Enhancing Your iPhone Experience with Must-Have Accessories

In a world dominated by smartphones, the iPhone stands tall as one of the finest examples of mobile technology. However, to truly optimize your iPhone’s performance and aesthetics, you may want to consider adding a few essential accessories to your repertoire. From protective cases and gaming controllers to screen protectors and wireless earbuds, there’s a vast array of accessories available that can elevate your iPhone experience.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore a wide range of accessories designed to enhance your iPhone’s functionality, protection, and style. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a gaming aficionado, or simply seeking to safeguard your device, we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover the best iPhone accessories to buy.

1. Apple AirPods Pro (Second Generation): The Ultimate Wireless Earbuds

Compatible Apple iPhone: iPhone 6s or newer | Material: Plastic | Price: $249

Unsurprisingly, Apple AirPods Pro stands as the pinnacle of wireless earbuds, offering exceptional audio quality for music and podcasts. These earbuds boast top-of-the-line noise-canceling technology to eliminate ambient background noise, ensuring an immersive listening experience. Seamlessly syncing with your iPhone through iOS and Apple Keychain, they deliver unmatched convenience. Additionally, AirPods Pro feature spatial audio, further immersing you in your favorite music. With a design that perfectly complements your iPhone’s style and premium build quality, these earbuds are the best choice for Apple enthusiasts.

Upgrade to the Next Gen: If you’re planning to get the iPhone 15, you can also opt for the AirPods Pro with USB-C charging to seamlessly integrate with your new devices.

2. Smartish Slim Case: Optimal iPhone Protection with Style

Compatible Apple iPhone: iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max | Material: Hard plastic and rubber | Starting price: $20

Given the iPhone’s value and delicacy, it’s wise to invest in a lightweight yet robust case like the Smartish Slim Case. Crafted from durable hard plastic and rubber, this case features cushioned corners that absorb impact and prevent damage if the phone is dropped. Raised bumpers protect the screen from scratches when placed face down. Moreover, the Smartish Slim Case is equipped with MagSafe technology, enabling wireless charging and compatibility with other accessories. Available in nine colors and styles, you can find the perfect case to suit your preferences.

3. Anker USB-C 736 Charger: High-Speed Charging Hub for Your iPhone

Compatible Apple iPhone: iPhone 6s or newer | Material: Plastic | Price: $75

With two USB-C and one USB ports, the Anker USB-C 736 Charger boasts a robust 100-watt power delivery. While the iPhone’s charging capacity tops out at 30 watts, this charger offers faster charging compared to standard wall chargers, which typically cap at 20 watts. Given that iPhones no longer include wall chargers, investing in a fast-charging hub is a practical choice. The Anker USB-C 736 Charger can charge up to three devices simultaneously, making it ideal for iPhone, MacBook, and AirPods users.

4. iOttie Velox Magnetic Dash Mount: Safe and Convenient Car Mount

Compatible Apple iPhone: iPhone 8 or newer | Material: Soft plastic and silicone | Price: $55

Using your iPhone while driving is illegal and highly unsafe. However, you can operate your device hands-free by mounting it on your car’s dashboard or windshield. The iOttie Velox Magnetic Dash Mount features a robust suction cup for secure attachment and powerful magnets that hold your device in place in both landscape and portrait orientations. It even doubles as a wireless charger, ensuring your iPhone stays powered throughout your journey.

5. Apple AirTag: A Handy iPhone Tracker

Compatible Apple iPhone: iPhone 6s or newer | Material: Plastic and polished stainless steel | Price: $99 (for a four-pack)

For those prone to misplacing their belongings, the Apple AirTag is a valuable accessory. Pair this small circular device via Bluetooth with your iPhone and attach it to items like keys, handbags, and wallets. If your items go missing, use the Find My app on your Apple device to locate them. Additionally, the AirTag can emit a loud noise to guide you to its precise location, making it an essential accessory for those who frequently lose track of their possessions.

6. Ferilinso Screen Protector: Protect Your iPhone’s Display

Compatible Apple iPhone: iPhone 13 or newer | Material: Tempered glass | Starting price: $7

Crafted from tempered glass, the Ferilinso Screen Protector safeguards your iPhone’s display and rear cameras from scratches and wear. Shatterproof and durable, it prevents unsightly cracks, ensuring a clear and pristine screen. Each pack includes three screen protectors, along with a mounting frame and cleaning kit for easy installation.

7. Apple MagSafe Charger: Sleek Wireless Charging for Your iPhone

Compatible Apple iPhone: iPhone 11 or newer | Material: Aluminum and soft plastic | Price: $39

While there are more affordable options available, the Apple MagSafe Charger stands out for its elegant design and strong magnetic attachment during charging. Some users even report that it’s powerful enough to suspend your smartphone from its charging cable when attached. Even for iPhones without MagSafe compatibility, it serves as an excellent wireless charger.

8. Anker USB-C to Lightning Cable: Dependable Charging Cable

Compatible Apple iPhone: iPhone 6s or newer | Material: Thermoplastic elastomers and nylon | Price: $12

While numerous budget iPhone cables are available, the Anker USB-C to Lightning Cable is an excellent choice. With a generous 6-foot length for versatility, a durable braided-nylon design that resists fraying, and an affordable price point of $12, it offers exceptional value. Moreover, it’s MFi-certified, guaranteeing Apple’s seal of approval for safety and reliability. Available in four colors, it’s a practical choice for iPhone users.

9. Apple MagSafe Battery Pack: Boost Your iPhone’s Battery Life

Compatible Apple iPhone: iPhone 12 or newer | Material: Aluminum and soft plastic | Price: $99

When you’re on the go and unable to access a wall outlet, the Apple MagSafe Battery Pack comes to the rescue. It securely attaches to the back of your iPhone via MagSafe, providing an additional power source while allowing you to continue using your device. When not connected to your iPhone, it can also serve as a standalone wireless charger for AirPods or other devices that support wireless charging. By attaching a fully-charged MagSafe Battery Pack at the start of the day, you can significantly extend your iPhone’s battery life, essentially doubling its capacity.

Pro Tip: Maximize your battery life by attaching a fully-charged MagSafe Battery Pack to your iPhone at the beginning of the day. This ensures that your smartphone draws power from the battery pack first before tapping into its own reserves, effectively doubling your daily battery life.

10. Apple Watch Series 8: Your iPhone’s Perfect Companion

Compatible Apple iPhone: iPhone 8 or newer | Material: Aluminum, fluoroelastomer, and stainless steel | Starting Price: $399

The Apple Watch Series 8 is not merely an accessory but a seamless companion to your iPhone. With 41mm and 45mm options, this smartwatch offers a range of functions, allowing you to perform essential tasks without needing to retrieve your iPhone. It serves as a GPS, heart rate monitor, fitness and sleep tracker, timepiece, and more. Moreover, it enables phone calls, text messages, music navigation, and other tasks directly from your wrist when paired with your iPhone, enhancing your mobile experience.

Coming Soon: You can also pre-order the Apple Watch Series 9, expected to be released soon. Additionally, we’ve compiled a list of noteworthy Apple Watch alternatives worth considering.

11. Belkin 10,000 Portable Charger: Power on the Go

Compatible Apple iPhone: iPhone 6s or newer | Material: Plastic | Price: $50

Ensuring that your iPhone remains charged is vital, particularly when you’re far from a power source. The Belkin 10,000 Portable Charger provides a reliable backup power supply when you need it most. Weighing just over 8 ounces, it’s compact enough to slip into a backpack, purse, or even a pocket. Equipped with dual USB and single USB-C ports, it can charge up to three devices simultaneously. Overall, it offers an additional 40 hours of battery life, making it an indispensable travel companion.

Explore More Options: For additional power bank choices, refer to our list of the best portable chargers.

12. Backbone One Mobile Gaming Controller: Elevate Your Gaming Experience

Compatible Apple iPhone: iPhone 6s or newer | Material: Plastic | Price: $100

For avid gamers, the Backbone One Mobile Gaming Controller provides an unparalleled gaming experience. By sliding your iPhone into the controller and connecting it via the Lightning port, you gain access to a wide range of gaming apps, including Apple Arcade, Steam Link, Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Remote Play, and Backbone apps. It even accommodates peripherals like gaming headsets and charging cables. As the iPhone 15 Pro is set to support AAA games, the Backbone controller is your best bet for a mobile gaming controller.

13. Bose SoundLink Flex: Portable Bluetooth Speaker for Outdoor Adventures

Compatible Apple iPhone: iPhone 6s or newer | Material: Steel grille and silicone | Price: $149

The Bose SoundLink Flex is a portable Bluetooth speaker that seamlessly pairs with your iPhone. It delivers crystal-clear, high-quality audio, reflecting Bose’s renowned sound engineering. Additionally, this speaker boasts a premium waterproof design, making it suitable for shower use and outdoor gatherings at the beach, pool, picnics, and campfires. With up to 12 hours of battery life per charge and available in four colors, it’s a versatile accessory for music enthusiasts on the go.

Explore More Options: If you’re seeking additional Bluetooth speaker choices, refer to our guide to the best Bluetooth speakers.

14. Ecasp Cleaner Kit: Keep Your iPhone Pristine

Compatible Apple iPhone: All models | Material: Metal and soft velvet | Price: $30

The iPhone is a device that accumulates dirt and grime with regular use. Since it comes into contact with your hands and even your face during calls, it’s essential to clean it periodically. The Ecasp Cleaner Kit includes a variety of tools to ensure your device remains clean and in optimal condition. This multi-tool set is designed for cleaning the display, Lightning port, edges, and more. Additionally, it’s suitable for cleaning Apple AirPods, an Apple Watch, an iPad, and Lightning cables.

What to Look for in iPhone Accessories in 2023

With a plethora of iPhone accessories available, choosing the right ones can be overwhelming. To simplify your selection process, consider the following factors:

Functionality

Assess your specific needs and challenges with your iPhone. Whether you seek better audio quality, extended battery life, or enhanced protection, there’s an accessory to address your requirements.

iPhone Compatibility

Given the various iPhone models released over the years, ensure that the accessory you choose is compatible with your specific iPhone model. Compatibility ensures a seamless and hassle-free user experience.

Apple or Third-Party Options

While Apple offers its own line of accessories, many reputable third-party manufacturers produce high-quality alternatives at more affordable prices. Explore both options, but exercise caution when selecting third-party accessories to avoid potential compatibility or quality issues.

Price

Accessories for iPhones come in a wide price range. Determine your budget and consider the accessory’s functionality and value when making your selection. Most accessories fall within the $10-$200 range, with exceptions for premium items.

In conclusion, the world of iPhone accessories is vast and diverse, providing numerous solutions to enhance your mobile experience. By selecting the right accessories that align with your needs and preferences, you can maximize the potential of your iPhone and enjoy an enriched smartphone experience.