Unlike with an iPhone, you don't absolutely need to use a case with your Apple Watch. The materials, especially on the more expensive models, can withstand everyday use.

But there are still plenty of reasons to use a case or cover. It's an inexpensive way to accessorize your device and add a bit of color. It should also give you peace of mind that your Apple Watch will be protected from knocks and bumps, especially when combined with a screen protector.

Here are some of the best Apple Watch cases and covers to protect your wearable device.

Premium pick

1. Catalyst Waterproof Case

8.20 / 10
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While modern Apple Watch models are waterproof, Apple recommends that you don't use the device for activities like scuba diving or water skiing. But the Catalyst Waterproof Case can easily give you peace of mind while in the water and offers some of the best protection for an Apple Watch.

Catalyst guarantees protection in up to 330 feet of water. It is also rated to protect the Apple Watch from falls of up to 6.6 feet. Even with the case, the vast majority of features—like heart rate detection—are still available. The only exception is that EKG monitoring isn't available.

Key Features
  • For the 44mm Apple Watch Series 4/5/6 and Apple Watch SE
  • Can still charge with the case on
  • Protects in water of up to 330 feet
Specifications
  • Brand: Catalyst
  • Compatibility: 44mm Apple Watch
Pros
  • Protects from falls of up to 6.6 feet
  • Also provides an Apple Watch band
Cons
  • EKG feature not available when using the case
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Catalyst Waterproof Case
Editors choice

2. Spigen Rugged Armor

9.40 / 10
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Spigen is a go-to company for protecting every kind of gadget. While immensely strong, the Spigen Rugged Armor case is thoughtfully designed. Thanks to the flexible material, there's no need to worry about skin irritation. The case holds on tight, is compact, and doesn't move around your Apple Watch.A metal button covers the right-hand side of the Apple Watch and gives it a stylish look. The cover doesn't affect any functionality and encases all sides of the watch. It's also designed to protect the Apple Watch screen from scratches and scrapes with a slightly raised surface. There are several different color options to select from to suit your style.

Key Features
  • For the 44mm Apple Watch Series 4/5/6 and Apple Watch SE
  • Can charge your Apple Watch with the case on
  • You can still access all features of the wearable device
Specifications
  • Brand: Spigen
  • Compatibility: 44mm Apple Watch
Pros
  • Available in a wide variety of colors
  • Raised edges help protect the screen from scratches
Cons
  • Rugged design might not be for everyone
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Spigen Rugged Armor
Best value

3. Finite Bumper Cover

8.80 / 10
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The Finite Bumper Cover Six-Pack is all about style on a budget. It provides you with six different looks for your Apple Watch in various colors.The case maintains the watch's originality and enhances its look while leaving the side button and Digital Crown open. The cases are flexible, shock-absorbent, and comfortable as they're so lightweight.

Key Features
  • For the 40mm Apple Watch Series 4/5/6 and Apple Watch SE
  • Six covers provided in different colors
  • Slim and lightweight
Specifications
  • Brand: Finite
  • Compatibility: 40mm Apple Watch
Pros
  • Full access to all controls
  • Can still charge with case on
Cons
  • Better options for anyone needing a single case
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Finite Bumper Cover

The RhinoShield Bumper Case is a fun and customizable way to protect your Apple Watch. There are four colors available to select from—black, lavender, blue, and red. And for a fun way to make the case stand out, you can purchase an optional rim, offered in 10 colors, that's easy to switch out.Made with an impact-resistant material, the case is made to protect a watch from drops of up to four feet. A raised rim also helps protect the screen. You can access all of the watch features with the case installed.

Key Features
  • For the 40mm Apple Watch Series 6/5/4
  • Protect from drops of up to four feet
  • Raised edge protects the watch screen
Specifications
  • Brand: RhinoShield
  • Compatibility: 40mm Apple Watch
Pros
  • Can purchase optional bumper to add a splash of contrasting color to the case
  • Available in five colors
Cons
  • Doesn't protect the rear of the Apple Watch
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RhinoShield Bumper Case

Caseology's Nero provides complete protection for an Apple Watch, including the back of the device, which many other cases miss. The case is made with a flexible material and just 1.2mm thick for maximum comfort.

It protects the screen with a raised edge. All of the watch features, including charging, are still available with the case. You can select from a black or pink version to best match your style.

Key Features
  • For the 44mm Apple Watch Series 4/5/6 and Apple Watch SE
  • Made with soft and flexible material for added comfort
  • Raised edge helps protect the Apple Watch screen
Specifications
  • Brand: Caseology
  • Compatibility: 44mm Apple Watch
Pros
  • All functions are accessible with the case installed
  • Also protects the rear of the Apple Watch
Cons
  • Only two colors available
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Caseology Nero

The amBand Protective Case With Band provides both style and protection for an Apple Watch. There are three different styles to select from, including a black, white, and clear model.With a unibody design, you'll just place the watch into the case, and you'll be ready to go. If you have a rose gold Apple Watch, the clear model features matching buckles.Raised edges surrounding the case helps protect the screen from scratches. And the soft material also fends off falls and scratches to the watch. As a nice touch, the combination fits any generation of 38mm or 40mm Apple Watch.

Key Features
  • For the 40mm Apple Watch Series 6/5/4 and Apple Watch SE along with Series 3/2/1 38mm
  • Raised edge protects the Apple Watch screen
  • All watch features available while in the case
Specifications
  • Brand: amBand
  • Compatibility: 40mm/38mm Apple Watch
Pros
  • Integrated band and case
  • Three styles available
Cons
  • Design might not appeal to everyone
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amBand Protective Case With Band

The Smiling Case does more than just protect the wearable device casing. Thanks to an integrated screen protector, you won't have to worry about scratches to the screen.

Since it's made from tempered glass, it will feel exactly like swiping on the Apple Watch screen. You can easily install and remove the case without having to take off the Apple Watch band, which is a big plus.

Key Features
  • For the 42mm Apple Watch Series 3/2
  • Integrated tempered glass screen protector
  • Protects Apple Watch screen from scratches
Specifications
  • Brand: Smiling
  • Compatibility: 42mm Apple Watch
Pros
  • Full access to all watch features
  • Easy to install and remove without removing the Apple Watch band
Cons
  • Only one color choice
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Smiling Case

FAQ

Q: How Do I Know What Apple Watch I Have?

When looking for an Apple Watch case, the first major question to answer is what kind of Apple Watch you have. That will help you find a case or cover that fits your device. Click here for instructions on how to determine what model you have.

Q: Does An Apple Watch Need a Case?

It depends on your daily lifestyle when deciding if your Apple Watch needs a case. If you're at a desk all day working, probably not. But if you're more active, a case can definitely be a good thing to help protect your expensive electronic device from wear and tear. That's especially true if you don't have any type of warranty from Apple.

Q: How Durable Is an Apple Watch?

Overall, the Apple Watch was designed to be a durable device. The more expensive models, made with stainless steel and a sapphire glass display are especially durable to everyday wear and tear. The lower-priced models, with an aluminum body and Ion-X Glass, are more prone to showing scratches and small nicks.