Car mounts that keep your phone handy and secure

We spend a lot of time on our phones and in our cars—often simultaneously. But in 20 states, it's illegal to use a handheld cell phone while driving, and 48 states have banned texting while behind the wheel.

Still, in certain states like California, it's legal to use your phone "hands-free" if it's mounted securely to your dash or windshield. While you're looking for that perfect playlist or podcast, using Google Maps or calling your mom, these products will keep your phone within an arm's reach—and your eyes on the road.

The Beam Electronic phone holder clips to your air vent to keep your windshield clear. This mount is only made for horizontal vents, so hold off if yours are vertical. If your phone tends to overheat on your summer drives, this option leverages the air conditioning to keep it cool. You’ll just want to be careful about blasting the heat during winter months.

The iOttie Easy One Touch 4 can live on your dashboard or windshield. Although this is a bulkier option, the Touch 4’s arm extends up to eight inches in any direction to accommodate innumerable personal devices. The iOttie also has a DriverSmarter app that will help you remember where you parked your car.

The Waulnpekq is a great option because it doesn’t obstruct your view while you’re driving since it affixes to your cup holder instead of your windshield or dashboard. Waulnpekq says the product is made out of environmentally friendly PVC and high-quality aluminum wire. This option also fits your bulkier phone cases like the OtterBox and LifeProof.

At just three ounces, the Vava phone holder is one of the smallest and strongest options available. Its sleek design includes a circular silver magnet that can hold up to six pounds. It’s durable too, so when you hit that pothole on your way to work again, it’ll stay in place. FYI, your GPS could also stick to this one.

The iOttie iTap 2 mount has a wireless Qi charger built-in that provides top charging speeds for Android and Apple phones. The iTap 2 plugs into your car’s lighter and uses two magnets to keep your phone securely in place on the charger.

from Popular Science | RSS https://www.popsci.com/best-car-phone-mounts/

Never look at your lap to reference Google Maps again. (Dan Gold via Unsplash/)

Just pop onto your air vent and you’re ready to go. (Amazon/)

Designed for both your dashboard and your windshield. (Amazon/)

This gooseneck phone mount stretches up to eight inches long. (Amazon/)

A futuristic, magnetic option. (Amazon/)

Attaches to your dashboard using a semi-permanent disc and suction cup. (Amazon/)