Cars and technology have become increasingly integrated over the past few years, but you don’t need to invest huge sums of money to bring your car into the 21st century. An iPad car mount will give you all of the entertainment, navigational, and practical benefits that a tablet can bring to your vehicle. Whether you would like to keep your kids busy on a road trip or you want a bigger screen for your GPS system, this is a convenient and useful piece of equipment.
Our buying guide is here to help, giving you a run-down of some of our favorite products on the market and more information about what makes each one so great.
The Best iPad Car Mount
Cup Mount Holder Ikross 2-In-1 Swing Cradle
Suitable for iPads, tablets, and smartphones ranging between 7″ to 10.2″, this product securely mounts to most cup holders. Installation is tool-less and can be done in a matter of seconds, so you can put it up and take it down as required. At the bottom is an adjustable 360-degree swivel ball joint to get the best viewing angle.
Its solid construction is designed to minimize road vibration as much as possible, and it also has built-in shock absorption.
TFY iPad Car Headrest Mount Holder
Suitable for three different iPad models, this device allows you to easily mount the iPad on your car’s headrest and provide anyone sitting in the back with endless entertainment. As well as being simple to install, it is also highly compatible and will mount to the headrest of nearly any car.
When it is mounted, you have total access to all the controls of your iPad, while staying safe in the knowledge that your device is protected by the soft lining and durable material.
Macally 2-in-1 Car Cup Holder Mount
You can attach the vast majority of smartphones and tablets to this device, which allows you to adjust the screen to suit any angle. The 8-inch arm is both flexible and extendable, while the 360-degree adjustment allows you to set the screen so that it improves your driving experience.
You can mount the device by inserting it into any type of cup holder or pocket, and while it is flexible, you can rest assured that it is sturdy enough to last the test of time.
Premium Universal Headrest Cradle Car Mount
All 7 to 10-inch tablets are accommodated by this cradle car mount, which attaches to the headrest of your car. You can use the rigid extension arm to fit it comfortably between the back seats so that everyone can see.
Whether you would like to view the tablet in portrait or landscape mode, you can do so easily thanks to the top and bottom adjustable-leg holders.
iKross Universal Car Backseat Mount Holder
Single and multiple seat passenger viewing are both possible with this extendable mount holder. You can install it easily without the need for tools and get the ideal viewing angle with the 360-degree swivel ball joint.
Once you have adjusted it to the optimal viewing angle, you can then fix it in place to reduce the impact of car vibrations.
TFY Universal Car Headrest Mount Holder
If you have a 7 to 11-inch tablet, you can mount it quickly and securely to your car’s headrest using this device. Once you have installed it, the tablet is detachable, meaning that you won’t have to keep taking it on and off. And since there are no protruding parts, it won’t be a nuisance in your vehicle.
Essentially, this is the kind of device which will keep the passengers in your car satisfied as you concentrate on driving!
Macally 2-in-1 Heavy-Duty Car Cup Holder Mount
Offering universal compatibility with smartphones and tablets, you simply need to install the mount in your car’s cup holder to have the range of features offered by your smartphone or tablet in your car. Choose your preferred viewing angle by adjusting and rotating the device to your heart’s content.
Suitable for a wide range of vehicles, you can tighten and loosen the mechanism as needed.
Cellet Cup Holder Tablet Mount
Providing a stable viewing platform with its extra-strength arm, this car mount is easy to install and protects your tablet with its soft holder backing. It is entirely flexible and has 360-degree rotational capabilities.
The quick installation instructions are included, giving you access to all the capabilities of your tablet such as navigation, music, or movies whenever you want them.
Premium Seat Bolt Car Mount Vehicle Holder
Designed with a goose neck, you can adjust it as needed, knowing that the powerful grip holder will secure your tablet in place. Its quick-release functionality means that you can remove your tablet whenever you like.
A wide range of devices are supported, even if they are wrapped in skins, cases or screen protectors, but it is always a good idea to check compatibility before purchase.
iOttie Easy Smart Universal Car Desk Mount Holder
Whether you are looking to mount this product to your windshield, dashboard, or simply to a desk or counter, you can rest assured that it is strong and sturdy enough to do the job properly. The mounting system clutches the tablet once you push it in, while the super sticky gel attaches securely to many surfaces.
Whichever way you would like to set your tablet, you can adjust the angle effectively using the telescopic arm to achieve optimal viewing.
Arkon Truck or Car Tablet Mount Holder
You can either mount this device in the standard locations of the windshield or the dash or you could go for the slightly less conventional areas of the aluminum car seat rail or floor mount using a socket wrench. Once you have it in place, you can use the 18” gooseneck to get the positioning exactly right.
The spring-loaded design of the makes it easy to insert or remove the tablet as needed, and it will accommodate devices ranging from 7 to 18.4 inches in screen size.
Kebelo Universal Magnetic Car Mount Holder
Designed in a different format, this iPad mount features a CD blade that stops your device from flipping around when you want it to stay in place. Since the unique design holds your tablet still, you don’t have to worry about bumps in the road being an issue.
While most devices attached to the cup holder of your car, this one goes into the CD slot, while still allowing you to play your favorite tunes.
Universal Car Mount 2 in 1
Another CD-mounted tablet holder for your car, this one promises a high level of sturdiness and stability while also not obstructing your view, which some dashboard mounted products can do. It comes along with a rubber pad and extra grip to help prevent scratches.
The installation is straightforward and there are no tools required. Once it is in your car, you can enjoy all the advantages that having your tablet to hand affords you.
Dealgadgets Tablet Car Mount Holder
If you have a tablet between 7 and 10 inches, this iPad holder for your car will help to secure it in place and allow you to view your device easily. You can rotate the tablet 360 degrees to find the ideal angle.
Offering a high level of strength and durability, this super-strong windshield mount will keep your tablet safe and stable.
Okra 360 Degree Car Seat Mount
The next time your kids are driving you crazy on a long car journey, try installing this car seat headrest iPad mount to keep them entertained. Not only will they be happy, but you will also be able to continue driving in peace and quiet.
Since it secures tightly to the headrest, this will help to protect against too much shaking and shuttering when you are driving along bumpy roads.
Best iPad Car Mounts Buying Guide
What to Consider When Buying an iPad Car Mount
- Type of iPad Mount
Tablet car mounts come in a few different varieties which we are going to discuss in more detail later in this blog post. The main ones are headrest mounts, cup-holder or CD tray mounts, seat rail or floor mounts, and dashboard or windshield mounts. Each one has their pros and cons, so you need to think carefully about which variety is most suited to your needs.
- Compatibility with Your Device
Most of the iPad holders for cars are compatible with several different devices, but it is important that you choose one which fits your tablet or smartphone comfortably. If you plan on changing the device that you attach, you are better off choosing a holder with a higher level of adaptability.
- iPad Protection
You have spent a lot of money on your tablet, and the last thing that you want is for it to detach and fall or become damaged in some other way. Check for protective features such as anti-shock resistance, padded interiors, and secure attachments.
Advantages of Using an iPad Holder for Car
- Entertainment
Headrest iPad holders, in particular, are great for backseat entertainment. All the movies, music, games, and other forms of entertainment that an iPad can provide are all made readily available for everyone sitting in the backseat – an especially important advantage when you are taking kids on a long car journey!
- Navigation
Many people navigate using the GPS on their smartphone, but if you don’t have a mount for your car, this can prove to be difficult and even dangerous if you try to balance it elsewhere. An iPad mount allows you to set the location to provide maximum usefulness and minimum obstructions of your driving experience.
- Hands-Free Calls
Smartphones are still a major cause of distraction on your car journeys, but rather than fumbling around in your pocket, you can answer calls at the touch of a button or even hands-free if you have voice commands enabled. Many tablets also have good-quality audio which allows you to hear the person at the other end of the phone more clearly.
- Reduced Distractions
Distracted driving is a major problem in the modern age, but when you have your tablet or smartphone securely mounted, this can help reduce this issue.
Different Types of iPad Mounts/iPad Holders
- Windshield/Dash Mount
A highly common iPad mount variety, windshield or dash mounts use a suction cup to attach to these parts of your car. While these are very simple to install, they often don’t have the strength needed to support a heavier tablet, and this is a major problem if it comes crashing down mid-journey.
- Headrest Mount
Headrest mounts are ideal for people in the backseat as they can be attached easily and securely, while also staying firm on bumpy roads. Obviously, they can only be used by those in the back of the car and won’t offer any of the navigational advantages of other varieties.
- CD Tray/Cup Holder Mount
Designed to fit easily into the CD tray or cup holder of your car, these models come with an arm which you can adjust easily to find the best viewing angle. On the downside, it may be difficult to stop them from obstructing your view.
- Seat Rail/Floor Mount
Both sturdy and not obstructive of your view, seat rail or floor mounted can also be installed for backseat viewing. But they do require some tools to install and can sometimes look a little bulky.
Our Top Pick
Compatible with most tablets and smartphones, as well as the majority of standard car cup holders, Cup Mount Holder iKross 2-in-1 Swing Cradle for your car is our top pick. You can install it without needing any tools, and the base twists easily to adjust to a custom fit.
One your tablet is securely in place; the mount swing arm provides both security and shock absorption. Adjust and rotate the 360-degree swivel ball joint to find the viewing angle which works best for you.
Ultimately, this is the kind of device which can significantly improve your driving experience.