The Five Best Car Phone Mounts

So many mounts, so little time.

For better or worse, phones have changed the way we drive. They can provide turn-by-turn directions and stream music, but they can also be distracting. A car phone mount can allow your eyes to spend more time on the road and less on a screen.

What we looked for

The most obvious thing you’ll want in a phone mount is the ability to hold your phone securely. The mount itself should also stay in place. From clamps to magnets, manufacturers have come up with all sorts of solutions. This is often what separates the tried and tested from the dollar store variety.

We also looked for models that won’t stick out like a sore plastic thumb in your vehicle, especially when your phone isn’t mounted. Magnetic mounts are the clear winners here, adding the least amount of visual noise to your interior.

Where to mount your phone

Let’s start with a quick PSA on the worst place to mount your phone in your car: the cupholder near your center console. If you’re using your phone for navigation, looking down to where you keep your morning espresso can be downright dangerous.

Instead, we suggest keeping your phone mounted in your peripheral vision to help you stay focused on driving. Any of our picks should qualify, giving you the option to use your vehicle’s air vents, CD slot or windshield.

What to know before you buy

Most mounts are compatible with popular phones like the iPhone and the Samsung Galaxy. However, you should double check to ensure that your phone will fit – especially if it is on the larger side.

If you choose a windshield or dashboard mount, be sure that your phone doesn’t obstruct your view of the road. Also, some states have restrictions on what you can mount on your windshield. Be sure to check your local laws before you buy.

The best Dashboard/Windshield car phone mount:

Quick Touch One

This car mount comes with universal compatibility that allows it to be used with any smartphone. It can attach in most surfaces if not all. The anti-fall mechanism offers extra protection making it a durable product that is suitable for rough terrain. It has the capability of rotating 180 degrees and 360 degrees for obtaining a landscape or portrait view.

It features a quick touch mounting system that can release the device with just a push of your finger. Compatible with smartphones and other devices having a width of 2.3-3.5 inches. Has a silicone rubber scratch proof clamping system. The bottom knob is adjustable for easy charging of your mobile phone. It is designed to include a two-step locking lever. The removable sticky pad gel provides it three times more strength to hold the product up to 7.5 kg. Has a long telescopic arm that extends from 4 inches to 6.5 inches. Can be rotated 180 degrees for height adjustment and 360 degrees for landscape or portrait view. Comes with a 15 months warranty.

The best magnetic car phone mount: 

TechMatte MagGrip

Magnetic phone mounts are our favorites because they take up the least amount of space and allow drivers to secure their phones almost effortlessly. The TechMatte MagGrip is our favorite of this category, and it’s also the most budget-friendly of our picks.

Like all magnets, the TechMatte MagGrip needs something to stick to. It ships with a small metal plate that fits between your phone and most cases, so it’s practically invisible. Not bad, assuming you already use a phone case.

User reviews are generally impressed by how strong these magnets are and you may not have to worry about your phone taking a tumble if you drive over a pothole. As with other mounts that attach to air vents, the TechMatte MagGrip will work with most but not all vehicles.

The best car phone mount for air vents: 

Kenu Airframe

The Kenu Airframe checks off just about every box on our list. This air vent mount has a minimal profile and doesn’t clutter your interior. It’s also easy to secure your phone, although you will most likely need two hands to remove it.

User reviews appreciate that the Kenu Airframe holds both small and large phones securely. Owners of vehicles with recessed or angled air vents should also take caution, as this mount may not be compatible with these.

The Kenu Airframe comes in several sizes. The Airframe Pro is great for larger devices like the iPhone Xs, iPhone Xs Max and Samsung Galaxy S10. The Airframe+ supports medium-sized devices like the iPhone X and iPhone 8 Plus. For smaller devices, the base model Airframe has room for the iPhone 5 up to the iPhone 8.

The best CD slot car phone mount: 

iOttie Easy One Touch 4

When’s the last time you used your CD player? If you’re like us, your car’s neglected stereo might be the perfect place for a phone mount. The iOttie Easy One Touch attaches to a CD slot, blending seamlessly into the center stack.

This style of mount makes it easy for drivers to view their phone at a glance. The iOttie Easy One Touch doesn’t block your view of the road or airflow from your vents. We also love how it repurposes something that many drivers no longer use.

Most user reviews love the iOttie Easy One Touch, which is generally described as very stable compared to other styles of mounts. Keep in mind that it will most likely obstruct your vehicle’s infotainment system – something to keep in mind if you have a backup camera.

The best car phone mount with wireless charging:

 Andobil Wireless Car Charger

If you’ve recently purchased a new iPhone or Samsung Galaxy, there’s a good chance it’s compatible with wireless charging. The technology is quickly making its way into new vehicles from brands like Ford, Toyota and Volkswagen. For everyone else, the Andobil Wireless Car Charger makes it easy to add wireless charging to your vehicle.

The Andobil Wireless Car Charger can be attached to a vent, dashboard or windshield, and it plugs into a USB port. Place your compatible phone on the mount, let the motorized grip do its thing and you’ve got wireless power to spare.

User reviews are especially pleased that the Andobil Wireless Car Charger can power their phone even when using a thick case. They also appreciate the manufacturer’s stellar customer service, which is always a huge plus.

Review by Autocar