Article updated on October 2, 2024 at 3:00 PM PDT
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Charlotte Maracina Associate Writer
Charlotte Maracina is an associate writer for CNET based in Long Island, New York. When not writing about top products on the market, she's traveling, binging Love Island or following Harry Styles on tour.
Expertise Charlotte has two years of experience tracking different travel, fashion and lifestyle trends among 18-24 year olds.
What is the best PopSocket overall?
PopSockets are everywhere. Despite the silly design, it seems people absolutely love using them. PopSockets were released in 2014 and have since become a coveted phone accessory. The idea behind them is simple: A gadget that sticks to the back of your phone and, well, pops out. PopSockets serve numerous purposes. They guard your phone during accidental drops, they help you grip your phone and they can serve as a kickstand.
Ten years after their introduction, there are a wide variety of PopSockets for sale. It can be daunting to research the hundreds of different available options, so I've rounded up the best PopSockets. From PopSockets that are MagSafe-compatible to PopSockets that double as lip balm, there's something for everyone.
This is the traditional PopSocket most people know and love. The PopGrip comes in a wide range of colors, but I prefer the translucent sparkle design.
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Express yourself with some graphic design on your PopSocket. Whatever your interest, you'll find a design that fits. Whether you're looking for a way to display your die-hard dedication to the Marvel Cinematic Universe or you just want a cute smiley face on the back of your phone, there's no shortage of options. All PopTops are interchangeable, so if you feel like displaying your Star Wars love only on May 4, you can easily go back to any other design.
If you're like me and use your phone as your wallet, the PopWallet is the perfect two-in-one option. The wallet itself can hold three to five cards and is easily removable. The PopWallet is available in several different colors, and you can swap the PopTop to change designs.
There are now PopSockets made specifically for folks with MagSafe phone cases. These PopSockets aren't like the others. Instead of using adhesive to stick to the back of your phone, they use magnets. Compared to traditional PopSockets, they take up a lot of space on the back of your phone. But it's worth it.
This PopSocket is a personal favorite of mine. How many times have you been out and suddenly remembered you left your lip balm at home? The PopGrip Lips solves this problem. Inside the PopLip top is Burt's Bees lip balm, a natural balm made from beeswax. The PopLip top is interchangeable, which lets you swap it out for new lip balm or for a regular PopTop.
The PopGrid Slide lets you use your PopSocket to the max. The slide is nonadhesive and attaches to the sides of your phone. You can slide the PopSocket down for MagSafe charging and FaceTime.
Budget
Before anything else, you'll want to figure out how much you're willing to spend on a PopSocket. Basic, original models continue to serve well, so you can find a decent PopSocket for less than $15. But if you're looking for a more premium model, you'll likely have to pay more than $20 for extra features.
Attachment Type
PopSockets are attached to the back of your phone in three main ways -- adhesive, MagSafe, and an adjustable side grip. Each attachment type has its downsides and choosing the right one for you comes down to personal preference.
Do you want a clear PopSocket?
Clear PopSockets are popular because they often include exciting designs like glitter or show off your phone. Clear PopSockets, especially cheaper ones, can become less clear over time and slowly start to yellow. Many PopSockets now add UV protection to their clear cases to prevent yellowing.
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Typically, we try to use the PopSocket on the phone for at least a day and make sure the everything on the phone works properly with the PopSocket on. With some PopSockets, we use them for several days or even weeks to see how they wear over time.
- Design: We evaluate the more superficial and cosmetic aspects of PopSockets and consider how aesthetically pleasing they are because people sometimes buy PopSockets solely for their colors and artwork.
- Durability: We look at how durable a PopSocket is, paying particular attention to adhesion type and drop protection.
- Grip factor: We review the grip type so we can talk about such factors as how grippy the phone feels in your hand and how protective the material is.
- Extra features: Some PopSockets cases have extra features such as interchangeable tops, lip balm inclusion, and, in the case of wallet models, slots for storing credit cards and cash.
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Do I need a PopSocket on my phone?
The short answer is no, you don't need a PopSocket on your phone, and yes, some folks prefer to keep their phones PopSocket-free. But for those that appreciate a little extra oomph to their phones, or perhaps prefer additional grip for safety, PopSockets are a great option.
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Should I get a magnetic PopSocket?
Since the iPhone 12 series, each iPhone comes equipped with MagSafe, magnetically attached power transfer and accessory-attachment tool. PopSockets that are MagSafe compatible can be easily removed without any sticky residue and allow easy access to other MagSafe capabilities, like wireless charging. If you don't mind a less secure attachment, a MagSafe PopSocket may be a great option for you.
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What cases do PopSockets not stick to?
If you choose to go with an adhesive PopSocket rather than a MagSafe or side grip, you may find that your PopSocket doesn't stick to all cases equally. The PopSocket website discloses that adhesive grips don't stick as well to silicone or waterproof cases, cases with a lot of texture, or other soft cases. Keep your case material in mind when buying PopSocket and make sure you don't run the risk of your grip slipping.
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What's the best PopSocket attachment type?
Adhesive may be the most secure option, but it is difficult to remove and may leave a sticky residue on your phone case. Adhesive attachments also have a difficult time sticking to silicone or other soft cases. MagSafe is less secure, but is easily removable for MagSafe charging and days when you're not feeling your PopSocket. Adjustable side grips are perfect for those who constantly adjust their phone grip, but they may not be suited for those who are rough on their phones or need a sleeker design.
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