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We've tested hundreds of iPhone accessories. These are our favorites

From AirPods to chargers to MagSafe accessories, we went hands-on to find the best iPhone accessories of 2024.
Written by Kayla Solino, Associate Editor
Reviewed by Nina Raemont
AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) | Best audio accessory for iPhone
AirPods Pro 2 on a plane
AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)
Best audio accessory for iPhone
View now View at Apple
Spigen Tempered Glass Screen Protector | Best iPhone accessory for screen protection
Spigen Glastr EZ Fit screen protector
Spigen Tempered Glass Screen Protector
Best iPhone accessory for screen protection
View now View at Amazon
Satechi Magnetic Wallet Stand | Best iPhone wallet accessory
Satechi Magnetic Wallet Stand
Satechi Magnetic Wallet Stand
Best iPhone wallet accessory
View now View at B&H Photo-Video
Baseus 10,000mAh magnetic portable charger | Best MagSafe battery pack for iPhone
Baseus magnetic battery pack
Baseus 10,000mAh magnetic portable charger
Best MagSafe battery pack for iPhone
View now View at Amazon
Anker Nano Power Bank | Best on-the-go iPhone charging accessory
Anker 22.5W Power Bank
Anker Nano Power Bank
Best on-the-go iPhone charging accessory
View now View at Amazon
Apple Watch Series 9 | Best companion device for iPhone
Apple Watch Series 9 with box and Nike Sport Band
Apple Watch Series 9
Best companion device for iPhone
View now View at Amazon
Nomad Sport Case for iPhone | Best case for iPhone
Nomad Sport Case for iPhone 15 Pro Max
Nomad Sport Case for iPhone
Best case for iPhone
View now View at Nomad Goods
Ugreen 65W USB-C 3-Port GaN Fast Charge | Best iPhone wall charger accessory
Ugreen Robot GaN 65W 3-port Charger
Ugreen 65W USB-C 3-Port GaN Fast Charge
Best iPhone wall charger accessory
View now View at Amazon
Show more (3 items)

If you're an iPhone owner you already know that Apple's ecosystem makes integrating multiple devices and maximizing their offerings super easy. Many iPhone accessories -- like MagSafe grips, batteries, and car mounts -- can help do the same. But with hundreds, if not thousands, of iPhone accessories on the market, it can be hard to know what's worth your money. 

ZDNET regularly researches and tests the best Apple and Apple-compatible products on the market that can enhance your iPhone's already feature-rich functions, protect your device, or give it an extra battery boost. We've gone hands-on with tons of MagSafe battery packs, phone wallets, grips, car mounts, stands, cases, and more -- all designed for iPhone -- and continually research and update our top picks to make sure you find the best products on the market. 

Also: The best MagSafe accessories of 2024

What's the best iPhone accessory of 2024?

We've researched and personally tested every iPhone accessory on this list, and can attest to each product's style, function, and value. From the staple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) to the handy AirTag, we've got all the best iPhone accessories for 2024 covered. Check out the top picks that made our list to upgrade your iPhone's functionality in 2024. 

The best iPhone accessories of 2024

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Adaptive transparency mode
  • Personalizable spatial audio settings
  • Four different ear tip sizes
  • Pairs easily to Apple devices
Cons
  • Pricey
More Details

AirPods Pro (2nd generation) featuresConnectivity: Bluetooth | Battery life: 6 hours | Frequency range: NA | Noise cancellation: Yes | Waterproof rating: IPX4

Apple hasn't changed nearly anything about the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) from last year to this year, besides the new USB-C port. Apple replaced its signature Lightning port with a USB-C port for its newest lineup of iPhones, its AirPods Pro, and Apple Watches. Thanks to an improved H2 chip, these AirPods have better performance, more immersion via high-band connectivity, and a low-distortion audio driver with a custom amplifier. The technologies combine to ensure clearer audio across various sound frequencies, making them the best-sounding AirPods you can buy to date. 

Also: Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) review

As far as noise cancellation goes, these AirPods have two times more noise cancellation than the previous version. An upgraded adaptive transparency mode also automatically lowers the volume of harmful noises above the 85dB threshold. Plus, you can personalize your spatial audio settings to create your ideal sound experience (using iOS 16). 

More: AirPods Pro 2 vs. Sony WF-1000XM5: Which should you get?

Current Best Buy reviewers love the USB-C connectivity, sound quality, and battery life of the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen). Users also enjoyed how flawlessly these earbuds work with their Apple product ecosystem, and enjoyed the upgrades from the previous model. 

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Easy installation with the auto-alignment tray
  • Quick touch response time
  • No blemish from the glass
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Exact alignment is critical
More Details

Spigen EZ Fit Screen Protector features: Material: Tempered Glass | Item Hardness: 9H | Oleophobic coating | Product Dimensions: 5.66 x 2.67 x 0.02 inches | Finish Type: Glossy | Unit Count: 2

When you have a new phone, the last thing you want to do is ruin your screen. That is where a screen protector can be a saving grace to preserve your screen's glass for longer. 

The Spigen EZ Fit is our pick for the best iPhone screen protector you can buy. Made of tempered glass, it boasts a 9H hardness to protect your phone from bumps and scrapes throughout the day. Even better, there is a special oleophobic coating integrated into its design. This coating helps to repel fingerprints, so you have a much easier time keeping your screen looking clean and clear. Plus, this protector kit includes two refills, cleaning wipes, and even an auto-alignment tray for quick and easy installation.

Also: How to keep your iPhone looking like you just bought it

Every time ZDNET's Adrian Kingsley-Hughes gets a new iPhone, this Spigen screen protector is set up ASAP. 

"At the top of my list of features I love about these screen protectors is that they are easy to fit, thanks to the frame system that holds the protector in place and makes applications a snap," Kingsley-Hughes said of the EZ Fit protector. 

Redditors like the extra protection the EZ Fit adds to their iPhone screens as well as the easy installation offered by the application kit. Many current Redditors said the EZ Fit protector was worth the money and has an excellent value. 

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • ID window
  • Slim design
  • Portrait or landscape stand
  • Affordable luxury
Cons
  • No cash or alternative storage space
  • Limited color options
More Details

Satechi Magnetic Wallet Stand features: Compatible with: iPhone 12 -15 models, including Pro and Max | Multi-functional | Dimensions: 4.1 x 2.6 x 0.4 inches | Card capacity: 4 cards 

If you love keeping your wallet and phone together (or you forget one or the other) consider a MagSafe wallet. The Satechi Magnetic Wallet stand combines an affordable yet premium luxury build and design with everyday functionality. With four card slots and a designated space for your ID, there's a spot for your essential cards to keep you on the go. 

ZDNET expert reviewer Adrian Kingsley-Hughes calls Satechi's model the perfect balance of style and functionality. "The main thing I like about this wallet is the build quality," Kingsley-Hughes wrote in his review. "The materials look and feel premium, and the construction is such that it's not going to fall apart without a real fight." 

Also: I've tested dozens of MagSafe wallets on my iPhone, and this is one you should buy

The Satechi wallet can also double as a phone stand that can be oriented either horizontally or vertically and is made of scratch-resistant vegan leather that is easy to wipe clean. Equipped with strong magnets, the Satechi wallet is MagSafe, and it won't fall off the back of your device. 

Amazon customers like the secure magnet strength and sturdiness of the Satechi wallet, and mention that the wallet feels top-quality. If you're looking for a clean, premium phone wallet, the Satechi delivers with a tough yet elegant design and build. 

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Strong grip to phone
  • Up to two recharges
  • Wireless
  • Charge two devices simultaneously
Cons
  • Android users need accessories to use
  • Just a tad bulky
More Details

Baseus 10,000mAh magnetic portable charger specs: Capacity: 10,000mAh/18.5Wh | Charging Port: Wireless Charging (7.5W and 15W) + USB-C (20W PD) | Power button:  Yes

If you're a frequent traveler or just find yourself away from an outlet too often, a MagSafe battery pack is a staple iPhone accessory. This Baseus 10,000mAh magnetic power bank is ZDNET's pick for best overall MagSafe battery pack, and for good reason. While most battery power packs can only supplement a little battery boost, you can get up to two recharges on an iPhone with this power bank, and charge two different devices simultaneously. 

This power bank is for iPhones with MagSafe, but Android users can also reap the benefits of this bank with a couple of added accessories. When ZDNET contributor Adrian Kingsley-Hughes tried out the battery pack, he said the magnetic connection was "one of the best I've seen" and said the power bank is "more than enough" to get you through a day of hard work. 

Review: Forget the cable: This MagSafe battery pack is good for up to two full recharges

How much juice you can get out of the power bank depends on the iPhone version you own. If you have an iPhone 13, you can recharge it about 1.8 times with Baseus's charging capacity, and 2.1 times with an iPhone 12. For around $46, it's also a pretty affordable bank for the battery it replenishes. 

Amazon reviewers also noted that they liked the quality, appearance, and charging performance of the Baseus power bank. Many said they appreciated the dual charging feature and the strong magnetic attachment to ensure security to their iPhone. 

More: The best MagSafe battery packs of 2024

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Affordable
  • Super-portable
  • Easy to use
  • Foldable USB-C connector
  • Comes in several colors
Cons
  • Limited extra juice
  • More for those "in a pinch" situations
More Details

Anker Nano Power Bank features: Foldable USB-C connector | 5,000 mAh capacity | Extremely portable 

Your iPhone isn't complete without an on-the-go charging accessory. And if a traditional MagSafe battery pack is too much for you, the extra-compact Anker Nano Power Bank may be perfect. This Anker power bank packs 5,000mAh capacity, which is enough to charge an iPhone 15 Pro to 68%, according to Anker. When ZDNET's Sabrina Ortiz tested the mini charger in 2023, she found that it charged her Samsung Z Flip 4 from zero to 30% in half an hour, and she loved the lipstick-sized battery for its easy portability. 

Read more: This Anker USB-C power bank solved my biggest problem with portable chargers

"Although it might not seem like a tremendous boost, remember that this portable charger is meant to get you out of a pinch," Ortiz said. The power bank's small form factor, USB-C connector, and 5,000mAh capacity make it a solid travel charger for all your on-the-go needs, but if you own a non-USB-C iPhone (anything before the iPhone 15), the charging port won't be compatible.

Amazon reviewers loved the Nano power bank for its easy-to-use capabilities, foldable USB-C port, extreme portability, and ample extra power-up offering. Current users, just as Ortiz noted, said to keep in mind that this charger won't provide a full power-boost for your iPhone, but rather just enough to get by. 

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Brighter screen
  • Full array of health sensors
  • Hands-free double-tap gesture
  • More accurate Siri commands
  • Seamless compatibility with iPhone
Cons
  • Cellular connectivity costs extra
  • Not as durable as the Ultra 2
More Details

Apple Watch Series 9 tech specs: Display size: 41 or 45mm | Battery life: Up to 36 hours | Storage capacity: 64GB | Features: New features include a 2x brighter display, double-tap gesture, new pink color, robust S9 processor, all the best health sensors Apple has to offer

If you have an iPhone, your best bet for a smartwatch or fitness tracker is an Apple Watch. The Apple Watch Series 9 is ZDNET's pick for best Apple Watch wearable for most people, thanks to its supreme package of features. The Series 9 seamlessly connects with your iPhone, offering the easiest way to enjoy everything about a smart watch. 

The Apple Watch Series 9 can track activity, steps, heart rate, respiratory rate, blood oxygen (lung function), wrist temperature, sleep, and environmental sound levels (to protect your hearing), all of which customers who have reviewed the watch say "make day to day living so much easier." And it uses algorithms and machine learning to spot dangerous patterns and alert you to seek medical attention if needed. There are now many stories of people who've had life-saving experiences with health alerts from an Apple Watch.  

Read the full review: Apple Watch Series 9: Why you shouldn't settle for the less expensive models this year

ZDNET editor-in-chief Jason Hiner went hands-on with the Series 9 in 2023, and his testing highlighted two big upgrades: A 2000 nit display that is double the brightness of last year's S8 and a new S9 SiP processor, which has a 30% faster GPU and processes machine learning twice as fast. 

Also: The best Apple Watches of 2024

Hiner says that if you're looking for an iPhone compatible watch wearable, the Series 9 is it. "If you want the latest health sensors and safety features, great battery life (especially if you want to do sleep tracking), and you don't need the extreme features in the Ultra 2, then you can save a lot of money by going with the aluminum model of the Apple Watch Series 9 starting at $399." 

Redditors liked the double-tap feature available on the Series 9, but said the latest wearable lacked significant changes from prior iterations. So we'd suggest closely evaluating what your needs in a smart watch are before making a purchase. 

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • MagSafe and wireless charging compatible
  • 8ft drop protection
  • Grippy protective bumper and backplate
  • Lightweight
  • Stylish
Cons
  • A bit pricey
  • Limited colors and designs
More Details

Nomad Sport case for iPhone features: High-gloss, grippy backplate | Grippy TPU protective bumper | Anodized aluminum buttons | MagSafe and wireless charging compatible | 8ft drop protection | Luxury feel

Nomad's Sport Case for iPhone is ZDNET editor-in-chief Jason Hiner approved. Hiner says this Nomad case is a "great mix of protective, easy-to-grip, lightweight, and it has a very distinctive look." 

Also: The best iPhone 15 cases of 2024: Expert tested

Hiner added that the attention to detail is prominent in the ever-so-slight indent down the sides of the case that make easier to hold as well as the notched lines in the metal power button that have a pleasant tactile feel. The sport case features 8ft of drop protection too, so you don't have to worry about everyday bumps, drops, and scrapes. 

This case is available for the various iPhone 13, 14, and 15 models, and with MagSafe and wireless charging capabilities, you'll be able to power up with ease. 

Current Nomad case users love the style, low-profile, drop-protection, and metal buttons, according to recent site reviews. One customer even noted that Nomad cases are "the only gear [they] truly like and feel comfortable with." 

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Can charge multiple devices at once
  • Fast charging capabilities
  • Face on screen indicates charging status
  • Fun design
Cons
  • Cap for the charger prongs is easy to lose
More Details

Ugreen Robot GaN 65W 3-port charger features: Compact GaN charger | Compatible with iPhone, iPad, MacBook Air, Dell XPS, and more | 3 USB ports (1 USB-A port and 2 USB-C ports)

The Ugreen 3-Port charger is ZDNET's top pick for best overall iPhone wireless accessory and charger, as per Editor in Chief Jason Hiner. And as new iPhones don't come with a wall charger anymore, you're going to need to invest in one almost immediately if you don't already have a solid option on hand. 

Also: The best USB-C chargers and accessories for your iPhone

Since the USB-C is a universal charger that can charge lots of your devices, the top charger for current iPhones is going to be one that can change multiple devices at a time. And Hiner recommends this one from Ugreen. 

It has 2 USB-C ports and one USB-A port (for your older devices), features a display on the front that confirms your devices are actually charging, it's fairly compact, and it comes in a fun and stylish form factor that makes it look like a tiny (and adorable) robot. With it, you can not only fast-charge an iPhone 15 Pro, but also charge a MacBook Air, an iPad, AirPods, a Kindle, a Nintendo Switch, headphones, and almost any other device. 

Amazon customers enjoyed the compact and quality quick charging, as well as the fun robot design. 

What is the best iPhone accessory?

When it comes to daily use of your iPhone, there are several top accessories that we recommend for compatibility with your iPhone. From earbuds, to chargers, to screen protectors, we've got all the best accessories compared for your ease. 

Check out this bird's eye view of the best iPhone accessories of 2024. 

Best iPhone accessoryType of productStarting price
AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)Wireless earbuds$250
Spigen Glas.tr EZ FitiPhone screen protector$35
Baseus 10,000mAh MagSafe portable chargeriPhone MagSafe battery pack$46
Anker Nano Power Bank iPhone portable charger $30
Apple Watch Series 9 iPhone compatible smartwatch $399
Nomad Sport Case for iPhoneiPhone case $50
Ugreen 65W USB-C 3-Port GaN Fast ChargeiPhone compatible USB-C wall charger $26

*MSRP at the time of writing. Please note that actual prices may vary depending on available sales, deals, discounts, and coupons.

Which is the best iPhone accessory for you?

A quick search for the best iPhone accessory yields thousands and thousands of results, leaving many buyers completely overwhelmed and not knowing exactly where to start. These considerations may help you find the best iPhone accessory for your needs.

Choose this best iPhone accessory...If you want...
AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)Easy wireless listening wherever you are, with an extra-long battery life and Apple's exclusive H2 chip for top performance.
Spigen Glas.tr EZ FitTo protect your iPhone's screen from cracks and dings with an extra-hard tempered glass screen protector.
Baseus 10,000mAh MagSafe portable chargerTo wirelessly change your iPhone on the go with little trouble or hassle.
Anker Nano Power Bank On-the-go, compact charging for your iPhone.
Apple Watch Series 9 Seamless smartwatch compatability and advanced health features.
Nomad Sport Case for iPhoneStylish and practical protection for your iPhone.
Ugreen 65W USB-C 3-Port GaN Fast Charge3-port, functional USB-C wall charging for your iPhone.

Factors to consider when choosing iPhone accessories

There is no shortage of iPhone accessories to choose from these days, so it's a good idea to keep a few things in mind as you're searching for the products that will simplify your life and upgrade your iPhone. These factors may help you while you search, and are factors myself and other ZDNET experts make sure to consider when testing and building out our best lists. 

  • Functionality: There are so many different types of iPhone accessories that are compatible with your phone. Before you begin your search, consider any recent or ongoing issues you may experience. Do you need a speaker for better, more immersive listening? Or do you want something to power your phone on the go without wires? We included accessories for multiple use-cases and preferences for you to carefully choose which best fits your lifestyle.  

  • Compatibility: Compatibility, of course, is paramount since you are shopping specifically for your iPhone. Many accessories offer open compatibility between different types of smartphones, but there are some that are limited to just a cell phone type, like Apple or Google.  

  • Price: The cost of an iPhone accessory all depends on the accessory itself. For example, an iPhone car charger won't cost the same as a pair of wireless earbuds. The best iPhone accessories can vary from from $10 to upwards of over $100, depending on the iPhone accessory you're looking to choose. 

How did we choose these iPhone accessories?

ZDNET has gone hands-on with every iPhone accessory on this list. We've spent time testing these products during our daily activities and lives to rate their function, style, features, and more -- not just for a day or two, but over the course of a few weeks to really get a feel for a product's add-in value. That is, can you "add-in" this product into your life and benefit from its presence, or is it just another fad product that's too good to be true or collects dust after the buzz wears off? 

If we think another product is worth your money, we'll update this list or write up a spotlight review highlighting its best qualities and specifying who it's for. 

Plus, we are routinely scouring the web for new products that are worthy of testing, and following news on product rollouts and upgrades, and sourcing the best deals. We know buying anything in the current economy is not just for your whims, and that's why this list, as well as our other advice, is tailored to your needs, wants, and your budget -- and why our picks are expert-tested and expert-vetted. 

What accessories does the iPhone come with?

When you buy a new iPhone, there's not much else in the box. Most models, such as the iPhone 15, comes with a USB-C charger cable, and that's it. Gone are the days of getting EarPods and a charging block, too. That means that it's up to you to add on whatever accessories you would like, from a screen protector to MagSafe accessories. Though iPhone accessories mean additional expense, the plus side is that it gives you an opportunity to customize your iPhone and truly make it yours. 

Which iPhone models support wireless charging?

All iPhone models after the iPhone 8 incorporate standard Qi wireless charging. This also means that your device can charge at up to 7.5 watts for far faster charger than older models. If you have a newer phone, like the iPhone 12 or later, you can receive charging at up to 15 watts.   

What iPhone accessories do I need?

The best iPhone accessories and which ones you need all depend on factors like how you use your phone and the type of budget you have. If you find yourself constantly out of power, a MagSafe battery pack might be worth your investment. Similarly, if you love the convenience of your wallet and phone together, a MagSafe wallet could be a good move for your lifestyle. We encourage you to equip your iPhone with a screen protector no matter what -- though ultimately the decision on what accessories you really need is up to you. 

Why bother with MagSafe?

MagSafe capabilities can enhance your user experience and your iPhone's functionality. Besides creating simpler, more efficient wireless charging, MagSafe technology opens the door for various accessories such as wallets, car vent clips and mounts, fitness mounts, power banks, grips and key ring accessories, and more to widen the iPhone experience and make your life as efficient as possible. 

What kinds of iPhone accessories are there?

There are hundreds of iPhone accessories on the market from tons of different brands and retailers. Some of the most common iPhone accessories are: 

  • MagSafe battery packs
  • Other MagSafe accessories
  • iPhone wallets
  • iPhone stands
  • Grips and rings 
  • Wireless chargers
  • Charging cords and wall blocks 
  • iPhone cases 
  • Earbuds
  • Smart watches 
  • Car mounts 
  • And more

What are the most basic iPhone accessories I should have?

As someone who frequently tests iPhone accessories, I have a good idea of what's essential -- and what's a nice luxury. Since iPhones only come with a USB-C cord in the box, I'd recommend additionally purchasing a compatible wall charging adapter, a screen protector, and a sturdy case as my basic essentials. After that, a MagSafe battery pack, earbuds, and other non-essential accessories would be next in line if I was starting my iPhone setup from scratch. 

Are there other iPhone accessories worth considering? 

Simply put, yes, there are other iPhone accessories worth your time. Although myself and the rest of the ZDNET team regularly test new and innovative Apple or Apple compatible products, and our above list was arranged with a focus on products with a variety of use cases, there's hundreds (seriously) of options available to you. Here's a few more that we've tested. 

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