Launched in 2014 by David Barnett, PopSockets have gone from quirky gadget to everyday essential. If you’re new to them, a PopSocket is a small, circular plastic grip that sticks to a flat surface—most often, the back of a phone. You pull it out, slip your fingers in, and boom: better grip, fewer drops, and easier selfies.

Once a favorite among Gen Z, PopSockets are now used by just about everyone. And while they’re still most commonly seen on smartphones, there are plenty of clever ways to use them beyond just your iPhone or Android.

Unexpected Ways to Use PopSockets

1. Make Your Kindle Easier to Hold (and Prop Up)
If you’ve ever dropped your Kindle on your face while reading in bed, this one’s for you. Stick a PopSocket to the back of your e-reader for a firmer grip, especially during one-handed reading sessions. Better yet, pop it out to turn it into a makeshift stand, giving your hands a break.

2. Upgrade Your Nintendo Switch Setup
Gamers have discovered that adding a couple of PopSockets to the back of a Nintendo Switch gives you more stability when holding it in handheld mode. Some users even prefer this setup to the Switch’s built-in kickstand—it’s more flexible and feels more secure.

3. Tangle-Free Earbud Storage
Wired headphone fans know the struggle: tangled cords in pockets or bags. Solve this by attaching two PopSockets vertically on any flat surface—like your desk or wall. Wrap your earbuds around them, and they’ll stay neat, accessible, and untangled. It’s a small DIY that saves daily frustration.

4. Organize Cables and Chargers
That same two-PopSocket trick works great for laptop chargers, USB cords, or any other cables prone to chaos. Stick them near your desk, nightstand, or charging station for a quick, no-fuss organization hack.

5. Hang Your VR Headset
If you own a Meta Quest 3 (or another VR headset), you can stick a PopSocket on a wall, shelf, or closet door and use it as a headset hook. It’s a cheap and simple storage option that keeps your gear off the floor and within easy reach.

PopSockets: Small Gadget, Big Utility

What started as a selfie aid has quietly become a multi-purpose tool for tech lovers and neat freaks alike. Whether you’re reading, gaming, organizing cables, or storing gear, a few well-placed PopSockets can make your life a little more streamlined—and a lot more hands-free.

Sometimes the best gadgets are the ones that just stick around.