charging results were more mixed, but the charging area, delineated by an indented rectangular shape, certainly worked.

And if you’re using the power bank and it runs out of juice, you can charge it in the stand along with gadgets via the 30W adapter (with folding prongs) and USB-C to USB-C cable.

A little bit bulky

My one slight hesitation over recommending Matrix Ultimate to absolutely everyone has to do with bulk. It’s a little chunky in two ways.

First, the 5000mAh MagSafe charger is a bit thick. It’s circular charging platform for iPhone rises up from the bank’s body by 5 millimeters or so. Not everyone would want to carry their iPhone on a power bank in their pocket anyway, but with this one you probably wouldn’t even try. And that raised platform probably wouldn’t stay fixed to the handset in unstable spot like that, either.

Second, when you pack up Matrix Ultimate in its soft and, frankly, adorable felt case, the package isn’t exactly small. It’s a dense and somewhat heavy little brick, at 20.5cm x 10.5cm x6.5cm (8in x 4.1.in x 2.6in). Packed into a tight space — computer bag, knapsack, large coat pocket — it would scrunch up a bit, however. The flap over the top, held in place when closed by an elastic loop over a button, can be compressed a bit.

Matrix Ultimate specifications:

• Dimensions of assembled stand: 150mm x 80mm x 50mm (LxWxH)
• Weight: 421g (14.9oz)
• Output: USB-C PD 30W
• MagSafe Power Bank: Up to 15W
• Fold Stand Qi-Wireless Charging: Up to 5W
• Fold Stand USB-C Output: Up to 7.5W
• Apple Watch Fast Charger: Up to 3W
• Power Bank Battery Capacity: 5,000mAh

In the box:

• Matrix Ultimate Fold Stand
• Matrix Ultimate 5,000mAh MagSafe Power Bank
• Matrix Ultimate USB-C Apple Watch Fast Charger
• USB-C Silicone Charging Cable
• 35W Mini USB-C GaN Charger
• Carry Case
• Quick Start Guide

You can pick up the Alogic Matrix Ultimate Fold 3-in-1 Stand with MagSafe Power Bank for $169.99 at Alogic or Amazon. As I said, it’s not cheap. But it’s worth it if it keeps you from buying separate chargers for home and away use.

Where to buy: Amazon

Alogic provided Cult of Mac with a review unit for this article. See our reviews policy, and check out other in-depth reviews of Apple-related items.

★★★★☆

Alogic Matrix Ultimate Fold 3-in-1 Stand with MagSafe Power Bank

$169.22

This portable folding 3-in-1 charging stand for iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods comes with a removable 5000mAh power bank, a removable Apple Watch fast charger, a carrying case, a power adapter and a USB-C cable.

Pros:

• 3-in-1 charging for iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods
• Modular charger disassembles into useful parts
• Soft carrying case for travel

Cons:

• Somewhat bulky
• A bit pricey

Read our hands-on review: Matrix Ultimate charges your gadgets at home and on the go

Buy now

05/12/2026 11:13 pm GMT

Apple Watch is almost an essential for any iPhone owner these days, so it makes the perfect gift for anyone who doesn’t already own one. It’s also one of the more affordable Apple devices you can buy with a range of options to choose from that start at just $249 (or even less if you shop around).

In this buying guide, we’ll help you choose the right Apple Watch for you or for someone else, help you find the best prices, and highlight some of the best Apple Watch accessories you can get.

This post contains affiliate links. Cult of Mac may earn a commission when you use our links to buy items.

Best Apple Watch buying guide

Apple Watch is by far the best and most popular smartwatch on the market, and it’s easy to see why. It packs excellent features, an attractive design, and it works wonderfully alongside iPhone. In addition to workout and sleep tracking, it gives you additional features you can’t get from iPhone alone, like heart rate and blood oxygen monitoring.

For those who wear an Apple Watch daily, it’s hard to imagine living without one. Which is why it makes the perfect gift, whether you’re buying for yourself, or treating someone else. Let’s look at how the latest models compare — and where you’ll find the best prices right now.

Apple Watch buying guide: Table of contents

• Best Apple Watch overall: Apple Watch Series 9
• Best Apple Watch for kids and students: Apple Watch SE
• Best Apple Watch for fitness and sports: Apple Watch Ultra 2
• Best Apple Watch for women: Apple Watch Hermès
• Apple Watch feature comparison
• Best Apple Watch accessories

Best Apple Watch overall: Apple Watch Series 9

Apple Watch Series 9, launched just a couple of months ago, is the best Apple Watch for most Apple fans. It’s not the most affordable or the most expensive model, but it does feature almost all of Apple’s latest wearable technologies, including a brighter always-on display, crash and fall detection, and the brilliant new Double Tap feature.

You also get everything you’ve come to expect from Apple Watch, such as accurate heart rate monitoring and a built-in ECG, workout and sleep tracking, blood oxygen monitoring, and great battery life (up to 18 hours). It all runs on watchOS — by far the best smartwatch platform on the market today.

Apple Watch Series 9 sports the same design as its predecessors, so it’s compatible with existing bands, and it’s powered by the latest Apple S9 chip. Prices start at $399 when you buy from Apple, but you’ll pay as little as $329 with Amazon and Best Buy.

Buy from: Amazon
Buy from: Best Buy

Best Apple Watch for kids and students: Apple Watch SE

If you’re on a tight budget, or looking for the best Apple Watch for kids, Apple Watch SE provides a great balance between affordability and features. It’s missing some of the technology you get with Apple Watch Series 9, but still boasts excellent workout and sleep tracking, heart rate monitoring, crash and fall detection, and a stellar screen.

Apple Watch SE, like its more expensive siblings, is also water-resistant so it doesn’t mind going for a swim, and it lasts up to 18 hours in between charges. You can set it up using an adult’s iPhone using Family Setup, and there’s a Schooltime mode for students that stops Apple Watch from being a distraction during lessons.

Starting at just $249 in the Apple Store, Apple Watch SE is available from a mere $179 on Amazon and Best Buy.

Buy from: Amazon
Buy from: Best Buy

Best Apple Watch for fitness and sports: Apple Watch Ultra 2

Apple Watch Ultra 2 is simply the best smartwatch money can buy — and its the best Apple Watch for fitness and sports. It takes everything available in Apple Watch Series 9 and combines it with a more durable titanium design, the biggest and brightest Apple Watch display, and even longer battery life (up to 36 hours).

Built for hiking, diving, water sports and all sorts of endurance activities, Apple Watch Ultra 2 is water-resistant up to 100 meters — compared to 50 meters on other models — and it packs a more precise dual-frequency GPS. There’s even a built-in siren in case you ever get lost in a remote location.

Despite its larger 49mm form factor, Apple Watch Ultra 2 is compatible with regular bands, but the device itself will cost you more. Prices start at $799 when you buy from Apple, or $739 when you buy from Amazon and Best Buy.

Buy from: Amazon
Buy from: Best Buy

Best Apple Watch for women: Apple Watch Hermès

The Apple Watch Hermès might be the best Apple Watch for women. Starting at $1,249, Apple Watch Hermès is essentially an Apple Watch Series 9 with a stainless steel case and high-end Hermès band. There are a selection of fancy Hermès bands to choose from, many of them inspired by the French fashion house’s equestrian roots.

The Apple Watch Hermès comes in the standard 41mm and 45mm sizes, and you can choose from a silver or space black finish. It also ships with some exclusive Hermès watch faces that aren’t available on other Apple Watch models.

Apple Watch Hermès is only available from Apple or select Hermès stores, so don’t assume you’ll be able to get it a little cheaper elsewhere.

Buy from: Apple

Apple Watch feature comparison

Best Apple Watch accessories

After picking the perfect Apple Watch, it’s time to pick up some accessories that will help you make the most out of your new smartwatch. You will almost certainly want some spare bands and a charging station, while a portable battery can be a lifesaver for frequent fliers. Here’s our pick of some of the best Apple Watch accessories.

You can give your new Apple Watch Ultra a quick and easy makeover by slapping on a brand-new band. There are plenty of awesome, rugged-looking options to choose from that go great with Apple’s most robust smartwatch.

We rounded up the best Apple Watch Ultra bands in this buying guide to make your shopping easier.

This post contains affiliate links. Cult of Mac may earn a commission when you use our links to buy items.

Picking the best rugged bands for Apple Watch Ultra

If you bought an Apple Watch Ultra for its ultra-sturdy design, you probably don’t want to pair it with just any old band. But how do you choose between the best rugged options? Well, there are a few key things that should be considered.

If you’re frequently getting your Apple Watch wet or sweaty, you’ll be better off with a strong silicone or rubber band that can be easily washed and dried. If comfort is your main priority, you should look at nylon and other soft fabric options.

And if you’re going to be particularly tough on your Apple Watch Ultra, you may want to choose a band with a built-in case that surrounds your device. Whatever the case may be, you’ll find the ideal Apple Watch Ultra band for you in the list below.

Table of contents: Best rugged bands for Apple Watch Ultra

• Best waterproof band
• Best nylon band
• Best silicone band
• Best metal band
• Best leather band
• Best canvas band
• Best slim rugged band
• Best band with a built-in Apple Watch Ultra case

Best waterproof band

Apple’s official Ocean Band is arguably the best you can get for an Apple Watch Ultra that’s always getting wet. Made from a high-performance elastomer with a corrosion-resistant titanium buckle, it dries quickly, is easy to clean, and fits great — even over a wetsuit.

It’s a little pricey at $99, and it’s only available in a handful of color options, but the Ocean Band is one of the toughest Apple Watch Ultra bands you can get.

Buy from: Best Buy or Apple

Best nylon band

Nylon bands are immensely comfortable, which makes them a great option if you don’t want to feel that Apple Watch Ultra on your wrist all day long. At less than $20, this one from Nereides is much more affordable than Apple’s offerings. Plus, it’s incredibly durable.

Available in a range of colorful designs, the Nereides band is breathable and easily adjustable for a wide range of wrist sizes.

Buy from: Amazon

Best silicone band

If you want comfort and durability, a soft silicone band is a great way to go, but don’t bother with Apple’s. This one from Suitisbest is not only cheaper, but it’s also slightly thicker for added strength. It also features channels all the way down the band that prevent it from capturing sweat.

Get yours on Amazon now for 15% off its usual price tag, which is just $16.99. (Don’t forget to clip the extra coupon to save even more.)

Buy from: Amazon

Best metal band

Adamant that you want a metal band for Apple Watch Ultra? Avoid polished stainless steel if you’ll be wearing it in an environment where it will easily pick up scratches. Instead, go for the aluminum Qrono band from Juuk, which is still one of the best metal bands we’ve tried for any Apple Watch.

Weighing a mere 55 grams, the Qrono is lighter than steel bands. That makes it much more comfortable to wear, but it’s still surprisingly strong. It also ships with an easy link-removal tool so you can get that perfect fit.

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Best leather band

Nomad’s terrific Active Leather strap is a perfect match for Apple Watch Ultra. Built from hydrophobic Heinen leather with stainless steel fittings, it doesn’t mind getting wet, and it features ventilation channels that let your wrist breathe. It also retails for less than $70, which isn’t bad for good leather.

Buy from: Best Buy

Best canvas band

Canvas may not be as comfortable as nylon, but there’s no doubt it’s remarkably robust. And you won’t find a better canvas band for Apple Watch Ultra than this one from Archer. It’s made from quality materials, ideal in almost any scenario, and nicely priced at less than $27.

Buy from: Amazon

Best slim rugged band

If you’re willing to sacrifice a little durability for a slim design, check out the All Day Comfort band from OtterBox. Available in a bunch of pretty color options, it’s made from premium silicone that’s soft, flexible and strong. (Some options are even antimicrobial to protect the band from bacteria.) It also uses a traditional stainless steel buckle for a simple fit.

The All Day Comfort band is super-comfortable. I’ve actually been wearing one myself almost every day for over a year now. I love that it’s lightweight, comfortable and doesn’t pull out your hair like Apple’s own silicone bands.

Buy from: OtterBox

Best band with a built-in case for Apple Watch Ultra

Spigen’s Rugged Armor Pro gives your Apple Watch Ultra all-around protection by combining a band with a case. It’s made from shock-absorbant thermoplastic with a matte finish and cool carbon-fiber accents, and it’s adjustable, with a strong metal buckle.

The Rugged Armor Pro protects your Apple Watch Ultra’s display and side key while giving you easy access to its Digital Crown. It comes in some sweet color options — including an attractive “Space Crystal” — and it’s just $22.99 if you get it on Amazon right now, thanks to a generous 49% discount.

Buy from: Amazon

Although I go for almost daily bike rides for exercise, I used to always forget to record the rides on my Apple Watch. I’d always record the rides on my bike computer. But when it came to the watch, I’d never remember until halfway through the workout, if at all.

That’s until I got the Apple Watch Ultra, which boasts a bright orange Action button that I set to start an Outdoor Cycle workout.

Now, I remember every time, and it’s because of the button. It’s the strangest thing, and I have no explanation. But the act of hitting a physical button makes me remember.

The versatile Action button — which you can set to turn on the watch’s flashlight, start the stopwatch or run a shortcut, among other things — is reason enough to get the Apple Watch Ultra, which I’ve been wearing since its launch last year. But there’s another great reason. Actually, two.

This post contains affiliate links. Cult of Mac may earn a commission when you use our links to buy items.

Apple Watch Ultra: Charging? Fuggedaboutit!

Apple Watch Ultra [GPS + Cellular 49mm] Smart Watch w/Rugged Titanium Case & Orange Alpine Loop Small. Fitness Tracker, Precision GPS, Action Button, Extra-Long Battery Life, Brighter Retina Displ...

$356.26

Buy from

05/25/2026 12:15 pm GMT

Apple Watch Ultra 2 [GPS + Cellular 49mm] Smartwatch with Rugged Titanium Case & Blue Alpine Loop Medium. Fitness Tracker, Precision GPS, Action Button, Extra-Long Battery Life, Carbon Neutral

$700.66

Buy from

05/25/2026 07:16 pm GMT

The other reason to get the Apple Watch Ultra is that its massive battery lets you essentially forget about charging it.

With a regular Apple Watch, you need to remember to charge it daily. But with the Ultra, you don’t have to have a charging routine at all. Charge it overnight? No need; you can keep it on for sleep tracking. You just charge it, well, whenever.

The battery lasts a good 36 hours, and up to 60 hours in low-power mode. That means you just charge it when necessary, which I find quite liberating.

Sometimes I charge it overnight, and sometimes at my desk while working. Usually, I go into the Control Center, check the remaining charge, and if it’s low, plonk it on a charger.

Or else I charge it when I get a low-power warning at 10%, but not always. I can happily ignore the warning for an hour or two, and then put it on the charger.

Freedom from battery worries at last

Being free from charging anxiety is quite freeing and one of my favorite features of the Apple Watch Ultra. I had the same experience with Max-size iPhones — any battery that lasts longer than a day frees you from daily charging anxiety.

It’s the opposite of range anxiety in an electric car; you no longer have to worry about it.

Daily charging is the big reason why my brother, my wife and other people I know haven’t gotten an Apple Watch yet. They don’t want the cognitive load of daily charging. But with the Ultra, it’s not an issue.

Apple Watch Ultra is virtually indestructible

Another big reason to get the Apple Watch Ultra is its durability. Although I haven’t taken my Ultra on any, well, ultra adventures, it’s been bashed about for a year and there’s not a scratch on it.

By contrast, I ruined an earlier Apple Watch just a week after I got it by scraping its face across a brick wall. It looked like Wolverine had raked his claws across it, and I cried for about a week.

I haven’t deliberately dragged my Ultra across any bricks, but it’s been on my wrist for a year and doesn’t have any significant scratches or dings.

And while I’m not engaging in the types of extreme sports that Apple markets the Ultra for, I don’t live in an iron lung. I ride bikes, swim and hike. I regularly fix stuff around the house and the car. I’ve smashed the Ultra into doors and car engine bays. I’ve dropped it several times.

Apple says the Ultra is certified to aspects of MIL-STD-810H, a certification for military equipment and rugged equipment makers, and I believe it.

After a year, my watch’s flat sapphire front crystal remains scratch-free (which is a surprise, frankly). And there’s only one scratch on its beefy titanium case, which I only noticed when scrutinizing it for this piece. It’s pretty much perfect (except for the gross leather band I use, but we won’t get into that).

Why you should buy the Apple Watch Ultra

Some people say the Ultra is too big, but after wearing it for a year, I now find regular Apple Watches dinky and small. I like the advantages that come with size: the bigger, brighter screen (which is wonderful) and the better battery life.

I love my Apple Watch Ultra, and if it didn’t cost almost as much as a fancy iPhone, I’d upgrade it to the new model — the Apple Watch Ultra 2, which Apple released last month. The upgraded model comes with an even-brighter screen, an even-faster processor (the S9 SiP) and the new double-tap gesture that lets you control the watch by tapping your index finger and thumb together twice in midair. (Double tap supposedly will arrive in watchOS 10.1.)

Seeing as my original Apple Watch Ultra is still in almost good-as-new condition, I’m holding onto it for another year. But if you’ve yet to try the Ultra, I highly recommend it. It’s the best Apple Watch in the lineup.

Now if only Apple had released the Apple Watch Ultra 2 in black titanium like the rumors said…

Apple Watch Ultra [GPS + Cellular 49mm] Smart Watch w/Rugged Titanium Case & Orange Alpine Loop Small. Fitness Tracker, Precision GPS, Action Button, Extra-Long Battery Life, Brighter Retina Displ...

$356.26

Buy from

05/25/2026 12:15 pm GMT

Apple Watch Ultra 2 [GPS + Cellular 49mm] Smartwatch with Rugged Titanium Case & Blue Alpine Loop Medium. Fitness Tracker, Precision GPS, Action Button, Extra-Long Battery Life, Carbon Neutral

$700.66

Buy from

05/25/2026 07:16 pm GMT

Got a new Apple Watch? The spending doesn’t stop there. It’s time to pick up some awesome Apple Watch accessories that will make using your device even better.

You’ll want a charging stand to enjoy Nightstand mode (and maybe even StandBy on your iPhone), a portable battery for top-ups on the go, a screen protector to keep your display free from scratches, and more. We rounded up the best options for you, so all you have to do is grab your wallet.

This post contains affiliate links. Cult of Mac may earn a commission when you use our links to buy items.

Choosing the best Apple Watch accessories

Picking a sweet new band is a great way to customize your Apple Watch, but you’ll probably want some protection as well — not to mention an upgraded charging experience.

And what about when you go traveling? You’re not going to stuff spare bands and accessories into your pockets. You’ll want a sweet travel case that shows you’re a civilized member of society.

Find all these things — plus armbands, earbuds and everything else you might need to go with your Apple Watch — right here.

Best Apple Watch 9 accessories: Table of contents

• Best screen protector for Apple Watch
• Best all-in-one Apple Watch charging stand
• Best dedicated Apple Watch charging stand
• Best budget Apple Watch charging stand
• Best wireless earbuds for Apple Watch
• Best armband for Apple Watch
• Best portable battery for Apple Watch
• Best travel case for Apple Watch accessories

Best screen protector for Apple Watch Series 9

You probably won’t be surprised to find that a display you wear on your wrist all day gets scratched easily. Keep your Apple Watch in pristine condition with this two-pack of tempered-glass screen protectors from JZK. They wrap around the edges of your Apple Watch to ensure a snug fit that’s free from gaps, and they’re a bargain at less than $7.

Buy from: Amazon

Best all-in-one Apple Watch charging stand

Belkin’s 3-in-1 MagSafe Charging Stand supports Apple Watch, iPhone and AirPods, with 33% faster charging for Apple Watch Series 7 and later. Its sleek and stylish design makes it a real beauty. And, unlike a lot of charging stands, it ships with the power adapter you’ll need to use it. Priced at just under $150, it’s not cheap. But it combines form and function beautifully.

Buy from: Belkin or Amazon

Best dedicated Apple Watch charging stand

If you only have so much space and you want your Apple Watch charging stand to serve Apple Watch only, we highly recommend the Twelve South Forté for Apple Watch. It’s even more exquisite than Belkin’s offering, combining shiny chrome and soft leather for a gorgeous finish. The Forté is compatible will all Apple Watch bands, and it works great with Nightstand mode. It also costs less than $60.

Buy from: Twelve South or Amazon

Best budget Apple Watch charging stand

Looking to spend less on an Apple Watch charger? Get the simple W2 Charger from Elago. It works with your original Apple Watch charging cable and it’s made entirely out of silicone, so it’s virtually unbreakable. Its compact design means it won’t get in your way, and it holds your Apple Watch horizontally so you get a great view of Nightstand mode. It’s also a steal at less than $10.

Buy from: Amazon or the Cult of Mac Store

Best wireless earbuds for Apple Watch

You may want to leave your iPhone at home while you’re working out, which means you’ll need some wireless earbuds that play nicely with Apple Watch itself. You probably won’t be surprised to learn that AirPods Pro offer the best experience, with seamless connectivity, stellar sound quality, and nifty features like active noise cancellation and transparency mode.

Get your second-generation AirPods Pro on Amazon today and enjoy $50 off when you pick the ones that use a Lightning charging case, which currently go for less than $200. The newer model, which comes with a USB-C charging case and adds a couple of extra features, retails for $249.

Buy from: Amazon (with Lightning case), Apple (USB-C case) or Best Buy (USB-C case)

Best armband for Apple Watch

If you prefer not to strap your Apple Watch on your wrist during workouts, why not move it to your bicep? Twelve South’s ActionSleeve is a fabric band that lets you wear yours on your arm instead. It surrounds your device to keep it protected so you won’t suffer shattered screens when you inevitably fall over. And it keeps the Apple Watch close to your skin, so its sensors can still work their magic. Get yours for less than $40.

Buy from: Twelve South

Best portable battery for Apple Watch

For charging Apple Watch on the go, pick up this portable battery from Vacoor. It’s small enough to carry around with your keys, yet deceptively powerful, thanks to a 1,000mAh capacity that can charge your Apple Watch to 100% two to three times before it needs a top-up. Its rounded design means it fits comfortably in your pocket, and it costs only $19.99.

Buy from: Amazon

Best travel case for Apple Watch accessories

Once you’ve splashed your cash on Apple Watch bands and accessories, you might want a travel case to carry them all around in. This simple yet effective solution from Tiesome holds up to eight bands, and includes a pocket for your charging cable. You can zip it up to keep everything free from dust and moisture, and it costs less than $9.

Buy from: Amazon

One of the best things about Apple Watch is the insanely wide range of awesome bands to go with it. If, like me, you’re addicted to buying bands for your Apple Watch, we’ve rounded up some of the best you can buy today to help you out.

All our picks work with Apple Watch Series 9, as well as previous versions of the device. Just be sure to pick the right size.

Choosing the best Apple Watch bands

Swapping the straps on your Apple Watch is super-easy, so there’s no reason why you shouldn’t have different bands for different uses. You don’t want to ruin your fine Italian leather band at the gym, for example. Nor do you want to wear a garish sport band with a freshly pressed suit.

No matter what you might be getting up to, you’ll find a great band below.

Best Apple Watch bands: Table of contents

• Best overall band for Apple Watch
• Best steel band for Apple Watch
• Best stretch metal band for Apple Watch
• Best aluminum band for Apple Watch
• Best everyday carry (EDC) band for Apple Watch
• Best leather band for Apple Watch
• Best sports band for Apple Watch
• Most rugged band for Apple Watch
• Best NATO-style band for Apple Watch
• Most unique Apple Watch bands

Best overall Apple Watch band

If you want an Apple Watch band that’s brilliant in all conditions, it’s hard to beat Apple’s official Sport Loop. Thanks to a lightweight nylon weave, which lets your wrist breathe and provides superb cushioning, it’s so comfortable you’ll hardly even notice it’s there.

It doesn’t mind getting wet, it comes in a wide range of designs and color options that all look great, it’s infinitely (almost) adjustable for the perfect fit, and it’s pretty affordable at $49.

Buy from: Amazon

Best metal band for Apple Watch

Nomad’s spectacular Steel Band is one of the finest money can buy for Apple Watch. It’s crafted from high-grade stainless steel and finished with an advanced carbon coating for an exceptional feel and great durability. It’s available for both Apple Watch size options, and although it’s a little pricey at $170, it’s certainly worth it.

Buy from: Nomad

Best stretch metal band for Apple Watch

Speidel’s Twist-O-Flex steel bracelet was first introduced in 1959 and has remained a bestseller since —  for good reason. It’s one of the most comfortable watch bands you’ll ever wear. The links themselves stretch, allowing the band to remain snug without pinching. Plus, it’s dead easy to get on and off. Highly recommended. — Leander Kahney.

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Best aluminum Apple Watch band

If you want metal but you’re looking to spend a little less, Juuk’s outstanding Qrono band is still our favorite option. Made from tough, aircraft-grade aluminum, it not only looks incredible, but it’s lighter than stainless steel options — and more resistant to scratches. It’s not cheap at $139, but it’s worth every penny.

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Best everyday carry (EDC) band for Apple Watch

Mifa’s Nylon Sports Leather Apple Watch Band is a great EDC-inspired watch strap. With a velcro closure, it’s sturdy and strong. The stitched leather is high-quality. It comes in five different colors/styles — including some with NASA themes — and is comfortable to wear all day long. Costing just $25, Mifa’s band “is a high-quality product at a low price,” we wrote in our hands-on review.

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Best leather Apple Watch band

In its push for sustainability, Apple ditched its own leather bands in favor of a suedelike FineWoven material that nobody really loves. However, plenty of excellent leather options still exist — such as this one from Noreve. Made in France using high-grade natural leather and traditional techniques, it boasts incredible build quality and detail. It’s also available in a range of gorgeous color options.

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Best workout band for Apple Watch

Apple’s Nike Sport Band is made almost entirely from high-quality silicone, making it ideal for active Apple Watch wearers. Its soft, flexible design means it doesn’t dig into your skin while you’re working out. And its many perforations help prevent it from holding on to sweat. It can also be washed and dried in no time at all.

The Nike Sport Band isn’t the cheapest silicone option at $49, but you’ll struggle to find better silicone than Apple’s.

Buy from: Apple

Most rugged Apple Watch band

Harsh environments are no match for Spigen’s robust Rugged Armor Pro. It’s not just an ultra-rugged band, though. It also protects your Apple Watch itself. Simply place your device inside it — no need to worry about fiddly band fittings — and enjoy all-around protection for as little as $23.99. (Prices vary by color.)

Buy from: Amazon

Best NATO-style band for Apple Watch

Proper NATO bands can’t really be used with Apple Watch because they block its sensors, but you can pick up some terrific NATO-style bands. This one from Archer is made from incredibly sturdy canvas, combined with matte stainless steel buckles and fittings, and it’s available in a bunch of pretty colors for less than $27.

Buy from: Amazon

Most unique Apple Watch bands

If you don’t want your Apple Watch to look just like everyone else’s, pick up one of Casetify’s unique Impact Bands. Made from recycled materials, they’re available in a huge range of cool and colorful designs. They’re also slim, lightweight, and flexible, so they remain comfortable on your wrist even after a long day.

Buy from: Casetify

Apple Watch Series 9 is the biggest year-over-year leap in recent years. It has not one, not two, but a whopping four new features, most powered by its updated chip. Apps load faster, voice dictation is near instant and the display gets both brighter in the sun and dimmer in darkness.

A couple of the best features I haven’t been able to test — double tap promises to make tapping the screen with your nose obsolete; improved connectivity with your phone will make it easier to find, if paired with a new iPhone. And with this release, Apple dips their toe into more sustainable manufacturing practices.

The Apple Watch Series 9 a good product. In the end, with big releases like this so few and far between, I can’t help but wonder if it’s close to reaching its potential.

This post contains affiliate links. Cult of Mac may earn a commission when you use our links to buy items.

Apple Watch Series 9 review

I bought this watch on launch day for my wife, who has a Series 6 and no longer gets all-day battery life. She has graciously let me wear it for the last week to write this review.

She had a hard time deciding on a color. I remembered from prior years that Starlight and Midnight are more like silver-with-a-fleck-of-gold and black-with-a-fleck-of-blue, respectively. I encouraged her to get Pink, as the marketing images suggested it was a vibrant, fun color.

Pink is, in fact, silver-with-a-fleck-of-rose. I’m not going to exaggerate and say I can’t tell them apart — I have discerning eyes. But I think Barbie would be disappointed.

I will say, the new Sport Band colors complement it very well. I paired it with Mulberry and Winter Blue. It could be that my Sport Bands are just old, but these feel more soft and supple.

I tried ordering the new FineWoven Magnetic Link band, only to discover that they are apparently not releasing until November 2. I couldn’t pull the trigger on a FineWoven Modern Buckle because I didn’t want to spend $149 on a band, much less one with polished steel lugs that would clash.

Great smartwatch!

Apple Watch Series 9

Apple''s newest smartwatch with advanced health, safety, and activity features. The S9 chip enables a superbright display and a great new way to quickly and easily interact with your Apple Watch without touching the screen.

Buy Now

A faster processor that’s luxury rather than necessity

The Apple Watch Series 9 features, for the first time since the Series 6, a faster processor and GPU.

Early models of Apple Watch were severely underpowered. The Series 3 got the worst of it. Sporting only a dual-core 32-bit processor, it was pushed through five major software updates through watchOS 8.

Going from Series 3 to Series 7 felt like jumping ship in the last moments before I’d be pulled underwater. Going from Series 6/7/8 to Series 9 feels like trading a kayak up for a canoe.

Wearing both watches on my wrist, I tapped around and noticed the Series 9 opens apps about a second quicker. I don’t feel like my Series 7 model is sluggish by any means, but if you’re a power user of your Apple Watch, it’s a little less time you’ll spend waiting for an app to launch.

And again, most people buying this are likely coming from a Series 3, 4 or 5, with even older chips inside.

On-device Siri and dictation

One of the best new features the S9 chip powers is on-device voice processing.

That has two benefits. Dictating a complex text message will run faster and turn out marginally more accurate. If you ask Siri a request that doesn’t need the internet (“Start a timer for 90 minutes,” or “What’s 20% of $68.12?”) you’ll get a near-instant response.

A big factor here is that the Apple Watch keeps a highly energy-conservative connection to the internet. While it has an on-board Wi-Fi 4 chip (or an optional cellular connection), it prefers connecting over Bluetooth using your phone as a relay, because Bluetooth is lower power. This is why your Apple Watch sometimes just spins for a minute until it gives up, or takes way too long to fetch basic information — the Bluetooth connection isn’t very reliable.

That is to say that the difference will be a little less substantial for the sort of questions that need to talk to the internet either way (“What’s the weather today?” “How old is Conan O’Brien?”) but at least the first step, translating your question to text, will be sped up.

Double tap

Double tap is another feature that takes advantage of Series 9’s bigger brains. Combining data from the accelerometer, gyroscope and heart sensor through the Neural Engine, the watch can detect when you pinch your finger and thumb together.

Tapping your fingers twice will do things like silence a timer that’s going off, play and pause music or dismiss a notification. It’s a way to interact with your watch completely hands-free.

This feature will be “available in October” according to Apple, so I wasn’t able to test this. Although the watchOS 10.1 beta dropped yesterday, causing me to frantically update and delay the publishing of this review, the feature evidently cannot be enabled yet.

Today, when my hands are full, I use my watch with my nose. Double Tap is, hopefully, an elegant gesture for a more civilized age.

Brighter and dimmer display

The display on the regular Apple Watch models are brightened for the first time in many years from 1000 nits to 2000 nits. This should help on the brightest, clearest summer days.

Because the Watch arrived at the beginning of fall here in Ohio, it’s been cloudy every day since Friday. I tried to put together several tests by shining as many lights as possible on both devices, but saw no substantial difference.

I can recall from personal experience at least a few days in the year when it’s bright enough outside that I can tell my older Series 7 is running at peak brightness — and it could stand to be brighter.

The Series 9 is the same brightness as last year’s Apple Watch Ultra, and I would love to see how much of a difference it makes in the most challenging conditions. Maybe next June.

The display gets dimmer, too, down to only one nit. I pulled my blackout curtains shut in my bedroom and hid inside the closet. On the left is my Series 7, the right, the Series 9. Apple doesn’t publish minimum brightness numbers for any previous models, but it appears to be about half as bright. The difference is maybe a little more dramatic in person than what I was able to capture on camera.

For all the people who use the always-on display and forget to put it in theater mode at the movies, this is a welcome improvement.

‘Second-generation’ Ultra Wideband chip

The second-generation ultra wideband chip inside the Apple Watch will significantly improve the experience of finding your phone from your watch. You’ll have an interface similar to tracking an AirTag.

Because it relies on hardware, you need an iPhone 15 to use the feature. Most of the people buying a Series 9 Apple Watch won’t have an iPhone 15 — myself included. This is another one of those features that will prove its use over time.

Forcing your phone speakers to ring is handy, but I have no doubt this will be a smarter way to do it. It’s accessible to people who are hard of hearing. If you live in an open-concept house, it can be hard to identify where the ring is coming from. And if your phone is stuck in a couch cushion or a coat pocket in the closet, the ring might be too muffled to hear.

As an interesting sidenote to Apple marketing, several people have pointed out that Apple dodges calling the successor to the U1 chip the U2 to avoid stomping on the name of everyone’s favorite rock band. Contrast this with the M1, M2, and presumably, M3 chips and we see that Apple has no problem stomping on the name of the ultimate driving machine.

Carbon-neutral manufacturing

One of the more impressive breakthroughs is that the watch, when paired with a Sport Loop band, is manufactured totally carbon-neutral. This is a monumental achievement in supply chain logistics. I hear they have a guy who’s pretty good at that.

Apple didn’t make any such claims, but this may be the most mass-manufactured electronics device to be made with such a high standard for sustainability. And Apple doesn’t plan on stopping there; the company plans to make all products carbon neutral by the end of the decade.

The Apple Watch is a good way to dip their toe in the water on a moderately challenging product to manufacture. It’s no iPhone, but if their first fully carbon neutral product was something like AirPods Pro 2 or a revised Magic Keyboard, people may doubt their ability to scale.

I look forward to seeing how and when they update the rest of their production process.

Apple Watch upgrade cycle

Your upgrade experience will be entirely defined by how old of a watch you’re coming from (and there are a lot of Series 3 watches out there). There’s not always much year-over-year, but people hold onto their watches longer and the features build up over time. That’s why I tell people to keep your Apple Watch for as long as the battery lasts and upgrade to whatever model is new in September.

With Apple adding another product line they call “the most advanced personal electronics device ever,” with a whole lineup of models in the works, one has to wonder how long Apple will continue annual updates to the Apple Watch.

Maybe the minor annual tweaks genuinely don’t take up much engineering bandwidth. I trust the executives calling the shots are making better-informed decisions than me — some blogger from Ohio — but I have to wonder from the outside.

A moderate improvement, whenever you’re ready for it

The older Apple Watch you have, the more you can look forward to.

• From a Series  3, you’ll be getting a dramatically bigger screen and you’ll be brought back up to watchOS 10.
• From Series 4, an always-on display.
• From Series 5, a blood oxygen sensor.
• From Series 6, a bigger display and a keyboard for typing messages.
• From Series 7, a temperature sensor for cycle tracking.

This year, you’re in for a real treat. Next year, rumor has it you’ll get a slimmer case. Any maybe, eventually, that blood glucose monitor will come to fruition.

Great smartwatch!

Apple Watch Series 9

Apple''s newest smartwatch with advanced health, safety, and activity features. The S9 chip enables a superbright display and a great new way to quickly and easily interact with your Apple Watch without touching the screen.

Buy Now

★★★★☆

Apple Watch Ultra 2 reviews are out, and they’re positive. Modest upgrades like a brighter display, double-tap gesturing and a faster processor might not make current Ultra owners shell out for the new one, but it’s highly recommended to anyone else who wants the best rugged smartwatch. For more details on the Ultra’s features, click here to explore.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 reviews praise modest upgrades to best rugged smartwatch

Apple strapped on Watch Ultra 2 for the first time on September 12 at its Wonderlust event, with preorders starting that day. As Cult of Mac and some reviews noted, it follows the first edition by only a year, so radical changes would be a shock. And the incremental changes are a hit with reviewers.

“It’s the ultimate Apple Watch,” said Tom’s Guide in its headline. And it went on to name the updated wearable’s main highlights:

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a modest update over the original, but a brighter display, support for the double-tap gestures and future-proof processor are welcome improvements. While we still crave a longer battery life, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is one of the best smartwatches you can get now.

More pros than cons

And that review’s “Pros” far outweighed its “Cons” for Apple Watch Ultra 2, and reflect much of what other reviews said:

Pros

• Made of 95% recycled titanium
• Brighter display than before
• Faster S9 processor
• Easier to find iPhone with watch
• Supports the double tap gesture
• Great new Modular Ultra watch face

Cons

• Must have iPhone 15 for UWB features
• Battery life could be better

For its part, Wired‘s review starts off with a description of accidentally turning off Backtrack during a long wilderness trail run, but ends up finishing strong with positive points.

Faster S9 chip has its benefits

The faster S9 chipset “powers some of the basic Siri interactions right there on the watch,” the review said. You no longer have to wait for simple voice commands — start a workout, set an alarm, log your weight — to travel up and down from the cloud.”

“Machine learning tasks are also completed twice as quickly than on the original Ultra, which theoretically extends the battery life of the watch,” it added.

The review noted the chip’s power enables the Double Tap gesture, among others. When you tap your thumb and index finger together twice, the gesture can replace the primary watch button on any screen (like when your other hand is holding on to something for dear life).

The review applied the magazine’s classic rating system:

Wired: Onboard processing for better battery life and improved data privacy. Helpful haptic features. WatchOS 10 includes offline maps and new hiking and cycling features. Fun new watch face. Precision locating rules.

Tired: No offline maps without the phone??? Battery life still nowhere near industry standard for sports watches. Carbon neutral claims are iffy. Constant toggling between functions is annoying. 3,000-nit display doesn’t make a huge difference.

Brighter screen

CNET loved Ultra 2’s brighter screen and faster responses, though it called them “nice but not necessary upgrades.” And it added the new wearable “has less of a wow factor compared with the first Ultra.” But that’s only because it’s familiar now.

“For hikers and cyclists in particular, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 has a lot to offer,” the reviewer said, “but that’s more a reflection on WatchOS 10 than the hardware itself.”

The review described some of Ultra 2’s other plusses:

The new Ultra’s display maxes out at a brightness of 3,000 nits. That is shockingly bright; for reference, the iPhone 15 has a max-2,000-nit display. You can also configure the watch with its new Modular Ultra watch face, which lets you set an additional real-time metric along the bezel of the watch — pick between seconds, elevation, or depth if you’re diving. There’s a second-gen ultra wideband chip inside the latest model that makes the precision finding features more accurate, so it’s easier to locate your lost iPhone using your watch.

But on par with other reviews, CNET‘s likes outnumbered its dislikes:

Like

Incredibly bright screen
More accurate dictation and on-device Siri
64GB storage means more space for music and apps
WatchOS 10 brings great new cycling and hiking features

Don’t like

Double Tap not available at launch
Battery life is the same as first Ultra
Limited recovery metrics

Best of the best, but not a must-have if you’ve got a recent Apple Watch

The Verge weighed in with a positive review as well, noting that Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Apple Watch Series 9 are the best smartwatches ever. And yet, because the upgrades are largely incremental, people with recent Apple Watches like the first Ultra and Series 8 may not need to buy them.

The review praised the addition of Siri voice assistant processing directly on the watch rather than through the cloud. Tests of the improved Siri showed positive results, but not remarkable ones.

And of course, The Verge‘s rating system does its own thing:

The Good

The Modular Ultra face is a data nerd’s dream
Precision Finding
Minor Siri and screen brightness improvements
Double-tap gesture is great

The Bad

No pink
The minor changes feel even more minor with the Ultra
Need iPhone 15 for Precision Finding

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 starts at $799 (GPS + Cellular version). Available now for preorder, it ships September 22. First-time Apple Watch buyer can get three months of Apple Fitness+ access for free.

Early reviews of Apple Watch Series 9 praise its new processor that gives the wearable a nifty Double Tap gesture and improves Siri, too. The brighter display also draws kudos from reviewers.

The 2023 version can be preordered now, and starts reaching customers on Friday.

Apple Watch Series 9 is (mostly) about the S9 SiP

In addition to taking the wraps off the iPhone 15 series, Apple’s recent Wonderlust event featured
the debut of Apple Watch Series 9.

The standout feature is a faster S9 chip, the first substantial processor upgrade in three years. But a brighter screen is also a noticeable upgrade. And there’s an improved Ultra Wideband chip.

Aside from these, however, Series 9 is very similar to its predecessor. There are no new sensors, for instance.

New chip improves Double Tap

The Apple S9 processor offers a jump up in performance, but don’t expect to notice unless you’re using a very old Apple Watch.

“Minute improvements in performance are hard for the average person to see,” is how The Verge review puts it.

But don’t discount the S9. It’s required for Double Tap, a new feature that has the potential to truly improve the way we interact with Apple Watch. Just tap your watch hand’s thumb and index finger together twice.

“Double Tap takes some getting used to, and it’s not compelling enough on its own to justify buying the Series 9. But I’d be lying if I said I didn’t find myself using it to dismiss a notification and easily navigate back to my watch face here and there,” said the Cnet review.

“You’ll need to at least have your thumb and index finger available to pinch. But when I’m cleaning my apartment, holding a side plank, raising a single dumbbell or reading a book, the gesture does make my life easier,” said Engadget.

“Double Tap is baked into the Series 9’s user interface across the board, and its chip enables the watch to support this feature all day without impacting battery life,” notes Cnet.

And on-device Siri, too

Double Tap isn’t the only enhancement resulting by the S9.

“The improved Neural Engine on the S9 SiP means Siri processing happens on device,” says The Verge. “You can issue Siri basic tasks when you have no internet or cellular connectivity.”

And Engadget said, “The ability to still ask Siri for help when offline or disconnected from my iPhone, for example, was a surprisingly simple upgrade. I left my paired iPhone 15 Pro at home when I went to the gym, and was relieved when I could still tell the assistant to record an outdoor walk when I made my way home (since my hands were full, as usual).”

Plus a brighter screen

A new processor isn’t everything. The maximum brightness on Apple Watch Series 9 doubled from 1,000 nits to 2,000 nits.

“Indoors and outdoors, it’s difficult to tell the difference if you don’t have older models on hand for comparison,” said The Verge. “And even if you do, as I did, it can still be difficult to tell under certain lighting conditions.”

In short, you need to regularly use the wearable outside to fully appreciate the change.

Don’t overlook Ultra Wideband improvements

Plus there’s other new silicon in Series 9, a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip. This enables one Apple device to find another with more precision than before.

As Engadget notes, “With the Series 9 paired to another device with the new UWB chip, not only can you also see exactly how many feet you are from your misplaced device, you can also see what direction it’s in.

Apple Watch Series 9: Should you upgrade?

Engadget is very positive on Apple’s new model. “The Series 9 is a capable, well-rounded smartwatch that remains the best in the category. Double Tap and on-device Siri alone may be reasons enough to trade in your older Apple Watch (yes, even the Series 8), especially if you hate having to swipe or tap a tiny screen on your wrist.

But Cnet says whether Apple’s latest smartwatch is a worthy upgrade depends on which model you own. “The Series 9 feels like a minor upgrade over the Series 8. Coming from an older watch like the Series 6, you’ll have plenty to gain. In addition to what’s new on this year’s model, you benefit from a larger screen with a keyboard, a temperature sensor and noticeably faster performance compared to a three-year-old watch.”

Juuk’s Qrono band for Apple Watch offers everything you could want from a metal bracelet without the nasty drawbacks. It looks terrific but won’t weigh you down. And, like all Juuk bands, it’s built to last.

Here’s why the Qrono is the only metal band I’ll wear with my Apple Watch.

Juuk Qrono review: Best aluminum Apple Watch band

You’ve probably heard of Juuk if you’re a long-time Apple Watch wearer, or if you’ve shopped for metal watch bands before. But in case you haven’t, let me briefly explain why its products are some of the best that money can buy.

Juuk started making bands long before Apple Watch was even a thing. And it has designed and produced products for some of the biggest brands in the watch industry. In fact, all of its bands are made on the same assembly lines used by Swiss watchmakers.

That includes the Juuk Qrono, which is the best metal band I’ve ever worn.

Only the best materials

The Qrono is made from high-grade 6000 series aluminum, not stainless steel. It’s not only more affordable than other metal bands, but it’s also incredibly light, weighing just 55 grams before you’ve taken out any unneeeded links.

I typically wear my Apple Watch with a leather band or the Apple Sport Loop because I favor comfort above everything else. I don’t like heavy metal bracelets or anything that makes wearing my Watch uncomfortable. But the Juuk Qrono doesn’t do that.

Its smaller link design means the band is wonderfully flexible and wraps nicely around your wrist. It doesn’t sit awkwardly or dig into your skin. It’s so comfortable you quickly forget you’re wearing it, and you’ll have no problem keeping it on all day long.

Its butterfly clasp, made from solid and sturdy 316L stainless steel, makes the Qrono easy to put on, and even easier to take off. Squeeze the buttons on either side of the clasp and it quickly pops open, allowing you to slide your Watch off your wrist.

Build quality you can rely on

Don’t let the Qrono’s lightweight design fool you. It is every bit as well-made as Juuk’s stainless steel bands. It feels strong and high-end, and its links fit beautifully together. Nothing feels loose or tacky. A lot of effort has clearly gone into making this a great band.

I was a little worried the aluminum would scratch or scuff easily — especially on the underside of the band, which tends to rub against the surface of my desk all day while I’m typing away. But I’m yet to spot a blemish on mine.

I’ve been wearing the Qrono all day, every day since I received it in early September. And I’m not exactly the most cautious Apple Watch wearer. I don’t take it off when I’m getting dirty or doing something that I would consider strenuous. But the Qrono has held up perfectly well.

Easy adjustments for almost any wrist

The Qrono fits wrists up to 8.35 inches (212mm) in size. If yours are smaller, you can make quick and easy adjustments with Juuk’s simple link removal tool, which ships with every Qrono band.

The tool allows you to pop out the pins that hold each link in place, and helps you push them back in again without piercing your finger or thumb. I had to remove six links from my band for the perfect fit, and it took me less than five minutes.

Juuk Qrono review: The verdict

I’ve purchased very few metal bands for my Apple Watch. I don’t find them particularly comfortable for every day wear, and they tend to be too heavy for my liking. But the Juuk Qrono is completely different. It’s the first metal band I’ve really enjoyed wearing.

The Qrono is amazingly lightweight, incredibly comfortable, and it looks fantastic. The cosmic gray model I have goes great with a space gray Watch, and it’s the only band I’ve used so far that has had other people asking where I got it.

Priced at just $139, I can’t recommend it enough.

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Juuk provided Cult of Mac with a review unit for this article. Read our reviews policy for more information, and check out more of our in-depth reviews. We originally published this review on February 16, 2022. We updated the pricing information.

Looking for some sweet holiday gifts that won’t break the bank? The Cult of Mac Store has a massive collection of affordable stocking stuffers, sure to put a smile on the face of any Apple fan, for less than $20 each.

You’ll find cases, screen protectors, bands, stands and more from our most popular vendors. And every product has been used and approved by us, so you can be confident you’re spending your hard-earned cash on great products.

Stellar stocking stuffers for less than $20

It’s easy to buy for Apple fans over the holidays because there are so many terrific accessories for Apple devices — even if you’re on a tight budget. In fact, the Cult of Mac Store has seven whole pages of stellar goods for less than $20.

You’ll find essentials for AirPods, AirTag, Apple Watch, iPhone, iPad, MagSafe and more. Here are just a few you might want to check out.

Elago Clear Band for Apple Watch

Remember when transparent watch bands were some of the coolest things you could slap on your wrist? Elago does, which is why it brought them back with its super-stylish Clear band for Apple Watch.

Made from a sturdy TPU that’s almost indestructible, the Clear band is ideal in any situation — and goes great with almost any outfit. It’s also incredibly easy to clean, so it’s great for working out and other activities.

Price: $12.99

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Device Therapy AirTag Reflector Mount

Strap an AirTag to your bike so that you can discreetly track its location with this ingenious mount from Device Therapy. It looks just like a bog-standard reflector at first glance, so would-be thieves will have no idea it’s even there.

Printed from high-quality, plant-sourced bioplastic, the Device Therapy mount secures and hides your AirTag under your saddle. It’s built to withstand all weather conditions, including torrential rain. Check out our full review for more.

Price: $15.99

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

HEDock for Apple Watch

Need an Apple Watch charging stand that’s just as pretty as Apple Watch itself? The excellent HEDock is made entirely out of high-grade aluminum, like your other Apple products, for a clean and simple design that looks great anywhere.

Whether you plan to stick it next to your bed or on your desk, the HEDock will blend subtly into the background and keep your Apple Watch safe.

Price: $15

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Silicone Pad for AirTag

Make your belongings much easier to find when they go missing by attaching an AirTag using Elago’s affordable Silicone Pad. This little accessory features a reusable adhesive that allows it to be stuck to almost any flat surface.

It doesn’t leave any residue, and it’s super-secure, which makes it ideal for tracking things like skateboards, scooters, remote controls, handheld consoles, headphones, drones, garden gnomes … the list goes on.

Price: $12.99

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Grip Stand for MagSafe Charger

Make your MagSafe Charger even more useful by turning it into a stand and grip for your iPhone 12. Elago’s aptly named Grip Stand accessory makes your iPhone easier to hold onto and easier to see while it’s charging.

Made from soft but sturdy silicone, the Grip Stand wraps around your MagSafe Charger and has a loop to place your fingers inside for a more secure grip, preventing your iPhone from falling on your face when you accidentally let go.

Price: $14.99

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Elago AirPods 3 Cases

AirPods always look great when you first take them out of their box, but it only takes a few days for their shiny white case to become covered in scuffs and scratches. That’s why you should protect yours with a great case.

Check out Elago’s brilliantly cool new lineup of cases for AirPods 3, which includes simple silicone sleeves, luscious leather options, and others inspired by awesome retro tech, including the original Game Boy and Macintosh.

Price: from $10.99

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Laut Apple Pencil Case

Keep your Apple Pencil free from scuffs and scrapes and ensure it’s always easy to find with the stylish and affordable Pencil Case from Laut.

Its ultra-slim and wonderfully clean design, available in lilac or orange, ensures the Pencil Case for Apple Pencil never gets in your way. But it provides enough protection to keep your stylus pristine and polished.

Price: $14.99

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Elkson Quattro Pro for Apple Watch

The Quattro Pro combines an Apple Watch bumper and band into one. Its incredibly strong design, which includes sturdy stainless steel buckles, ensures Apple Watch stays on your wrist even during intense activities.

The bumper encases your Apple Watch in a 1.2mm cushion with a raised edge that protects its sides and screen without interfering with its functionality. And it even works with most screen protectors.

Price: $18.99

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Ultra Slim Hard Shell for MacBook

Apple computers hold their value remarkably well — especially when they’re well looked after. Keep your MacBook Air or MacBook Pro looking brand-new with an ultra-slim, ultra-affordable hard case from Elago.

These snap-on protectors prevent your machine from picking up scuffs and scratches while it’s on the move. They’re not too thick or too heavy, and they don’t hide your MacBook’s gorgeous design.

Price: from $18.99

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

And lot’s more!

These are just some of the many, many accessories you’ll find for less than $20 in the Cult of Mac Store. Check out the full catalog of outstanding stocking stuffers today.

Note: We originally published this post on December 10, 2021.

There’s something especially convenient about having a multi-device charging station on your nightstand. Or you could place at the edge of your desk or on a table by the front door. It’s a place you can charge your iPhone, AirPods charging case and Apple Watch all at once if need be.

Ugreen sent me its version to test out, the 3-in-1 MagSafe Wireless Charging Station. It’s a good charger for most people — especially because it’s MFi-certified for MagSafe. That means you get a full 15 watts for MagSafe iPhones and 5W apiece for an AirPods charging case and Apple Watch.

But the device isn’t without minor drawbacks.

Ugreen 3-in-1 Magsafe Wireless Charging Station

Out of the box the Ugreen 3-in-1 MagSafe Wireless Charging Station looks good. The packaging is attractive and the provided written material is brief and clear. The device itself, all white and chrome, is compact but has a satisfying heft to it.

The 25W charger’s platform includes a metal arm with a MagSafe puck at the end for an iPhone in landscape (horizontal) or portrait (vertical) mode. So it’s pretty convenient to use the iPhone while it’s charging, if you want to watch a video or take a call.

The iPhone charger offers 15W of power for iPhone series 14/13/12 regardless of whether you have other devices charging at the same time. Qi chargers that aren’t certified only give you 7.5W.

Next to the iPhone charger a recession provides a spot to rest an AirPods charging case (or any Qi-enabled case, such as for other earbuds). There your Apple earbuds take 5W of charging power (some other chargers offer only 2.5W for earbuds cases and smart watches). An indicator light lets you know the item is charging.

On the right you find an Apple Watch charger that lays flush in the platform until you press a button on the back edge of the platform to let the watch charger pop up, offering 5W of power. That button-activated pop-up is kind of a cool little feature.

And it’s also great that you can change the angle of the iPhone charger and the watch charger. Both can swing from 20 degrees to 90 degrees, yet remain firmly fixed at whatever angle you choose under the weight of the device that’s charging.

Power for fast charging

With 15W available for the iPhone and 5W apiece available to the AirPods charging case and Apple Watch, the Ugreen chargers speed is noticeably faster than Qi-enabled magnetic 3-in-1 chargers that don’t merit the MFi certification.

The iPhone charger is about twice as fast as the Qi norm of 7.5W. And the 5W is about twice as fast as the 2.5W some chargers offer to small devices.

The Ugreen charger cranked up my Apple Watch 6 from 49% full to 100% full in 40 minutes. The platform seemed similar in its charging of my AirPods Pro 2 case, though perhaps a little slower. And my iPhone 13 Pro, in its MagSafe leather case, went from 49% to 77% in 30 minutes.

Minor drawbacks

So compared to an older multi-device charging stand I’ve tested, by Zens, the Ugreen charger is superior on several fronts — but not all. On the one hand, it’s a bit smaller, it provides more power for faster charging, and its iPhone and Apple Watch chargers are adjustable.

But on the other hand, the older Zens charger has a cool-looking matte-black finish, its watch charger is removable so you can stick it in a laptop’s USB-C port to charge your watch on the go, and — take note, this is the big one  — it has a separate USB port on the side to charge a fourth device.

So the Zens is actually a 4-in-1. And that extra port is fairly common on this type of charger. Yet the Ugreen charger doesn’t have it. So let’s say you have an earbuds charging case that only works via USB-C cable. Find somewhere else to charge it.

And finally, one more minor drawback: The charger doesn’t come with a power adapter for its USB-C cord. You have to buy a 30W adapter separately (or use one you have). But that’s pretty common these days.

Rest assured, like most chargers, this device’s multi-functional intelligent protection technology defends against over-current, over-voltage and over-heating, as well as short circuits.

Specifications from Ugreen:

• 3-in-1 wireless charging station / fast charging dock
• MagSafe compatible, MFi-certified, 25W wireless charger
• Compatible with smartphones, earbud charging cases and smart watches
• Compatible phone models: iPhone series 14/13/12/11/XS/X/XR/8 Plus/8, Huawei P30 Pro, Mate 20 Pro, Mate 20 RS, Galaxy S22/S21/S20
• Compatible with AirPods Pro 2/1, AirPods 3/2, and other Qi-enabled wireless earphones.
• Power: 15W for iPhone 12/13 series, 5W for all Apple Watch series, 5W for all AirPods series
• Connectivity: USB-C (to connect to power), MagSafe
• Weight: 447 grams
• Dimensions 6.69 x 3.43 x 3.94 inches

All in all, the Ugreen 3-in-1 MagSafe Wireless Charging Station is a fine multi-device charger. It’s price of $129.99 at Ugreen or Amazon isn’t a blazing deal, but it’s on the affordable side ($20 less than Belkin’s MFi-certified 3-in-1). And at Amazon you can apply a $20 coupon to bring the Ugreen charger’s price down to $109.99.

Where to buy: Amazon or Ugreen

Ugreen provided Cult of Mac with a review unit for this article. See our reviews policy, and check out other in-depth reviews of Apple-related items.

Add star ratings to a post by adding this shortcode anywhere:★★★★☆

Simple. Elegant. These are the best words to describe the Speidel Royal English Leather Apple Watch Band. Supple black leather matches the style of Apple’s wearable, while adding a luxurious feel.

And it’s surprisingly affordable, given the quality of this band.

Speidel Royal English Leather Apple Watch Band review

Simplicity is its own reward. And that’s personified in Speidel’s Royal English Leather band. It comes in unadorned black, with black stitching. Those who want a different feel can get it in a dark brown or honey color from Speidel.

No matter the color, this accessory is made of genuine calfskin leather so it’s soft and pliable. My test unit is completely unblemished. Not surprising, as Speidel has been making watch bands since 1904.

The thread used for stitching exactly matches the color of the Royal English Leather band. A careful inspection finds no flaws in the sewing.

Fits all models, including Apple Watch Series 8

The adapters that connect each half of the band to the Apple Watch are available in either silver or black. They fit solidly in the Apple Watch, with no risk of slipping out, but each detaches at the press of a button. There are different versions for the 38mm/40mm/41 and the 42mm/44mm/45 Apple Watches. By my measurements, the band fits wrists between 6.25 inches and 8 inches in circumference.

The buckle is always silver. It bears a polished finish, not matte like the Apple Watch, but the difference isn’t noticeable enough to be bothersome.

Speidel Royal English Leather Apple Watch Band final thoughts

There are fancier bands for Apple’s wrist computer. But you’ll be hard-pressed to find one that does a better job of exhibiting simple elegance than the Speidel Royal English Leather Apple Watch Band. It’s like a tuxedo, or a little black dress.

Just as importantly, this product is well-made. After almost a week of use, my test unit still appears brand new.

Pricing

This Speidel product is available in the Cult of Mac Store for $32.95. Competing leather bands for Apple’s wearable cost $50, $100 or even more. This one is something of a bargain, considering its quality.

Buy from: Cult of Mac Watch Store — $32.95

Speidel provided Cult of Mac with a review unit for this article. See our reviews policy, and check out more in-depth reviews of Apple-related items. We originally published this Speidel Royal English Leather Apple Watch Band review on July 22, 2021. We updated it to include the latest Apple Watch compatibility.

The first reviews of the Apple Watch Ultra praise the rugged smartwatch’s large display, its new Action button and its longer battery life. But a debate brews about whether the wearable is too big — there seems to be no agreement on this.

Anyone considering whether Apple’s sports-oriented smartwatch is right for them should read on. As the reviewers point out, this isn’t just for fans of outdoor adventure.

Apple Watch Ultra reviews

Unveiled earlier this month at Apple’s Far Out event, Apple Watch Ultra is the company’s boldest smartwatch yet. The bulkier design — the first to really stray from the look of the original Apple Watch — brings new features aimed at endurance athletes and adventurers. However, it also appeals to smartwatch lovers who crave a bigger screen and extended battery life.

Apple Watch Ultra arrives in stores Friday. Here’s what the first reviews say.

Yes, it’s big, but it feels smaller than expected

The Apple Watch Ultra is undeniably a hefty device. But several reviewers says it’s not too large. “In photos, the Watch Ultra dwarfs my wrist. In person, it feels smaller than some of the 45mm to 47mm round watches I’ve tested,” said The Verge review.

“When taking the Ultra out of the box for the first time, I thought it was going to be too large and heavy for my wrist. But it’s deceptively light to wear, thanks to its titanium construction,” noted the CNET reviewer.

Not everyone agrees, though. “The 49mm titanium watch face looks ridiculously large on my wrist,” the CNBC reviewer wrote. “I realize the big size is the tradeoff for a longer-lasting battery, but the Ultra just doesn’t feel like it was created for a woman’s wrist.”

Even the reviews with positive comments on the size also noted that the device will be too large for some people.

Love that super-size screen

As noted, the Apple Watch Ultra’s case measures 49mm. That means this is the largest Watch screen Apple has ever made … part of the reason the wearable is so bulky.

“The display has increased to nearly two inches across and is far brighter, so the extra information you can see is beautifully legible,” noted TechRadar.

“The larger screen is great for readability,” said The Verge. “I’ve got bad eyesight, and a big screen means I can crank up the font size so it’s easier to read.

Multiday battery life

The large size makes room for a bigger battery, and the Apple Watch Ultra runs for longer times between recharges. In fact, one review said the battery performs even better than advertised.

“The Ultra’s 36-hour battery estimate is also a bit conservative; if you’re not partaking in a triathlon, you’re likely going to get closer to 48 hours. And that’s without low-power mode enabled,” said The Verge review.

Many reviewers didn’t do battery life testing, just quoting Apple’s estimate.

Ready. Set. Action!

A highlight of the Apple Watch Ultra is the new bright orange Action button that performs different functions in different apps.

“Next to the larger capacity battery, this is my favorite new hardware feature on the Ultra. It’s going to be hard to go back to an Apple Watch Series without one,” said CNET.

TechRadar called it “a big orange symbol of change that the Apple Watch was in desperate need of.”

Climb every mountain. Ford every stream.

The features covered up until now would help any user, including those planning to wear the device to nothing more grueling than a meeting. But that’s not the target audience of the Apple Watch Ultra. Apple’s video preview shows people climbing mountains and running through deserts while using the wearable.

The Ultra features dual-frequency L1+L5 GPS for more accurate location tracking. TechRadar tested that feature in a dense, urban environment. “While there were a few moments where apparently we plunged through buildings, most of the time it tracked us to sidewalks even under heavy tree cover, or spotted us changing sides of the road,” the publication wrote.

The Compass app allows users to mark waypoints they want to remember the location of. Backtrack can be used to return on the same route. The Verge tested these features during a hike in the mountains.

“I dropped Waypoints in the area where we parked, the state park visitor center, and several restrooms, and the Compass app showed the distance and direction back to each,” noted its reviewer. “I mostly didn’t need Backtrack — which helps you retrace your exact route — but I was happy to have it when we briefly got lost.”

But this is Apple’s first attempt at a Watch for extreme athletes, and it’s not yet ready to go toe-to-toe with companies with years of experience.

“The Ultra might not match the sports and mapping features on a higher-end Garmin, Coros or Polar watch, but the tight integration with iPhone might be worth more to you,” said CNET.

Video reviews

Marques Brownlee got more than two days and two nights of use out of the Ultra. He talks about this and more in his video review.

And CNET published a video review in addition to its written one.

Apple Watch Ultra is available now

The Apple Watch Ultra starts at $799, and can be preordered now from the online Apple store. The only version has a 49mm display, is made of titanium and has built-on LTE wireless networking.

That’s much more than the base model Apple Watch Series 8 costs, but it’s the same price as the titanium Apple Watch Series 7 despite the additional features.

Shipments are scheduled to begin September 23, but Apple has sold out of its prelaunch supply. An order placed today won’t arrive before the week of November 3.

Whether or not you took the plunge and upgraded to a new Apple Watch Series 8 or SE, you can partake of something more affordable if you own any model of the wearable — Apple’s new lower-end Apple Watch bands. I picked up the new Apple Midnight Sport Loop for my Apple Watch Series 6.

I like the new band. But I found it interesting to compare it to third-party versions of similar quality that go for a lot less money.

Apple Midnight Sport Loop review

I bought the woven nylon-and-Velcro Apple Midnight Sport Loop (41mm) for $49. By Apple standards, that’s not a lot of money. It’s the company’s lowest price point for bands. But by cheap-as-hell-third-party-Apple-Watch-band standards, it is kind of a lot of money. After all, you can buy decent leather, stainless steel, nylon and other styles for as little as $10 to $15.

I have plenty of cheap Apple Watch bands. They include a few nylon examples, two of which sport woven nylon and Velcro for the “sport loop” effect of blended colors and easy adjustability.

Those two are GZ Gzhisy Sport Loops, one in reflective black and the other in midnight fog. They cost $11.99 apiece (pictured above on either side of the Apple Sport Loop).

But first things first. I found the packaging annoying while unboxing the band. After getting through the exterior box, I had to wrestle with the Apple packaging to extract the band, almost like it was protecting an actual Apple Watch rather than just a nylon band.

A good fit with the Apple Watch 6

Once past the packaging, I was relieved to find the 41mm band fit my 40mm Apple Watch 6 just fine. Perfectly, actually. The connectors lock in to fit seamlessly. My concern was that Apple made the band for the 41mm Apple Watch Series 7 and 8, so there might be a slight mismatch with my older model.

Apple said the 41mm band works with 38mm, 40mm and 41mm Apple Watches. And the 45mm band fits 42mm, 44mm, 45mm and 49mm models. My watch was just a millimeter off. Hard to say if the fit would seem so perfect with a 3mm or 4mm difference.

Just one wrist-size choice on 41mm version

The other measure of how an Apple Watch band fits — length as it compares to the circumference of your wrist — left a little bit to be desired.

The 41mm Sport Loops comes in just one length to fit 130mm to 200mm wrists. The 45mm version comes in two sizes, either 145mm to 220mm or 170mm to 245mm wrists.

So, after scowling at the packaging, I noticed how short the band seemed. It turned out there were two additional reasons for that.

One is that the GZ Gzhisy sport loops I had become used to are designed as one-size-fits-all, so they’re longer. They fit whether your Apple Watch is the smallest (38mm) or biggest (49mm), and whether your wrist is like a ballerina’s or an NFL linebacker’s.

One strip of nylon versus two strips

The second difference is that the GZ Gzhisy Sport Loop and others like it are made of two separate nylon pieces with Velcro on the underside, held together with a plastic piece. The Apple Sport Loop is one strip of nylon folded at one connector to the watch.

So, after the fold at the connector, the Apple band offered just a couple of inches of band to fasten down via Velcro. Pulled tight, it reached to the center of the underside of my wrist, but just barely, and that was a bit too tight.

But the fit is OK. The jury is still out on whether I actually prefer the longer ones or I just got used to them like I’ll get used to Apple’s shorter band. I’m also more accustomed to how to put on the third-party bands made with two strips of nylon rather than one.

Apple’s design is simpler, but that’s not necessarily better until it is (like if the hard plastic piece holding my other sports bands together breaks).

Excellent look and feel

One area where the Apple band enjoys some superiority? Aesthetics. Both the look and the feel of the band bring more quality than the third-party sport loops I have. All are light and flexible, but Apple’s has a finer feel to it.

The new Apple Sport Loop comes in five colors: elderberry, storm blue, midnight, starlight and (product) red. But each of them is actually multicolored, with opposing colors on the edges and four sets of two woven lines in different colors in between.

That’s a sophisticated look for a band that’s made of plastic, essentially.

Apple’s version is also a little softer on both sides than the other ones. And one of the great things about nylon straps, especially woven ones, is that they allow moisture to escape for easy breathability. No worries about slimy leather on a hot and humid day.

Bottom line

So, whether you shell out three or four times as much money for Apple’s product or get a cheaper version comes down to personal choice. Odds are you can find something good for less, but you may prefer not scouring miles of internet for every possible choice of woven nylon sport band.

Apple’s new Sport Loop bands go for $49 at Apple or Amazon (where you can find a large selection of third-party nylon sport loops for $10 to $15). Apple’s version comes in elderberry, midnight, (product) red, storm blue, starlight and Pride Edition color choices, and in 41mm or 45mm sizes meant to fit the range of Apple Watch models.

Where to buy: Apple or Amazon

★★★★☆

You can enjoy the classic link look on your Apple Watch with the stylish and sophisticated Casetify Link Bracelet. It not only looks great, but it’s robust and comfortable all day long. It also comes in three stylish color options.

Here’s why it’s one of my favorite bands after six months of wear.

Casetify Link Bracelet review

One of the many things I love about the Link Bracelet is its unique design and details. You’ll find so many metal bands for Apple Watch on the market today, and many of them look more or less the same. But not Casetify’s.

Each of the band’s stainless steel links has a matte finish running down its center, with shiny, polished outer edges that provide an eye-catching look. It features a traditional, matte clasp with the Casetify logo precisely etched into it, and stainless steel adapters that feel just as sturdy as the band itself.

A unique metal Apple Watch band

That clasp opens with a pinch and closes with a snap, making the Link Bracelet incredibly easy to get on and off. The whole thing feels strong and incredibly well-made, like a high-end watch that was built to last a lifetime. It’s also smooth, unlike some metal bands, so it feels great on the wrist.

All of the materials used in the Link Bracelet are hard-wearing and water-resistant, making it ideal for anyone. Although the band looks great with your best party gear, you don’t have to save it for special occasions.

You won’t want to take it off

That’s ideal, because I found myself wanting to use the Link Bracelet all the time. It’s lighter than it looks at first glance (though slightly heavier than leather or nylon options) and it goes great with everything.

It has also been kind to my skin. Not all metal bands agree with me — I’ve used some that cause irritation in no time at all — but even after long periods of wear, the Link Bracelet hasn’t caused me any issues or discomfort at all.

A metal Apple Watch band that’s built to last

I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how tough the Link Bracelet is, too. Even after picking up a few knocks over the past few months, mine looks as good as new. There’s not a single scuff or scratch that I can find, and the colored coating doesn’t appear to have started wearing off at all.

Get the right fit and the Link Bracelet feels snug and secure, which is exactly what you want when you’re relying on it to keep your beloved Apple Watch from slipping off onto the floor. It features 14 links in total, making it suitable for almost any wrist size, and removing any you don’t need is made easy by the included adjustment tool. Anyone can do it!

All you have to do is place the band inside the tool, line up one of the pins, and tighten the tool’s handle until the pin pops out. Arrows on the underside of the band make it clear which way the pins should come out.

Get your Casetify Link Bracelet for Apple Watch

The Casetify Link Bracelet is available for all 38/40/41mm and 42/44/45mm Apple Watch models, and comes in black, silver or gold. You can order yours today from the Cult of Mac Store for $95.

Casetify provided Cult of Mac with a review unit for this article. See our reviews policy, and check out more in-depth reviews of Apple-related items. We originally published this review on December 8, 2020.

Bored of looking at the same old Apple Watch on your wrist? Give yours a makeover by adding a brand-new band or bumper case. There are a wide range of awesome Apple Watch accessories available at surprisingly affordable prices.

We’ve rounded up some of the best that are currently priced at $40 or less to help you out. Check out all 15 right here!

Awesome Apple Watch accessories under $40

All the products we’ve picked out here have been used, tested and approved by our team, so you can be sure your cash is being well-spent.

Whether you’re shopping for swanky stainless steel bracelets, lightweight NATO straps, or attractive charging stands, we’ve got you covered. And half of these products will cost you under $25.

Elago Clear band — $12.99

Remember when transparent watch bands were some of the coolest things you could slap on your wrist? Elago does, which is why it is bringing them back with its new Clear band for Apple Watch.

Made from a sturdy TPU that’s almost indestructible, the Clear band is ideal in any situation. It’s not just incredibly strong, but also insanely easy to clean, and ideal for those with active lifestyles who frequently get dirty.

Price: $12.99
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Laut AW Stand — $29.99

Laut’s simple AW Stand is a single piece of strong aluminum that gives your Apple Watch a place to rest while it’s charging. It looks great on any desk or bedside table, and it’s compatible with all Watch models.

The top of the stand is angled at 45 degrees to make your Apple Watch easy to read in Nightstand mode, and it has a rubber sleeve that ensures the back and sides of your Watch don’t get scratched.

Anti-sleep feet prevent the AW Stand from sliding around, while its three color options — gunmetal, gold, and silver — allow you to match its look with your Apple Watch case.

Price: $29.99
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

LK screen protector 6-pack — from $7.99

Keep your Apple Watch’s gorgeous new display in pristine condition with an LK screen protector. They’re made from thermoplastic elastomers for a “self-healing” effect that automatically eliminates minor scuffs. They’re easy to install without bubbles, and they offer incredible clarity.

Price: from $7.99
Buy from: Amazon (41mm)/Amazon (45mm)

Spigen Rugged Armor bumper case — $13.99

Looking for some more rugged protection that will keep your Apple Watch safe in harsh environments? Check out the highly rated Spigen Rugged Armor bumper that wraps your Apple Watch in a robust shell.

Made from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), the Rugged Armor absorbs shock without making your smartwatch difficult to use. And its raised edge helps prevent your screen from rubbing up against walls and other surfaces. It’s also available in a number of great color options.

Price: $13.99
Buy from: Amazon (41mm)/Amazon (45mm)

Rilee & Lo stainless steel stretch-link band — $40

Available in a range of gorgeous color options and made from premium stainless steel, Rilee & Lo’s stretch-link bands help make your Apple Watch look better than ever.

They’re inspired by high-end jewelry and designed to deliver a premium look, and they’re considerably easier to get on and off than traditional stainless steel bracelets.

You’ll be hard-pressed to find an alternative stainless steel option that looks this good at that price.

Price: $40
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

BluShark Canvas Strap Roll — $18

If you’re the kind of Apple Watch owner who loves swapping your bands on a regular basis, you’ll want to carry more than one while traveling. Keep them organized and protected with the handy Canvas Strap Roll from BluShark.

It has enough space for at least three bands, and it ensures they all stay separated so they can’t damage each other. It also features a secure snap button closure to prevent the case from spilling its contents on the go.

Price: $18
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Nyloon nylon bands — $39.95

Nylon bands are incredibly lightweight and wonderfully comfortable, and Nyloon makes some of the nicest money can buy in a wide range of colors and styles.

Each one is made of ballistic-grade nylon and fits most wrist sizes. They’re thicker and more durable than ordinary polyester bands, and feature stainless steel adapters that are built to last.

They also fit all generations of 38/40/41mm and 42/44/45mm Apple Watch.

Price: $39.95
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Laut Active 2.0 sports band — $29.99

The Active 2.0 is tailored for sports and solves many of the problems you’ll encounter with other Apple Watch bands while you’re working out. It even fixes some of the problems with Apple’s own Sports band.

Unique materials make it wonderfully soft and flexible so that it’s a delight to wear all day long. It wraps nicely around any wrist without digging into your skin or causing you to itch.

A machined metal button enclosure means the Active 2.0 is less likely to pinch your skin or catch your hair, as Apple’s own Sport band tends to do, while stainless steel adapters are included for added durability.

Finally, the Active 2.0 is patterned to make it much more attractive — and more interesting — than traditional silicone sports bands. And it’s available in four great color options.

Price: $29.99
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Portable wireless charger for Apple Watch — $17.99

Do you ever forget to charge your Apple Watch before you leave the house? You don’t have to worry about a dead battery when you have a portable wireless charger on your keychain.

This 4,000mAh option is enough to charge Apple Watch three times over, and small enough to take with you everywhere. It’s compatible with all Apple Watch models, and has a charging puck built-in, so you don’t need to carry any cables. Simply put Apple Watch on its surface and it starts charging!

Price: $17.99 (apply coupon to get the $3 discount)
Buy from: Amazon

Blocks build your own stand kit — $29.99

The brilliant Blocks kit lets you build your own Apple Watch stand exactly how you want it. It comes with over 90 different blocks to choose from — all of which are compatible with other building blocks from leading manufacturers, such as Lego.

The included Apple Watch cradle accommodates most bands and bumpers, and you can build your stand around your favorite iPhone cases and accessories, in your favorite colors.

Price: $29.99
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Elago Premium band — $18.99

Made from high-end Fluor rubber, the Premium band is lightweight and flexible yet surprisingly strong. It uses stainless steel buckles and adapters for added durability, and wraps easily around the wrist.

Its breathable design prevents the Premium band from getting too wet or irritating your skin while you sweat. And because it’s completely water-resistant, washing the band when it gets dirty is a breeze.

The Premium band is available in black, blue, and red, and goes great with Apple Watch’s new color options. But it’s also compatible with older 38/40mm and 42/44mm Apple Watch models.

Price: $18.99
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Mifa classic leather band — $25

Mifa’s classic band makes premium leather affordable for everyone. It uses genuine leather that’s 3mm thick for great durability, and combines it with strong stainless steel clasps and adapters.

Perforated dots along the strap allow it to be more breathable, which means it’s perfect for all-day wear. And at just $25, everyone should have one in their collection.

Mifa’s band is compatible with both 38/40/41mm and 42/44/45mm Apple Watch models, and it comes in black, brown, or gray.

Price: $25
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Elago charging stands — $13 to $19

Elago’s spectacular Apple Watch charging stands are my favorite products on this list. And if you’re a fan of anything Apple, I know you’ll love them, too.

They 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 $13, so it’s a struggle to resist buying them all.

Price: Starting at $13
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Laut Steel Loop band — $39.99

A great metal bracelet is a surefire way to make your Apple Watch stand out and appear even more expensive. The Steel Loop from Laut looks a lot like Apple’s own Milanese Loop — and is made from exactly the same materials.

The Steel Loop uses a woven stainless steel mesh that’s both durable and incredibly comfortable on your wrist. Its flexibility makes it more comfortable than other metal bracelets, while its slim and lightweight profile feels high-end without weighing you down. It’s also breathable, which helps add comfort.

Get yours in a number of great color options for under $40.

Price: $39.99
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Elago 3-in-1 charging hub — $24.99

If you need a stand that charges everything, look no further than the Elago 3-in-1 charging hub. It tops up your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods simultaneously — and looks good while doing it.

The hub is made out of silicone so you never have to worry about knocking it over and breaking it, and it’s available in a number of pretty colors that look great on any nightstand.

Check out our full review for more.

Price: $24.99
Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

Note: We originally published this roundup up March 22, 2022. We republished it after updating it.

Monowear’s gorgeous Urban Canvas bands are a terrific match for Apple Watch. They’re nicely priced at just $38, and they come in a range of great color options that go well with almost anything.

Here’s why they’re some of the toughest and most surprising Apple Watch bands I’ve worn to date.

Review: Monowear Urban Canvas for Apple Watch

I’ve collected a ton of Apple Watch straps over the years. They’re all made from either leather, silicone, or metal. The only canvas band I’ve ever used was with an old Timex watch … and I hated it.

It was itchy and uncomfortable, and it probably lasted less than an hour on my wrist before I ripped it off and never looked at it again. But I had higher hopes for Monowear’s Urban Canvas band.

You see, this band isn’t made entirely out of canvas. Monowear uses an ingenious trick to ensure it stays comfortable all day long.

Urban Canvas a unique treat for Apple Watch

It’s almost invisible when the Urban Canvas is on your wrist. But if you take it off and flip it over, you’ll find a genuine leather backing that’s a soft as a ripened peach.

That backing, despite being incredibly slim, does a terrific job of protecting your skin from the Urban Canvas’ tough exterior. A small canvas loop remains exposed, but you’ll hardly ever notice it.

I’ve worn this band all day, every day for months — swapping it only to try out the other color options — and it hasn’t irritated me at all. Like any good Watch band, you soon forget you’re wearing it.

Getting the Urban Canvas on can be a little tricky at first. It uses a simple, single plug buckle — similar to Apple’s silicone Sport band — so fastening it isn’t complicated. But its holes are tight until you wear one in, so you’ll need to press firmly to get the plug buckle into place.

Once the band is on, however, it isn’t going anywhere.

Urban Canvas is built to last

The Urban Canvas feels super-secure on your wrist. It doesn’t get loose during the day, so there’s no need to worry about it popping open and allowing your Apple Watch to tumble to the ground. And because it is made predominantly from canvas, it’s extremely durable and built to last a lifetime.

This is the same material that’s used to make tents, sails, backpacks, and shoes. It doesn’t mind getting wet or sweaty, or being twisted and pulled around. You can scratch it, scuff it, and scream at it (if you really want to) and it will continue to do its job.

Monowear’s build quality has impressed me in the past, and the same is true here. Every cut and stitch on the Urban Canvas is meticulous and precise. It’s beautifully put together, despite not being high-end or expensive.

Get yours for just $38

The Urban Canvas is available in plaid gray, vintage red, denim blue, mango tango, light ube, and kiwi stardust for both 38/40/41mm and 42/44/45mm Apple Watch models.

The gray is my favorite, simply because it goes with everything. But most will consider the blue and red to be prettier — and they’re ideal for Apple Watch’s newest color options.

At just $38 in the Cult of Mac Store, the Urban Canvas is a no-brainer. It’s not the kind of band you’ll want to wear with your best suit, but for everything else, it’s a winner.

And if you’ve collected a lot of bands like me, also check out Monowear’s handy Travel Fold Up, pictured below. It’s just $35, and it protects all your favorite straps while you’re on the move.

Elago’s brilliant Sport band has quickly become my favorite activity band for Apple Watch. It’s well-designed and built like a tank from super-sturdy materials. And it’s unbelievably good value for money at just $18.99.

Want to know more? Here’s our full review.

Silicone is typically the material accessory-makers choose when crafting activity bands for Apple Watch. And it’s not a bad choice; it’s lightweight, flexible, and water-resistant, which makes it ideal for almost any activity.

But unless you pay good money for high-quality silicone — like that used for Apple’s own Sport band, priced at a rather steep $49 — you may find that your new band tears or breaks too easily when it gets stretched.

Silicone also tends to attract dirt and dust too easy, but there is another option — one that’s significantly more robust, while delivering many of the same benefits. That’s the fluoro rubber used by Elago.

Rubber makes for strong, sturdy Apple Watch bands

Fluoro rubber is more dense than traditional rubber, and more resistive to heat and chemicals. It’s incredibly strong, much stronger than cheap silicone, and it doesn’t act like a magnet for hair, lint, and other debris.

As a result, Elago’s Sport band feels tough, like you couldn’t break it no matter how hard you tried. It’s ready for anything you might throw at it, but still lightweight and comfortable enough to be worn all day, everyday.

The band is soft and flexible, despite being slightly thicker than most silicone straps. And it’s designed to be breathable, with a permeable inner surface that helps keep you dry during your toughest workouts.

I haven’t had to clean the Elago Sport strap anywhere near as frequently as I have to clean my Apple Sport band. But when a clean is required, it doesn’t mind being washed in soapy water, or scrubbed with a brush.

The price is stellar

Pictures of the Elago Sport band don’t do it justice. It actually feels a lot sturdier, and indeed looks even more attractive, in real life. That makes its price tag of just $18.99 even more terrific. And that’s what really surprises me about this band.

I’ve used lots of “sports” bands for Apple Watch, and the best ones weren’t cheap. I’m yet to find a silicone band as good as Apple’s, and that’s more than double the price of this one. But I’ve been wearing Elago’s band for several months now, and I have no complaints.

It’s comfortable to wear, more than strong enough, and it looks good whether you’re in the gym, at the beach, or in the office (when you’re actually allowed to work in the office). It’s ideal if you’re looking for an affordable band that’s good for anything.

You can order yours today in black, blue, or red from the Cult of Mac Store.

Elago provided Cult of Mac with a review unit for this article. See our reviews policy for more information, and check out more of our in-depth reviews.

The Zens Magnetic + Watch Wireless Charger stands in the ranks of MagSafe-compatible chargers designed to be your go-to device for juicing up multiple pieces of Apple gear — and the sleek and compact 4-in-1 device does it in style. But not with a huge amount of charging power.

The Zens Magnetic + Watch Wireless Charger tops up four devices — all at once, if you like.

A puck on a dark metallic stem holds a MagSafe iPhone (12 or 13 series) firmly in place, horizontally or vertically. The surface underneath charges an AirPods case or any Qi-enabled device. A USB-A charging stick lets you top off an Apple Watch in Sleep mode. And a USB-A port on the side powers up something else, like an iPad.

Zens Magnetic + Watch Wireless Charger: What’s great about it

Zens’ 4-in-1 charger works like it’s supposed to work, and it looks good doing it. Zens crafts it mostly from matte-black aluminum that gives the charger a sleek look and feel. It has just enough heft to feel like a premium product. It certainly doesn’t give off any impression of being a plastic product.

The somewhat small footprint of the device is another plus. It’s compact enough — while fully capable of charging four devices at once — to fit on a bedside table. Or a side table by the front door. Or wherever you find convenient as the main place to plunk down your gadgets for a charge.

And you can take the sturdy, MFi-certified charging stick out of its slot on the right side of the charging bed and stick it in a USB-A port on a laptop. That gives you another convenient way to charge your Apple Watch.

Out of the port in the back of the charger you can run the included 30W USB-C PD power adapter via its nice, braided, tangle-resistant cable. And speaking of powering the charger, it comes with alternative plugs for use in the EU and the UK. Zens is, after all, a Netherlands-based company.

What’s not so great about it: Charging speeds

The Zens Magnetic + Watch Wireless Charger is handsome, sturdy and capable, well-designed to charge four devices. But it’s not the fastest way to charge some of those devices. As more people become fans of fast charging for iPhone and other gadgets, this could become more of an issue.

The product’s specs list 2 x 10W overall power delivery. Being MagSafe-compatible but not actually a MagSafe product using Apple’s specific technology, the charger delivers 7.5W of power via the floating iPhone puck. It appears the pad underneath feeds 5W to a Qi-enabled device like an earbuds case, the same power issued from the USB-A port on the side for another device, like an iPad. The charging stick for an Apple Watch probably delivers 2.5W. Numbers may vary depending on the number of devices charged.

That’s all fine, especially for overnight charging, where time is no issue. But if you want a quick charge because you’re in a hurry, it might pay to use a faster alternative charger.

Apple sells a 20W USB-C wall charger that will more than cut in half iPhone charging time compared to the Zens. And Apple’s official MagSafe charger offers 15W of power. Belkin offers some MagSafe chargers. A lot of folks would want a faster charge for their iPad, too, which could call for a high-wattage charging block.

The Zens Magnetic + Watch Wireless Charger is a nice product. With its 4-in-1 charging capacity, it’s convenient, too. But whether it’s $149 price tag is worth it is up to you, depending on how fast you want to charge your gadgets.

Price: $149

Where to buy: Zens

Zens provided Cult of Mac with a review unit for this article. See our reviews policy, and check out other in-depth reviews of Apple-related items.

Monowear’s Contemporary Leather Cuff is so good, it might just be my favorite Apple Watch band to date.

Not only is it made from a soft, luxurious leather that makes it insanely comfortable, but it looks terrific. It’s compatible with all Watch models, and it’s nowhere near as expensive as it looks.

I’m a sucker for high-end leather. When it comes to Apple Watch, I don’t think anything beats a good leather strap in style, versatility, and comfort. And Monowear’s Leather Cuff ticks all my boxes.

I’ve been wearing it for just over a month, and despite having other Watch bands piled up, waiting to be reviewed, I don’t want to take this one off.

Leather that looks spectacular

The Cuff is made up of two layers of grained leather that’s wonderfully soft and flexible. It wraps effortlessly around your wrist, and in no time at all, you forget you’re even wearing it.

Sturdy stainless adapters, available in different colors, keep the Cuff securely attached to your Apple Watch. They’re a perfect fit so they don’t wobble around or slide out unintentionally.

Its contemporary design makes the Cuff ideal for everyday wear — no matter what you might be up to. And it always looks good, whether you’re lazing around in jeans or dressing up for a night out.

Putting the Cuff on every morning couldn’t be simpler. Just slap it on your wrist, fasten it with a single stud, and slip the rest of the band into the hole that keeps it neatly tucked away.

Sturdy design that’s up for anything

The Cuff feels incredibly sturdy and well-built, despite its slim leather strap and single fastening stud. It hasn’t once fallen off my wrist or even become loose in more than a month of wear.

I haven’t exactly been easy on this band, either.

I just moved house and wore the Cuff throughout the whole exhaustingly gruesome process. It held up perfectly well while I lugged heavy boxes and bashed my Apple Watch over and over.

Get your Monowear Cuff today

If you’re shopping for a leather Apple Watch band at a great price, I urge you to check out Monowear’s Contemporary Leather Cuff. It’s attractive, comfortable, and beautifully made.

The Cuff comes in black or saddle brown, and it’s available for both 38/40mm and 42/44mm Apple Watch models. Find it in the Cult of Mac Watch Store today, priced at just $52.

Monowear provided Cult of Mac with a review unit for this article. See our reviews policy, and check out more stuff we recommend.

If you plan to go traveling with your Apple Watch as soon as it’s safe to do so, you’ll want to take with you the handy Monowear Monochest. This book-like accessory securely carries your spare bands, and doubles as a stand that keeps your Apple Watch protected while it’s charging.

The Monochest is compatible with all generations of Apple Watch, and we think it’s a must-have for frequent travelers. What’s more, you can get yours today at 20% off the usual price.

How many Apple Watch bands have you lost or broken because you left them to roll around in the bottom of your bag or suitcase? How many Apple Watch charging cables have suffered the same fate? With the Monochest, you don’t have to deal with those expensive accidents anymore.

The Monochest looks like a fancy book at first glance. But when you open it up, you’ll find a place to store the spare bands you want to take with you when you’re on the move, as well as a home for your Apple Watch when it’s in need of its nightly top-up.

Monochest makes Apple Watch ready for travel

A soft-touch cover on the outside of the Monochest gives it a premium feel and makes it comfortable to hold onto. A microfiber lining on the inside ensures that your spare bands and Apple Watch remain free from scuffs and scratches while they’re inside of the case.

A moulded plastic center, which feels like high-quality silicone but without the flexibility, has space for up to three spare bands and your Apple Watch itself. Rubber stoppers keep those bands neat and prevent them from falling out of the Monochest every time you open it up.

Two of the band placements are split into two, designed to fit both ends of a traditional Apple Watch band. The third is one long section, which will hold onto loop bands and metal bracelets that usually come in one piece and cannot be divided. You can put other bands here if you wish, however.

I’m yet to find a band that doesn’t fit inside the Monochest. Everything I have used with it so far is nice and snug, while still being easy to remove when I need it.

A small window on one side of the front cover allows you to close the case while Apple Watch is charging and still see the time on its screen. A cutout on the back of the Monochest lets you route your Apple Watch charging cable to keep everything neat and tidy.

Safe, protective, stylish

If you like to take spare Apple Watch bands with you when you travel, either to switch up your look or as a backup, then the Monochest is an excellent way to carry them without having to worry about them getting damaged. And the fact that it doubles as a charging stand makes it even more useful.

By closing your Apple Watch inside the Monochest while it’s charging, it cannot get knocked over in the night or accidentally pulled off a table and onto hard floors. You also have a safe place to store your device during the day if you’re not wearing it, without worrying about it getting lost.

The Monochest’s slim design means you won’t have trouble slipping it into a backpack, suitcase, or messenger bag. Its sturdy construction ensures that whatever you place inside it stays protected and secure. Magnets in the case’s front cover keep it closed so that nothing can fall out in transit.

If I had to change one thing about the Monochest it would be to add somewhere to store the rest of your Apple Watch charging cable. It would be nice to be able to stow this somewhere when it’s not plugged in, rather than having to remove it or wrap it around the Monochest.

Get your Monochest today to save 20%

Aside from that, however, the Monochest is terrific. It is brilliantly put together and feels like it will stand the test of time, and it seems like an essential for anyone who regularly travels with their Apple Watch. It also disguises what you’re carrying, which is always a good thing.

The Monochest is available in two color options, and if you order yours today from the Cult of Mac Store, you’ll get it for just $34.40 — 20% off the usual price. This discount won’t last long, so enjoy it while you can.

Monowear provided Cult of Mac with a review unit for this article. See our reviews policy for more information, and check out more of our in-depth reviews.

Thanks to a wonderfully simple quick-release clasp, Monowear’s new Deployant Reserve band for Apple Watch is ideal for anyone who despises traditional buckles. It’s made from genuine leather that’s wonderfully soft, and like all Monowear products, it’s also nicely priced.

Here’s our full review.

Review: Monowear Deployant Leather for Apple Watch

I’m a big fan of leather Apple Watch bands, and I’ve collected a lot of them over the years. They’re a great way to make your smartwatch feel a little more sophisticated and high-end, and they’re much more comfortable than metal bracelets that are forever pinching your skin.

Monowear’s new Deployant Reserve band is perhaps its best leather band to date. It takes the soft and supple leather we’re used to seeing from Monowear and combines it with an awesome new clasp that eliminates the frustration of fiddly buckles.

Fine leather for a comfy fit

Let’s talk about the leather first; that’s what has made Monowear’s bands so popular. Like the other Monowear options we’ve tested, this one feels terrific. The leather isn’t too thick, so it has great flexibility, and it features a soft backing that feels great against the wrist.

The leather is supple right out of the box, so there’s no need to wait for it to be worn in, and it won’t dig into your skin or weigh you down. The edges of the leather are finished to prevent wear and tears, but with the Deployant Reserve model I have, there is no stitching.

This results in a cleaner, streamlined look that I’m a big fan of. But there is another Deployant option for those who prefer the stitched finish — or the added durability it provides.

In addition to genuine leather, the Deployant Reserve offers robust adapters that are available in different color options, and a clasp that makes this one of my favorite Monowear bands.

It’s all in the clasp

The clasp is similar to those you might normally find on a metal band; it connects both sides of the strap together and folds closed to keep Apple Watch secured on your wrist. A quick pinch of its two buttons are all that’s needed when it’s time to take the band off again.

Made from sturdy stainless steel, the clasp feels solid and is coated with paint to match the color of the band’s adapters — and that of your Apple Watch if you wish. It’s permanently fixed to one side of the strap, while the other can be undone to allow for adjustments.

Adjustments are relatively simple, but can be a little awkward. The band is tightly secured inside the clasp so that it can’t slip out accidentally — and that’s obviously what you want — but it does make it a bit of a pain to remove when you need to tighten or loosen your fit.

The good news is you won’t have to do this often — maybe only once — and you won’t have to worry about the clasp letting go of the band by itself while you’re walking down the street, leaving your pricey Apple Watch to hit the concrete.

There are nine holes for adjustment on my 42/44mm Deployant Reserve band, which will fit wrist sizes between 130mm and 202mm. The smaller 38/40mm option will fit 130mm to 202mm wrists.

Monowear Deployant Reserve for Apple Watch: The verdict

These is a trade-off for the convenience a clasp provides; it’s much longer than a traditional buckle, and therefore more noticeable while your Apple Watch is on your wrist. I got used to this pretty quickly, so now it feels no different to any other leather band, but you may not.

I would recommend, however, that you consider the Deployant Leather if you’re into leather Apple Watch bands. It’s my favorite Monowear strap to date, combining the high-quality leather I’ve become accustomed to seeing from Monowear with a clasp that makes putting Apple Watch on and taking it off again much quicker and easier.

It’s also surprisingly affordable for a premium leather band. You can order your Deployant Leather strap from the Cult of Mac Store today for just $62. The stitched Deployant option is available for $65.

A decent all-in-one charging hub that can top-up your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods simultaneously doesn’t have to break the bank. Elago’s is insanely practical, virtually unbreakable, and a steal at just $30.

It’s ideal not only for desks and bedside tables, but also those who frequently travel. It supports all iPhone and Apple Watch models, and it’s available in a number of smart and subtle color options.

Elago’s 3-in-1 charging hub isn’t for you if you’re after something fancy. That’s not what it aims to be. Instead, it’s a wonderfully affordable, no-frills solution that, for the majority of Apple fans, does its job brilliantly well.

The hub is made entirely out of sturdy silicone so it’s immensely robust. It securely holds your favorite Apple devices, and it won’t fall over easily or slide off shiny tables. For the price, you won’t get much better.

Elago’s 3-in-1 charging hub is the simple solution

Unboxing Elago’s hub reveals the hub itself and … nothing else. You provide your own cables, which helps keep the product’s price low. Installing the cables is simple, though you might need to use a little force to slide them into place.

Cable channels on the back of the hub keep all three cords tidy and prevent them from getting tangled. Be aware that only official Apple cables are guaranteed to fit; third-party options with thicker connectors may not work.

Once the hub is all set up, charging your devices is as easy as placing them onto their connectors. Because this isn’t a wireless charging hub, you’ll enjoy the fastest possible charge (so long as you’re using the right power adapters).

The 3-in-1 hub supports any iPhone or Apple Watch model, and both first- and second-generation AirPods — with and without cases. AirPods Pro do not fit in the AirPods holder, though you can charge them using the iPhone’s connector instead.

Strong and practical

Because the cables are tightly secured in place, you shouldn’t have any issues with them sliding too far into the hub. I’ve been using my review unit for several months at this point, and I haven’t once had to put a cable back in place yet.

One thing we really like about Elago’s hub, aside from its affordable price tag, is its silicone design. Because it’s so tough, it’s great for travel; you can wrap your cables around it, throw it in a bag or case, and you don’t have to worry about it.

The only real downside to the hub is that unlike more expensive options, it requires either three power adapters for each of your devices, or a multi-port plug that all three can be connected to.

Order your Elago hub for just $30

I’ve been nicely surprised by the Elago hub since I started using it. It does exactly what you need it to do, it won’t break if you’re heavy-handed, and it charges your devices faster than any wireless option.

At just $30, the Elago hub is perfect for buyers on a budget. Order yours today in black, dark gray, jean indigo, or classic white from the Cult of Mac Store before the price goes back up.

Apple Fitness+ only came online yesterday, but I’ve already logged 10 workouts with it. I let Cupertino’s new subscription service put me through my paces, so I could put it through its paces to bring you this review.

I’m a qualified personal trainer and a fitness fanatic who trains hard every day. So I was curious to find out if Apple Fitness+ could give me a challenging workout.

Apple Fitness+ review

For the new $9.99-per-month subscription service, Apple assembled a small army of personal trainers who recorded 10 different types of workout sessions. The workout videos in the library at launch vary in length, from five to 45 minutes. They’re set to music (in various genres, from country to hip-hop) and expertly filmed in gorgeous studio settings.

Unlike Peloton and some other pricier workout services, Apple Fitness+ offers no live workouts. They’re all canned and ready for subscribers to queue up in the Fitness app on an iPhone, iPad or Apple TV. Also unlike other services, Fitness+ offers deep integration with Apple Watch. (In fact, Apple says Fitness+ requires an Apple Watch Series 3 or later.)

Apple markets Fitness+ as suitable for “all levels, from beginners to fitness enthusiasts.” So I was intrigued to find out if it could elevate my training routine.

Is it right for me?

I’m pretty serious about fitness. I train for two hours every day: one hour running and another hour of strength training. But the idea of fitness classes is a total turn-off for me. I prefer to train by myself, running on the streets or lifting in the weight room at the gym.

With its “studio-style workouts,” Apple Fitness+ wouldn’t normally be interesting to me. But we’re not living in normal times. Thanks to COVID-19, I can’t go to my local gym. Instead I’m strength training at home.

Apple Fitness+: Not just another fitness app

There are loads of fitness apps on the App Store already, including some from big names like Nike and Adidas. So at first glance, it might seem odd that Apple chose to enter this competitive space. But Apple has one killer feature that none of the competitors can match: tight integration with Apple Watch.

During a workout, your heart rate and Activity rings from Apple Watch appear on the big screen in real time. That may seem like a minor thing, but during a workout, I found it to be genuinely useful and motivating.

Selection of workouts

At first glance, I was impressed by the range of workouts on offer. There are 10 workout types (Apple divides treadmill into walking and running to hit that number) and 21 trainers to choose from.

However, as I delved deeper, some gaps began to emerge. I don’t have a treadmill, rowing machine or exercise bike, so that eliminates almost half of the Apple Fitness+ workouts. I was more interested in checking out strength training anyway, but that’s where my options became seriously limited.

There are currently 18 strength workouts on Fitness+. Almost all of them require dumbbells, which I don’t have at home. That left just two workouts for me to choose from.

Apple promises to add more workouts every week, so hopefully this problem will resolve itself over time.

The Apple Fitness+ trainers are actually likable

My favorite thing about Fitness+ is the trainers. They really are the stars of the show.

I did workouts with Jessica, Kyle, Gregg, Molly, Dustin and Kim. They were all friendly, enthusiastic and knowledgeable — which you’d expect from any trainer. But for me, what made them different was that they were cool as well. They didn’t show off. They didn’t bark orders like a drill sergeant. And they came across as genuine, without the toxic positivity you get from some fitness videos on YouTube.

And that matters, because if I’m going to work out with these guys every day, I need to like them!

Apple Fitness+ feels designed for cardio

Fitness+ is not just about cardio. It includes yoga and mindful cool down as well. But the app isn’t well-suited to these activities.

While Active Calories may be interesting for a treadmill session, it’s pretty much irrelevant for yoga. You do yoga to develop strength, flexibility, balance and spiritual wellbeing, not to burn calories.

That’s why yoga is normally practiced in a calm, quiet setting. But on Fitness+, most yoga sessions are accompanied by a pumping hip-hop soundtrack. There are some options with “Chill Vibes,” but even these are pretty distracting. Interruptions for Ring Closing add to the distractions.

Yoga trainer Jessica seems to be aware the app could be a little overwhelming. She makes a point of telling users not to get stressed out if they struggle to match her breathing. “This is yoga,” she reassures us.

Bigger screens are better

I found it difficult to use Fitness+ on the iPhone’s small screen. It might be OK for a cycling workout where you can put it on the dashboard. But if you’re jumping about during a HIIT or Dance workout, it’s just too small to see properly.

Fortunately, the service also supports iPad and Apple TV. This made all the difference for me. I propped up my 12.9-inch iPad Pro on its Smart Folio stand on the kitchen table and was able to jump around the room quite happily while following the on-screen instructions.

The iPad integration worked magically. I have no idea how Apple did it. I didn’t even need to pair it to my watch via Bluetooth. It just worked. And the workout showed up on my iPhone afterward automatically.

Apple is using some proprietary special sauce here. Third-party Apple Watch fitness apps can’t communicate directly with iPad and Apple TV in this way, which gives Fitness+ another unique advantage.

Mixed feelings about mixed-ability classes

You can filter workouts by type, trainer, time and music. But not by ability level, which is a curious omission.

Each video is led by one trainer, with other trainers in the background who demonstrate modifications to make exercises easier if you’re struggling. But there’s rarely an option if you want to make things harder.

As a result, it was difficult to find workouts I found challenging. Kim’s HIIT workouts were my favorites. They’re intense and fun. Which I was surprised by, because I’ve never been a HIIT kinda guy.

It’s not always easy to follow along

Even with the larger screen of my iPad, I still found it hard to follow along sometimes. Especially with workout types I’m not used to, like dance.

Apple doesn’t allow you to rewind if you want to watch an instruction again. The only control you’re allowed is the pause button. I found that frustrating.

For workouts that alternated between standing and floor exercises, I had to repeatedly move my iPad for it to remain visible, which was distracting.

As someone with profound hearing loss, I had some trouble hearing what the trainers were saying. Fortunately everything is subtitled. (Thank you, Apple!)

The biggest problem I had was not knowing if I was doing the exercises properly. The benefit of going to a real yoga class is that the instructor gives you corrections. But with Fitness+, you’re literally on your own.

Maybe a future version of Fitness+ could detect your body position with lidar and analyze it with machine learning to provide coaching feedback automatically.

Training at home can be a lonely experience

When it comes to getting fit, training buddies can be genuinely motivational. It helps to know people are keeping an eye on you and holding you accountable for achieving your goals.

Fitness+ provides two features to help with the loneliness of home training.

The first is the Burn Bar. This compares your level of effort during a workout with data from other users who previously completed it. It certainly fed my ego to see I was at the top end of the scale.

The second feature is sharing. When you finish a workout, you can share an image that includes your Active Calories and Total Time, plus a link to the workout if other people want to try it. This uses the standard iOS Share Sheet, and works with iMessages and social media.

There’s definitely scope for more improvements in this area. In particular, I’d like to see the option to challenge a friend to beat your result or invite a friend to do a workout together, remotely.

Will Apple Fitness+ replace my normal workout routine?

One day in, Apple Fitness+ is an impressive and confident debut. Apple put together a great team of trainers, and paired them with an excellent platform that magically integrates Apple Watch with the big screen for an unrivaled experience.

The selection of workouts is currently quite limited, especially if you’re not interested in treadmill and cycling. And the lack of signposting ability levels means it’s tricky for serious fitness fanatics to find a challenging workout.

But these are early days and Apple promises to add more workouts every week. For the time being, Apple Fitness+ won’t be totally replacing my normal workout routine. But Kim’s HIIT sessions will definitely be supplementing it.

Wireless chargers don’t get much cooler than the new Liberty from Zens. Available with a tempered glass surface that lets you see all 16 of its copper charging coils, it tops up iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch simultaneously.

It’s probably the only wireless charger you’ll ever need, and it does its job brilliantly. It’s like an AirPower you can actually buy.

Charging your favorite gadgets has never been more convenient. Gone are the days when you have to worry about tangled cables that are forever in your way. To enjoy the best wireless experience, however, you need the right charger.

The Liberty from Zens is a terrific option. It delivers the fastest possible charging speeds and supports three devices simultaneously. It also fixes one of the biggest issues users face with more traditional wireless charging pads.

Oh, and did I mention it looks awesome?

Zens Liberty wireless charger review

Liberty allows you to place your iPhone, AirPods, and other Qi-compatible devices (including Android smartphones and other wireless headphones) almost anywhere on its surface — rather than having to find a “sweet spot.”

A USB port on the top of the pad allows a third device to be topped-up at the same time, and we recommend you fill it with Zens’ optional Apple Watch charging stick priced at $49.99, which is compatible with all Watch models.

Together, the two will cost you a little under $200 (the Liberty by itself is $149.99, or $199.99 for the glass model we reviewed). No, it’s not cheap — but it might just be the best wireless charger there is.

Wireless charging … fixed

Liberty is bigger than most wireless charging pads. It’s also pretty thick. That’s something to bear in mind if you plan to stick it on a teeny-tiny bedside table. There’s a good reason for its girth, however.

This is the world’s first wireless charger with 16 charging coils. You can see them if you opt for the tempered glass model, which is a real beauty. Each coil is cleverly positioned to ensure that no matter where you place your gadgets, they’ll charge properly.

That’s the idea, at least. I have found that on occasion, I somehow manage to place my iPhone incorrectly — perhaps too close to the Liberty’s edges. When that happens, my iPhone disconnects and reconnects continually until it’s moved into the right position. But this doesn’t happen often.

Nine times out of 10 (roughly), I don’t have to think twice about where I place my device. I just stick it down on the Liberty and charging works as intended. I don’t think I’ve ever used another multi-device wireless charger that works this well. Others require you to find the right charging spot for every device.

Once your devices are charging, you can be sure they’ll keep charging until they’re fall. Since I started using the Liberty a couple of months ago, I’ve woken up to a fully-charged iPhone and AirPods every single day.

Apple Watch charging that never fails

To charge your Apple Watch with the liberty, you have two options. You can either plug your existing Watch charger into the USB port on top of the Liberty (ugh!) or you can add the optional Apple Watch charging stick.

It neatly becomes one with the Liberty and the two look great together. And because it sits upright, your Apple Watch is held in Nightstand mode, so you can easily see the time by nudging your bedside table.

The Watch charging stick has been great for me. It has held my device securely without letting go, and because it’s essentially the same as a standard Apple Watch charger, it tops-up your wearable just as quickly.

Do you hear that?

You’ll find rubber strips on the bottom of the Liberty that prevent it from sliding around on desks and tables. That should give those who buy the glass model some peace of mind. There’s also a rubber strip around the top of the device to help keep your iPhone secure and keep it from scratching.

A single USB-C cable is all that’s required to power the Liberty, and the included 60W adapter delivers more than enough juice for everything.

One feature of the Liberty you cannot see is its cooling fan (yes, it really has a cooling fan) and it’s both a good thing and a bag thing. 16 charging coils can get pretty warm, and the fan ensures the Liberty won’t overheat. The downside is that you can hear it.

It’s not too loud; you’re certainly not going to hear it over your TV. But it is noticeable — especially if you sleep with your devices charging on your nightstand, right next to your head.

Personally, I didn’t find this to be an issue (I tend to sleep with a fan on anyway), but it might be an issue for you if you need absolute silence at night.

Bag your Liberty charger today

The Liberty is available to order today from the Cult of Mac Store, with prices starting at $149.99 for the fabric finish, and $199.99 for the tempered glass option. Aside from the difference in appearance, both are just as excellent.

The Apple Watch charging stick, which is essential if you want to get the most of out the Liberty, is $49.99.

Zens provided Cult of Mac with a review unit for this article. See our reviews policy, and check out more in-depth reviews of Apple-related items.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Almost all the reviews of the Apple Watch Series 6 say the same thing: Yeah, it’s great, but it’s an incremental upgrade, and if you already have a Series 5, skip the upgrade.

That’s sage advice, I guess, especially in the middle of a crushing pandemic that’s ruined the economy, left millions unemployed, and has lots of people thinking carefully about their expenses.

But I say stuff it!

If you have the money, run out and buy the latest Apple Watch. It’s frickin’ amazing! It blows my mind that you can have a mini-iPhone strapped to your wrist that can make phone calls, pay for groceries, give directions, monitor your blood and heart, and so, so much more. It’s a technological marvel, my favorite gadget — and it could possibly save my life.

Apple Watch Series 6 review

Compared to the Series 4-to-5 upgrade last year, the new Series 6 is actually a much bigger update.

Whereas last year’s Series 5 basically just got an always-on screen and a compass, this year’s Series 6 brings an even better, brighter screen, new system-on-a-chip, better Wi-Fi, a bigger battery, faster charging, an ultra-wideband U1 chip, an always-on altimeter and — last but not least — a blood oxygen sensor. That’s quite a package of upgrades.

Other staples from previous Apple Watches, like heart-rate monitoring and an ECG, carried over to the latest device. (However, Force Touch disappeared.)

Digging the design

One thing that hasn’t changed is the outside casing. It looks identical to Apple Watch 4 and 5, and it remains compatible with all your existing bands. I’m not complaining; Apple Watch remains one of the prettiest wearables on the market.

Its slim form factor makes the device just as comfortable to wear as any other wristwatch, while its gorgeous, edge-to-edge screen ensures checking the time, reading notifications, and using apps is surprisingly comfortable — even in direct sunlight.

But, of course, you already know all this. Apple Watch is familiar to us all at this point, and Apple has perfected it to the point where it is now by far the biggest-selling watch (not just smartwatch) in the world. It’s hardly surprising, then, that Apple has yet to make drastic changes to the basic design.

New this year are new colors, including blue and Product (Red). I’ve been testing a pair of aluminum watches, one in Space Grey and the other blue. The blue looks great and is by far my favorite. It pairs nicely with my favorite watch strap: a Juuk Velo anodized aluminum band (which is available in Cosmic Gray from the Cult of Mac store).

The finish on the Product (Red), which my colleague Lewis bought, looks pretty intense. As he said on our podcast, The CultCast, it’s a “statement watch.” And that was before he jumped at the chance to pick one up on launch day. He loves the shiny, garnet-red aluminum case. And while he’s not crazy about the sport band it came with — it’s not as deep a red as the watch itself — he’s dying to try it with a Juuk Vitero Ruby Gray band. (That’s also available in the Cult of Mac Store, BTW.)

Oh you 2

The most important new addition is a blood oxygen sensor. It detects the oxygen saturation level in your blood, known as SpO2. The sensor works by shining red and green LEDs, plus infrared light, through your skin and analyzing what gets reflected back.

Blood oxygen monitoring is new to Apple, but has been available in rival fitness trackers for a couple of years — but Apple’s implementation has a big advantage. Unlike rival fitness trackers, the Series 6 can monitor your blood O2 throughout the day and also during your sleep.

This is potentially a big deal, and in the future, it may alert you to potential health problems. Apple teamed up with researchers to study how various physiological signals from the Watch can monitor and potentially control asthma, heart failure, influenza and even COVID-19. The hope is that the Watch might be able to signal early onset of these conditions.

More new stuff

In addition to blood oxygen monitoring, Apple Watch Series 6 features an always-on altimeter that provides elevation data. This feeds into the Compass app (the new Watch has a digital compass like the previous model), and does a better job of tracking elevation during workouts. There are several nifty new watch faces that take advantage of the new sensors. A hiking watch face, for example, includes a widget that constantly provides elevation.

Apple Watch Series 6 ships with a bunch of new faces, but you’ll get these on earlier models, too, when you update to watchOS 7.

Fast charging at Ridgemont High

There are also some smaller improvements that aren’t so obvious this year. The Series 6 charges up to 40% faster than its predecessor, which allows for quicker top-ups. You should expect to get an 80% charge (from 0%) in about an hour, and 100% in around an hour and 30 minutes. Surprisingly, fast-charging is one of my favorite features. I wear my watch at night and charge it during the day at my desk at work. Now, my new watch charges before I get my second cup of coffee, instead of taking most of the morning.

The watch still gets about 18 hours on a single charge (depending on usage, of course). Practically, you still have to charge it at least once a day.

Speedy Gonzales

Under the hood, Apple Watch Series 6 features a faster S6 processor that’s more than speedy enough for a computer you wear on your wrist. Everything you might do with the device, from tracking workouts to using your favorite watchOS apps, feels satisfyingly snappy.

The new chip also helps with the brighter “always-on” display, making it easier to see when the watch is not “active.” The non-active screen is 2.5x brighter, according to Apple, and it’s noticeably brighter in the real world. To my eyes, the non-active screen looks twice as bright as in Series 5.

The new Solo Loop

I’ve also been testing out the new Solo Loop, a one-piece band made of stretchy silicone rubber. The Solo Loop has no clasps or buckles. Instead, you slip it on and off your wrist. To get a snug fit, you have to order the exact size from Apple, using an online sizing tool or by going to the store and getting measured.

I was excited for the Solo Loop, but in practice, it’s kinda meh. Yeah, it’s comfortable, easy to get on and off, and pretty indestructible. It’s swim- and sweat-proof. But it’s so nondescript as to be almost invisible, which some people might like. Personally, I like metal bands, and the Juuk straps are hard to beat.

Pricing and availability

Apple Watch Series 6 starts at $399 for one of the entry-level aluminum models, and there are new blue and red color options to choose from for the first time this year.

Prices can increase to $1,250 for one of the fancy titanium options if you add LTE into the mix as well.

Apple Watch Series 6: Upgrade or not?

Apple is justly famous for making incremental improvements to its products, which over time can transform quite radically. Each year, the improvements may seem small, but they add up. The Apple Watch Series 6 is leaps and bounds ahead of the Series 0, and has become an amazing multipurpose computer with stunning connectivity and health-monitoring features.

The Series 6 is not a mandatory upgrade, but if you can afford it, it’s a great upgrade. And don’t forget the colors! The red and blue options are both stunning. You can have a different color watch for any outfit or occasion. Maybe it’s time to start a collection?

If you want a leather Apple Watch band that feels great, looks spectacular, and is built to last you years, you should really do yourself a favor and check out the wonderful Ingenium band from Strapa.

It’s made using leather sourced from one of the finest tanneries in Italy, plus 316L surgery-grade stainless steel buckles and adapters. I’ve been using one for months now, and I highly recommend it.

Strapa Ingenium band for Apple Watch review

I have a soft spot for leather Apple Watch bands, so I now posses a rather large collection of them. But I only ever wear a small few, because it’s so easy to pick up leather bands that look great in photos, but feel cheap and flimsy when you put them on.

That’s certainly not a problem for the Ingenium band from Strapa. It’s one of the few leather bands I’ve used that not only looks even better in the flesh, but actually lives up to its promise of being a high-end product you can rely on.

Leather doesn’t get much better

Strapa uses raw, tanned leather that brings out the material’s best qualities — and you get a lot of it. The Ingenium use a dual-layer design — an outer layer combined with a smooth leather backing — that’s nice and thick, so you never have to worry about it tearing.

The layers are joined by durable linen stitching, like that found in traditional artisanal saddlery, that helps prevent the leather from stretching or morphing over time. It’s carefully applied so that every piece of it is perfectly aligned.

Despite its rather hefty feel, the Ingenium is surprisingly lightweight, soft, and supple. It wraps comfortably around your wrist, and after just a few days, it will be trained to fit you like a glove. Like all good bands, you’ll quickly forget you’re even wearing it.

The Ingenium doesn’t mind getting wet, and it’s tough enough to withstand normal wear and tear. I’ve been wearing mine, on and off (mostly on), for several months now, and it still looks outstanding.

I picked up the coffee color option, which goes great with both casual and formal dress. The band is smart, so it’s ideal for a professional setting, but it won’t look out of place with a t-shirt and jeans, either.

Sturdy stainless steel

Alongside the leather itself, Strapa uses 316L stainless steel buckles and adapters. The buckle has a slight curve so that it sits comfortably against your wrist, and it’s tastefully emblazoned with the Strapa logo.

The adapters are precisely cut so that they slide into and out of Apple Watch effortlessly — without feeling too loose. They’re also incredibly strong, which helps make the Ingenium feel like a tank.

All fittings are available in a brushed or polished finish to match both aluminum and stainless steel Apple Watch models.

The verdict

I’ve always heard good things about Strapa bands, so I had high hopes for the Ingenium before it arrived. And I’m glad to report it has more than lived up to my expectations. It’s a genuinely impressive leather band that you certainly won’t regret splashing out on.

Treat yourself to a Strapa band via the Cult of Mac Store today. Prices start at $109 for the Confidens, or $119 for the delightful Ingenium I’ve been using.

Strapa provided Cult of Mac with a review unit for this article. See our reviews policy, and check out more of our in-depth reviews.

For the longest time, I had a particular problem with my Apple Watch. When I rode my bicycle, the watch’s Digital Crown would rub against my wrist, playing havoc with the sound coming through my AirPods. Suddenly it would get very loud, or very low. It drove me crazy.

I tried everything I could think of, including wearing my watch backward so the Digital Crown was reversed, or on the inside of my wrist. Nothing worked, so I disabled Now Playing on my Watch, which I missed because it’s great for controlling music when doing something like riding a bike.

Then I came across Elkson’s Quattro Series Bumper Case for Apple Watch. This inexpensive cover surrounds the Digital Crown and prevents it from spinning when I ride my bike. Problem solved.

Elkson Apple Watch Bumper Case review

Inexpensive protection

Costing just $10.99, Elkson’s bumper case protects your Apple Watch from bumps and scrapes, without adding any bulk. Made from soft thermoplastic polyurethane, the bumper case measures just 1 mm thick and weighs just 4 grams. It’s very unobtrusive; I barely notice it’s there, until I whack my watch against something!

The case is super-easy to install and remove, and does a great job protecting your Apple watch. It has a firm, rubbery feel, with sharp, precise cutouts for the watch’s straps, Digital Crown, microphones and speakers.

The case has a raised edge that protects the screen, and the protection even extends to the back of the watch. The raised edge also allows the case to work with most Apple Watch screen protectors. I don’t use a protector, but the raised edge has saved my Apple Watch screen from a couple of scrapes.

It’s very durable and scratch-resistant. I’ve been wearing one for weeks, and there’s nary a mark on it.

Colors and pricing

The Quattro Series Bumper Case comes in two different colors: black and white. It is compatible with most chargers and watch bands and doesn’t need to be removed to charge up.

The Quattro Series Bumper Case is available in the Cult of Mac Store for $10.99. You won’t find something as well-made as this for much less.

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store

It couldn’t be easier to buy holiday gifts for loved ones who own an Apple Watch. There are so many wonderful accessories out there for the best-selling smartwatch on the planet.

And Cult of Mac can help you find the best. Our Apple Watch gift guide includes our favorite bands, charging stands, wireless headphones, and more. Any many of them are now on sale for Black Friday.

Now you have no excuse to leave your holiday shopping until the last minute.

Best gifts for Apple Watch fans

All of the Apple Watch gifts we’ve chosen have been used and recommended by a member of the Cult of Mac team. So you can be sure you’re spending your hard-earned cash on something good.

Prices start at a mere $16, and there’s plenty to choose from!

AirPods Pro

No list of Apple Watch gifts would be complete without the incredible new AirPods Pro. They’re the best wireless headphones you can buy for $249, and the best-selling headphones in the world today.

AirPods Pro are the newest, most impressive models. They offer improved sound, active noise cancellation, and a better fit. They’re also sweat-resistant, so you can wear them during workouts.

A built-in W1 chip means AirPods Pro pair quickly and easily with iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Mac. And they last a good 4.5 hours — 24 hours with the Wireless Charging Case — in between charges.

Check out our full AirPods Pro review for more.

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AirPods

If AirPods Pro are a little out of your price range, pick up Apple’s second-generation AirPods instead. They’re still terrific headphones, and now available everywhere with big discounts.

AirPods pack the same W1 chip as AirPods Pro, which gives you “Hey Siri” support and a wonderfully reliable connection. They also last a little longer — up to 5 hours — in between charges.

Check out our full AirPods review for more.

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Twelve South HiRise Duet

Every Apple Watch deserves a decent charging stand. The terrific HiRise Duet from Twelve South charges both Apple Watch and iPhone simultaneously, and looks magnificent while it’s doing it.

The stand holds your iPhone upright so it’s easy to see incoming notifications, and it works just fine with cases. Your Apple Watch sits in Nightstand mode so you can check the time with just a tap.

The HiRise Duet is compatible with all iPhone and Apple Watch models (and supports iPad mini). And it ships with all the cables and charging adapters you’ll need, so there’s no need to add your own.

What’s more, if you order yours from the Cult of Mac Store before December 2, you’ll get $50 off the usual price! You can also save $30 on the HiRise Wireless.

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store — $50

Elago 3-in-1 charging hub

If you would rather gift a stand that charges everything, look no further than the Elago 3-in-1 charging hub. It tops up your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods simultaneously — and is virtually unbreakable.

The hub is made out of super-strong silicone, so you never have to worry about knocking it over and breaking it. You can throw it in the bottom of your bag and take it everywhere you go.

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store — $30

Mujjo touchscreen gloves

Most of us need a decent pair of gloves to keep our hands warm over the holidays. And they need to be compatible with the touchscreens we find ourselves using all day, every day.

That’s exactly what you get from Mujjo’s touchscreen gloves lineup. They’re available in leather, knit, and stretch-knit styles, and they’re all super-toasty even on the coldest days.

What’s more, Mujjo’s gloves — unlike others — feature highly conductive treatment for all five fingers. So you can continue using your Apple Watch as you normally would without taking them off.

Check out our full Mujjo gloves review for more.

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store — from $38.50

Speidel Twist-O-Flex band

One of our favorite Apple Watch bands is one your dad or grandad might recognize: The classic Twist-O-Flex from Speidel. In fact, your dad or grandad might want one for Christmas!

The stretchy stainless steel band is a mid-century design that’s been updated to the smartwatch era. Its stretchy links make it easy to put on and take off, and it’s surprisingly comfortable.

Because it’s made from steel, the Twist-O-Flex is hard-wearing and built to last a lifetime. It’ll match a business suit while withstanding the toughest workout — and it’s not as pricey as it looks.

Check out our full Twist-O-Flex review for more.

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store — from $50

Juuk Qrono band

I’ve worn a lot of Apple Watch bands over the years, and the Qrono is my favorite so far. It looks absolutely terrific, and feels as good as other metal bands that cost three times as much.

The Qrono is made from high-grade aluminum, so it won’t weigh you down. And it has smaller links that make it nice and flexible so it won’t dig into your wrist. It’s easily adjustable for different wrist sizes, too.

I’ve been wearing a Qrono every day for months now and it has held up exceptionally well. I really can’t recommend it enough. Check out my full review for more.

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store — $139

Mifa classic leather band

Mifa’s classic band makes premium leather affordable for everyone. It uses genuine leather that’s 3mm thick for great durability, and combines it with strong stainless steel clasps and adapters.

Perforated dots along the strap allow it to be more breathable, which means it’s perfect for all-day wear. And at just $25, it’s an ideal stocking filler for any Apple Watch owner.

The classic leather band is compatible with both 38/40mm and 42/44mm Apple Watch models, and it comes in black, brown, or gray.

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store — $25

Monowear leather cuff

The Monowear cuff is another genuine leather band that costs a lot less than you might think. It’s made from soft, luxurious leather that makes it insanely comfortable, and it looks great with everything.

The cuff is slim, supple, and lightweight. It’s secured by a single stud — like an Apple Sport band — that makes it easy to put on and take off. You can get yours for both 38/40mm and 42/44mm Apple Watch models.

Check out our full Monowear cuff review for more.

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store — $52

Elago charging stands

Elago’s spectacular Apple Watch charging stands never fail to bring a smile. They’re unique, iconic, and amazingly affordable. Any Apple fan will be delighted to have one.

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’re available in a number of eye-catching color options.

Prices starting at just $16, so they won’t break the bank. The hardest thing is trying not to buy them all. Check out our full review of the Game Boy model for more.

Buy from: Cult of Mac Store — from $16

App Store & iTunes gift card

If you’re holiday shopping on a tight budget, you can’t go wrong with an App Store & iTunes gift card. They can be used to purchase apps and games, music and movies, books, and more.

You can also spend them on services like Apple Music, Apple Arcade, and Apple TV+. They’re an ideal gift for any Apple Watch fan, and they start at as little as $25.

Buy from: Apple — from $25

That’s it for our list of the best Apple Watch gifts for now, but we’ll be updating this roundup again ahead of the holidays. Come back later to find more amazing Apple Watch gift ideas!

And don’t forget to check our other gift guides for iPhone fans, iPad fans, and Apple book lovers.

Note: On some of these products, Cult of Mac may earn a small commission through an affiliate link. However, we’ve picked them strictly on their potential value to our readers.

During the past week with Apple Watch Series 5, I’ve been testing the device. Once again, I took a new watch on my family vacation to Disney World, using it whenever possible to make my life easier.

So does the Series 5, with its always-on display, live up to the hype? And is it worth the upgrade if you’re on an older version? Watch our video review, or read our full Apple Watch Series 5 review, to find out if the new watch is right for you.

Apple Watch Series 5 review

What’s old is also new

From a hardware perspective, the Series 5 looks identical to the Series 4. Some new titanium finishes look ever so slightly different than aluminum, and Apple brought back the ceramic Edition at the high end of the price scale, but for any other case option, you’d never know the different from the outside. That is, except for the watch face.

With the Series 5, you get a new always-on display. This makes passively checking the time easier. There’s no need for a super-obvious arm raise to see the clock or peek at the current temperature.

With that always-on display, some complications — things that update constantly, like the second hand or the current noise level — don’t show when the watch doesn’t detect a wrist raise. Other things — including the current time, date or temperature — are there, just a glance away.

In practice, I’ve gotten so used to raising my wrist that it’s just second nature at this point. Now, with the always-on screen, even if the turn of my wrist doesn’t trigger the watch to wake, I can still get the time. No more awkward wrist-wiggle thing to wake the watch.

The Series 5 also comes with a built-in compass. It seems accurate, and could theoretically be useful for orienting yourself if you end up in an unfamiliar theme park, for example. I used it a few times to get my bearings instead of pulling up the Disney World map, but I’m not sure that was actually helpful. It seemed more like a novelty than a necessity.

watchOS is really the star of the show

As it pertains to using Apple Watch on vacation, the big things that were most useful aren’t specific to the Series 5. In fact, almost every feature that makes the Apple Watch useful comes down to the latest watchOS software.

Going around the parks, I mainly used my watch for calling or messaging my family. It works just as it always has, whether you use dictation, Scribble or Siri. It’s one of the more reliable things the watch does, and that’s super-important to how I use the device.

Much like last year, when I reviewed the Series 4 at Disney World, I tried to use Walkie-Talkie on the Apple Watch again. I found that the initial connection was typically slow, assuming it was successful at all. I’m not sure whether that’s due to the way Walkie-Talkie works or to network congestion at the parks. But if quick communication is your goal, this ain’t it, chief.

Ultimately, almost all communication took place via a quick phone call or iMessage — both of which work great on Apple Watch. Having quick communication just a Siri request away also allowed me to keep both hands — and my iPhone — free for pushing a stroller, carrying souvenirs, or looking at a map in the Disney Parks app.

Again, this isn’t something special with the Series 5. Most of these capabilities have been there since the original. But the Series 5 is fast and responsive, and that leads to a better experience.

Improvements in health and wellness

Outside of vacation mode, one of the biggest reasons I wear my Apple Watch every day is to remember to stay active. The Series 5 continues to flex Apple’s strengths in health and activity, offering just the right motivation to keep you moving. Even on our trip to Florida, it reminded me take breaks from driving and stop to move around for a few minutes. Plus, it proved helpful in giving me an idea of how many calories I burned walking the parks. This helped me justify many extra calories I consumed bouncing from food stand to snack cart.

While the fitness and activity stuff isn’t new this year, Apple did add a useful health-related feature.

New in watchOS 6 is the Noise app. Of all the things I was surprised to find myself looking at on the new watch, it was the noise levels in different parts of the parks. Theme parks can get unexpectedly loud at the turn of a corner. And, as someone who has done enough damage to their hearing already, I’ve started to care more about loud noises and loud environments.

Even more importantly to me is knowing when it’s getting too loud for my family, and especially my daughter. I don’t want to subject her to excessive loud sounds or cause her some sort of hearing damage before she starts kindergarten. With the Noise app and its alerts, I can be more aware of just how loud things are. And knowing is half the battle.

Aside from knowing the current ambient noise levels, I liked watching the noise meters bounce around as we ventured from ride to ride, sat in on different shows, and stumbled upon various street performers. To nobody’s surprise, most of it is right on the edge of being too loud.

A reason to upgrade

It is worth noting that, much like the ECG feature that Apple released last year, the Noise app is only available on Series 4 and above. That, in my opinion, might actually be a more compelling reason to upgrade from an older Apple Watch than the always-on display.

Personally, I’ve been on a Series 3 for two years. The jump to the Series 5 is a good step up in both functionality and screen size. Seeing the 44mm display, compared to the older 42mm size, is actually impressive. While 2mm doesn’t sound like a lot, it’s almost 5% larger. I think the space black stainless steel case adds to the effect, creating a less obvious transition between the glass and the metal case.

Apple Watch Series 5 battery life

Not everything is 5-star for the Series 5, though. Over the course of the last week, there was one thing about the new watch that I kept noticing. Something almost troublesome, in fact — battery life. With the Series 5, battery life seems to have taken a big step back.

With my Series 3, battery life was rock-solid. I could easily wear the watch for 24 hours and still have more than 30% left in the tank. This enabled me to use sleep tracking, or wear my Apple Watch as a morning alarm clock. In these first few days of testing the Series 5, battery dipped about 5% each hour — meaning 20 hours of battery life, assuming ideal usage.

I’m not entirely sure this is actually a hardware problem, since my Series 3 is also showing slightly worse battery after updating to watchOS 6. A number of people on Twitter say they see the same thing — especially with the Series 5. Some people point to the always-on display as the culprit. Others theorize that it’s something about the cellular Apple Watch models. Either way, I’d love to see battery improve over time, not slide backward.

Apple Watch Series 5 review: The verdict

Is the Series 5 worth the upgrade?

If you’re wearing a Series 3 or older and are thinking about upgrading, the Series 5 is a great device. It packs some great features that won’t work on older watches, and a newer UI experience. There are some concerns with battery life, but it’s likely that a software update will resolve that.

If you’re already wearing a Series 4, I wouldn’t necessarily rush to upgrade just for the always-on display. The convenience of the display is nice. And the new materials look great, if you’re in the market for a high-end wearable. However, the rest of the experience is almost identical to a Series 4. Then again, if you’ve got matches and money, feel free to make a fire, I guess.

If you’re looking to get an Apple Watch for the first time I recommend visiting an Apple Store if possible. Take a look at both the Series 3 and the Series 5. The nerd in me says get the Series 5.  More practically, you can get 90% of the same features for half the price with the Series 3.

Ultimately, I’m really enjoying the Series 5. As someone that’s worn an Apple Watch every day since the launch in 2015, it’s amazing how much has changed. Apple Watch has added tons of convenience and impacted me and my health over the last 4-plus years.

I know the Apple Watch may not be for everyone. I also know there are literally thousands of configurations of case, band and watch face. That means if you’re even moderately interested, there’s likely something in the Apple Watch you can enjoy.

Apple Watch is pretty awesome at doing a lot of things. But mapping workouts isn’t one of them. At least, not until now. Back in 2016, I was pretty disappointed with the maps I got from my Apple Watch Series 2 (the first model that came with built-in GPS). When I tested it at my local running track, the maps it generated looked like random scribbles.

Fast-forward to today, and things look a whole lot better. Last week, I repeated that test with a shiny new Apple Watch Series 4 and got some very interesting results.

Why different running watches get different GPS results

GPS calculates your position by measuring tiny differences in how long radio signals take to reach your location from multiple satellites orbiting more than 12,000 miles above you. The speed these satellites travel at means that, thanks to relativity, time actually passes slower for them than it does for us here on Earth. The clocks on these satellites compensate for that. But it’s still pretty remarkable that GPS works at all, when you think about it.

To improve accuracy, running watches supplement GPS data with motion sensors, like the Apple Watch’s built-in gyroscope and accelerometer. That’s why different watches will give you slightly different pace and distance estimates.

For runners, this is one of the first things you notice when you buy a new running watch. Running the same route can generate noticeably different estimates with different hardware. When you upgrade your watch, you might discover you haven’t been going quite as far or as fast as you thought.

Why I test my Apple Watch at the running tracks

When Apple Watch Series 2 was first released, a lot of reviewers focused on these differences. Apple Watch often gave distance estimates that were strikingly different from what reviewers were used to seeing. So much so that some reviewers concluded it was less accurate than competing devices.

But was it really? Maybe Apple Watch estimates were different because they were in fact more accurate, not less.

To find out, I wanted to take my Apple Watch for a run for a distance that I knew had been independently and accurately measured. So I headed to my local running track, in Battersea Park, which happens to be just next to Apple’s planned UK campus in the newly redeveloped Battersea Power Station. One loop of this Olympic-size track measures exactly 400 meters. So 2.5 laps is 1 kilometer.

To reduce the chance of getting a fluke result, I did six separate 1-kilometer runs, at a pace of around 4 minutes per kilometer. I wore an Apple Watch on my left wrist and my previous running watch (a TomTom Runner 2) on my right.

During the tests, I kept my iPhone turned off and left it in my locker, to make sure that my Apple Watch was only using its built-in GPS.

The results: Apple Watch is seriously accurate at distance

The most striking thing about my original Apple Watch Series 2 test results was just how bad the route maps were. They looked massively inferior to the precise mapping I got from my previous running watch. The difference was so extreme that I could understand why some reviewers questioned the Apple Watch’s accuracy.

But when I looked at the actual distance estimates, a different picture emerged. In this respect at least, Apple Watch Series 2 was in fact significantly more accurate, despite the terrible maps.

Apple Watch is getting better at workout maps

Every year since then, I’ve bought a new Apple Watch and taken it back to the track, hoping to see some accuracy improvements. And sure enough, I have.

As you can see from the results below, with each new Apple Watch model I tested, the maps became progressively more accurate. The latest Series 4 results I got last week prove pretty much indistinguishable from those I got from my trusty old TomTom.

The distance estimates also improved from Series 2 to Series 3, although there is not really a noticeable change from Series 3 to 4. (Actually, the distance estimates I got for Series 4 were very slightly worse than Series 3. I’m not a statistics expert, but it does not look like a significant difference to me.)

Are we seeing improvements in hardware or software?

The new ceramic back of Apple Watch Series 4 is designed to improve cellular reception. I was wondering if this might also help with GPS reception. But since the distance estimates between Series 3 and 4 are essentially the same, that does not appear to be the case.

Apple has improved the rendering of its workout maps over the years with each update to watchOS, so the mapping improvements probably have more to do with software rather than GPS reception.

That’s great news for anyone owning an older model that’s upgraded to watchOS 5. Even if you don’t upgrade to the latest hardware, your Apple Watch should produce better maps these days.

Real-world results may vary

I believe these track tests provide a pretty reliable guide to the accuracy of each generation of Apple Watch. But there are limits. Real-world running conditions are often very different.

The track I use is surrounded by parkland, far away from tall buildings and trees. So the GPS reception is good.

But in reality, most of us don’t go to the running track every day. We run through streets surrounded by tall buildings, or in parks under tree branches. These environments interfere with GPS signals, and some running watches are better at handling it than others.

From my anecdotal experience, Apple Watch’s mapping is more susceptible to GPS signal attenuation than some other running watches I have tested. I’ll be looking out for improvements in my new Series 4 as I run with it over the next few weeks — especially when I’m in big cities with tall buildings.

Apple Watch is now a great choice for runners

Cupertino is always improving its products. The company never rests on its laurels. The original iPhone, for example, was a visionary product. However, it lacked a lot of essential features, like high-speed data and an App Store. It was only when iPhone 3G was released that Apple’s smartphone really achieved its full potential.

The same is true of Apple Watch. The original model showed loads of potential, but some important omissions (like the lack of built-in GPS) held it back.

Apple has been hard at work ever since. Apple Watch Series 2, 3 and 4 each brought massive hardware improvements, like the addition of GPS, LTE, waterproofing and a bigger, bright screen. The software has also leaped ahead, with indispensable features like heart rate recovery, heart rate variability and target pace.

But for my money, these latest improvements to workout maps are the final missing ingredient in making Apple Watch a great choice for runners. I now feel confident recommending Apple Watch to all my running buddies.

I love my Apple Watch Series 3, but there’s one thing about it that annoys me: that red dot on the Digital Crown.

However, just because Apple thinks you should be stuck with a giant red dot on the side of your wrist, that doesn’t mean you need to put up with it. You can customize Apple Watch with a cool accessory called WatchDots.

My problem with the Apple Watch Series 3 red dot

I went for the LTE version of the Apple Watch because I wanted to have a signal while swimming or working out, without having my iPhone stuck to my side. And it works great. But the downside is, if you pick up an LTE Apple Watch, you’re forced to have a red dot on the Digital Crown.

It might not sound like a big deal. My original stainless steel Apple Watch bears a black dot on its crown, and that never bothered me. But the thing is, the red dot doesn’t match or complement anything I wear or use … except maybe my camera gear.

As silly as it may sound, I like my watch to match whatever I’m wearing.

In addition to my two Apple Watches, I own several analog watches I’ve purchased over the years for different occasions. And while changing bands gives the Apple Watch some chameleon-like capabilities, the red crown screws everything up.

In fact, I won’t wear my Series 3 watch if I’m wearing something that clashes with the red dot. I’m by no means a style icon, but it is something I think about.

Make your Apple Watch your own

In comes WatchDots. This stylish accessory lets you customize your Apple Watch crown — and even its side button if you wish. The stickers come in more than a dozen colors and are precisely die-cut to size. They perfectly cover the Digital Crown, so they’re a great way to personalize Apple Watch.

If you’re not the kind of stickler who wants to match your Apple Watch to your clothes, you might at least want it to match your strap. For example, if you have a green Apple Watch band, the red dot may not exactly complement it. But a green WatchDot will.

WatchDots are simple to apply. Just cut out the one you want, apply it to the Digital Crown or side button, and hold for 15 seconds. Then carefully remove the film to leave the vinyl sticker in place.

I had no problems applying WatchDots to the Digital Crown. However, sometimes I found they wouldn’t stick to the side button. The easiest fix I found for this was to heat them up with a hairdryer, the same way you would with a product like SlickWraps.

Once the WatchDots are on, they look factory-fresh (unless you’ve applied them badly).

WatchDots: A cheap way to customize Apple Watch

In each pack, you get three sets of stickers for just under 10 bucks. I think that’s the perfect price, and equals great value for money. They probably would last long enough to get you to your next Apple Watch upgrade, but they’re just cheap enough that you can change up your look every week.

Speaking of which, they’re simple enough to remove. (I just use my fingernail to remove a WatchDot when I’m ready to apply a new color.)

I haven’t tried WatchDots in the swimming pool, so I can’t attest to how they fair when getting wet, but they should be OK.

WatchDots is such a simple idea, it annoys me that I didn’t come up with it first. But it’s a great product, with even better customer service, so I’m glad someone more responsible than me thought of it.

Price: $9.99

Buy from: WatchDots (use code CULTOFMAC at checkout to save 20 percent)

WatchDots provided Cult of Mac with a review unit for this article. See our reviews policy, and check out more stuff we recommend. Also, if you’ve enjoyed the video and want to see more, make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel.

The company we know as Strapple (a company featured in Cult of Mac’s Watch Store) sounded a bit too much like the maker of Apple Watch. The tiny brand speedily changed its name to Strapa and doubled-down with the release of one of its most striking Apple Watch bands yet — the Primus.

Strapa explains Apple’s (minor) involvement in its sudden name change and site relaunch. During this transition, this company continues to make some of the best leather bands we’ve worn. The Primus Apple Watch Band is the latest in Strapa’s lineup.

Best List: Strapa Primus Apple Watch Band

Cult of Mac Watch Store customers are likely aware of Strapa (fka Strapple) for its inclusion in our online shop. Our very own Lewis Wallace reviewed the brand’s Crocodilus band earlier this year. And, I took the Primus for a spin in August.

The brand-new Primus band for Apple Watch is no different in build-quality and attention to detail, yet boasts a bold, sienna-brown-colored leather. It really is a gorgeous band.

Lined in leather, stitched in linen

The leather is smooth and strong, and like the majority of fine leathers, just gets better and better the more its worn. Strapa’s Primus band develops a subtle patina with age, and softens up as it conforms to the wearer’s wrist. And, the color of this leather is really beautiful. It’s 100 percent Italian calfskin leather, which makes for a really luxurious Apple Watch band.

Apple became aware of the Netherlands-based company and reportedly really liked Strapple’s leather Apple Watch bands.

Apple also recognized the obvious similarities in branding and asked the company to consider a name change. Strapple complied and, along with a new site and band launch, became Strapa.

This newfound energy is evident in the leather color of the Primus band — a color I’d describe as a rich sienna brown.

The Primus puts a twist on your average brown leather Apple Watch band. The rugged, Italian leather is then lined with a thinner leather backing, and stitched together with linen thread in homage to traditional artisanal saddlery and leather-working.

Beautiful finishing touches punctuate the Primus

And, I love the sheen of this band. The tanning and polishing processes of the band’s leather imparts a subtle, glossy look and feel.

The buckles are designed not to be sharp, so they’re not going to catch on anything or scratch the band when taken on and off.

Choose from either silver or black hardware in polished or matte. The matte buckle was created for the regular aluminum Apple Watch; the polished finish is there to suit the stainless steel Apple Watch.

Available for the 42 mm Apple Watch.

Price: $99

Buy from: Watch Store

From pocket-size, portable chargers to sleek, modernist stands and cases, Cult of Mac Watch Store has your Apple Watch Series 3 charging needs covered.

We’ve rounded up our favorite stands and docks for Apple Watch Series 3 from some of the best brands on the market — Nomad, Zens, Twelve South, Just Mobile and more. Plus, a number of new brands including Amber and Proper. Whether you’re on holiday, on the go, at work or at home, we’ve got a charging solution to fit your needs. Check out our great lineup below.

Best Apple Watch chargers and stands for Series 3

Bobine Dock for Apple Watch
Bobine WATCH is the most flexible charge dock for Apple Watch. Easily position your Apple Watch dock in nearly infinite locations. You can even top off your Apple Watch battery while you’re on the move with the included auto dash clips. Charge Apple Watch within view on your nightstand, desk, or while driving with the included Dash Stabilizers.

Price: $24.95

Shop Bobine here!

Proper Apple Watch Stand
Each stand is machined from a single solid billet of aluminum. Precision-machined, polished, bead-blasted and anodised for a beautiful matte finish. Place Apple Watch on stand and the magnetic charging cable will gently hold the watch in place.

Price: $69.95

Shop Proper here!

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Amber Apple Watch Casein Gold 
Charge and protect your Apple Watch with this innovative and stylish portable power bank. With its secure fit, Amber will ensure that Apple Watch’s magnetic charger remains secure.

Price: $99.99

Shop Amber here!

Zens Powerbank in Gray or White
This pocket-size charger by Zens is the smallest and lightest external battery pack we’ve seen. Measuring just over an inch cubed, this ultra-portable charging puck has its own built-in magnetic power adapter and a 1,300 mAh battery.

Price: $49.99

Shop Zens’ chargers here!

Zens Apple iPhone/Watch Powerbank
ZENS Powerbank lets you charge your Apple Watch and iPhone simultaneously, and is completely portable! It has a 4,000 mAh battery, and fits any watch band. With a slim, minimalist design, the ZENS Apple iPhone/Watch Powerbank is a great way to charge your iPhone and/or Apple Watch at home, work or on holiday.

Price: $69.99

Shop Zens’ chargers here!

Nomad Stand for Apple Watch
Precision-machined aluminum charging stand. Minimalist, gorgeous design made from a solid, single piece of anodized aluminum. The base is infused with a solid chunk of copper for added weight and stability. Check out our full rev

iew of this modern charging stand for Apple Watch.

Price: $39.95

Shop Nomad here!

Nomad Pod Pro for iPhone and Apple Watch
The Nomad Pod Pro for iPhone and Apple Watch is a minimalist charging puck that packs 6000 mAh of power into a compact design. The portable pod comes with a 9-inch Apple Lightning cable to charge your iPhone as well as a Micro USB cable to fire up the Pod Pro itself.

Price: $49.95

Shop Nomad here!

Twelve South Charging Stand
HiRise for Apple Watch is an elegant, modern stand that showcases your beautiful new timepiece while you charge it overnight. The sturdy HiRise holds any Apple Watch at a stable height and angle that lets you interact with your watch while it’s charging. Stand comes in either Black or Silver.

Price: $39.99

Shop Twelve South here!

Twelve South TimePorter Travel Case & Stand
TimePorter for Apple Watch sets the standard for how you carry your essential Watch accessories. This gorgeous capsule is both a case and a stand. TimePorter holds your charging cable, an extra Watch band, your USB charger and more in a neatly designed, silicone-lined case.

Price: 49.99

Shop Twelve South here!

Twelve South Forté Luxury Charging Stand
Forté for Apple Watch is a luxury stand and charging dock carefully designed to match the timeless beauty of Apple Watch, from shape and standards, to fit and finish. Forte elegantly displays your Watch atop the brilliant chrome stand while protecting your band with a buttery soft, top grain leather wrapped base.

Price: $59.99

Shop Twelve South here!

Just Mobile LoungeDock for Apple Watch
LoungeDock is the multi-purpose dock for Apple Watch. Simply slip your magnetic charger into its moulded recess and strap your Watch to the soft-touch cuff, and you have an eye-catching charging stand that will take pride of place on any desktop or bedside table.

Price: $34.95 (regularly $39.95)

Shop Just Mobile here!

Just Mobile HoverDock for Apple Watch
HoverDock is the low-profile charging bed for Apple Watch. With an integrated support for Apple Watch’s Magnetic Charging Cable, HoverDock keeps your precious timepiece safe, powered up and always ready to double as bedside alarm clock.

Price: $29.95 (regularly $34.95)

Shop Just Mobile here!

Just Mobile TimeStand for Apple Watch
Design-award-winning TimeStand is the striking aluminum charging pedestal for Apple Watch. Precision machined from a single cylinder of high-grade aluminum, its distinctive circular cut-out gives it a dramatic profile even when empty. Slip your Apple Watch magnetic charger into its rubber-lined recess and TimeStand becomes the most iconic charging stand available. Comes in Black or Silver.

Price: $29.95 (regularly $34.95)

Shop Just Mobile here!

Best List: Speidel Twist-O-Flex stainless steel Apple Watch band

My grandfather, who fought in World War II, wore a beautiful mechanical watch. It had an eye-catching expansion band — a stainless steel link bracelet that stretched like elastic. He always took it off to play cricket, and I remember it dangled loosely around my skinny kid’s wrist when I tried it on. He loved that watch, and so did I.

Now I’m wearing a similar expansion bracelet on my Apple Watch courtesy of Speidel, the storied watch-band maker from Providence, Rhode Island. Introduced in the late 1950s, Speidel’s Twist-O-Flex Stainless bracelets are some of the most iconic bands in all of watchmaking. Now they’re available in three finishes for the Apple Watch.

A ’50s icon updated for a 21st-century smartwatch

The Speidel brand holds an iconic place in America’s wristwatch history. Dating back to 1867, Speidel gained fame in 1959 with the introduction of the Twist-O-Flex steel bracelet.

The clever, durable design became one of the most popular and instantly recognizable watch bands of the last century. The company invested heavily in advertising. (Here’s a cheesy TV spot from the mid-’70s and an earlier one featuring a creepy turn by actor Peter Lorre.

Popularly known as the “tank track,” for obvious reasons, the Twist-O-Flex resembles Apple’s Link Bracelet, but is claspless.

Instead, the links themselves flex. The band’s mechanism resembles automobile leaf springs. The individual links stretch like springs, but naturally return to their original state. The result is a strong, durable, sweat- and water-resistant band that stretches up to 5 inches from its original size.

A classic watch band that’s comfortable and strong

I like Twist-O-Flex best for its comfort. It feels good, is easy to get on and off, and it doesn’t yank out the hairs on my arm.

It’s also a lot cheaper than Apple’s band. The Twist-O-Flex starts at $50 instead of Apple’s $450.

Made of stainless steel, the Twist-O-Flex comes in three finishes: brushed, silver and black, which matches the space gray Apple Watch.

The bands come in three sizes (small/medium, medium/large and large/extra-large) and fit both the 38mm and 42mm Apple Watch. They are compatible with Series 1, Series 2 and Series 3.

We’re delighted to reintroduce this modern take on a classic favorite in our Watch Store. Or you can order the bands directly using the widgets below (42mm bands only. For 38mm, please visit the store).

One thing to note: The Twist-O-Flex links can be fiddly to remove. Be sure to measure your wrist and choose the size that fits best. If you’d like to shorten the band, here are instructions for link removal (.pdf).

Price: $50 for brushed, $60 for silver and $80 for black

Buy from: Cult of Mac Watch Store

Speidel provided Cult of Mac with a review unit for this article. See Cult of Mac’s reviews policy; and check out more stuff we recommend in our Best List reviews.

While many Apple Watch bands put fashion front and center, the Nomad Sport Strap embraces the wearable’s exercise potential. This wide, black silicone strap makes the Apple Watch look less like a smartwatch and more like a hard-core fitness tracker.

Angela Ahrendts, Apple’s senior VP of retail (and former CEO of Burberry), might prefer that you see your Apple Watch as a high-end timepiece. But nothing is going to hide the fact that you’ve basically got a mini iPhone strapped to your wrist.

That’s especially apparent every time I switch from the Nomad Sport Strap to a luxurious leather band like the Clessant Black Barenia. After the swap, the Apple Watch’s rounded corners seem far more pronounced. They looked weird to me when I first saw Apple’s wearable during its unveiling. And they still look strange when I haven’t seen them for a few days.

Nomad Sport Strap: A sporty, aggressive look

When you’re wearing the Nomad Sport Strap, you really won’t see those corners. The sport band measures nearly as wide as the Apple Watch itself where its sturdy lugs lock it into place.

Unlike many other bands, the Nomad Sport Strap’s connector is part of the band. That means you can wear it with any color Apple Watch casing. (Unfortunately, this band only comes in the 42mm size.)

The first few days I wore the Nomad, it reminded me of a thick-necked black snake. The thickness of the band gave it that kind of look, and the cross-hatched texture didn’t help. Luckily, I quickly got over it (unlike my ophidiophobia). I quickly came to appreciate the super-sporty design.

As Tim Cook and his fellow execs continually point out, the Apple Watch is a fantastic fitness tracker. Apple’s own fluoroelastomer sport bands come in a variety of colors but look pretty basic. Priced at $49, they’re solid bands — but they’re also quite ubiquitous.

Not your typical sport band

The Nomad Sport Band looks far more aggressive — and a lot different from other sport bands. And at $40, it’s cheaper than Apple’s bands. I’ve got the one in black and slate, but the gray accents are really only visible on the underside of the band (kind of like a … snake).

The slate accents show off the rectangular holes that serve as a sizing mechanism. When putting on the watch, you simply pop the durable rectangular buckle through the hole of your choice, then tuck away the remaining length of the band. It’s slightly challenging to get right at first, but pretty soon it’s a cinch.

A silicone Apple Watch band for sensitive skin

Nomad makes its sport bands out of vulcanized LSR silicone, which the company says is “naturally biocompatible, antimicrobial and hypoallergenic material.”

I don’t suffer any skin problems, so I can’t tell you if this band is better or worse than Apple’s bands when it comes to allergies. But if I were looking for a hypoallergenic Apple Watch strap, I would definitely trust the Nomad more than a cheap knockoff band made from some mystery material.

The Nomad silicone band is U.V.- and water-resistant, so the strap won’t fade over time. I’ve been wearing mine off and on for months, and don’t notice any difference at all. It remains as rugged and resilient as the first day I strapped it onto my wrist.

Granted, I haven’t been running any marathons or swimming in the open sea. But I do work out regularly, and the sweat doesn’t seem to make any impact at all on the band.

If you’re a fitness freak and an Apple Watch geek, the Nomad Sport Band is a solid choice for making the most of your workouts while standing out from the crowd.

Buy from: Cult of Mac Watch Store

Nomad provided Cult of Mac with a review unit for this article. See our reviews policy and check out more stuff we recommend in our Best List reviews.

Make your Apple Watch your own with a truly distinctive, statement-making strap worthy of a double take.

The Batik Strap from French company Clessant is a refreshing take on an everyday accessory. No two are ever alike. And, you can take a look at it now in Cult of Mac’s Watch Store.

A statement in originality

Truly a work of art for your wrist, the Batik Strap for Apple Watch stands out in a sea of sameness with its colorful, patterned fabric. Each handmade strap features a calf-leather core and a liner wrapped in exotic, batik-printed cotton cloth. Folded edges and reinforced stitching on the strap’s point help prevent wear.

Batik is an ancient art form of wax-resist dyeing most highly developed in Java, Indonesia. Artisans make the special fabric by drawing dots and lines with wax on fabric, and subsequently selectively dyeing the cloth. This allows the artisan to control the dyeing to give it a unique, handprinted aspect.

Handmade Apple Watch band

Born of a collaboration between French company Clessant and Apple Watch superfan Ryan Verbeek, an Indonesian living in the Netherlands, the band is a beautiful blend of ancient Indonesian art, batik and French leather-making.

Featured in Vogue (and Cult of Mac!), Clessant takes craftsmanship to detailed levels. The making of a Clessant strap is a specific and complicated process, with more than 60 separate steps to completion.

Each Batik Strap is cut from a large piece of batik fabric, guaranteeing a truly custom and unique piece — no two straps are alike.

The bands come in either red or blue, and are available in 38mm and 42mm Apple Watch sizes, and four lug colors (silver stainless steel, silver aluminum, space gray and space black).

Beautiful, well-made and artful, we love and highly recommend this band.

Buy now: Clessant Batik Apple Watch Band

Treat the Apple Watch lover in your life to some sweet gifts this holiday season.

Cult of Mac can help you pick out the finest accessories money can buy for Apple Watch fanatics. We have everything from swanky straps to chic charging stands in our best Apple Watch accessories roundup.

Best Apple Watch accessories

Apple famously calls its smartwatch its “most personal device ever.” That’s at least partly because Apple Watch is the company’s most customizable device ever.

In our guide to the best Apple Watch accessories, you’ll find unique Apple Watch bands to suit any style. Plus, we’ve rounded up the best Apple Watch chargers, docks and other gear to complement Cupertino’s ultimate smartwatch.

Casetify Holiday Bands

Casetify now offers a number of festive bands that are perfect for those who love the holidays. Available for both 38mm and 42mm Apple Watch variants, they come covered in Christmas trees, snowflakes and reindeer, snowmen, and more.

They’re made from fine Italian leather that’s water-resistant and comfortable to wear. They boast a scratch-resistant coating, and they’re incredibly durable. Check out the Cult of Mac watch store to see them all.

Buy from: Watch Store — $52

Nomad Sport Strap

The Nomad Sport Strap is ideal for fitness freaks.

While many Apple Watch bands put fashion front and center, the Nomad Sport Strap embraces the wearable’s exercise potential. This wide, black silicone strap makes the Apple Watch look less like a smartwatch and more like a hard-core fitness tracker.

It’s comfortable to wear — even on long runs — and sweat won’t spoil it.

Buy from: Watch Store — $39.95

SmaShell Charging Case

For those who take their Apple Watch with them wherever they go, there’s the SmaShell Charging Case. Not only does it provide complete protection while traveling, but it also keeps Apple Watch topped up so it’s always ready for use.

A 3,000mAh battery is enough to charge an Apple Watch four to six times, so for short trips, a dedicated charger won’t be required at all. And because SmaShell is compact and lightweight, it’ll slip into almost any bag unnoticed.

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TYD Accessory Case

Another great Apple Watch travel accessory is the accessory case from TYD. Available in a variety of colors, it carries Apple Watch itself, plus up to 12 different bands for those who are constantly switching up their look.

There’s also room for a charger and other essentials, and they’re all protected by high-quality carbon fiber PU, and a soft microfiber lining.

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Bucardo Pendants

If you want to gift something new and unique, check out these glamorous Apple Watch pendants from Bucardo. They turn a smartwatch into a charm necklace or pocket watch, and they’re available in a number of gorgeous colors and styles.

Each one is made from steel, and right now they’re discounted in the Watch Store.

Buy from: Watch Store — from $119

Apple Sport Loop

Apple’s Sport Loop band combines the comfort of a nylon strap with the ease of a Milanese loop. Its hook-and-loop fastener makes for quick and easy adjustment, while its double-layer nylon weave provides soft cushioning that allows moisture to escape.

Apple also promises attachment loops that are securely anchored for “superior” durability, so you get an attractive, easy to use band that’s guaranteed to last. All for just $49.

Buy from: Apple — $49

Spigen Rugged Armor

Just like any other gadget with a glass display, Apple Watch needs protection when used in harsh conditions. Spigen’s Rugged Armor case is great at keeping pricey wearables protected without impacting functionality.

It’s made from flexible TPU and couldn’t be easier to install. Its 1.2mm frame protects an Apple Watch from bashes and scrapes, and is compatible with all Series 3, Series 2, Series 1, and first-generation Apple Watches.

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Orzly Night Stand

Apple Watch is great as a bedside clock, and the Orzly Night Stand is an ultra-affordable way to make it visible at all times. It holds your device in landscape orientation, and accommodates its charging cable to keep it tidy and out of sight.

The Night Stand is made from durable TPU with a non-slip base, which means it’s incredibly robust yet compact and lightweight. It’s available in a number of pretty colors, and is compatible with all Apple Watch variations.

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Belkin Valet Charge Dock

If the Apple Watch lover you know also owns an iPhone, Belkin’s Valet Charge Dock is a wonderful addition to their desk or nightstand. It charges both devices at the same time, and looks good while doing it. It hides cables to reduce clutter, and comes in colors to match Apple gadgets.

Buy from: Belkin — $129.99

Apple AirPods

Apple’s latest software lets Apple Watch stream millions of songs from Apple Music. But a decent pair of wireless headphones are required. Look no further than AirPods.

They look and feel a lot like EarPods, but they sound even better. They feature Apple’s W1 processor for super-simple pairing with Apple Watch, and they last an impressive 8 hours on a single charge. They also let you use Siri hands-free, while the AirPods case keeps them topped up on the go. (Read our full review: “With AirPods, Apple gets back to ‘it just works’.”)

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Apple Music Gift Cards

Want to give the gift of music without breaking the bank? Choose an Apple Music gift card instead.

They can be used toward a three- or 12-month subscription plan, or you can give them a full year for the price of just ten months. And if they’re new subscribers, they’ll get another three months free.

Prices start at $29.97, and because you can email them directly to the recipient, they’re ideal gifts for those you won’t get a chance to visit over the holidays.

Buy from: Apple — from $29.97

Casetify Nylon Watch Bands

Nylon bands for Apple Watch are in high demand for their comfort and versatility. Add in great engineering and style, and you’ve got Casetify’s beautiful nylon bands.

Soft yet durable, with stainless steel fittings, these straps comfortably mold to one’s wrist with wear. They’re water-resistant, which makes them ideal for swimming and working out, and they’re available in a number of pretty colors.

Buy from: Watch Store — $40

Zens Powerbank

Like the Belkin Valet Charge Dock above, the Zens Powerbank charges both an Apple Watch and an iPhone at the same time. Except it doesn’t require mains power. Its built-in 4,000 mAh battery makes it ideal for Apple Watch wearers on the go.

It’s light and easy to carry around, yet delivers enough juice for recharging an Apple Watch almost 12 times. Sturdy and well-made, it measures just over 5 inches long and slips easily into a jacket pocket or laptop bag. (Read our full review: “This compact 2-in-1 battery pack recharges your Apple Watch and iPhone.”)

Buy from: Watch Store — $69.99

Bezels & Bytes Studded Bands

Transform Apple Watch into a chic fashion accessory with Bezels & Bytes’ decidedly girly collection of bling-accented bands. Made from high-quality leather with stainless steel studs, they are ideal for work and play. These feminine Apple Watch bands are comfortable and incredibly robust.

Buy from: Watch Store — $88

Ullu Leather Bands

Ullu offers a taste of the accessibly exotic with its line of handcrafted leather bands for Apple Watch.

Quality leather can give any Apple Watch (not to mention an entire wardrobe) a high-style touch. Ullu’s luxurious leather bands come in a wide variety of eye-catching colors.

Buy from: Watch Store — from $99

Ultimate Ears Wonderboom Speaker

Apple Watch can stream music to a Bluetooth speaker, and with the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom Speaker, you can get the party started anywhere.

With massive 360-degree sound and up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge, it’s ideal for use inside and out. It boasts a 100-foot range over Bluetooth, and comes in a range of bright colors to suit any style.

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Early reviews of the Apple Watch Series 3 are now dropping ahead of its official debut on Friday, September 22. If you’re still in two minds about whether you should upgrade, they should help you make that all-important decision.

The general consensus is that LTE is a great addition to Apple’s wearable lineup. Just don’t expect a drastically different experience, and prepare yourself for some early teething troubles.

Many reviews point out that Series 3 suffers from cellular connectivity problem, which is particularly frustrating if that’s the main reason you’re buying this device. However, Apple has already acknowledged this — and promised a fix.

Sadly, that promise didn’t come before reviewers got their hands on the device, so many of them dwell on this issue. They’re also keen to point out that the added LTE connectivity makes battery life on Series 3 somewhat disappointing.

LTE is a nice addition, but not necessary

“So, maybe the world hasn’t caught up with Apple’s mobile lifestyle vision yet. But if it appeals to you, the Apple Watch Series 3 is the way to go,” writes CNET. “Just temper your expectations on battery life to the extreme — and be ready to pay up for service fees and wireless headphones to have the full experience.”

“After testing the cellular watch for a week, I found it to be an excellent smart watch that is a significant improvement over the first Apple Watch, which was slow, confusing to use and deeply flawed,” says The New York Times. “But the cellular version is a luxury that most people probably will not need. The price you pay for those brief moments of respite from your iPhone is steep.”

Battery life needs big improvement

The New York Times has one of the few reviews that praises Series 3 battery life, with almost everyone else frustrated by it. It seems that if you’re going to be using LTE a lot, don’t expect your new Apple Watch to last anywhere near as long as your old one.

“You know what definitely won’t like LTE? Your battery,” explains Wired. “I can get a day of battery from the Series 3 with normal use—about the same as the Series 2—but if I’m on LTE a lot, it’s more like four or five hours. Apple rates the phone-call-on-LTE battery life at one hour, which matches my testing.”

“If you’re spending a lot of time using the watch to stream music, the battery’s going to take a big hit,” adds TechCrunch. “And while Apple’s done an admirable job maintaining battery life while adding cellular, the company needs to strive to improve the battery with each subsequent edition.”

“Before Series 3, the biggest Apple Watch frustration was battery life,” continues CNET’s review. “After a week of wearing the cellular model, I can reiterate that battery life is still the Apple Watch’s Achilles’ heel. But it varies widely, depending on what you’re doing.”

Performance is even stronger

Performance was one of the original Apple Watch’s biggest issues, but Apple fixed that with a dual-core processor for Series 2. Series 3 offers an improved version that’s up to 70 percent faster, which means you can look forward to a snappy experience no matter what you’re doing.

“Based on my own experience, switching between apps, opening up calendar appointments, and saving workouts felt faster,” writes The Verge. “You might remember that the very first Apple Watch was painfully slow, especially when it came to launching or running third-party apps. The Series 3 Watch switches between tasks faster than the White House switches communications directors.”

“Performance feels dramatically better than any previous Watch,” says Wired. “Everything’s zippy and simple—I hardly ever found myself staring at loading screens, which happened constantly on older versions.”

The verdict

Just like its predecessors, Series 3 comes with a few complaints. It’s not a perfect device that’s going to suddenly convince you that you need a smartwatch if you managed just fine without one up until now.

It’s also not going to convince you that you need to upgrade if you’re already using a Series 2 device. But if you are in the market for a new watch and you want the best available, Series 3 is the only one you should consider — whether it’s with or without LTE.

“So the final verdict? The Apple Watch Series 3 is the first sign that wearable computers are maturing and may eventually become a staple in consumer electronics,” concludes The New York Times.

“Apple has set a high bar. Like its predecessor, the Series 3 is mostly a vehicle for refinement,” says TechCrunch. “LTE aside, there’s little or nothing here that justifies the price of upgrade over last year’s model. Apple got the smartwatch thing pretty right on its first stab, and each generation makes the product that much better.”

“The Apple Watch is an immaculately built, elegant-looking watch with brilliantly configurable apps and features,” adds The Independent. “If you’ve been waiting for the right time to buy one, the addition of cellular connectivity means this may be the right moment.”

“The Apple Watch Series 3 is the first smartwatch I’ve ever used that felt like something more,” says Wired. “The Watch finally does free me from my phone, at least sometimes. That said, it’s still not a perfect device. The battery remains the biggest limitation, and the Watch still needs more and better apps, and a simpler interface.”

“It has changed my life and it continues to get better with every version,” writes Jim Dalrymple of The Loop. “If you don’t have an Apple Watch and are thinking about getting healthier, do yourself a favor and get one.”

All this week on Cult of Mac, I’ve been reviewing the best running apps for Apple Watch.

Over the past three months, I’ve run more than a thousand kilometers testing these apps in real-world running conditions, and now it’s time to reveal which one earns pride of place on my sweaty wrist.

Scoreboard: Best Apple Watch running apps

If you missed the previous reviews, you can read them all for more in-depth takes: check back to see my reviews of Nike+ Run Club, Runkeeper, Strava, Runtastic, MapMyRun and Apple’s Workout app.

Here are the key takeaways from my Apple Watch running app reviews. You’ll find links to the full reviews as well if you want to take a deeper dive into a specific app’s pros and cons.

Nike+ Run Club

Nike+ Run Club presents the best user interface design of all the apps I tested. It’s stylish and very clear, even when you’re on the move. Nike packed its watch app with features, and the Nike+ website is excellent. Right now, the only downers are Nike’s iPhone app, which is pretty unreliable, and the lack of an option to export your run data via GPX. Full review.

Runkeeper

Runkeeper is a well-thought-out app with unique features like a GPS signal strength indicator and the option to log your run using Watch and iPhone together, or just on your watch. The app’s Achilles heel is reliability: I encountered a few too many problems syncing my runs from watch to iPhone. Full review.

Strava

This cycling app is also great for runners, with a very well-designed and impressive website for viewing and analyzing your stats. Strava’s user interface design is a little cluttered, though, and the lack of a current pace indicator is a major omission. Full review.

Runtastic

One of the first apps to introduce support for running without taking your iPhone in watchOS 2, Runtastic sadly lost its early lead — along with that feature. Disappointingly, the app now only works when you take your phone with you, and does not support built-in GPS in Apple Watch Series 2. Full review.

MapMyRun

Like Runtastic, MapMyRun also lacks basic features such as support for running without your iPhone and Series 2 built-in GPS. The user interface looks cluttered, and becomes unresponsive when a “Syncing with iPhone” message appears. One bright spot is the excellent split-time display — the best I’ve seen. Full review.

Apple Workout

The Workout app is by far the best Apple Watch app I tested, which is perhaps no surprise, since Apple built it. It shines with a beautiful, flexible, well-thought-out user interface offering comprehensive metrics and rock-solid stability. The only thing that lets it down is the total lack of a website to analyze your stats. Full review.

And the winner is …

If it just came down to Apple Watch apps, Apple’s own Workout app would win, hands down. It delivers the most comprehensive metrics, and the most customizable display. The auto-pause feature is reliable, and its elegant design perfectly complements the Apple Watch’s looks.

The trouble is that there is more to a running app than what happens on your wrist during a workout. At least as important are the stats you get afterward to analyze your progress. And Apple’s offering in this respect is woefully inadequate.

Nike+ Run Club provides a good alternative. The stats tracking on its free website is excellent. If you can live with being locked into the Nike ecosystem, with no chance of ever exporting your data, this is a good choice.

Personally, though, I still prefer to log my runs using my trusty TomTom Runner, which syncs automatically with all the major running platforms, including Nike+, Strava and Runkeeper. That way I’m never locked in to a single platform. I wear that on one wrist and my Apple Watch on the other, so I get the credit toward my Activity Rings.

If Apple gets its act together with watchOS 4 and launches a proper fitness website, that might persuade me to switch.

It’s Runner’s Week at Cult of Mac. All this week, I’ve been reviewing the best Apple Watch running apps. So far we’ve looked at Nike+ Run Club, Runkeeper, Strava, Runtastic and MapMyRun.

Today, it’s time to put Apple’s built-in Workout app through its paces. Let’s see how it measures up against the competition.

Review: Apple Workout app

It is perhaps no surprise that Apple’s own Workout app boasts the best design of the bunch. Unlike the others I reviewed, the Workout app offers loads of customization options. You can choose between single metric and multiple metric modes, and pick exactly which metrics you want to show.

Personally, I prefer the single metric view because it is easiest on the eye when I’m running. One example of Apple’s attention to detail: As you do a distance workout in the Workout app’s single metric view, a blue ring clearly displays how much of the workout you have completed and how much further you have left.

Like with Nike’s app, Apple lets you use the Digital Crown to rotate through various stats, displaying them one at a time. But if you prefer to see loads of data all at once, you can select up to five metrics to display on the Multiple Metric view, all in large, easy-to-read type.

It would be good to see third-party developers learn from Apple here and make their displays far more customizable.

Great pace options and syncing

The Workout app is also by far the best choice for displaying running pace, giving you the option to display both average pace (like most apps) but also current pace. This is a really big deal, because when you are running, you usually want to know how fast you are going right now, not 10 minutes ago.

In my testing, the Current Pace metric seemed pretty good, and was highly responsive when I sped up and slowed down. So I’m a bit puzzled about why other app developers like Strava chose to omit this essential metric.

Syncing workouts to your iPhone also works far better with the Workout app. It happens quickly and reliably in the background, and I have never lost any of my data. I can’t help thinking that Apple should share the special sauce that makes this happen with third-party developers. Because right now, syncing third-party apps from Apple Watch to iPhone is one of the biggest problems for Apple’s wearable as a fitness platform.

No workout website? Why, Apple, why?

Apple’s built-in Workout app would unquestionably be the best choice for logging your runs if it wasn’t for one curious omission: There is no way to track your progress over time.

Apple dumps all your running data into its Activity app, but this is the wrong tool for the job. It’s like trying to store soup in a sieve.

The Activity app is for monitoring your everyday activity, not your workouts. It displays Activity rings, but that’s about it. In the workout tab you’ll find your runs sorted by date, and that’s it.

Serious runners will want to see charts showing how their pace and distance changes over time. On the Nike+ website, for example, I can see a chart showing how my mileage increased every year since 2007.

For individual runs, charts compare my pace, elevation and heart rate, overlaid on a map, so I can see exactly how hard I was working at any point during a workout.

Apple provides none of this. Worse still, the company doesn’t even allow you to export your workout data as a GPX file so you can import it into a better running app. Personally, I’d like to see Apple buy Strava and integrate it into iCloud.com.

The built-in Workout app may be awesome during your run, but comes up woefully insufficient afterward, when you want to review your progress. Until Cupertino gets this sorted, its a non-starter for most runners.

Price: Free (built into Apple Watch)

That’s our sixth and final Apple Watch running app review. So, which app won the race to become your ultimate running companion? Tune in tomorrow to find out.

It’s Runner’s Week at Cult of Mac. Every day this week, I’m reviewing a different running app for Apple Watch in an effort to help you decide which one you want to accompany you on your sweaty asphalt-pounding sessions.

Yesterday I reviewed Runtastic. Today, it’s MapMyRun’s turn.

MapMyRun review: Tiny, tethered and unreliable

MapMyRun feels in need of an update. The layout looks cluttered, with tiny type that proves hard to read as you run and narrow buttons that I found difficult to tap accurately with my sausage fingers. Worst of all, the app won’t even open without your iPhone in range, let alone track a GPS workout. It feels like the bad old days of watchOS 1 all over again.

To pause a workout in MapMyRun, you scroll down to reveal a button, which feels over-complicated and awkward. Alternatively, you can force-tap to bring up a different pause button, which feels old-fashioned and inconsistent. I think it would make more sense for MapMyRun to follow the same swipe-to-the-left convention that Apple’s Workout app established (and most other running apps followed.)

The buttons are not just oddly positioned. They are also a bit small, which makes it all too easy to tap the “discard workout” button when you actually meant to tap “save workout.”

The best feature of MapMyRun is that it provides a visual indication of split times for your entire workout when you swipe to the right. A neat chart shows bars for every mile, and a dotted line indicates your average pace. This is very clear and easy to read, even when you’re moving.

Overall, I found MapMyRun to be quite unreliable. A mysterious screen kept popping up which said “synchronizing with iPhone.” Whenever this happened, the app became unusable. And it happened a lot. I’m uncertain what this meant, because it popped up even when I had no new workouts to sync.

Another regular glitch I encountered: The workout summary screen sometimes said my workout duration was one second, when in fact I’d completed 40 minutes. Fortunately, this didn’t seem to affect the workout data that synced to the iPhone, but it was not very reassuring.

Price: Free

Download: MapMyRun

Look out for Runner’s Week Day 6 tomorrow, when I’ll be reviewing running with Apple’s built-in Workout app.

It’s Runner’s Week at Cult of Mac. Every day this week, I’m reviewing a different running app for Apple Watch in an effort to help you decide which one belongs on your wrist to log all your sweaty miles.

Yesterday I reviewed Strava. Today, it’s Runtastic’s turn.

Runtastic review

Runtastic flags after a great start

The Runtastic Apple Watch app is a big disappointment. One of the first apps to support watchOS 2, it allowed you to go for a run without taking your iPhone with you. That feature apparently vanished. Last year, Runtastic promised it would add support for Apple Watch Series 2’s built-in GPS in 2017, but so far there is no sign of it.

It feels like Runtastic squandered its early lead. I find that surprising, considering that Runtastic’s lord and master, Adidas, scrapped its own MiCoach offering and made Runtastic the cornerstone of the brand’s new digital strategy.

Runtastic’s user interface looks a little confusing. The start screen features two baffling icons, which I think only the app’s designer could love. (With a little digging around in the Runtastic iPhone app, I eventually worked out that the icons activate a “Voice Coach” and something called “Live Tracking,” which lets you share your progress on social media). It seems an odd choice to clutter the interface by presenting such minor settings so prominently.

My problems with the Runtastic app design extend beyond mysterious icons. The text is very small and faint — it’s tricky to read while you are out running. Overall, the app design feels dated. For instance, it uses force-tap to pause a workout, when most apps these days follow Apple’s lead and use a swipe to the left to reveal the pause button.

Runtastic interface: The good and the bad

The user interface is not all bad though. Like Runkeeper, swiping to the right reveals your split times, while colored bars at the bottom of the display provide a great indication of what heart rate zone you are training at. And music controls built right into the app come in handy, because watchOS forgets to return the current app to the foreground if you ever leave it during an active workout.

Runtastic was the least stable of the apps I tested. Sometimes it simply would not launch. And even when it did, it sometimes refused to start a workout. It also repeatedly logged me out, although Runtastic claims it fixed this glitch with its latest update.

This running app shows potential, but it needs a major overhaul to catch up with the competition (and add Series 2 support).

Price: Free

Download: Runtastic Running, Jogging and Walking Tracker

Look out for Runner’s Week Day 5 tomorrow, when I’ll be reviewing MapMyRun.

It’s Runner’s Week at Cult of Mac. Every day this week, I’m reviewing a different running app for Apple Watch in an effort to help you decide which app belongs on your wrist to log all your sweaty miles.

Yesterday I reviewed Runkeeper. Today, it’s Strava’s turn.

Strava review: GPS cycling app is good for runners, too

Strava is better known for cycling than running. That becomes evident as soon as you launch the company’s Apple Watch app, which presents cycling as the default workout option. Despite this, Strava is a solid choice for runners.

Perhaps because of Strava’s cycling heritage, the app design looks more like a dashboard than a typical running watch. Strava crams so much data onto the tiny screen that it becomes very hard to read when you’re jogging. You’ll find no customization options if you want to reduce the clutter or boost the size of important metrics.

What you will find is support for Apple Watch Series 2’s built-in GPS. It’s been a long time coming, arriving in February (several months after the new watches landed). I’m curious why it took Strava so long: It may have been problems with accuracy.

One of the app’s biggest shortcomings is that it does not display current pace. Instead, you get what Strava simply calls “Split.” This stat shows your average pace for the last mile or kilometer, which is not the same thing at all. When I asked Strava about this, the company said: “We have looked into a real-time pace estimate but found the GPS data from the watch didn’t allow for a meaningful pace.”

That’s surprising when you consider that Apple apparently doesn’t have a problem displaying current pace in its Workout app. Apple also provides that data to third-party devs via the HKWorkoutSession API.

Running with Strava: Some annoying quirks

In addition to the pace problem, Strava also suffers from some irritating quirks. The company uses its own terminology instead of standard terms used by every other running app. So, for example, Strava calls the pause button “Stop.” That’s nuts — and totally confusing. It’s not even consistent in its inconsistency: Strava uses the term “auto-pause” when logically it should be called “auto-stop.”

On the subject of auto-pause, I found this feature to be completely unusable. Bizarrely, every time I raised my wrist to check my distance, I automatically triggered the auto-pause feature. In order to check my watch while running, I had to disable auto-pause altogether.

I particularly liked the fact that Strava’s app sends a notification to let you know when your workout has synced to your iPhone. This would not be necessary if syncing workouts “just worked.” But since Apple Watch connectivity to iPhone remains flaky, these notifications prove useful.

Not perfect, but still a pretty good running app

Strava’s watch app is far from perfect, but I still think it’s one of the better options for runners. One big reason is the fantastic Strava website. It offers the most comprehensive workout stats you’ll find anywhere. And features like segments, which compare your performance with other runners along different bits of your run, are fun and truly unique.

My only reservation is that Strava recently tried to reposition itself as a blogging platform for pro athletes, which suggests that the company might not appreciate that it’s really a logging platform for amateur athletes. Hopefully the glamour of partnering with the pros doesn’t distract Strava from archiving the sweaty endeavors of us mere mortals.

Price: Free

Download: Strava Running and Cycling GPS

Look out for Runner’s Week Day 4 tomorrow, when I’ll be reviewing Runtastic.

Choosing an Apple Watch running app can prove exhausting. So let Cult of Mac Runner’s Week help get you off the starting blocks.

Every day this week, I’ll review a different running app for Apple Watch. Yesterday I reviewed Nike+ Run Club. Today, it’s Runkeeper’s turn.

Runkeeper review

This Apple Watch running app is almost as good as it looks

It’s obvious that Runkeeper’s developers put a lot of thought into this Apple Watch app. The user interface looks super-slick, with smooth animations when you pause and resume a workout. But there’s more to this app than eye candy. Runkeeper solves some problems that even Apple hasn’t cracked yet. Like the way it displays your GPS signal strength, so you know you have good reception before you start your run.

Runkeeper also gives you the option to specify if you want to log the workout just using your Apple Watch, or with your iPhone as well. This well-thought-out feature proves important because the iPhone’s GPS is more accurate than the Watch’s.

It also means you can choose which battery you want to drain. Battery life seems to be a particular issue with Runkeeper — the iPhone app tracked my location in the background when I was not running, draining the battery very quickly.

The Runkeeper user interface packs loads of neat features. To pause a run, you swipe to the left and tap pause. The app then automatically slides back to the main screen, so you can see your stats without any risk of accidentally tapping “End Workout.” The buttons are large, and arranged vertically rather than horizontally, making them much easier to tap accurately when your arms are swinging sideways as you run.

Runkeeper is one of the few Apple Watch running apps that shows your current pace. You can also swipe right during your workout to see your split times for the current and previous interval. That way you know if you are speeding up or slowing down — although you must wait a long time for these stats to appear. (Plus, the type size could be a little larger.)

A few minor glitches

As with all the apps I tested, syncing workouts to the iPhone proved hit and miss. But Runkeeper seems to suffer from some extra glitches of its own. In particular, sometimes when I saved a workout on my watch, it insisted on making me save it on the iPhone app as well, which was confusing.

While Runkeeper’s iPhone app benefits from an auto-pause feature, this appears to be missing from the Apple Watch app. Even when I enabled it on the iPhone, it didn’t appear to work when I logged workouts using the watch, which is a shame.

These minor gripes aside, the Runkeeper app feels pretty solid. And it’s one of the most innovative I’ve tested.

Price: Free

Download: Runkeeper

Look out tomorrow for Runner’s Week Day 3, when I’ll be reviewing Strava.

It takes a lot of effort to go running with Apple Watch, and not just because it gets you all sweaty. The hard work starts before you even put on your running shoes. Simply choosing which running app to use is an exhausting task.

Even if you don’t install any of the plethora of third-party running apps, the Apple Watch Nike+ model comes with two preinstalled options to choose from. So this week, to help get you off the starting blocks, we’ll be reviewing six of the best running apps for Apple Watch.

Why do I need to choose a running app?

If you simply want to strap on your Apple Watch and go for a run, you may wonder why you need to choose a running app at all. Why not just use the built-in Workout app?

If Apple’s stock app did its job properly, that would make a lot of sense. But it doesn’t. Sure, it’s great during your workout, telling you how far and fast you are going. But if you want to analyze your progress afterward, or share your running history with friends, you are out of luck. Apple provides only the most rudimentary stats, very basic route maps and absolutely no charts showing your progress. Anyone who is serious about running will want to use a third-party app instead.

Apple recommends that you “stick with what works” — so if you already have a favorite running app on your iPhone, you can use it on your Apple Watch as well. And since most iPhone running apps support Apple Watch, you’ll find plenty to choose from if you didn’t already pick a favorite.

Apple Watch is unique in this respect. Most running watches don’t expect you to choose an app. On my TomTom Runner Cardio, for example, the built-in app is all I need, because it syncs with all the major running websites like Nike+ and Runkeeper.

This kind of choice is not a good thing. As behavioral scientist Barry Schwartz argues in his book, The Paradox of Choice, it “no longer liberates, but debilitates. It might even be said to tyrannize.” In other words, you could easily get stuck choosing which running app to use and just give up and stick to your couch instead.

Apple Watch running apps: Similar but different

The truth is, all Apple Watch running apps seem very similar. They all do basically the same thing: record your pace, distance, duration and route. And from a technical perspective, they all do this the same way, using Apple’s HKWorkoutSession API. So they are basically all as accurate as each other. The only way they differ is with regard to their user interface, their stability, what watchOS features they support and what they do with your data once it gets logged.

To make the choice a little easier for you, I spent the past two months running more than a thousand miles to test six of the best Apple Watch running apps: Nike+ Run Club, Strava, Runkeeper, Runtastic, MapMyRun and Apple’s own Workout app.

I used each one during at least 10 separate runs of more than 5 miles, testing them with and without the iPhone in range. With this extended use, the differences became clear, and some obvious winners emerged.

Every day this week, I’ll be reviewing a different Apple Watch running app. At the end of the week, I’ll let you know which one deserved pride of place on my watch face. First up: Nike+ Run Club.

Nike+ Run Club review

Technically, Nike+ Run Club is not a third-party app, because it comes preinstalled on Nike-branded Apple Watches. But despite its special status, watchOS still limits it in the same ways as all third-party apps. There’s no waterproof mode, and no pausing workouts using the two-button press. Those features remain exclusive to the built-in Workout app (although Apple is finally giving third-party devs access to the waterproof mode in watchOS 4, which is coming this fall).

Where Nike does differentiate is with its customary design flair. This app looks super-cool and is designed to perfectly complement the look of Nike’s watch bands. (Although right now it only comes in the neon-green Volt color. It has not yet been updated to match Nike’s new band colors.)

During a workout, the font size looks suitably large and chunky, with an uncluttered layout showing just two metrics: distance and duration. This makes it easy to read when you are in motion. Scrolling the Digital Crown switches the stats around so you can choose which shows up small or large. When you pause a workout, the type gets smaller. And more details get displayed, like your average pace and heart rate. This is a clever design, because it’s easier to read smaller type when you are not in motion.

I like this minimalism, but I think Nike could have achieved it without compromising on the metrics. Ideally, you would get the option to scroll through heart rate and current pace, as well as distance and duration. Fortunately, Nike’s latest update added an “All Metrics” option, which adds Heart Rate and Pace to the display. This is not enabled by default. It’s also a bit hidden (you must scroll down on the home screen to find it). But it is a huge improvement.

My only remaining grumble: Heart Rate displays rather small (especially compared to the other text).

Auto-pause works great. In fact, it’s the best of all the apps I tested, rivaling even Apple’s Workout app. It’s spooky — sometimes it seems to know when I’m going to a stop before I do.

Using Nike+ Run Club

To start a run, you either tap the big “Start” button (obviously), or tap the smaller “Push it” button (formally called “Match It”), which automatically sets a distance workout based upon your previous workout. That’s handy if you normally take the same running route.

Syncing workouts from the Watch app to your iPhone is a bit flaky. It takes ages, and occasionally your data vanishes with no explanation. On several occasions, I had to un-pair and re-pair my Apple Watch to get it working again. That’s a fiddly and time-consuming process. But this does not seem to be Nike’s fault, because it affected all the apps I tested. My guess is there’s something Apple needs to fix here, so hopefully watchOS 4 will sort it out.

The companion Nike+ Run Club app for iPhone is not great. It takes forever to display my recent activity. Sometimes, for a heart-stopping moment, it tells me I have not logged any workouts. In fact, I’ve logged 2,897 runs and more than 17,000 miles with Nike+. (Admittedly, the fact that I save so much data may be why it takes so long to display, but still…)

Fortunately, the Nike+ website works far better. It’s nice and snappy, with an elegant design and lots of useful stats and insights. What’s more, it’s free — although there’s a catch. Nike does not support GPX exports, so all your hard-earned workout data is stuck on Nike’s servers forever. Sure, third-party tools can help, but they are unsupported and unreliable.

Price: Free

Download: Nike+ Run Club

Look out for Runner’s Week Day 2. tomorrow. I’ll be reviewing Runkeeper.