The best MagSafe accessories of 2024: Expert tested and reviewed | ZDNET

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If you're here, you probably already know that MagSafe technology is a pretty handy feature. You can use it to wirelessly charge your phone, attach a wallet to the back of your phone, use it as a combination phone stand and power bank, and more.

To put it simply: MagSafe makes phone charging fun and far more convenient.

Also: The best wireless chargers: Expert tested

At ZDNET, we've tested some of the best MagSafe accessories on the market, using them in our daily lives to examine performance, battery power, and more. Our picks for the best MagSafe accessories overall are Anker's 3-1 MagGo Wireless Qi2 Charger and Casely's Grippy Mount. Keep reading for more top MagSafe accessories, including battery packs, phone stands, car mounts, wallets, and more.

If you're a content creator or you just like to take photos and videos during solo outings, this MagSafe mount is a handy gadget to have in your MagSafe accessory repertoire. You can easily stick your phone to any clean, flat, and glossy surface and instantly create a mount for your iPhone. When I tested the Casely Grippy Mount, I was surprised by how strong the magnetic hold was, even when I stuck it to a cheap, over-the-door mirror. It's a nifty option for mounting your phone for streaming or for taking it out on solo endeavors to help shoot content hands-free.

Customers on Casely's website said that they liked the Grippy Mount's strong magnetic grip and hold, plus the ability to use their phone hands-free for photo, video, or entertainment purposes.

Casely Grippy Mount features: Available in several colors | Compatible with iPhone 12 & newer (requires MagSafe case) | Fastens phone to any clean, flat, glossy surface (like mirrors and windows) | Allows for easy hands-free photo and video shooting, plus browsing

Anker's MagGo 3-1 Wireless Charging Station for iPhone is still a wireless charging dream almost 7 months after my initial purchase, and it's also ZDNET's pick for best wireless charger. This MagSafe charger features 15W charging, offers a stand component for my iPhone, charges all of my Apple devices at once, and folds up easily for quick transport and storage. It also comes with a wall adapter, which isn't always a guarantee.

Also: I found a Qi2 charging station that can do it all (and Apple users will love it)

I first purchased this Anker charger after ZDNET's Sabrina Ortiz tested it last year. I was looking for a safe and functional 3-1 charger that would cut down the amount of cords I needed to pack while traveling. This is it. Unveiled at CES 2023, this 3-1 is truly worth your money if you own an Apple Watch and a pair of AirPods too and want a great charger for at home and on the go. Ortiz said that the charging speed on this charger is comparable to individual cords with respective wall adapters, even when charging simultaneously. "Whether I was charging one device or three, I noticed that the devices were charging at a comparable speed to when I normally had them plugged into their respective wall chargers," she wrote in her review.

I can concur based on my personal use, too. This stand charges up all of my devices quickly, and I love how easy it is to pack up to take on a trip. Even though this Anker charger is on the pricier side, costing $110, it's worth it thanks to its function and duality. It also frequently goes on sale. Compared to other options on the market, I think this 3-in-1 pick offers immense value because it can be used at home or on the go with ease, especially if you can grab it on sale.

Verified Amazon customers give this Anker charger a 4.6/5 stars and said they liked the compactness and convenience of this design as well as the easy to use setup, foldability, and magnetic strength. However, some customers said the simultaneous charging wasn't consistent.

Author's Note: The Anker MagGo 3-1 charger in white is on sale for $82 (save $28) at Amazon upon the latest publication.

Anker MagGo 3-1 Wireless Charging Station features: Compatability: iPhone (any with MagSafe), Wireless Earbuds, Apple Watch | Color: White or Black | Foldable | Easy for travel | Comes with wall adapter

This Belkin battery pack is not only an upgraded version of a good original, but it's also ZDNET's pick for the best MagSafe battery pack right now.

I really liked the first iteration of this battery pack, and I like the newly upgraded Qi2 version even more. This new model has the USB-C connector on the side instead of the bottom of the pack, making it easier to use your phone standing upright while the pack is charging. Instead of the charging indicator lights being on the side, they're now more visible, located on the back of the pack. This model is also a tad slimmer and lengthier than its predecessor, making it easier to transport.

Also: My new favorite MagSafe battery pack supports Qi2 charging, has a kickstand, and isn't made by Anker or Baseus

And while this Belkin pack is a true embodiment of a classic brick-style battery booster, there is still a place in my heart for it because it just works so well. Similarly to many options on our Best MagSafe battery pack list, it provides 5,000mAh of extra juice to your phone, which is a standard capacity for many MagSafe packs. Its design, though simple, fits snugly against my phone (no bumping onto the lip of my camera lens) and remains secure.

Its secure grip and competitive battery speak for themselves. I took this pack to a Yankees game, to several late-night outings, to work, and even on errands, and I am impressed with the charging. You can expect between a 25-30% battery boost in about an hour to your phone.

What's more is that it comes with a built-in stand that easily swings in and out -- no folding required -- and while I originally thought this would be useless, I rather enjoyed being able to prop my phone up whenever. Perhaps the best thing about this Belkin pack is that it comes in a few fun colors, a nice feature many competitors still haven't matched.

Like the previous iteration, this pack is still not the slimmest design I've ever seen. But the newly upgraded design offers a more comfortable and sleek user experience that feels great in the hand and doesn't feel as boxy as the pack really is. Overall, I'm impressed with the new shape and think it was a much-needed facelift.

Apple is the only retailer that sells the blue, green, pink, and sand color options right now (as well as black), which is a bit of a downside. On the flip side, Belkin only carries the black and white iterations as well as the 8k and 10k models. Regardless, Redditors who own this battery pack really like the intentional upgrades. Some Redditors said that this is a great pack to replace Apple's discontinued battery pack, too.

Belkin Boostcharge Pro Qi2 Magnetic Power Bank 5K features: Capacity: 5,000mAh | Charging Port: USB-C | Power button: Yes | Available in a few colors (some Apple exclusive)

If you shoot video from your POV frequently, consider a MagSafe accessory that will amp up your functionality. This MagSafe neck mount from Telesin does just that. ZDNET's senior reviews editor Kerry Wan was able to try one out while covering the iPhone 16 launch in California a few weeks ago, and immediately purchased one.

"I recently got this POV MagSafe mount, and it's perfect for hands-free video shooting. Saw dozens of content creators at Apple Park using it a few weeks ago," he said.

Verified Amazon customers said that they liked the easy and simple setup of the Telesin neck mount, and said that they enjoyed using it to shoot video from their POV, or to just keep using their phone hands-free. One customer said she even enjoys using this neck mount to use her phone while walking her dogs.

Telesin MagSafe Neck Mount features: Portrait and Landscape compatible | Multi-functional shooting modes (landscape, portrait, overhead, and low angle, which allows you to play with a wide range of POV scenarios) | Extended pole for viewing while shooting | Enhanced Dual-Ear + Strap for added stability | Dual-sided phone grip

Journey's Ezmo MagSafe wallet is the perfect balance of style and function, and it's ZDNET's current pick for best MagSafe wallet. With enough space to hold five cards, it indeed resembles a classic wallet and not just a cardholder. The Ezmo wallet also doubles as a phone stand, so you can watch your favorite entertainment on the go or keep your phone screen visible at your desk. The stand has adjustable viewing angles in both portrait and landscape modes.

It's made of vegan leather and comes in four traditional color options (black, dark brown, navy blue, and dove gray). The Ezmo MagSafe wallet also features a protective lining with RFID technology to safeguard your cards' information while preventing them from becoming demagnetized.

Also: The best MagSafe wallet I've tested is not made by Apple or Anker

I tested the Ezmo wallet for several weeks in my everyday activities, including my commute from New Jersey to New York City. When evaluating MagSafe wallets, I always look for easy and seamless access to my NJ Transit card, which I need to grab and put away quickly. Thanks to the notch on the front of the Ezmo wallet, I can store my transit card in the front. It's easy to slide out, so I highly recommend choosing one with a front-notch option if you're looking for a commuter-friendly wallet.

I also like how the Ezmo MagSafe wallet provides enough space for five cards and even folded cash. It's perfect for holding my debit card, work badge, and other incidentals like paper train tickets.

The phone stand was nice, too. I enjoyed being able to prop my phone up while at the office. I even found myself using the back half of the wallet as a makeshift grip on the train, which added some extra stability. Although it's a pricier option, I think it's well worth the investment due to its multi-functionality and excellent quality, especially if you use your MagSafe wallet daily. The Ezmo wallet is also available in a tracking version -- the LOC8 MagSafe Finder Wallet and Stand -- if you're prone to losing things frequently.

Current users on the Journey website said they liked the slim profile, smart design, larger card capacity, and sleek material -- so much so that the wallet has a 5/5-star rating online, with one customer noting that it "does it all really well."

Journey Ezmo wallet and phone stand features: Multi-functional | RFID protection | Built-in lock to prevent card slippage | Dimensions: 66 mm x 102.5 mm x 12.5 mm | Card capacity: Up to 5 cards

If you don't need a larger capacity to store your favorite cards, cash, or other incidentals, a card holder is probably a better bet. While Moft markets their Snap on Phone Stand and Wallet as a wallet, it's definitely more of a card holder. Based upon my own testing, I've only ever been able to squeeze two cards into this holder, and most of the time prefer to just use it for one important card (often my NJ Transit SmartLink card).

The design of this holder is very sleek and minimalist, but it's available in a wide-range of color options and costs only $30. While there's for sure cheaper wallet options out there, this is really fairly priced considering the dual function you get with the stand and card holder combo, plus the quality material and construction. Most other wallet options are often upwards of $35, so Moft has competitively priced a great MagSafe accessory, in my opinion.

I have used this card holder countless times, and it is my favorite option when I am traveling with only one card that I need accessible. I find it easy to remove and insert cards from this wallet, though occasionally, it can be tricky to quickly pull out two cards without a hassle, which isn't the biggest deal unless you're rushing to make the train in the morning like me. Regardless, I have gifted this three times since being able to test one for ZDNET, and think it's a great option to add to your MagSafe collection.

Moft Snap on Phone Stand and Wallet features: Thin profile and design | Works in Floating, Portait, and Landscape modes | Compatible with other Moft accessories, like the MagSafe battery pack | Compatible with iPhone 12+ and MagSafe compatible phone cases

Jason Cipriani, a former ZDNET contributor, has been using the non-pro version of Twelve South's HiRise for MacBook for about a year with no complaints. It did exactly what it's designed to do: get his laptop off of my desk and at eye level while freeing up some desk space. Underneath his laptop, Cipriani placed a wireless charging station, making use of the free space.

However, with the HiRise Pro, Twelve South built a MagSafe charging pad directly into the leather-covered base. That means you no longer need a separate charging station under your laptop. Instead, attach a MagSafe charger -- which isn't included with the HiRise Pro -- to the bottom of the base and route the power cable to a nearby outlet.

Twelve South HiRise Pro for MacBook features: Leather-covered base with MagSafe | Puts your MacBook at eye level, or up to 6 inches off your desk | Holds your laptop in place

Our favorite MagSafe accessories off style, function, and added features like kickstands and more. Maybe you're looking for a battery pack to boost your phone or a handy place to store your metro card. We've got you covered with top-tested accessory picks from Casely, Belkin, Moft, and more.

*MSRP at the time of publication

Any of the MagSafe accessories on this list are great picks -- it just depends on what you are looking for, the price you are willing to spend, and what devices you currently have.

As someone who regularly tests MagSafe accessories and gear, these are the three most critical things to keep in mind while you shop, both to ensure you nab the best products and avoid spending your cash on useless junk.

ZDNET only recommends products we ourselves have used or researched extensively so we can speak to each product's value, function, and overall user experience. While rounding up this list of MagSafe accessories (of which, we've tested every product included), here's a few things we kept in mind to guide our selections accordingly.

MagSafe was originally developed as a safety feature for MacBook charging cords, but it's now built into iPhone 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 models for use with a range of accessories.

The system uses a series of magnets around the iPhone's internal charging coil that sense other compatible devices and hold them securely. The magnets are specifically designed for the MagSafe system to protect your iPhone from damage.

All current iPhone models, including the iPhone 14, iPhone 15, and newly released iPhone 16, feature MagSafe charging. Older iPhones, such as the iPhone 12 and 13 also feature MagSafe technology. Some charging cases for Apple's AirPods, such as the latest AirPods Pro, also have MagSafe built in.

Also: Every iPhone 16 model compared: Which new iPhone should you buy?

The two systems work on the same wireless charging principles, but the key difference is that Qi chargers don't use magnets for alignment. Qi chargers need a near-perfect alignment for optimal speeds. The MagSafe system eliminates the hassle of positioning and repositioning your devices on the charger by using magnets to properly align the charging puck and iPhone's internal charging coils, giving you consistent, fast charging every time.

It's a personal preference. Both cable charging and wireless charging boost your phone effectively. But with a cable, you must ensure you're near an outlet or alternative power source when recharging your phone.

With MagSafe, you can experience wire-free charging at home and even purchase a battery pack for power on the go. So, if you're a mobile a lot, we recommend a MagSafe battery pack to keep your iPhone charged while you travel. For certain situations or environments, a cable may be preferred.

MagSafe capabilities can enhance your user experience and your iPhone's functionality. Besides creating simpler, more efficient wireless charging, MagSafe technology opens the door for various accessories such as wallets, car vent clips and mounts, fitness mounts, power banks, grips and key ring accessories, and more to widen the iPhone experience and make your life as efficient as possible.

Yes, the market is flooded with MagSafe accessory options; by all means, the ones we've included aren't your only options. Check out a few other picks we'd recommend below.

Moft's popular tripod stand makes watching your favorite shows or shooting content on the go easy. The MagSafe accessory has several adjustable, ergonomic positions to maximiuze your iPhone's capabilities, and the newest iteration can hold chip cards. This 3-1 wallet, stand, and tripod is another nifty buy for your iPhone.

Anker's popular 622 battery pack offers a MagSafe connection, built-in kickstand, and a portable form factor perfect for topping off your battery on-the-go.

The OhSnap Snap 4 Luxe Magnetic phone grip offers added stability and hold, a kickstand, and allows you to layer other MagSafe accessories on top.

Also: This viral PopSocket alternative is my new favorite iPhone accessory (and it supports MagSafe)

Even though iOS 18 will offer call recording shortly, the Magmo Pro allows you to seamlessly record calls just by snapping this pack onto the back of your phone. Don't worry about any apps or software.

Also: This MagSafe accessory lets you use iOS 18's most underrated feature before it's released

If you're looking for a home for your phone in the car, ESR's MagSafe mount keeps your cell in one spot, makes a great road trip companion, and offers Qi2 15W charging, so you'll never be without a battery.

Also: Finally, an iPhone car mount with Qi2 charging and won't break the bank

This Aiffro SSD brings a whole new meaning to portable. Bulk up your storage options with this easy, MagSafe option for your iPhone.

Also: This handy MagSafe SSD accessory should be in every content creator's arsenal