Pros & Cons
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- Props up almost any mobile device.
- Comfortable to use.
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- Slightly expensive.
- Doesn't pack flat for travel.
If you're trying to follow a recipe on your tablet while cooking, or simply watching a long video on your phone, Dockem's iProp Universal Tablet Bean Bag Stand can help. The $29.99 accessory isn't exactly feature-rich, but less is more in some cases, and the iProp is a good, simple solution for keeping your mobile devices propped up without needing to use your hands. Of course, you could just get a case with a propping stand, but the iProp is for those who prefer to let the sleek designs of their mobile devices shine rather than cover them up with a case.
Design and Usage
The iProp Universal Tablet Bean Bag Stand looks exactly as its name suggests. It's a 5.9 by 5.9 by 7.1 (HWD) bean bag with an attached silicone shelf and back rest for your mobile device that accommodates both portrait and landscape viewing modes. The bean bag is filled with micro beads and is covered by a washable polyester mesh fabric which you can unzip to store earphones, charging cables, or even an external battery.
The name also suggests the iProp is only for tablets, but I used it to prop up an iPhone 5s ( at Amazon) and Nexus 5 ( at Amazon) , as well as a number of other phones floating around the PC Labs. It also worked great for a number of different size tablets. The lip on the shelf doesn't cover device screens, so you won't miss a single line of text. And you can adjust the viewing angle somewhat by squishing the bean bag around. It works best on a flat surface, but the iProp keeps your devices upright on slightly uneven surfaces fairly well, too. It's particularly comfortable to use on the couch while lying down to watch a video.
Weighing in at 7.4 ounces, the iProp can easily be transported pretty much anywhere you have room for it. However, it's not exactly "packable" as the bean bag doesn't really flatten; it would take up quite a bit of space in carry-on luggage. A handle at the top of the iProp lets you carry it, but again, it isn't the most travel-friendly solution.
Conclusion
The Dockem iProp Universal Tablet Bean Bag Stand is a bit pricey for what it is, but it does a nice job of keeping any of your mobile devices upright. Despite the iProp's utterly basic design and features, it preserves your mobile device's functionality far better than an expensive charging dock. Many docks, such as the Henge Docks Gravitas , are only designed for one particular device (the Gravitas is for iOS devices only), don't support landscape docking, and aren't headphone-friendly (the Gravitas has a DAC audio line out). The iProp is simple, but in this case, it works.
If you'd prefer to go with a case to prop up your mobile device, check out our picks for theThe Best iPad Air Cases and The Best iPad mini Cases.