When it comes to phone gadgets, the range of options is vast—and occasionally bizarre. Recently, I got my hands on four quirky phone accessories, spanning price points from $4 to $80. Some are practical, others less so, but I tested them all to see which ones are worth your time (and money). Here’s my review of the Phone Umbrella, Phone Lantern, Screen Cleaning Balls, and Chubby Buttons.
Where to Purchase
Below are links where you can purchase any of the items covered in this review.
The Contenders
The Phone Umbrella
- Price: $4
- Claim: Keeps your phone shaded and cool.
This gadget is exactly what it sounds like: a mini umbrella with a suction cup that attaches to your phone. Assembly was straightforward, though the design is a bit odd (you attach the umbrella to a suction cup shaped like a dog – or is it a pig?).
Real-World Test
Out in the sun, the umbrella did its job surprisingly well. After an hour in direct sunlight, the phone under the umbrella was 20°F cooler than an unprotected phone. While it may seem gimmicky, it actually serves a purpose, especially in hot climates where phones risk overheating.
Pros:
- Keeps phones cooler in sunlight.
- Lightweight and easy to attach.
Cons:
- Awkward to carry when not in use.
- Limited compatibility with phone cases.
Verdict: Functional but impractical for everyday use.
The Phone Lantern
- Price: $6.99
- Claim: Serves as a flashlight diffuser or nightlight for your phone.
This silicone gadget fits over your phone’s flashlight, diffusing the light to create a soft glow. While it looks cute, setup is fiddly, and it partially blocks the camera which renders its “flash diffuser” claim laughable.
Nightlight Test
It worked decently as a bedside light, but leaving your phone flashlight on all night isn’t practical or battery-friendly.
Pros:
- Aesthetic and functional as a nightlight.
Cons:
- Blocks the camera.
- No real advantage over dedicated nightlights.
Verdict: A novelty item with limited utility.
Screen Cleaning Balls
- Price: $13 (set of four)
- Claim: Removes smudges, dust, and grease from screens.
These small, double-sided cleaning balls have microfiber on one side and terry cloth on the other. I tested them on heavily smudged screens (including some greasy “Triscuit fingers” smudges), and they worked surprisingly well, especially the terry cloth side.
Pros:
- Compact and effective.
- Better than expected on greasy screens.
Cons:
- Some reviews mention durability issues.
- Comparable results with a regular microfiber cloth.
Verdict: A handy tool, though not strictly necessary if you already have screen-cleaning supplies.
Chubby Buttons
- Price: $80
- Claim: A wearable remote for controlling your phone, even with gloves on.
This Shark Tank-funded gadget is essentially a large, Bluetooth remote with chunky buttons. Designed for active users, it’s great for controlling music, taking photos, or adjusting volume without fumbling with your phone.
Outdoor Test
The device worked well, even with gloves. The buttons are responsive, but occasionally, it enters a power-saving mode, requiring an extra press to “wake up.”
Pros:
- Large, tactile buttons.
- Perfect for outdoor use and winter activities.
Cons:
- Expensive.
- Uses replaceable batteries instead of rechargeable ones.
Verdict: Excellent for outdoor enthusiasts, but the price may deter casual users.
Final Thoughts
Testing these gadgets was a mixed bag. Here’s my takeaway:
- Phone Umbrella: Surprisingly effective but impractical to carry.
- Phone Lantern: Cute but unnecessary; stick to a real nightlight.
- Screen Cleaning Balls: Great results but not indispensable.
- Chubby Buttons: Ideal for active users, though a bit pricey.
If I had to pick a winner, Chubby Buttons takes the prize for functionality, while the Screen Cleaning Balls earn honorable mention for convenience. What do you think? Have you tried any of these gadgets? Let me know in the comments!
Video Review
Watch the video review of these gadgets below.