The Best IPad Holders and IPad Mounts for Cars

How We Chose the Best iPad Holders and iPad Mounts

The iKross iPad holder mounts securely to seat headrests; it allows 360 degrees of rotation so that you can choose a comfortable viewing angle. We especially like the telescoping strut that allows the tablet to be positioned between the back seats.

The iKross can accommodate a variety of popular tablets and devices with screen sizes between 4.5 and 10 inches and is among the most configurable. Buyers praised this model’s durability, citing several years of trouble-free use.

The tablet mount works for basic two-post headrest setups and can be fixed on either the driver’s or the passenger’s side. If there’s a problem, it’s that this adjustable tablet holder mounts too securely; some users found demounting the iKross difficult. The iKross can only fit devices up to 0.8 inches thick, so it may not work for extra-thick impact-resistant cases.

This tablet holder from TFY uses a simple system to attach to a car’s headrest; a wide, elastic band wraps around the headrest and closes with velcro. While this simplifies the attachment and removal process, it means that you’ll see the black elastic strap on the front of the headrest. It also means you can’t use this iPad holder on vehicles with fixed, non-adjustable headrests.

It will hold 7 to 11-inch tablets and should work with most popular tablet cases too. Besides the too obvious elastic band, the TFY has an elegant profile, free of excessive protrusions and awkward fasteners.

There were a few user complaints about tablets being jostled out of the holder on bumpy roads; still, this model earned over 90% positive reviews. It would've earned the top place here, except for the fact that viewing angle and tablet position are more limited with the TFY relative to others on the market.

The Arkon tablet mount is a much more permanent iPad mounting solution than the other models mentioned here; it bolts to seat attachment points or the vehicle's floor. It's aimed at professionals who need their devices handy for work duties out in the field.

This doesn't mean you can't use it for more conventional purposes like keeping kids entertained on a long road trip. Just understand that installation and removal will require breaking out your tool kit and a greater investment of time.

Features we like here include the 18-inch gooseneck and swivel ball system that makes it easy to find the viewing position that works best for you. The mounting system also allows easy access to any buttons on your device. Tablets ranging from 7 to 18.4 inches will fit, according to the manufacturer.

Some consumers complained that the springs which provide tension to hold devices in place broke, while others had issues with road vibrations that worked their way up the mounting column, making their tablets challenging to read.

We caution against distracted driving. Use care when using any tablet or other device in your car.

Macally’s HRMOUNTPRO is similar to our number one pick from iKross in that it also mounts to headrest posts with thumbscrews. It features a telescopic strut so your device can be positioned in your preferred spot. It doesn’t top our list because we think its adjustment system isn’t entirely on par with our Editor’s Choice iPad holder. That tablet mount has a simple ball-and-socket system.

However, this is still a worthy option because it offers 360-degree-rotation and will support most any device between 4.5 and 10 inches wide. It also features a stabilizer to keep your device firmly in place, and its compactness and lightness simplify switching between vehicles.

Some buyers found it wobbly or not well made, but 80% of consumer reviews were positive. That’s our minimum threshold to include a product.

Lamicall uses a tension rod to keep this iPad mount secured to the headrest posts, not unlike what you might use to hold a shower curtain in place. While this makes installation a snap, the manufacturer lists several makes and models of cars that it’s not compatible with; specifically those with less than 4 inches between their headrest support posts.

But the Lamicall P does have 360-degree-rotation through the use of a ball-and-socket joint to attach the device grip. This is also one of the less expensive options you can buy. The manufacturer claims it’s “universal,” meaning it will accommodate any device. We recommend checking carefully to make sure your tablet will fit; manufacturers tend to throw around terms like “universal” somewhat recklessly.

The Lamicall P is (arguably) more elegant than some of our other picks, but it lacks its versatility. Users praised its easy installation and adjustment, and it racked up a very respectable 86% positive reviews.

Different Types of iPad mounts/iPad holders

There are several common systems for attaching tablet mounts to your car. Most are temporary, allowing for quick installation and removal, although one of our recommended products does mount to the floor of a vehicle or its seat rails for a very secure connection.

Windshield/Dash Mount

Suction cup mounting systems are quick and easy, but like air vent mounts are better for phones and smaller devices. We didn’t recommend any suction cup-mounted iPad holders in this article.

Headrest Mount

These are the most popular types of iPad holders for cars. They’re specifically made to keep backseat passengers entertained and are usually very easy to install with no tools required. Some are fixed, while others offer telescoping and rotating, which makes it easier to find the perfect position.

Seat Rail/Floor Mount

Heavier, semi-permanent tablet holders mount to seat rails or the vehicle's floor. Installing them takes time and requires the use of tools, but you end up with a much more secure attachment than other styles.

Air Vent Mount

Air vent mounts are a better solution for your phone than your tablet because they aren’t well suited to coping with the weight of larger devices. As their name implies, this style of device holder clips into the directional vanes of your car’s HVAC vents.

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