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17 June 2025 (updated) How to choose the right mobile phone holder for your car
Using a mobile phone while driving is both unsafe and, in many places, illegal. A car phone holder offers a simple solution: it lets you use your phone for navigation or hands-free calls without taking your hands off the wheel or your eyes from the road, except for quick, legal glances.
This guide will help you understand the types of phone holders available, what to look for when buying one, and how to select the best fit for your needs.
Why you need a phone holder in the car
Holding your smartphone while driving dramatically increases the risk of accidents and is prohibited by law in many countries and regions. Getting caught using your phone while driving in the UK will lead to fines and driving penalties, including 6 penalty points and, in some cases, the loss of your licence.
Still, using a hands-free setup, such as a Baseus car phone holder, makes it safer and legal to interact with your device briefly, provided the road conditions permit it.
-69%
RIDEX Car phone holder
with ball joint, universal
Article number: 100014A0015
compared to
RRP
£9.60
£2.99
Price per item
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
-18%
Article number: 511870
compared to
RRP
£21.61
£17.99
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
-22%
Article number: 511860
compared to
RRP
£15.54
£12.49
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: 01705
£3.99
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Please bear in mind:
You’re allowed to glance at your phone for navigation or call controls, but typing, scrolling, or reading long messages remains prohibited, even when the phone is mounted to the car.
Different types of car phone holders
Understanding the main types of mounts can help you select the best one for your vehicle’s interior and your personal preferences.
1. Suction cup mounts
These holders use suction to attach to the dashboard or the windscreen of the car. This is one of the most popular options.
Pros:
- Strong hold (especially on glass)
- Adjustable for better visibility
- Easy to reposition
Cons:
- May not stick to textured or leather surfaces
- Can obstruct the view if not correctly positioned
2. Magnetic mounts
Magnetic holders secure your phone using a magnetic plate placed on the back of the device or case. They offer a minimalist look and quick attachment.
Pros:
- Simple and sleek
- Fast mounting/unmounting
Cons:
- Placement of the magnet can interfere with wireless charging or cause the phone to tilt
- May not be suitable for heavier phones
3. Air vent holders
These clip onto your car’s air vents, keeping the phone within reach and at eye level.
Pros:
- Space-saving
- Easily accessible for the driver
Cons:
- May block airflow
- Not compatible with some vent types
4. CD slot and cup holder mounts
If your car has an unused CD slot or well-placed cup holder, these mounting options can be reasonable alternatives.
Pros:
- Discreet and stable
- Easy to install and remove
Cons:
- Limited to cars with these features
- May interfere with other controls, such as the radio controls
5. Tablet holders for passengers
For long journeys with kids or passengers, tablet holders for cars can transform the rear seat into an entertainment station. These typically attach to the back of the front headrests and can hold devices securely, allowing passengers to watch films, read, or game.
What to look for in a car phone holder
Before buying, always consider the following:
- Device size: larger phones need sturdier, adjustable mounts
- Placement preference: windscreen, dashboard, or vents
- Rotation and viewing angles: a 360° swivel is ideal for easy screen adjustment
- Extra features: wireless charging, automatic clamping, or foldable arms
A high-quality car phone holder will remain firmly in place, even when driving over bumps and making sudden turns, and protect your device from slipping, scratching, or falling underfoot.
Article number: SUYL-XP09
£11.49
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
CARCOMMERCE Car phone holder
with ball joint, windscreen, universal
Article number: 61979
£8.99
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
CARCOMMERCE Car phone holder
with ball joint, windscreen, universal
Article number: 42479
£8.29
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: 02360
£12.99
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Baseus Car phone holder
6.3-8.8 mm, with ball joint, windscreen, dashboard, universal
Article number: SUYL-XP01
£11.49
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
How to position a car phone holder safely
For example, when using a windscreen suction car phone holder, you can only place it on certain parts of the dashboard or windscreen so that your view of the road and mirrors is not obstructed. See detailed diagram below.
Final words
Choosing the right car phone holder is about more than convenience – it's a matter of safety, legal compliance, and comfort behind the wheel. Whether you go for a windscreen suction phone holder, a magnetic air vent car phone holder, or a headrest tablet holder for passengers, there’s an ideal solution for every driver.
Make sure to select a holder that’s compatible with your phone and interior, and check for features that meet your daily driving needs. With the right accessory, your car can become safer, more organised, and fully connected.
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