Which cellphone stands are the best?
Cellphones are a staple in everyday life. We read the news, watch movies, listen to music, scroll through social media and stay in touch with friends and family. Sometimes, though, we want to do these things while leaving our hands free for other activities, which can help with cellphones.
From basic budget-friendly stands to height-adjustable models that offer wireless charging, they come in a range of options, but all have one thing in common: They keep your cellphone in just the right position for hands-free viewing. Many, like the folding Nulaxy A4, also accommodate larger devices like tablets.
What to know before you buy a cellphone stand
Where will you use it?
The first thing to consider when choosing a cellphone stand is where you want to use it. When purchasing a model for your vehicle, it should have different features than one intended for use on a desk or nightstand.
Cellphone stands designed for vehicle use typically feature a sticky bottom, which can be in the form of a suction cup, a nonskid silicone or rubber pad or a sticker. This last option is not ideal because it is not reusable. A sticker could also potentially damage your dashboard when removed if left on for too long.
For home and office use, a phone stand needs to have a wide enough base to be stable. Some models clamp into place on the edge of a table or have a tripod as the base. Ideally, your cellphone stand will be angle-adjustable, but if purchasing a fixed model for home use, consider how deep or shallow the angle is and whether it will be comfortable to look at when sitting in a normal position.
Do you want a charging stand?
Basic cellphone stands are just that — stands, and nothing else. There are also stands that offer wireless charging. These are some of the most convenient options as they allow you to charge your device at all times, without having to go through the hassle of plugging it in. As you might expect, wireless charging stands are more expensive, so they may not be ideal if you are on a tight budget.
What to look for in a quality cellphone stand
Adjustability
The more adjustable a cellphone stand is, the more versatile it will be for different uses. Those that are angle and height-adjustable allow you to view media or use your device for hands-free calling without having to hold your head at an uncomfortable downward angle. Some models feature a gooseneck for total adjustability of the angle, height and position.
Portability
Suppose you plan on taking your cellphone holder on the go regularly, such as when traveling or back and forth to the office. Portability should factor into your purchase decision. Some models collapse entirely flat, making them easy to stick into a pocket or laptop bag when needed.
Padding
Both the screen and case of a cellphone are prone to scratches if not handled properly. To ensure your stand never damages your devices, look for a model with rubber or silicone padding in the phone cradle.
Color
The most common colors for cellphone stands are black, rose gold, gray and silver. However, you can also find models in just about every other color imaginable. There are even some options available with eye-catching patterns and designs if you search hard enough.
How much you can expect to spend on a cellphone stand
The most affordable cellphone stands cost just a few dollars, but these will generally be very basic. If looking for an adjustable model or one with charging capacities, expect to spend between $8 and $40.
Cellphone stand FAQs
Are cellphone stands universal?
A. While cellphone stands are not 100% universal, most have very wide device compatibility, and many even accommodate tablets. That said, very thick cases can cause a phone not to fit in some stands.
Are cellphone stands the same thing as cellphone holders?
A. All cellphone stands are cellphone holders, but not all cellphone holders are stands. For example, some cellphone holders, such as those that clamp to bicycle handlebars, are more correctly labeled as cellphone mounts. Likewise, an armband that holds a cellphone doesn’t fall into the cellphone stand category, but it is a cellphone holder.
What’s the best cellphone stand to buy?
Top cellphone stand
What you need to know: A foldable, travel-friendly option, the Nulaxy A4 is ideal for taking on the go.
What you’ll love: It comes in several stylish colors, including rose gold and silver, and it has a cable pass-through that allows you to charge your device while on the stand.
What you should consider: The joints can loosen up over time.
Top cellphone stand for the money
What you need to know: The Lamicall Cell Phone Stand is a top affordable choice for hands-free video calling and watching media, thanks to its features and wide device compatibility.
What you’ll love: It can hold phones measuring anywhere from 4 to 8 inches, including those with cases. It’s made of aluminum alloy and has rubber antislip pads, making it sturdy. The hole in the back accommodates a charging cable easily.
What you should consider: The stand itself does not charge cellphones — it only holds them.
Worth checking out
AONKEY Car Dash Cell Phone Holder
What you need to know: A large and sticky silicone base pad and wide device compatibility make this phone holder a handy addition to any vehicle.
What you’ll love: It collapses flat when not in use, and the sticky base pad can be washed and reused as many times as needed.
What you should consider: It only has two angle settings, which may not be enough for very tall or short users.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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