The MagPod Is a Basic Smartphone Tripod I Can’t Live Without

Photograph: Brenda Stolyar

The retractable legs are sturdy. With rubber grips on the bottom, they don’t slide across surfaces as you tap or scroll on the display, staying put even when I’m typing texts or emails. You can fold all three legs together and use them as a grip to take selfies or shoot video, and this also makes the whole thing more travel-friendly.

Space Saving

Between my laptop, external monitor, keyboard, mouse, notebooks, iPad, and coffee mug, I always struggle to find a comfortable spot for my phone. But the compact MagPod stand makes it easy to separate it from all the clutter and keep it at an ideal viewing angle. The same goes for my nightstands, which are also fairly small and constantly occupied by my Kindle, physical books, water bottle, and trinkets. The MagPod makes it easy to check my notifications while reading or watching TV before bed, and it also keeps me from constantly picking up my phone.

In between, I’ll place it on the counter near the stove while cooking dinner, on my coffee table while sitting on the couch, and in the bathroom while doing my makeup. I use it to stream YouTube videos, but it’s great for FaceTime calls, too. I used to rely on the Belkin Stand for this, but I prefer the MagPod’s slim base when moving it from room to room.

It’s affordable and a no-brainer—everyone should have a little MagPod stowed away in their home, even people with Android phones; just make sure you have a MagSafe case. I might go ahead and buy a second one to keep in my bag or in a separate room, so I don’t have to constantly grab this one. Yes, I’m officially that emotionally attached to this stand.