How to Choose a Phone Mount: 8 Things to Look For
Choosing the right phone mount comes down to five things: security, compatibility, stability, ease of use and where you plan to use it. A good phone mount should hold your phone securely, keep the screen visible and make it easy to attach and remove your device.
Whether you're driving, cycling, riding a motorcycle, or setting up your workspace, the best phone mount suits your activity and keeps your phone firmly in place.
1. A secure locking mechanism
The most important feature of any phone mount is how securely it holds your phone.
Phone mounts use different attachment systems, including spring-loaded clamps, magnetic connections, silicone grips and mechanical locking systems. Each has advantages depending on how and where you're using it.
For everyday desk use, a simple magnetic mount is sufficient. For motorcycles, bicycles and rough terrain, a mechanical locking system offers a more secure connection between your phone and the mount.
Quad Lock's patented dual-stage locking system uses a twist-and-lock mechanism to secure your phone to the mount. Once engaged, the phone stays mechanically locked in place until you release it.
What to look for: A mounting system that suits your activity, stays secure through bumps and vibrations, and lets you remove your phone without unnecessary effort.
2. Compatibility with your phone and case
Not every phone mount works with every phone, particularly when a protective case is fitted.
Before purchasing, check whether the mount supports your phone's size, weight and case. Some universal clamps accommodate a wide range of devices, while others require a specific compatible case or adaptor.
Consider whether the system also supports wireless charging, magnetic accessories or additional mounting options you may want later.
Quad Lock offers dedicated phone cases with an integrated mounting interface. This allows users to connect their phone to a range of Quad Lock mounts without changing mounting systems between activities.
What to look for: Confirmed compatibility with your phone and case, plus the flexibility to use your preferred accessories.
3. Stability and vibration protection
A phone mount should keep your device steady and positioned where you need it.
Vibration is particularly important when choosing a motorcycle mount. Engine vibrations, uneven roads, potholes and rough trails can all affect how a mounted phone behaves.
For motorcycles, prolonged exposure to certain vibration frequencies can also damage sensitive smartphone camera components, including optical image stabilisation and autofocus systems.
Quad Lock offers a Vibration Dampenerdesigned to reduce high-frequency vibrations transmitted to a mounted smartphone on compatible motorcycle setups.
For driving, look for a rigid mounting arm and a base that stays securely attached to your dashboard, windscreen or other mounting location.
What to look for: A stable mounting base, minimal unwanted movement and appropriate vibration protection for your activity.
4. Adjustable viewing angles and positioning
A phone mount should allow you to position your screen comfortably without obstructing your view or interfering with controls.
Consider whether the mount supports portrait and landscape orientations, as well as tilt and rotation adjustments.
For drivers, positioning matters for navigation visibility and maintaining a clear view of the road. For cyclists, the mount should fit naturally within the cockpit without interfering with handlebars, cables or accessories.
Motorcycle riders may benefit from additional adjustability to accommodate different handlebar heights, riding positions and bike styles.
Quad Lock offers adjustable mounting options across its range, including the Handlebar Mount Pro Adjustable for motorcycles, which provides 360° of rotational adjustment and additional tilt positioning.
What to look for: Enough adjustability to achieve a comfortable viewing angle while maintaining safe access to your vehicle or bike controls.
5. Easy attachment and removal
A secure phone mount shouldn't be difficult to use.
Whether you're getting into your car, heading out for a ride or moving between activities, attaching and removing your phone should be quick and straightforward.
Magnetic mounts are popular for their convenience, while mechanical locking systems provide an additional level of physical security for more demanding activities.
Quad Lock's dual-stage locking system allows users to attach their phone with a simple twist and release it using the mount's locking mechanism. Quad Lock MAG mounts offer magnetic attachment for compatible everyday applications.
What to look for: A mounting system that balances convenience with the level of security your activity requires.
6. Build quality and durability
A phone mount is an accessory you'll likely use every day, so materials and construction matter.
Low-quality mounts can loosen over time, particularly when exposed to repeated movement, vibration and changing temperatures.
When comparing phone mounts, consider the mounting base, adjustment mechanisms, connection points and materials used.
For outdoor activities, look for materials suited to exposure to rain, dust and changing weather conditions. For motorcycles and bicycles, durable mounting hardware is particularly important.
Designed in Melbourne, Australia in-house, the Quad Lock offers mounting options constructed from materials including CNC-machined aluminium and tough glass-filled nylon, depending on the product.
What to look for: Durable materials, reliable attachment points and a design suited to the conditions in which you'll use it.
7. Choose a mount designed for your activity
Different activities place different demands on a phone mount. A mount designed for a stationary desk isn't necessarily suitable for a motorcycle, and a car mount may not offer the positioning required for cycling.
Here's how to choose the right type of phone mount for your needs.
| Activity | What Matters Most | Quad Lock Options |
|---|---|---|
| Driving | Stable positioning, visibility and easy attachment | Windscreen, Dashboard and Cup Holder Mounts |
| Motorcycling | Mechanical security, vibration protection and adjustability | Motorcycle Handlebar Mounts with optional Vibration Dampener |
| Road Cycling | Low-profile design, secure attachment and cockpit compatibility | Out Front Mount Pro, Stem Mounts |
| Mountain Biking | Secure locking, stable positioning and bike compatibility | Handlebar and Stem Mount options |
| Desk and Everyday Use | Convenient attachment, positioning and charging | Desk Mounts and MAG accessories |
Best phone mount for cars
A good car phone mount should hold your device securely while keeping navigation visible without obstructing your view of the road.
Windscreen and dashboard mounts are popular options, while cup holder mounts and vent mounts provide an alternative for drivers who prefer not to attach anything to their windscreen or dashboard.
Look for a stable base, adjustable positioning and compatibility with your phone.
Best phone mount for motorcycles
Motorcycle phone mounts need to handle engine vibration, road movement and changing weather conditions.
A mechanical locking system, suitable mounting hardware and vibration protection are important considerations.
Also check compatibility with your motorcycle's handlebar diameter, available mounting space and riding position.
Best phone mount for bicycles
For cycling, a phone mount should keep your device securely attached without interfering with your handlebars or other accessories.
Road cyclists may prefer a low-profile out-front mount, while mountain bikers may prioritise a compact, secure mounting position.
Consider your handlebar dimensions, available cockpit space and whether you'll be using your phone for navigation, fitness tracking or route planning.
8. Consider the wider mounting ecosystem
One factor that's easy to overlook is whether your phone mount can be used across different activities.
Buying separate mounting systems for your car, bicycle, motorcycle and desk can mean switching cases, adaptors or accessories whenever you change activities.
Choosing a system with a consistent mounting interface can make everyday use simpler.
Quad Lock's mounting ecosystem allows compatible phone cases to connect with a wide range of mounts for driving, cycling, motorcycling and everyday use.
This makes it possible to move your phone between different setups while keeping the same compatible case.
What to look for: A mounting system that works with your current activities and offers flexibility as your needs change.
Frequently asked questions about phone mounts
What is the most secure type of phone mount?
A mechanical locking phone mount is a strong option for activities involving frequent movement, bumps or vibration. Unlike systems that rely solely on magnetic attraction or friction, a mechanical lock physically engages the phone with the mount.
Can a motorcycle phone mount damage your phone?
Certain motorcycle engine vibrations can affect smartphone camera systems, particularly those with optical image stabilisation and closed-loop autofocus.
Using a compatible vibration dampener can help reduce vibration exposure, although it cannot eliminate every risk of damage.
What should I check before buying a phone mount?
Check that the mount is compatible with your phone, case and intended mounting location. Consider its locking mechanism, stability, adjustability, durability and whether you need vibration protection or wireless charging.
The best choice is one that suits how and where you use your phone.
Find the right phone mount for your setup
Choosing a phone mount isn't just about finding somewhere to put your phone. It's about finding a secure, practical setup that works with your device and the way you use it.
From daily commutes to weekend rides and off-road adventures, Quad Lock offers a range of phone mounting solutions designed for different activities, with a secure locking system at the centre of its ecosystem.
Explore the Quad Lock rangeto find a phone mount that suits your setup.
