The Essentials Your Phone Really Needs
So, you got a shiny new phone? While you're still oohing and ahhing over your new device, you'll want to make sure you've got the right accessories to protect it out of the box—and not the wrong, gimmicky ones that will only collect dust. From cases to protectors and everything in between, here are 10 must-buy items you'll need and 10 that are a total waste of money.
1. Phone Case
One of the first items that should appear on everyone's to-buy list after getting a new device is a phone case. Unless you've purchased insurance for it and are completely confident you won't drop it as soon as you take it out of the box, you'll want to invest in a good case that can withstand bumps, falls, and cracks.
2. Screen Protector
The second item that should be on your to-buy list? A screen protector. You definitely don't want to get that new, sleek pane of glass scratched up (or completely shattered) before you even get to use it! Make sure to get tempered glass protectors and not the flimsy ones—that way, you can rest assured that it won't be your actual screen splintering when you accidentally drop it on the pavement.
3. Fast Charger
You surely don't want to be using regular chargers with your new device! Unless you've purchased an older brick or clamshell model, the slab smartphones from our current digital era need faster chargers (at least 20 watts) to juice up. Otherwise, you'll be waiting until the next day for the battery to power back up.
4. Braided Long Cable
Another accessory you'll need with your fast charger is a long, braided cable. You'll want to choose one that not only supports your phone port (and your charger's port), but also can withstand twists and bends without fraying. And if your outlets are fairly far from where you sit or use your phone, you'll want to account for that distance before deciding how long of a cable to buy, too.
5. Portable Power Bank
Whether you get a traditional battery pack or a magnetic power bank, this is another must-buy phone accessory that should be on your list. After all, if you use your phone often while you're out and about, this heavy brick will be what keeps your device powered when you can't get to an outlet right away.
6. PopSocket
With how big smartphones are nowadays, it can be hard to hold them unless you have larger hands or a firm grip. That's where PopSockets or phone grips come in—an accessory you can tack onto the back of your device to make it easier to hold. Plus, they help stand your phone up when you're viewing something in landscape or portrait mode.
7. Car Mount
You don't need to be an Uber driver to warrant getting a car mount for your phone. Of course, you shouldn't be using or looking at your device when driving, but if you don't have a built-in GPS in your vehicle, your smartphone and a car mount will come in handy.
8. Wireless Charging Pad
Because you can never have too many chargers, getting a wireless charging pad isn't a bad idea, either. It's especially useful if you have other devices that support wireless charging, such as Bluetooth earbuds or a smartwatch. Just place on and go.
9. Camera Protector
With how gigantic smartphone cameras are nowadays, you probably won't feel safe leaving the lens unprotected. So, just as you should get a phone case and a screen protector, you should also invest in camera protectors to make sure they don't get scratched up.
10. Bluetooth Earbuds
Unless you bought a phone that still has a headphone jack, you'll probably need to invest in a pair of Bluetooth earbuds, too, if you want to enjoy your music on the go. It's a good thing there are lots of options out there—from pricier, branded ones to cheaper choices—to pick from.
Now that you know which accessories you should buy, which ones should you skip? Here are 10 accessories we think are a waste of money:
1. Lens Attachments
If your new device is a smartphone, trust us, you can do without the gimmicky clip-on lenses. These attachments might only scratch or damage your actual lens if you're not careful. Plus, if you have more than one camera, chances are you have different lens options—such as telephoto and ultra wide—to use already.
2. Battery Cases
Invest in a portable power bank and a good case, not a battery case where both functions are meshed together. You might think you'd be killing two birds with one stone, but a battery case is only going to weigh you down. There's no guarantee it'll juice your phone fast, either.
3. Flimsy Clear Phone Case
Sure, you might want to show off your new phone in all its glory, especially if you bought a cool new color, but flimsy clear phone cases are not it. Not only do they offer little to no protection for your device, but they also yellow easily, making them a huge waste of money.
4. MagSafe Accessories
If you have an iPhone, you should think carefully before you splurge on MagSafe accessories. Sure, some might be useful, like a MagSafe charger or PopSocket, but wallets and other add-ons might only make your device more bulky and unbearably hot.
5. Ring Light
Unless you're an influencer and need to constantly make videos on the go, you probably don't need a ring light. Plus, it's likely better to get a dedicated ring light stand than one that attaches directly to your device.
6. Stylus
If your phone is not a phablet (phone-tablet) and doesn't support stylus usage, anyway, then you definitely shouldn't be investing in one. Save this accessory for when you get a foldable or larger device that actually needs a dedicated stylus.
7. Phone Charms
From phone charms that hang from your port to bracelet-like ones that wrap around your wrist, these accessories might add style, but they aren't too practical. For one, charms may damage your port, and wrist straps may snap or break easily.
8. Cheap Tripod
If you need a tripod for your phone, don't get a cheap one; these flimsy options will likely not be able to hold your phone without collapsing into itself, making them a waste of money. Do your research and don't be afraid to spend a little bit more to get a better quality one.
9. Selfie Grip
Unless you do a lot of vlogging and solo travel where you'll need a selfie grip or stick, this accessory will only sit and collect dust in your room. Plus, it's kind of bulky to take around, and it can look awkward lugging it around in public.
10. Cheap Knockoffs
Sure, some cheaper versions of branded accessories can get the job done as well, such as fast chargers and unofficial cables, but it's still better to practice caution. When you can, buy the authentic version; they're more pricey, but that usually indicates good quality. Knockoffs tend to work once or twice, and then malfunction entirely, making them a waste of money even if they weren't that expensive to buy.
