STM MagPod Review: When you rely on an iPhone for movies, mail, social and everything else whilst travelling, the STM MagPod transforms your device into a platform to easily work from.
{Tech} for Travel
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STM MagPod Review
STM Goods has recently added to its range of MagSafe-friendly accessories with the new MagPod stand.
The Australian brand prides itself on designing and creating ” laptop bags, packs, fitted cases, and other accessories, all designed to safeguard your tech devices.” I’ve recently reviewed the STM ChargeTree and 18L Myth Backpack.
As an iPhone user, I’m adopting MagSafe in a big way. It’s a great iPhone inclusion and unobtrusive to the phone or the aesthetics.
Features //STM MagPod Review
MagPod is a tripod and selfie handle, with MagSafe support for iPhone with two adjustable pivot points to ensure the perfect angle.
The first pivot is under the magnetic disc, covers a 0-45° range, and sits on top of the main joint that twists up to 90° from straight.
Inside the rather large frame and legs, STM has hidden a very smooth gear system to open and close the three legs, which all work in unison together.
The legs close with a reassuring click thanks to the magnetic connectors in each that keep them locked closed when the MagPod is not in use.
Bulky but Useful
If you’re planning on leaving the MagPod on a desk, size will not be too much of an issue, but with no charging capabilities, the STM ChargeTree would be a better option.
However, for travelling with, the type of traveller you are will determine if the MagPod is for you.
Pure minimalist; the size and lack of power could rule it out. But if you use an iPhone for movies, gaming and pairing Bluetooth devices, then the MagPod will justify the space in your tech pack.
I kept it with me at the office and on a few trips during the review and using the MagPod transformed how I use my iPhone.
For example, having my iPhone mounted on the MagPod next to my laptop made the perfect reason to use it for Teams/WebEx calls, leaving me free to continue working on my laptop.
Another option is to use iPhone as a small second monitor when mounted on MagPod for apps that don’t require a full-sized display; think Spotify, Notes or a Social Feed.
Content Makers
My iPhone was pulled into the MagPod with a reassuring force as I brought the two together, even with a MagSafe compatible case on.
The MagSafe connection is strong and reliable; at no time did it feel like my phone would fall off the MagPod. Therefore using MagPod as a handle to film videos with is a great secondary use.
Although there isn’t much grip on the surface, the circumference is suitable enough to fill most hands.
This is why Apple incorporated MagSafe into iPhone; the possibilities are almost endless!
Built to Last
The MagPod has been made to last! All the moving parts have been concealed within the stand and feel strong.
Each movable joint is robust and shows no sign of flexing when put under pressure.
And the same can be said of the three legs, all of which open and close in unison and that magnetic click to keep them closed is a thoughtful and wise addition.
Specifications //STM MagPod Review
Dimensions | 159 x 60 x 60mm |
Weight | 241g |
Colour Options | Black White |
Modes | Selfie Handle Tripod Portrait & Landscape |
Materials | ABS PC Silicone |
Connectivity | MagSafe compatible only |
Compatibility | iPhone 12 & newer |
In the Box | MagPod Manual |
Website | stmgoods.com |
Pricing //STM MagPod Review
The STM MagPod comes in either Black or White colour options and is $49 from stmgoods.com.
That’s a great looking stand, and very handy how it can be moved into so many positions. Can you use this for Android phone as well like my Samsung or do they do an android version?
It’s for MagSafe only iPhones but you can apply one of the many 3rd party magnetic discs to the back of your Samsung and it will mimic MagSafe for you.
That’s great to know! Thanks.