The Verge review finds OhSnap Snap Grip Stand superior to rivals despite premium price tag
A long-term test of the $50 device reveals a versatile, thin aluminium grip that outperforms cheaper alternatives, though users may find the cost and simultaneous magnet usage limitations worth noting.
The Verge has published a detailed review of the OhSnap Snap Grip Stand, a magnetic phone accessory priced at $50. The publication’s reviewer, who tested the device over several months, concludes that the stand is a superior alternative to competitors such as the Gornergrat Grat 5 and Tango, primarily due to its unique ability to prop a phone in a vertical orientation.
The device is characterised by its slim profile, measuring just 3.7mm in thickness, and is constructed from bare anodised aluminium. It features a double-sided magnetic ring that allows it to adhere to magnet-compatible phones, as well as surfaces like fridges and gym equipment. The reviewer noted that the accessory allows for wireless charging and avoids the peeling soft-touch coatings or adhesive issues found in previous generations of OhSnap products.
A key differentiator for the Snap Grip Stand is its hinged arm mechanism. By pulling down a thinner fold-out ring, users can effortlessly prop their phone in a vertical position without needing to rotate or lock a tab. This deployment method is described as faster and more secure than rival designs, which often rely on elastic straps that can feel loose or require complex locking mechanisms.
While the reviewer praised the build quality and versatility of the interlocking joints, several drawbacks were identified. The primary concerns include the $50 price point, a scraping noise when rotating the disc, and the inability to use the stand and the main magnets simultaneously. The reviewer suggested that adding magnets to the stand’s ring would improve functionality, though they noted that OhSnap products are regularly on sale, with the reviewer purchasing their unit for $40 after tax at Best Buy.
In direct comparisons, the reviewer found the $17 Gornergrat Grat 5 to be less secure due to its elastic strap design. Similarly, Tango’s spring-loaded grip was tested but rejected because the spring mechanism pushed fingers apart uncomfortably. The review highlights that while the OhSnap Snap Grip Stand is not without flaws, its combination of durability, magnetic strength, and vertical stand capability makes it a standout option in the crowded magnetic grip market.
