Suction cup

The suction cup mount has become popular for its strong grip and easy installation: simply degrease the surface, press the mount, and lower the lever to secure it firmly.

Modern models often feature 2 or 3-layer suction cups, incorporating a special adhesive base that ensures secure attachment not only to smooth glass but also textured dashboards. These mounts typically include a reusable silicone layer that can be wiped or washed for easy reinstallation.

While silicone adhesive bases offer a universal and reliable solution, they are susceptible to heat. In hot weather, the silicone can become a viscous gel, causing the suction cup to gradually slide down and leave a difficult-to-clean residue. After the first instance, its effectiveness diminishes, and it may slide down even in milder temperatures.

Models without adhesive bases avoid this issue but may have reduced grip in cold weather. There is a risk of the holder dropping with the smartphone even on minor bumps.

Therefore, it’s advisable to install such mounts in regions with moderate climates or place them securely on the dashboard.

3M-scotch tape

A less practical but more reliable option is double-sided adhesive tape, which performs well in both direct sunlight and cold weather. It maintains strong adhesion in temperatures ranging from -40°C to +140°C, with a typical strength of about 7 kg per 1 cm².

In terms of versatility, 3M adhesive is as versatile as a suction cup and can be attached to glass, the dashboard, or any other surface inside the cabin. The main drawback, however, is the difficulty of removing such a mount, as cleaning 3M adhesive residue can be challenging. To mitigate this issue, simply apply the mount over an electrostatic film, which can be purchased for around 100 – 150 rubles on any marketplace. This film is easy to remove and leaves no stubborn stains behind.

Deflector

In terms of popularity, mounting on the deflector rivals suction cups due to its ease of installation. However, it comes with significant drawbacks:

1. Risk of damaging the deflector, as it’s not designed for additional weight.
2. Potential for the holder to shift position or even fall out, especially on vertical grilles.
3. Obstruction of airflow, making it impractical if you use air conditioning or heating.

Deflector mounts can come in the form of an elastic “clothespin” or a threaded mechanism for self-adjustment. I recommend opting for the latter to minimize these issues.

CD drives are becoming less common in modern vehicles, though they still exist in many machines. Their advantages include simplicity and reliability. However, they are limited to a single mounting location. Additionally, the position of the CD drive in the stereo can be quite low, which can cause discomfort as it requires taking eyes off the road to view a smartphone.

In summary, the choice of car holder attachment should primarily focus on comfort and convenience. For mounting on glass, models using 3M adhesive with a gyroscopic arm are recommended. Dashboard mounting can utilize both 3M adhesive and suction cups with an adhesive base. Mounting on the deflector has drawbacks such as airflow obstruction and potential lack of tenacity, but can be considered if these issues are not critical. Using a CD drive for mounting is viable if the location is comfortable and convenient for visibility.