Apple Watch accessories that are worth your time

Since buying an Apple Watch last year, I have tried dozens of accessories to protect, charge, and show off my watch. Last month, Apple announced the Series 4, a smartwatch model with a larger screen and some sweet health features and upgrades. I'm upgrading, so I decided to update my recommended accessories list, too. Below, the Apple Watch add-ons that were worthwhile.

For an affordable silicone replacement band, this -GK sport band is made of a soft silicon and comes in small/medium or medium/large sizes for both the 38-40mm and 42-44mm watches.

Just so you know, the Apple Watch Series 4 is compatible with all of your previous watch bands. Meaning, the 38mm bands will fit on the on the new 40mm watches, and the 42mm straps will work with the larger, 44mm size.

Add some style to your Apple Watch. These Belkin classic Italian leather wristbands are 3 mm thick and come in sizes for both 38-40mm and 42-44mm watches.

If you have a favorite watch band that doesn't make a model for the Apple Watch, don't worry. These stainless steel band adapters are available in three colors—grey, pink gold, and silver—and come in sizes for both the 38mm and 42mm models.

Belkin products come with built-in magnetic Apple Watch chargers. The Belkin PowerHouse dock lets you charge your Apple Watch and iPhone at the same time. It comes with a lightning cable for your iPhone and plugs into a standard wall outlet.

If you're looking for a portable charger, Belkin makes a 6,700-mAh powerbank that comes with a 3.9-inch micro-USB cable, which you can use to charge your Apple Watch eight times.

Spigen’s Apple Watch stand features a non-slip bottom so your watch won't fall while it’s charging and positions your watch upwards and sideways so you can use it in Nightstand Mode as a digital clock. The dock—which doesn’t come with a magnetic charging cable—is compatible with all Apple Watch models and is available in five color options.

If you use your Apple Watch for exercise, these Vi Bluetooth headphones are a must-have—Apple HealthKit-compatible—accessory. The personal trainer works with Apple HealthKit to create a customized workout. It learns how you run and monitors stats like your heart rate, motion, and elevation. The Harman Kardon headphones have waterproof earbuds that actually stay in your ears, plus a battery life that lasts all day. They also, of course, let you answer phone calls or listen to music from your watch or smartphone.

Nomad's Pod Pro comes with a 6000-mAh battery, which means it can charge both your iPhone and Watch twice. It boasts an anodized aluminum shell and comes with a built-in lightning cable to charge your phone. The magnetic Apple Watch charging cable is not included.

Sometimes the Apple Watch feels more fragile than it really is. If you’re overly cautious about dinging your watch’s screen, this 44mm model protective casing and watch band can ease your concerns. It’s got shock absorbing bumpers that still allow access to all the buttons and features.

The Spigen watch case is made of a durable thermoplastic polyurethane to protect your watch from dings and drops. The case is raised 1.2mm above the screen to protect the watch face from scratches. It fits the 42mm Apple Watches and has a built-in aluminum button to maintain easy access to the watch controls.

These flexible Apple Watch screen protectors are available for both 44mm and 40mm watches. The TechSkin protects against scratches, punctures, and UV light.