Best Apple Watch cases in 2023
Protect your Apple Watch with one of the best cases.
The best Apple Watch cases can protect your investment. Sure, you love wearing your Apple Watch sans case. It looks good and is easily identifiable as an Apple Watch, making you feel like part of an exclusive club. But it's a good idea keep a case or shell nearby in case you find yourself on an adventure that make result in damage to your precious Apple Watch. If you feel the same way, take a look at these protective cases for Apple Watch. Be sure to check the listing carefully and make sure you're purchasing a case for the correct size and series; they are not all interchangeable.
Apple Watch Series 8 and Series 7
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Unibody design
More than just a case, this offering from Spigen is a rugged case and band in one. While the Apple Watch Series 7 screen itself is not covered, a raised lip around the edge gives the screen some protection. This one also fits the Series 6/SE/5/4. Choose from the military green shown here or black.
Tempered glass
Snap this tempered glass screen protector and case into place for all-over protection. You get two in a package, so you have a spare to keep or share. Choose from either Apple Watch size and two color choices: clear or black.
Soft and flexible
Encase your Apple Watch Series 7 safely within this soft, flexible TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) case. Choose from clear (with screen protector), black (with screen protector), or clear (without screen protector). You get two in a package; choose either the 41mm or 45mm size.
Band included
This band-and-case combo comes in lots of different colors and fits the Apple Watch Series 7 as well as the 6/5/4/SE. The screen isn't covered, but there is a nice thick lip around the screen to prevent damage.
Apple Watch Series 4, Series 5, Series 6, & SE
Super comfortable underwater
The Catalyst Waterproof Case is, by far, the most comfortable watch case I've ever worn. The bands are connected with hinges instead of a one-piece mold. Though it makes the overall look of your Apple Watch slightly larger, it's not cumbersome. I've worn the Catalyst on my wrist for weeks at a time without feeling like it was too big or uncomfortable. It is.
This ultimate tank
This heavy-duty all-in-once case and band combo are meant to stand up against major impact and have been drop-tested up to 9.9 feet. A cutout on the back ensures your Apple Watch retains the ability to monitor your heart activity. If you still want a screen protector, there is room for that too. The included band is a breathable sports band. It comes in both 40mm and 44mm sizes.
Smooth bumper
This sleek but solid bumper protects your Apple Watch from damage while you're busy living life's adventures. It's available in several colors and both Apple Watch sizes.
Tempered glass
Consider this tempered glass option if you like the feel of nothing but glass over your Apple Watch face. It's not unbreakable, of course, but it does give you an extra layer of protection. There are two color options: black and transparent.
Apple Watch Series 2 & Series 3
Comfortable, waterproof pick
The Catalyst Waterproof Case is, by far, the most comfortable watch case I've ever worn. The bands are connected with hinges instead of a one-piece mold. Though it makes the overall look of your Apple Watch slightly larger, it's not cumbersome. I've worn the Catalyst on my wrist for weeks at a time without feeling like it was too big or uncomfortable. It comes in both 38mm and 42mm sizes.
Super snug fit
Name the phone or accessory and, chances are, Spigen makes a case for it — and a great one at that. It goes on easily and holds tight; you won't feel it wriggling around on your Apple Watch. The Digital Crown is left entirely open and is entirely unhindered, thanks to the Rugged Armor's great fit. A metal button covers your Apple Watch's Side Button but doesn't interfere with functionality, which means the scratchable surfaces are covered all the way around. It comes in both 38mm and 42mm sizes.
Bumper style
This protective bumper from trusted maker OtterBox fits like a glove and protects your Apple Watch from bumps and dings. Choose from a handful of colors and both Apple Watch sizes.
Four-pack bargain
This four-pack of TPU screen protector cases from Tranesca is perfect for people who like variety. In the pack, you will receive one of each color: clear, black, gold, and rose gold. You can get this package for any size Apple Watch.
Apple Watch Ultra
Even more rugged
The Apple Watch Ultra barely needs a case, but for just a little bit extra, pick up this snap-on protector from Spigen. It's lightweight, yet it covers the screen and the entire Apple Watch case.
Best Apple Watch cases: Which is for you?
We like the Catalyst Waterproof Case. Despite its heavy-duty protection, it's so comfortable that you almost forget you're wearing a big case. Its all-over protection means you can swim, dirt bike, even paint your house, and it will keep your Apple Watch in pristine condition. You can find this case for just about every size and every generation.
For the Apple Watch Series 8 and Series 7, Beuxece 2-Pack Protective Case Cover for Series 7 provides many options in terms of color and style. Get two in a package so you can split it with a friend. Plus, the price is right.
Any case you get will give you peace of mind when doing rigorous and potentially hazardous activities. Just make sure you're getting the right size for the right model before hitting that buy button! While you're shopping, don't forget to pick up one of the best Apple Watch bands.
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Luke Filipowicz has been a writer at iMore, covering Apple for nearly a decade now. He writes a lot about Apple Watch and iPad but covers the iPhone and Mac as well. He often describes himself as an "Apple user on a budget" and firmly believes that great technology can be affordable if you know where to look. Luke also heads up the iMore Show — a weekly podcast focusing on Apple news, rumors, and products but likes to have some fun along the way.
Luke knows he spends more time on Twitter than he probably should, so feel free to follow him or give him a shout on social media @LukeFilipowicz.
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