According to reports, Apple has already sold 2.79 million Apple Watches in the U.S. alone since its launch in April. With the Apple Watch already available in Apple Retail Stores plus the launch of the company’s ‘Reserve & Pickup’ service, it’s expected that even more Apple Watches will be sold this summer.

Another factor that could increase sales of the Apple Watch is the soon-to-be-released watchOS 2, which will deliver new features such as faster apps, new watch faces, new communications options, third-party Complications, and improved security.

Anxious to personalize an Apple product that already comes in a range of colors and finishes, consumers are also purchasing extra Apple-made bands for their Apple Watches. According to reports, the most popular second band choice is the $49 black Sport band, followed by the $149 Milanese loop.

Apple offers other, even pricier bands, such as the the stainless steel Link Bracelet but it sells for $449 or the leather band Modern Buckle which sells for $249.

If you have an Apple Watch to accessorize but can’t find an interesting enough band from the Apple Store, we’ve scouted other bands that offer more bling, and even more functionality, for the same price or less than what Apple currently offers.

3D printed

Almost anything can now be made using a 3D printer and Cubify (3D Systems, Inc.) offers a radical take on Apple Watch bands. For $39.99, you can choose from four different flex band patterns for the Apple Watch such as the Web, Crocodile, Polygon and Canyon.

Stainless steel

Apple offers stainless steel bands but they are a bit pricey. Monowear Ltd. has three stainless steel offerings that are all under $150. The Black Metal model is priced at $119.99 while the more traditional Silver Metal is at $99.99. It also offers a Mesh Metal which is priced at $89.99.

At the moment, these bands are out of stock so if you can’t wait to purchase an affordable stainless steel band you can do a quick search on Amazon.com. Some of the bands you can choose from include the T-Trees Stainless Steel Classic for only $44. Another band you can consider is Biaoge Stainless Steel Swiss band that costs only $42.99. If you’re looking for mesh bands, the Aerb Milanese Loop only costs $32.99 or if you want something even more affordable, go for the Mydeal Milanese Loop which is only at $25.99.

Functional bands

The Apple Watch on standby or minimal use has a battery life of about two to three days. If you use it often, you’re looking at 2.5 hours or more depending on how much you use it. If you’re looking to extend the battery life of you Apple Watch, there are two bands coming out soon that can give you that. The Reserve Strap promises to increase your Apple Watch’s battery life by 125 percent while the Wipowerband will not only extend the battery life of the device but also protect it and comes in various colors. The Wipowerband costs $89 for the 38mm band and $99 for the 42mm version. The Reserve Strap costs more at $249.99.

Unique bands

Case-Mate Inc. has upcoming bands that are unlike any other Apple Watch band like the Turnlock Band and Sheer Glam Band, both priced at $35. If you’re creative or just want your Apple Watch to reflect more of your personality, you can create your own band at Casetify.com for only $70 or you can choose from bands created by others.

Band accessories

Another way to glam up your Apple Watch can be as simple as using a Watch Pops or Click accessory. Watch Pops are button-like accessories that you pop into the hole of the Apple Watch Sport band, while Click is a Watch band adapter that allows you to use any 22mm watch band with the Apple watch. Both products are currently being crowdfunded. Get a Watch Pop for $10 while Click’s price starts at $27.99.

Photo by shinya