Other Good MagSafe Accessories
The accessories below aren't as good as the best in this guide, but they're still a good option if you're looking for more MagSafe gadgets.
Belkin iPhone Mount with MagSafe for $30: Using Apple's Continuity Camera feature, you can use your iPhone as a webcam wirelessly for MacBook. It also supports various video calling apps, from FaceTime to Zoom. This round silicone puck magnetically attaches to the back of your iPhone and can be used as a handle or phone stand, but you need to hold the screen at a 90-degree angle or the weight of the iPhone will pull the screen back or forward. There's also a mount for external displays in case you want to mount it on your desk at home.
STM Goods MagPod Smart Phone Stand for $50: I carry this mini tripod from STM Goods all over my apartment. When I'm not using it to view notifications on my desk, I place it on the kitchen counter to stream TV while cooking dinner, on the coffee table for FaceTime with friends while I'm on the couch, or on the bathroom sink to listen to podcasts while I do my makeup. I also used it to shoot videos. It features a magnetic disc with a socket that moves smoothly, allowing you to install it at different angles. The retractable legs are also durable, even when pressing notifications or typing. They fold neatly into a compact size, making them easy to travel with.
Casetify Wireless Car Charger for $70: I've been using this for over a year now. It's easy to install, has MagSafe support (with USB-C cable) and an adjustable ball joint for different viewing angles, and is Qi 2 certified with 15W output. It's a little more affordable than Belkin and comes in a few fun styles. (I have penguin design, and it’s hard not to smile while looking at it.)
iOttie Velox Pro Magnetic Wireless Charger for $80: This iOttie option has a suction cup (if you have awkward vents or just prefer a dashboard or windshield mount) that has strong magnets to hold it in place. The telescopic boom also features a ball joint that allows for a wide range of motion to help you find the perfect position. The 7.5W charging speed is disappointing, but the USB-C charging cable is removable, so you can unplug and put it away while your iPhone is charging. The built-in fan also helps keep the temperature low when the sun is shining.
MagGo Magnetic Charging Station (8-in-1) for $60: This little ball has three AC outlets, two USB-C ports and two USB-A ports on the back, and on the front is Qi2 wireless charging a tablet that can charge your phone. It's great for workstations that need to connect a lot of gadgets. Each of the USB-A ports outputs 12W, while the USB-C ports can output 67W, although this figure drops if other ports or a panel are used.
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Photograph: Julian Chokkattu
$60 MagSafe SSD enclosure.: If you have iPhone pro max and you want to tinker with Apple's more advanced video recording formats (ProRes 4K at 60fps or higher), well, you'll immediately run into one big problem: you can't record directly without external storage device. You'll need an SSD connected to your iPhone, and it will record video directly to external storage. But a hanging SSD doesn't sound very secure, does it? They don't transmit power or data via MagSafe, but simply mount on the back for easy SSD storage while recording.
Casely Grippi for $25.: When the Octobuddy (the original suction cup phone mount) became popular, I really wanted one. But since it uses adhesive to attach to the phone, the thought of all the dust and germs the suction cups might collect kept me from trying it. This one from Casely is one of the few to have MagSafe support. For the most part this works well. I've stuck it on kitchen cabinets, mirrors, the refrigerator – just about any surface around. But when gluing it to said surface, I recommend applying extra pressure to make sure the suction cups are secure. Really stuck there. Otherwise, it will slip off and your phone will fall with it.
$30 Astropad Bookcase.: The Astropad bookcase doesn't have to exist. It's a plastic case for your phone that makes it feel more like an e-reader in your hand, but that's about it. From a technical perspective, the main innovation is built-in NFC, which automatically opens your reading app of choice when you insert your phone. It can also toggle notification settings for reading without getting distracted. For many people, it's a $40 piece of plastic, but if you really can't take an e-reader with you, the bookcase does exactly what it says on the tin.
Campfire Audio Portable DAC Wallet for $59: The Campfire Audio Portable DAC Wallet is not actually a wallet. Or, well, it's a wallet specifically designed to hold Campfire's own Relay DAC and nothing else. It's expensive, but if you're an audiophile, this shouldn't come as a surprise. At least the Campfire makes the wallet feel worth the price. It's made of leather, has a durable backing and a strong magnet, and features a stylish logo inlaid with gold foil.
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