Magnetic phone cases have become increasingly popular in recent years. These cases have built-in magnets that allow you to attach your phone to magnetic mounts, stands, and other accessories. The cases offer a convenient way to mount your phone in your car, on a desk stand, or on a wall without fumbling with clips or adhesives. But how do these cases work and are they really safe for your phone? Let’s take a closer look at the technology behind magnetic phone cases.
How Do Magnetic Phone Cases Work?
Magnetic phone cases have magnets embedded into the case itself. The magnets are usually neodymium rare earth magnets which are extremely strong for their small size. These magnets then interact with magnetic mounts that have an opposite polarity. When the phone case and mount are brought close together, the magnetic attraction keeps the phone held firmly in place.
The magnetic material in the phone case is shielded so it does not interfere with the phone’s internal components. The magnets are strong enough to hold the phone securely, but weak enough to not disrupt the electronic workings inside the phone. Most magnetic cases use multiple smaller magnets rather than one large magnet to distribute the magnetic force evenly across the case.
Are Magnetic Cases Safe for Phones?
As long as the magnetic case is well-designed, magnetic cases are completely safe for mobile phones. The magnets themselves do not produce any harmful electromagnetic radiation. And the magnetic field is fully contained within the case itself, so the magnets do not interfere with the phone’s software or hardware.
However, it is important to use a reputable brand of magnetic phone case. Poorly made cases with weak shielding can potentially allow magnetism to leak and impact the phone’s compass, cameras, speakers and other electronics. Stick to trusted brands and read product reviews to ensure the magnetic case has adequate shielding.
In general, magnetic phone cases are considered much safer than adhesive mounts or clip-on holders. The magnetic system securely fastens the phone in place without any risk of damage to the device.
Benefits of Magnetic Phone Cases
There are many advantages to using a magnetic phone case:
- Easy mounting – Cases make it simple to attach your phone to mounts. No more fussing with clamps or cradles.
- Hands-free use – Magnetic mounts allow for hands-free viewing and using of your phone while driving, cooking, working, etc.
- Convenience – Magnets ensure your phone effortlessly snaps into optimal viewing positions.
- Versatility – Magnetic cases and mounts come in various forms like car vent clip, wall mount, desk stand, etc.
- Protection – Magnetic cases protect your phone from drops and impacts like a normal phone case.
The ability to quickly and securely fasten your phone into place makes magnetic cases very useful in the car, office, kitchen, or workshop. The magnet system is far more convenient than constantly plugging and unplugging your phone when you need your hands free.
Drawbacks of Magnetic Cases
While magnetic phone cases have their benefits, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:
- Interference – As mentioned, poor quality magnetic cases could potentially disrupt electronics and compass apps.
- Weak magnets – Cases with weak magnets may not hold your phone firmly, leading to drops.
- Difficulty with wireless charging – The metal plates in magnetic cases can cause interference with some wireless chargers.
- Reduced phone protection – Magnetic cases are usually slimmer and provide less protection from impacts.
- Magnetic strip interference – Magnetism may damage credit cards, hotel keys, ID badges and items with magnetic strips.
However, reputable magnetic case brands test thoroughly to minimize these risks. Avoid no-name products and read online reviews to find quality cases with adequate magnet strength and shielding.
Popular Brands of Magnetic Phone Cases
Some well-known brands for magnetic phone cases include:
| Brand | Known For |
|---|---|
| PopSockets | PopGrip accessories and slim, grippy cases |
| Scosche | Car magnetic mounts and magnetic cases |
| Spigen | Rugged and slim phone case designs |
| iOttie | Car mounts and wireless charging docks |
| ESR | Value phone cases with variety of colors/styles |
These are some of the top brands that make quality magnetic phone cases compatible with major phone models. They undergo extensive testing to ensure magnets are safe for electronics.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Magnetic Case
There are a few things to keep in mind when selecting a magnetic phone case:
- Case design – Consider the style you want – slim, rugged, wallet, etc. Make sure ports line up.
- Grip – Some cases have textured materials for extra grip and avoiding drops.
- Color options – Many magnetic cases come in an array of colors to suit different tastes.
- Phone model compatibility – Cases are designed for specific phone models for a precise fit.
- Brand reputation – Go with major brands known for quality and safety testing.
- Magnet orientation – Look for cases with multiple magnets or rotating rings to allow flexibility.
- Reviews – Read independent reviews to gauge magnet strength and overall quality.
Taking these factors into account will help you select the best magnetic phone case for your needs and preferences.
Types of Magnetic Phone Case Mounts
Once you have a magnetic phone case, there are many types of magnetic mounts you can use to prop up your phone in helpful positions:
- Car mounts – Mount to air vents or dashboards to use your phone GPS easily while driving.
- Desk stands – Angled stands to view your phone hands-free at your workstation.
- Wall mounts – Simple magnetic discs to mount your phone on walls and surfaces.
- Finger ring holders – Tiny magnetic rings to grip your phone and prevent drops.
- Wallets – Magnetic flap wallets securely store cards and cash along with your phone.
- PopSockets – Expandable magnetic PopGrips act as stands and provide better grip.
Experiment with different magnetic mounting options to find the best applications for your lifestyle and needs.
DIY Magnetic Phone Mounts
You don’t necessarily need to buy dedicated magnetic phone mounts. With a little creativity, you can come up with DIY solutions:
- Attach a magnetic sheet or magnetic tape to your dashboard or any smooth surface to hold your phone.
- Use strong neodymium magnets affixed to surfaces to secure your magnetic phone case.
- Cut strips of magnetic tape to make improvised finger ring holders.
- Screw or glue small magnets onto surfaces for custom magnetic mounts.
- Attach flexible magnetic sheeting to curved surfaces like appliances.
- Install magnetic clips, hooks, and bars to create your own mounting points.
With basic craft supplies and strong magnets, you can fashion your own phone mounts on the cheap. Just be sure to test thoroughly so your phone doesn’t accidentally fall.
Tips for Using Magnetic Phone Cases
To get the most out of magnetic phone cases, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t store credit cards or keycards near your phone as magnets can strip data from magnetic stripes.
- Check that your case magnets don’t interfere with wireless charging, compass apps or Pixel cameras.
- Wipe down the magnets occasionally to keep them clear of dust and debris for maximum stickiness.
- Remove thick or bulky phone cases to ensure a strong magnetic connection.
- Rotate adjustable magnetic rings to find the optimal angle for viewing your phone on mounts.
- Keep spare adhesives and 3M pads to securely affix mounts to various surfaces as needed.
- Consider adding metallic plates between your phone and case if magnetism feels weak.
Following these tips will help you avoid issues and maximize the convenience of magnetic phone cases.
Conclusion
Magnetic phone cases provide a simple and useful way to mount your phone in helpful positions. The built-in magnets allow your device to effortlessly attach to magnetic mounts, stands, wallets and more. While you need to buy quality cases and mounts, the system is very safe for phones when properly engineered. With so many options for designs, mounts and DIY solutions, magnetic cases make accessing and viewing your phone a breeze in the car, office, kitchen or anywhere you need hands-free use. Just be cautious with items containing magnetic strips. When shopping, look for trusted brands, read plenty of reviews and consider your usage needs. With the right magnetic case, you’ll have phone mounting made quick and easy.
