5 accessories that harm the Apple Watch
Although the Apple Watch is considered the best smartwatch for iPhone users, its accessory market remains less mature than that of smartphones, making some accessories a genuine threat to a device that can cost over $800 in its high-end models.
Tech experts and specialized reviewers warn against the following five types of accessories, which should be avoided entirely as they may cause permanent damage or lead to a decline in the watch’s performance over time:
The Apple Watch uses a proprietary charging technology based on magnetism and wireless power, which differs completely from the MagSafe chargers used for iPhones. Unapproved cables suffer from several issues: they may deliver inappropriate voltage or unstable current, causing excessive heat that damages the watch battery over the long term and reduces its overall lifespan. Their magnets may also be weak or misaligned with the watch’s charging coil, giving the false impression that the device is charging while the process halts midway, leaving the watch empty when needed. Even more dangerously, some poor-quality cables can cause electrical shorts that affect the internal charging circuitry. Experts recommend looking for the “Made for Apple Watch” or “MFi” certification, which ensures safe charging and full compatibility, even if the price is comparable to that of an original Apple cable, as the price difference is not worth risking a valuable device.
Many people make the mistake of buying hard cases to protect their watches from scratches and impacts, but poorly designed cheap cases may partially cover the side button or the Digital Crown instead of providing precise, well-aligned cutouts. This makes operating the Digital Crown difficult or rough, and allows dust and moisture to enter between the plastic edge and the crown’s rim, causing sensor issues over time. Additionally, some thick cases obstruct the magnetic charger from reaching the back of the watch, weakening charging efficiency or preventing it entirely. Bulky hard cases may also make the watch appear larger and less elegant, contradicting the sleek design of the Apple Watch.
Many glass screen protectors available on the market do not cover the entire curved screen, leaving corners and edges exposed to scratches and impacts. Some are also too thick, affecting touch sensitivity and the watch’s responsiveness to gestures, especially when swiping or using voice typing. Others fail to adhere properly to the curved screen due to imprecise design, causing annoying air bubbles to appear days after installation and distorting visibility. Experts recommend avoiding screen protectors altogether, as Apple Watch glass is made from scratch-resistant materials such as sapphire in premium models or chemically strengthened glass in base models, which can withstand normal daily use.
Cheap plastic bands made of weak or recycled plastic may break or detach during sudden movements, exposing the watch to falls and shattering. Many users have documented incidents of drops caused by the breaking of a cheap band clasp. Furthermore, some poor-quality materials, such as low-grade synthetic rubber, can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, especially with prolonged use during exercise when the skin sweats. Apple recommends using approved bands or those from reputable brands known for their material quality and precise clasp manufacturing.
It scratches easily and loses its clarity within just a few weeks, which distorts screen clarity and diminishes the overall user experience. Moreover, it traps dust and moisture underneath, potentially causing permanent scratches on the original screen as solid particles rub against the glass surface when pressure is applied to the cover. Experts emphasize that the Apple Watch operates optimally and more safely when nothing is on it except an official or a reliable, certified third-party band, and when it is charged with an original or MFi-certified cable.
