By Steve Holdgren

Compatible with the iPad 2, 3, and 4, the New Trent iPad Keyboard Case is an ideal accessory for people who want to do a lot of typing with their tablets without relying on the touchscreen keypad. This clamshell case rotates 360 degrees, allowing you to prop it open like a laptop and type comfortably on the low-profile Bluetooth keyboard. The case also features an automatic shut-off magnet, saving you battery life on your iPad every time you close it. We were impressed with the sleek, sturdy design of the case and its attractive matte finish. It also has generous battery life. The case is affordable at $36.95.

Steve Holdgren is an engineer by trade and has worked for some of the largest energy related engineering firms in the world with his latest stint in Switzerland. He holds a degree is mechanical engineering… See more about Steve

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By Steve Holdgren

We’ve all faced situations where our iPhone’s low on power and we’re nowhere near a charger. With the Anker 2nd Gen Astro Mini 3200mAh Backup Battery, you won’t have to worry about having your phone go dead while you need it. The 3200 mAh battery has great power and detects and connects directly into your iPhone or iPod—no messy wires to deal with. It charges from dead to full in a few hours; it’s a fairly fast recharge with little hassle and shows a green light when it’s complete. The size of a tube of lipstick, the battery is easily portable, easy to slip into a pocket or purse. The Anker Astro Mini Backup Battery is available for $19.99.

Steve Holdgren is an engineer by trade and has worked for some of the largest energy related engineering firms in the world with his latest stint in Switzerland. He holds a degree is mechanical engineering… See more about Steve

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By Steve Holdgren

The Mpow Streambot Y is a hands-free Bluetooth FM transmitter that works with Bluetooth-compatible smartphones. The rotating microphone transmitter fits in the car power socket and has buttons for volume control. Sound quality is very good overall; as with most FM transmitters, you’ll occasionally run across some static or interference. Phone calls may come off a bit tinny, but they’re still clear and loud enough to understand. The device’s technology cuts down on the echo and ambient noises in phone calls. We appreciated the easy set up and simple controls, which won’t be a hassle to operate while you’re driving. Even better, the transmitter “remembers” your preset phone, so it connects automatically. The Mpow Streambot Y is available for $36.99.

Steve Holdgren is an engineer by trade and has worked for some of the largest energy related engineering firms in the world with his latest stint in Switzerland. He holds a degree is mechanical engineering… See more about Steve

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By Steve Holdgren

A high-quality wireless FM transmitter, this Gogroove FlexSmart product is compatible with iPhone, Samsung, HTC, LG, Sony, Motorola, Nokia, and other smartphones, making it incredibly versatile. After hooking it up to your smartphone, you can listen to clear music over the radio, make and take hands-free calls, and charge your phone all at once. The FM transmitter works wirelessly thanks to Bluetooth, which delivers high-quality sound. We especially liked the feature that automatically finds the clearest radio station for you so you don’t have to worry about static or interference. Well designed and featuring simple controls, this FM transmitter comes at a reasonable price of $59.99.

Steve Holdgren is an engineer by trade and has worked for some of the largest energy related engineering firms in the world with his latest stint in Switzerland. He holds a degree is mechanical engineering… See more about Steve

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By Steve Holdgren

Keeping fingerprint smudges off your iPhone or smartphone can be a never-ending challenge, but with the Eco-Fused 6V7PW microfiber cloths, the challenge is lessened. The bright blue cloths are machine washable, making them reusable and environmentally friendly. You won’t have to use sprays or liquid cleaners on your electronic devices unless you prefer to—the cloths work wet or dry. One side of the cloth is textured and wipes away greasy fingerprints and other residue. The shiny, smooth side with the patterns lets you buff and polish the touchscreen, leaving it sparkly and clear. Each of the six cloths comes in a resealable pouch for convenience and protection. The six-pack is available for $5.99.

Steve Holdgren is an engineer by trade and has worked for some of the largest energy related engineering firms in the world with his latest stint in Switzerland. He holds a degree is mechanical engineering… See more about Steve

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By Steve Holdgren

For the active iPhone user, this Tune Belt sport armband case keeps the iPhone secured snugly to an arm even in its OtterBox case. If you’re a jogger, biker, or gym rat, you’ll appreciate the simple design of this armband and its reasonable price of just $17.95. The clear, protective window safeguards the iPhone while allowing you to access the phone’s touchscreen. The armband fits the iPhone 5 / 5s / 5c Defender Cases and iPhone 4 / 4S Defender / Commuter Series Cases. We like the convenience of using an armband without having to remove the iPhone from its case. Additionally, the armband is comfortable on the arm and is washable.

Steve Holdgren is an engineer by trade and has worked for some of the largest energy related engineering firms in the world with his latest stint in Switzerland. He holds a degree is mechanical engineering… See more about Steve

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By Steve Holdgren

For a secure mounting to your car windshield or dashboard, the iOttie HLCRIO102 doesn’t disappoint. The mount attaches securely with a strong suction cup and allows you to swivel the iPhone 360 degrees so you can view it in landscape or portrait mode. Compatible with the iPhone 6 (4.7), 5s, 5c, 4s, Galaxy S4, S3, S2, or HTC One, the mount features side arms that grip phones securely with or without a case. A one-touch button you can use one-handed locks the phone in place or releases it. The suction cup maintains its stickiness even in extreme temperatures. We liked the simple installation, good construction, and durability of this product. It’s also nice to have a mount that fits an assortment of smartphones. The iOttie HLCRIO102 costs $19.99.

Steve Holdgren is an engineer by trade and has worked for some of the largest energy related engineering firms in the world with his latest stint in Switzerland. He holds a degree is mechanical engineering… See more about Steve

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By Steve Holdgren

There are a multitude of smartphone accessories on the market that serve a variety of purposes. Because accessories vary in function, we looked for the following basic qualities when selecting our top 10:

1. Durability
2. Good value
3. Compatibility with various smartphone models
4. Long-lasting quality
5. Doesn’t impede the smartphone’s functions
6. Enhances the smartphone’s functions

Smartphone Accessories Buying Guide

Top Smartphone Accessories

Once you’ve decked out your smartphone in a protective case that showcases your tastes and personality, consider some of the other popular accessories available for your phone.

Clip-on holster

Perfect for attaching your smartphone to a belt, a holster is a convenient piece and gives you a professional look.

Armband

Love to go running or hiking but don’t want to leave your smartphone behind? An armband straps it safely to your upper arm, keeping it within safe reach should you find yourself needing it.

Car Mount

Phones with GPS are incredibly convenient, but it’s a hassle trying to juggle the phone and the steering wheel without getting in an accident. With a car mount, you can keep the phone in easy view while leaving your hands free to drive safely.

Car Charger

We’ve all been in situations where we’re out and about but our smartphones are unfortunately out of juice. With a car charger that plugs into the power socket, you won’t worry about being left stranded without a working phone.

FM Transmitter

With an FM transmitter, you can listen to your favorite tunes while you drive. You can find wireless and wired devices that connect you to an adjustable radio station.

Steve Holdgren is an engineer by trade and has worked for some of the largest energy related engineering firms in the world with his latest stint in Switzerland. He holds a degree is mechanical engineering… See more about Steve

Smartphone Accessories Articles

Cleaning a Touchscreen with a Microfiber Cloth

The touchscreen on your smartphone or tablet lets you operate the gadget with ease, but it also picks up unattractive fingerprints and smudges that can be difficult to wipe off with a basic cloth. Microfiber cloths are designed to lift off these oily marks and leave the screen clear and polished…[more]

Applying a Smartphone Screen Protector

If your smartphone case doesn’t come with a screen protector, you can apply your own. Screen protectors are readily available and fairly inexpensive. The trick is applying them without leaving air bubbles … [more]

Personalizing a Smartphone for Your Business

Many smartphone case makers offer options for businesses to personalize their phones, tablets, and other electronic devices. When workers use a company phone emblazoned with a logo or name, they’ll promote … [more]

iPhone Screen Protection

The screen is of the utmost importance on your iPhone. Because it’s a touchscreen, it’s the primary way you use the phone—dialing numbers, navigating menus, texting, and using apps. Apple has made the iPhone screen as durable as it can be, but even so, it will… [more]

More Top 10 Lists

Top 10 iPhone and Smartphone Cases

There are dozens of manufacturers making protective cases for smartphones of every brand and carrier. We selected our top 10 case makers based on several important qualities, including 1. A variety of styles, colors, and materials … [more]

Top 10 Smartphones

A smartphone is an incredibly convenient gadget that helps organize your life and keep you entertained. We reviewed 10 smartphones and ranked them based on the following qualities: 1. Responsive touchscreen, 2. Well-designed user interface that’s easy to navigate … [more]

By Steve Holdgren

This 3-pack of screen protectors offers scratch protection and cuts down on the glare on your iPhone 5. Only $6.95, the screens work as advertised: When applied properly, they protect the screen from nicks and scratches while still maintaining the sharp colors of the LCD screen. Applying the screen guards without leaving bubbles can be tricky; it’s important to thoroughly wipe the touchscreen down with a microfiber first to clean it of dirt and dust. While the screens are matte to cut down on glare, it’s really only noticeable when out in the sunlight; you’ll appreciate being able to read from the screen even on a bright day.

Steve Holdgren is an engineer by trade and has worked for some of the largest energy related engineering firms in the world with his latest stint in Switzerland. He holds a degree is mechanical engineering… See more about Steve

Prices

Popular among teens and college students, skins are a lightweight rubbery cover for the iPhone that offer some protection from everyday wear and tear. The main appeal of skins is the wide range of unique, bright patterns, designs, colors, and textures. When every iPhone looks the same, it’s fun to spice them up to add some individuality and style.

GelaSkins is a popular company that offers skins designed by well-known international artists. If you’re a fan of pop art, intricate fabric-like patterns, trippy Escher-like designs, or funky cartoons, why not customize your iPhone to fit your personality?

You can even upload your own photos or artwork, arrange it in a skin template, and place an order through GelaSkins to receive your own personal accessory that no one else will own. Businesses can create their own skins so all employees can show off a recognizable brand or logo.

When the possibilities are endless, creativity and ingenuity are born.

Steve Holdgren is an engineer by trade and has worked for some of the largest energy related engineering firms in the world with his latest stint in Switzerland. He holds a degree is mechanical engineering… See more about Steve

Smartphone Accessories Articles

Cleaning a Touchscreen with a Microfiber Cloth

The touchscreen on your smartphone or tablet lets you operate the gadget with ease, but it also picks up unattractive fingerprints and smudges that can be difficult to wipe off with a basic cloth. Microfiber cloths are designed to lift off these oily marks and leave the screen clear and polished…[more]

Applying a Smartphone Screen Protector

If your smartphone case doesn’t come with a screen protector, you can apply your own. Screen protectors are readily available and fairly inexpensive. The trick is applying them without leaving air bubbles … [more]

Personalizing a Smartphone for Your Business

Many smartphone case makers offer options for businesses to personalize their phones, tablets, and other electronic devices. When workers use a company phone emblazoned with a logo or name, they’ll promote … [more]

iPhone Screen Protection

The screen is of the utmost importance on your iPhone. Because it’s a touchscreen, it’s the primary way you use the phone—dialing numbers, navigating menus, texting, and using apps. Apple has made the iPhone screen as durable as it can be, but even so, it will… [more]

More Top 10 Lists

Top 10 iPhone and Smartphone Cases

There are dozens of manufacturers making protective cases for smartphones of every brand and carrier. We selected our top 10 case makers based on several important qualities, including 1. A variety of styles, colors, and materials … [more]

Top 10 Smartphones

A smartphone is an incredibly convenient gadget that helps organize your life and keep you entertained. We reviewed 10 smartphones and ranked them based on the following qualities: 1. Responsive touchscreen, 2. Well-designed user interface that’s easy to navigate … [more]

The touchscreen on your smartphone or tablet lets you operate the gadget with ease, but it also picks up unattractive fingerprints and smudges that can be difficult to wipe off with a basic cloth. Microfiber cloths are designed to lift off these oily marks and leave the screen clear and polished. Many microfiber cloths clean touchscreens without requiring water or liquid cleaners. Always check the instructions for the best cleaning procedure.

The Toddy is one such microfiber cloth that works on all touchscreens and doesn’t require moistening sprays. Toddy cloths come in a variety of bright, colorful patterns. They’re two-sided; the textured side cleans the touchscreen, lifting off fingerprints and smudges, and the smooth, patterned side lets you buff and polish the screen afterward.

Microfiber cloths vary in price. If you’re trying to save money, see if your smartphone or tablet comes with a microfiber cloth, or use one that came with your eyeglasses or sunglasses.

Steve Holdgren is an engineer by trade and has worked for some of the largest energy related engineering firms in the world with his latest stint in Switzerland. He holds a degree is mechanical engineering… See more about Steve

More iPad and Tablet Articles

Cosmos vs. Bluecell Stylus Pens

Styluses come in handy whether you’re using a tablet, smartphone, e-reader, or other device with a touchscreen. Some people even carry around their styluses to use on public ATMs or kiosks. A good stylus works on capacitive and resistive screens. … [more]

HDE AD-GCPD22-7C vs. Arkon IPM-TAB1: Comparing Two Tablet Stands

The 7-inch tablet stand and carrying case from HDE and the Arkon portable fold-up tablet stand are two popular options for viewing the iPad or other tablet in an upright position. The HDE stand also functions as a protective carrying case and … [more]

Waterproof iPad 2 Cases

As iPads and other tablets become more commonly used in our day-to-day activities, we need a reliable protective case that safeguards the iPad from water splashes. Whether you want to enjoy your tablet at the pool or beach, or you have a messy kid … [more]

Related iPad and Tablet Top 10 Lists

Top 10 Tablets

Top 10 tablets for 2012 … [more]
 
 
 

Top 10 iPad and Tablet Accessories

Apple iPads and other tablets are all the rage, and owners are always looking for accessories that make the tablet experience even greater. We examined several accessories—from protective cases and stylus pens to card readers and cleaning cloths … [more]

Top 10 iPad 2 Cases

The ideal iPad 2 case protects your valuable possession from everyday wear and tear and allows you to use it in comfort and style. We looked for cases with the following qualities: 1. A built-in stand for holding it upright and/or a slanted typing … [more]

Many smartphone case makers offer options for businesses to personalize their phones, tablets, and other electronic devices. When workers use a company phone emblazoned with a logo or name, they’ll promote their business and increase brand recognition wherever they go.

Skin It provides skins and cases with customizable designs. Upload your company name or logo and order personalized smartphone cases for all your members. Fortte is another company that produces smartphone cases in high-quality leather. For an extra fee, you can have your company name or logo embossed on the fine leather, adding an attractive, professional look to your smartphone and other devices.

Steve Holdgren is an engineer by trade and has worked for some of the largest energy related engineering firms in the world with his latest stint in Switzerland. He holds a degree is mechanical engineering… See more about Steve

More Smartphone Articles

Applying a Smartphone Screen Protector

If your smartphone case doesn’t come with a screen protector, you can apply your own. Screen protectors are readily available and fairly inexpensive. The trick is applying them without leaving air bubbles … [more]

Smartphones with AMOLED Screens

Today you’ll see a high demand for AMOLED screens on smartphones, digital cameras, and other devices that play media. AMOLED, which stands for active-matrix organic light-emitting diode, is a display system that uses … [more]

HTC Rezound vs. iPhone 4S

The HTC Rezound for Verizon Wireless and the iPhone 4S for Sprint are both popular smartphones ranked highly by consumers. So how do they compare to each other in terms of design and features? The HTC Rezound is certainly … [more]

Related Smartphone Top 10 Lists

Top 10 iPhone and Smartphone Accessories

There are a multitude of smartphone accessories on the market that serve a variety of purposes. Because accessories vary in function, we looked for the following basic qualities when selecting our top 10 … [more]

Top 10 iPhone and Smartphone Cases

There are dozens of manufacturers making protective cases for smartphones of every brand and carrier. We selected our top 10 case makers based on several important qualities, including 1. A variety of styles, colors, and materials … [more]

Top 10 Smartphones

A smartphone is an incredibly convenient gadget that helps organize your life and keep you entertained. We reviewed 10 smartphones and ranked them based on the following qualities: 1. Responsive touchscreen, 2. Well-designed user interface that’s easy to navigate … [more]

If your smartphone case doesn’t come with a screen protector, you can apply your own. Screen protectors are readily available and fairly inexpensive. The trick is applying them without leaving air bubbles.

To prepare, clean the smartphone screen with a lint-free, microfiber cloth to get any dust particles or smudges off. If possible, work in a room that has just been steamed, such as by a hot shower, because the steam will reduce the amount of dust in the air.

Keep the microfiber cloth over the smartphone screen while you take out and prepare the screen protector. The cloth will prevent any dust from resettling on the screen. When you’re ready, carefully align the clear film protector over the screen and apply it. To get any bubbles out, gently run the edge of a credit card over the screen to make it fit smoothly.

Steve Holdgren is an engineer by trade and has worked for some of the largest energy related engineering firms in the world with his latest stint in Switzerland. He holds a degree is mechanical engineering… See more about Steve

More Smartphone Articles

Personalizing a Smartphone for Your Business

Many smartphone case makers offer options for businesses to personalize their phones, tablets, and other electronic devices. When workers use a company phone emblazoned with a logo or name, they’ll promote … [more]

Smartphones with AMOLED Screens

Today you’ll see a high demand for AMOLED screens on smartphones, digital cameras, and other devices that play media. AMOLED, which stands for active-matrix organic light-emitting diode, is a display system that uses … [more]

HTC Rezound vs. iPhone 4S

The HTC Rezound for Verizon Wireless and the iPhone 4S for Sprint are both popular smartphones ranked highly by consumers. So how do they compare to each other in terms of design and features? The HTC Rezound is certainly … [more]

Related Smartphone Top 10 Lists

Top 10 iPhone and Smartphone Accessories

There are a multitude of smartphone accessories on the market that serve a variety of purposes. Because accessories vary in function, we looked for the following basic qualities when selecting our top 10 … [more]

Top 10 iPhone and Smartphone Cases

There are dozens of manufacturers making protective cases for smartphones of every brand and carrier. We selected our top 10 case makers based on several important qualities, including 1. A variety of styles, colors, and materials … [more]

Top 10 Smartphones

A smartphone is an incredibly convenient gadget that helps organize your life and keep you entertained. We reviewed 10 smartphones and ranked them based on the following qualities: 1. Responsive touchscreen, 2. Well-designed user interface that’s easy to navigate … [more]

By Steve Holdgren

It seems you can never have enough USB sync cables to charge your iPhone or iPod. This 6-foot USB data sync cable has a long enough cord that you can plug it in and keep you phone on your bedside. The cable connects snugly into the USB port, which is good because it won’t wiggle or come out on its own. The USB cable is compatible with all the major iPod and iPhone models, including the iPhone 2G, 3G, 3GS, and 4. While some users complained that the cable charges batteries slowly, it shouldn’t make that much difference if you’re using it overnight. At just $1.86, it’s hard to find fault with its functionality.

Steve Holdgren is an engineer by trade and has worked for some of the largest energy related engineering firms in the world with his latest stint in Switzerland. He holds a degree is mechanical engineering… See more about Steve

Prices

By Steve Holdgren

For a simple HDMI cable for connecting a smartphone to a TV, this Fosmon Technology cable does the trick quite well. The 6-foot HDMI cable is long enough to let you set your phone where you want it. The cable connects to HDTVs, DVD players, game consoles, DVRs, and set top boxes so you can stream videos and other media on the big screen. The gold-plated Type D connector fits snugly and transfers uncompressed HD video and clear audio. While picture quality can vary depending on your phone and the source of the video, the HDMI cable itself serves its intended purpose well and costs just $2.80.

Steve Holdgren is an engineer by trade and has worked for some of the largest energy related engineering firms in the world with his latest stint in Switzerland. He holds a degree is mechanical engineering… See more about Steve

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