PopSocket PopWallet Plus for MagSafe Review: Card Holder for IPhones

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• PopSocket’s PopWallet Plus for MagSafe is a wallet and a hand grip for iPhone 12 and higher.
• It magnetically attaches to the back of the phone, and has room for three cards. 
• It could replace a regular wallet if you don’t need to carry much cash and cards.

The $40 PopWallet Plus for MagSafe from PopSocket is a card wallet that magnetically attaches to a back of an iPhone (12 and higher), and has a pop-out hand-grip that doubles as a kickstand. Having used it for seven months, it is so handy that it has completely replaced the expensive Mont Blanc leather wallet that was my everyday carry.

Pros: Streamlines what you carry, strong MagSafe connection, useful hand-grip/kickstand

Cons: Needs to be removed for charging or Apple Pay, room for only three cards, wear and tear after seven months

PopSocket fans don’t need me to wax poetic about its usefulness: PopSockets add extra grip when holding a phone, especially on my large and relatively heavy iPhone 13 Pro Max. It also props it up on a table for hands-free video calls or watching movies. The PopWallet Plus for MagSafe comes in different styles, and the PopSocket can be customized.

There’s a risk when attaching things with magnets: they could inadvertently detach. However, the PopWallet Plus’ magnetic connection is strong — even stronger than that of Apple’s MagSafe charger — and it has never unexpectedly come off.

Not having to carry a traditional wallet also frees up a pocket. It’s also great for times when you don’t want to bring along a wallet, like at the gym. Now, the PopWallet does add extra bulk to my iPhone when it’s in my pocket, especially with a case. But, at least it frees up a pocket for something else, like keys. And the extra bulk isn’t too noticeable (unless you wear skinny jeans). When I’m at home, I usually remove the PopWallet.

The PopWallet isn’t entirely perfect. You’re limited to three cards, and taking out a specific card that you need can be tricky. Plus, you need to remove the PopWallet for wireless charging or to use Apple Pay, which is a nuisance if you are a proponent of digital payments.

The rubbery material that covers the PopWallet’s magnetic side is also starting to wear away, but it doesn’t pose an issue, especially if you use a case. When I first used the PopWallet without a case, a faint black ring started to form around the iPhone’s MagSafe magnets. It eventually goes away and isn’t permanent, but PopSocket recommends using the PopWallet with a case. Note: Some cases block the MagSafe magnets, so use one that won’t.

Many people will still prefer a traditional wallet, as it’ll have room for cards and bills. My Mont Blanc was a gift, so there’s emotional value too. But after using the PopWallet, it occurred to me that I just don’t need to carry that many cards or even cash, given that most places accept digital payment systems like Apple Pay. With Apple working on features like digital car keys and driver’s licenses, we may not even need a PopWallet in the future.

PopSocket also makes non-MagSafe versions of the PopWallet. If you don’t want the wallet, the company has a $30 MagSafe PopGrip. And if you’re only interested in a MagSafe wallet, Apple’s own $59 Leather Wallet for MagSafe is a good high-quality option.