WIRED Reviews Best Apple Watch Accessories for 2026
From the Nomad Stand One Max charger to the Nike Sport Loop band, WIRED’s latest guide highlights the most effective peripherals for iPhone users, while flagging products to avoid.
WIRED editors have published a comprehensive review of the best Apple Watch accessories for 2026, evaluating bands, chargers, cases, and screen protectors to recommend upgrades for the device. The review identifies the Nike Sport Loop band as a top pick for its comfort and durability, while recommending the Nomad Stand One Max charger for fast charging and the Anker MagGo Power Bank as the best portable option.
The publication describes the Apple Watch as the premier smartwatch and fitness tracker for iPhone owners, capable of calls, texts, and payments. Although Apple significantly improved battery life on the device in 2025, the review notes that it still requires daily charging. Consequently, the editors emphasised the importance of reliable charging solutions and protective accessories to maintain the device’s functionality.
For bands, the Nike Sport Loop is highlighted for its soft, breathable recycled polyester construction and ease of adjustment. The review also suggests the Twelve South band hanger for storing spare bands, with each holder accommodating up to six straps. Additionally, the Insta360 X5 360 Camera is noted for its ability to overlay fitness stats from Apple Health onto video footage, appealing to users tracking their physical activity.
In the charging category, the Nomad Stand One Max is presented as a premium option for fast charging, despite its high cost and the exclusion of a power adapter. The Anker MagGo Power Bank is recommended as the best portable charger, offering 5W output for the watch and 30W for phones. The Belkin 3-in-1 Qi2 Charging Stand is also cited as a strong choice for users with multiple Apple devices.
Conversely, the Zagg InvisibleShield GlassFusion screen protector is explicitly advised against due to bubbling issues and high cost. The review also recommends AppleCare to mitigate exorbitant repair costs for the watch, given the fragility of the screen and the expense of service.
WIRED editors tested and reviewed various Apple Watch accessories, including bands, chargers, cases, and screen protectors, to identify the best upgrades for the device. Recommended items include the Nike Sport Loop band, Nomad Stand One Max charger, Anker MagGo Power Bank, and Twelve South band hanger. The review also highlighted specific products to avoid, such as the Zagg InvisibleShield GlassFusion screen protector, citing issues with bubbling and high cost.
The article mentions that the author has swum with the Nike Sport Loop band, but Apple does not advertise water resistance for the band itself. Reviewer feedback indicates that lighter colours of the thin TPU case show dirt easily, based on limited testing data.
WIRED | https://www.wired.com/story/best-apple-watch-accessories | published 2026-08-15T10:30:00.000Z | primary source
