Suction Cup:

The suction cup has become popular due to its strong grip and ease of installation: simply degrease the surface, press the mount, and lower the lever to secure it firmly. Many models now feature 2 or 3-layer suction cups with a special adhesive base, allowing reliable attachment on both smooth glass and textured dashboards. The silicone layer is removable and can be wiped or washed before reinstallation.

However, while it’s a universal and reliable solution, the silicone adhesive base struggles to withstand high temperatures. In hot weather, the silicone can become viscous, causing the suction cup to gradually slide down, leaving a difficult-to-clean residue. This reduces its effectiveness even at lower temperatures after the first instance.

Models without an adhesive base don’t face this issue but may have reduced grip in cold weather, posing a risk of dropping the holder and smartphone even on minor bumps. Therefore, it’s advisable to install such mounts in regions with moderate climates or on the dashboard.

3M Scotch Tape:

Less practical but more reliable, double-sided adhesive tape performs well in direct sunlight and cold weather (maintaining normal tenacity between -40°C to +140°C, with a strength of about 7 kg per 1 cm²). 3M tape is versatile and can be used on glass, dashboard, or other cabin surfaces. However, removing such mounts can be challenging due to adhesive residue. Applying the mount over an electrostatic film resolves this issue, available for around 100 – 150 rubles on most marketplaces. It’s easy to remove and leaves no stubborn stains.

Deflector:

The deflector mount is popular for its easy installation, similar to suction cups. However, it has significant drawbacks:

• It can damage the deflector as it’s not designed for additional loads.
• It may change position or fall out, especially when attached to a vertical grille.
• It blocks airflow, making it impractical if you rely on air conditioning or heating.

Deflector mounts can be in the form of an elastic “clothespin” or a threaded mechanism for self-adjustment, with the latter being preferable.

CD Drive:

While CD drives are becoming less common, they still exist in many vehicles. They offer simplicity and reliability but can only be mounted in one place. The low position of the stereo’s CD drive can cause discomfort as it requires taking eyes off the road to view the smartphone.

Summary:

When choosing a car holder, consider the most comfortable location first. For glass, models with 3M Scotch and a gyroscopic rod are ideal. For the dashboard, both 3M tape and suction cups with an adhesive base are suitable. While deflector mounts have drawbacks like airflow obstruction and varying tenacity, they may be worth considering if these issues aren’t critical. Mounting to a CD drive is convenient if the location is comfortable for viewing.