Buying guide for Best phone rings
Cases, screen protectors, headphones, PopSockets – there are a number of products for use with cell phones. Phone rings are another useful smartphone accessory, and they have become quite popular thanks to their user-friendly, multifunctional design.
A phone ring is a ring attached to a flat base that is secured to the back of your phone with an adhesive backing. Simply slip your finger into the ring to get a better grip on your phone while talking. Additionally, you can use a phone ring to pick up, carry, or prop up your phone on flat surfaces for hands-free use. Some models even attach to components in your car’s interior, so you can use your phone safely while driving.
Key considerations
Phone use
Today, most people use their cell phones frequently. However, if you are constantly talking and texting, carrying your phone in your hand, or using your phone in your vehicle as GPS, a top-quality phone ring made of durable metal is best for you. You may also want to consider packs that include more than one phone ring, so you’ll always have one available when you need it.
Design
Phone rings are available in numerous colors and shapes. From low-profile designs to whimsical shapes to models embellished with faux jewels, there is a phone ring to fit your style. Many phone rings also come in colors to match popular smartphones, like silver, rose gold, gold, and black.
If you plan to use your phone ring primarily for propping up your phone, consider a model with a D-shaped ring. The flat edge will provide added stability when you set your phone on a computer desk or dining table.
Size
Phone rings are designed to be compatible with most smartphones, but they do vary in size. Smaller models are suitable for smaller phones. If you have a large smartphone or tablet, choose a phone ring that has a spacious base and a larger ring to accommodate the weight of the device.
Did you know?
Many phone rings are made of magnetic metals. These phone rings can connect to a magnetic car phone mount when the ring is folded securely against the base.
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Features
Materials
Phone rings are made up of two basic components: the ring itself and the base that it’s attached to. Durability is a must because phone rings are meant to be handled frequently and used in a variety of ways. That’s why most phone rings are metal, usually stainless steel, anodized aluminum, zinc alloy, or a combination. Not only are these metals strong, but they resist rust when exposed to moisture.
While the majority of rings are made of metal, phone rings are available with hard plastic or acrylic bases. These transparent bases are worth considering if you don’t want to compromise the design of your phone or phone case. However, keep in mind that they aren’t quite as durable as models made entirely of metal.
Adhesive
The adhesive is an important part of any phone ring. After all, it’s what keeps these gadgets in place. In most cases, there will be a protective covering over the adhesive that you remove when you are ready to stick the phone ring to your phone.
Some phone ring manufacturers claim that their phone rings can be reused by simply washing the adhesive portion and allowing it to dry. However, you’ll get the most secure bond when you place a phone ring on one device for the long haul.
Car mount
In addition to being useful as a carrying device or way to prop up your phone, many phone rings can also be used to mount your phone in your car. Some work with a magnetic base, while others have dual rings that can be used to clip onto car vents. Keep in mind that you’ll have to select a magnetic car phone mount separately.
Phone ring prices
Adding a phone ring to your phone isn’t a pricey investment. You can pay as little as $4 for budget-priced models or as much as $15 for high-quality phone rings with specialty designs. You can also get multipacks of phone rings.
Inexpensive: Phone rings that cost $4 to $7 are all-metal models or models with acrylic bases. However, you are more likely to run into durability issues, such as an adhesive that doesn’t last or rings that fall off their bases.
Mid-range: In the $7 to $10 price range, you’ll find well-made phone rings that are metal or metal/acrylic with everything from basic to crystal-encrusted designs.
Premium: If you don’t mind spending a bit more, you can find phone rings in unique styles – often with lots of bling – for $10 to $15. Expect strong metals and reliable adhesive for this price.
Tips
Practice placing the phone ring where you want it on your phone. Do this before you attempt to stick the phone ring on your phone so you get the position you want.
Clean the back of your phone. The phone ring’s adhesive won’t develop a secure bond if there is dirt and oil on your phone. Dab a cotton ball or tissue in rubbing alcohol and wipe down your phone thoroughly. Some phone rings even come with alcohol pads for this important step.
Remove the protective backing from the phone ring base. But don’t touch the exposed adhesive with your fingers as doing so could reduce its stickiness.
Press the base of the phone ring firmly onto the back of your phone. Hold it in place for several minutes to activate the adhesive and help it stick.
Allow time for a firm bond to set. Wait about 48 hours before you use the phone ring to pick up or prop up your phone.
If you have to remove a phone ring from your phone, do so slowly and carefully by gently lifting around the edges to break the bond. This helps prevent damage to your phone or case.
FAQ
Do I need to know my ring size before choosing a phone ring?
A. Because phone rings are one-size-fits-all there is no need to measure your finger before choosing one. That said, consumers with very large hands should opt for a model with a wide ring design.
Can I place a phone ring on a cell phone case?
A. Yes, with some exceptions. Cell phone cases that have textured, uneven surfaces will interfere with a phone ring’s adhesive, preventing a secure bond. If you want to use a cell phone case with your phone ring, choose one that has a smooth surface.
Do phone rings work with large tablets?
A. Most phone rings have enough sticking power to accommodate the weight of large cell phones and smaller tablets. While they work best on models that are eight inches or smaller, it is possible to use phone rings on larger tablets. However, keep in mind that the adhesive may not hold up to heavy-duty use. You should also never carry a large tablet solely by a phone ring, which could pop off, causing you to drop the device.
Can I move a phone ring to a different device if it’s not reusable?
A. It is possible to remove a phone ring and transfer it to another phone. However, once the adhesive bond has been broken, there is a good chance that the phone ring won’t stick as securely as it once did, which could result in drops and damaged devices. While you can try reusing a phone ring that doesn’t claim to be reusable, do so with caution and be sure the bond is secure.
