Wired just updated its comprehensive roundup of the best MagSafe phone grips for 2025, featuring eight thoroughly tested options ranging from basic $17 models to premium $40 accessories. The guide highlights how magnetic grips have evolved beyond simple PopSocket alternatives into multifunctional tools that combine wireless charging compatibility, kickstand functionality, and even power bank integration.
The accessory market for Apple devices keeps getting more sophisticated, and Wired's latest MagSafe grip roundup proves it. After months of hands-on testing, their review team has identified eight standout options that go way beyond the basic phone grip experience most users know.
The standout winner is the Benks ArmorPop Magnetic Phone Grip at $27, which combines aramid fiber construction - the same material used in bulletproof vests - with dual functionality as both grip and kickstand. "It works shockingly well in portrait and landscape mode, even without rotating the grip," according to reviewer Jacob Roach, who used each grip for weeks of real-world testing.
But the real innovation happening in this space isn't just about better materials. The Baseus PicoGo Qi2 MagSafe Power Bank represents the convergence of charging and grip technology, packing a 5,000mAh battery with 15-watt wireless and 20-watt wired charging capabilities. At $28-$50 depending on the retailer, it's solving the perpetual problem of bulky power banks by integrating grip functionality directly into the charging solution.
PopSockets remains the comfort king according to Wired's testing, with reviewer Brenda Stolyar noting she's been a "PopSockets loyalist" for years. The $30 MagSafe version maintains the classic expandable design while adding magnetic attachment that doesn't interfere with wireless charging - you just need to remove it when charging wirelessly.
The testing methodology reveals how seriously Wired approaches accessory reviews. Each grip was used as a primary phone grip for weeks or months, with reviewers evaluating magnetic hold strength, comfort during extended use, durability through drops and heavy use, and real-world scenarios like video calls and social media scrolling.
ESR's MagSafe Ring Holder (HaloLock) at $16-$22 caught attention for its unique dual-joint design. The rectangular ring design initially felt awkward to reviewer Brenda Stolyar, but the rubber lining and innovative dual-ring system that enables both landscape and portrait kickstand modes won her over for desk work and video calls.
For users with larger hands, Spigen's Nano Pop Grip at $17 offers the most accommodation according to the review. Despite its budget price point, the thick silicone ring and sturdy metal construction earned praise, with the reviewer highlighting the variety of colors available beyond the "dull Black Sesame" version tested.
The Swiss Army knife of the category is Aulumu's G05 Air 5-in-1 at $24-$36, which claims to function as grip, stand, angle measurement tool, fidget toy, and box opener. While Wired calls some of these claims "giving the G05 a little more functionality than it actually has," the ceramic box opener proved surprisingly useful for slicing through packing tape and mail.
Android compatibility remains a key consideration. While most Android phones can't use MagSafe grips directly, magnetic cases enable the functionality. Google's Pixel 10 range already includes native Qi2 magnets, while Samsung's Galaxy S25 series is "Qi2 Ready" - meaning you need a magnetic case to access the full feature set.
The testing also revealed some interesting failures. The ohsnap! Snap Grip 5 at $28-$40 offers impressive functionality with outer magnets that allow stacking other MagSafe accessories, but inconsistent magnetic behavior with different cases earned it a "wait for a sale" recommendation.
For the budget-conscious, Smartish's Quickstand at $25 takes a completely different approach with a soft nylon strap instead of rigid rings. The flexible design enables one-handed setup, though like most MagSafe grips, it works better as a landscape stand than portrait.
The roundup also includes detailed FAQ sections covering MagSafe compatibility across iPhone generations (iPhone 12 and newer), Android options through magnetic cases, and the four main types of phone grips available in the market.
The MagSafe grip market has clearly matured beyond basic phone holders into sophisticated multi-functional accessories. Wired's comprehensive testing reveals that while traditional options like PopSockets still excel at core comfort, newer entrants are pushing boundaries with power bank integration, premium materials, and innovative dual-joint designs. For most users, the sweet spot appears to be the $17-$30 range where you get solid build quality without premium pricing, though power users willing to spend $40+ can access genuinely useful additional features like integrated charging or advanced kickstand functionality.
