If you've ever tried driving with your phone in your hand and using it for directions, you'll love having a spot to store your phone. A car mount lets drivers keep their hands on the wheel and still navigate with their GPS or take hands-free calls. But with so many options available, making a decision can be difficult: would you rather have a dashboard or windshield car mount?
Here in this guide, you will be able to compare the two, understand the advantages and disadvantages of both, and make the most suitable choice for your vehicle and driving style.
Let's do it.
What Is a Car Mount and Why Do You Need One?
A car mount is an apparatus that holds your smartphone in place while you are driving. It allows you to glance at your screen without needing to physically hold your phone, which is safer and, in most states, legal.
Hands-Free Driving Legislation and Safety
Conversing on your phone or texting while driving is not only unsafe — in most states, it's illegal. That's where a car mount is useful. It keeps your hands on the wheel and your eyes closer to the road, without distraction, and on the legal side.
Daily Convenience with Car Mounts
Whether you're looking at traffic updates, streaming music, or navigating to a new location, a car mount holds your phone in a comfortable position to see and access. It also prevents your device from flying all over the place, getting lodged under the seat, or on the floor when you brake.
So now that we have a sense of why car mounts are needed let's talk about where to put them — on your dashboard or your windshield.
What are Windshield Car Mounts?
The instant you hear the words car mount, the primary thing that comes to mind is probably a windshield variety. Such car mounts have suction cups that adhere to your windshield.
How Windshield Car Mounts Function
Most phone windshield mounts are made of a suction cup and a phone cradle to support your phone. Some are flexible or have adjustable arms where you can place your phone wherever you feel comfortable. They are a great option because they are easy to install and relocate.
Benefits of Windshield Car Mounts
There is a reason why most drivers like the type of car mount:
● Eye-Level Observation: These are placed higher up on the windshield so that there is less eye travel off the road.
● Simple to install: Clean the glass, push the suction cup, and you're set.
● Adjustability: Most have 360-degree rotation or extendable arms.
Drawbacks You Should Know
But they're not flawless:
● Can Block Your View: Depending on how you install it, the mount will obstruct your view of the road.
● Not Legal Everywhere: There are laws in certain states that make anything mounted on the windshield illegal.
● Sensitive to Heat: Sunlight and temperature changes may harm suction in the long term.
Therefore, how are dashboard mounts enhanced?
What are dashboard car mounts?
Dashboard mounts are also a favorite among car mounts. They are mounted on or stuck onto the dashboard and leave your windshield unobstructed.
How Dashboard Car Mounts Work
These mounts use adhesive pads, sticky gel suction cups, or heavy bases to stay in place. Just like windshield mounts, they also have cradles and arms to hold your phone firmly.
Why Drivers Like Dashboard Mounts
That is why dashboard mounts are a driver's best friend:
● Legal Everywhere: No concern about windshield laws.
● No View Obstruction: Your windshield is free and clear.
● Ideal for Steep Windshields: Cars with steep windshields are easily compatible with dashboard mounts.
Downsides to Consider
However, dashboard mounts also have some issues:
● Surface Matters: They won't stick well to wavy or uneven dashboards.
● Lower Placement: Since your phone is being held lower, you may end up looking down more often.
● May Leave Marks: Adhesive or suction may leave marks.
Then, in what ways are the two comparable to one another?
Windshield vs Dashboard Car Mounts: What Wins?
It's clear that windshield and dashboard car mounts both have their perks. Let's pit them against each other where it matters.
Visibility and Eye-Level Access
Windshield mounts are likely to give you a better view since your phone is at the level of your eyes. That is, not as much leaning forward, which leaves your eyes on driving.
Lower dashboard mounts are still adjustable well, though — especially if your dash is flat or slightly raised. But if your phone is below your line of sight, it will take a little longer to glance at your display.
Legal Matters in Your Area
That's when you require dashboard mounts. Windshield mounts are prohibited or limited in California and Minnesota. A dashboard car mount is always the best option when it comes to legal compliance.
Installation and Surface Compatibility
Windshield mounts stick to glass, but dashboard mounts are surface-sensitive. Flat, smooth dashboards are fine, but textured or curved dashboards are an issue.
So how do you choose the best for you?
How to Choose the Ideal Automobile Mount for You
All vehicles — or operators — are not equal. Buying the right car mount is a question of a couple of personal factors.
Consider Your Driving Style
If you drive far or heavily use your phone for navigation, a windshield mount might be more convenient. It's where you can see it, and most drivers like the feel.
On the other hand, casual drivers or those who drive in cities where laws are stricter may find dashboard mounts more practical and legal.
Consider the Interior of Your Car
Look at your dashboard surface. Is it flat, smooth, and wide enough for a mount to sit comfortably? Or is it curved, irregular, or has vents that could get in the way?
Also, consider how steep your windshield is. In smaller vehicles, a windshield mount can block too much of your view.
Don't Forget Local Laws
Before buying any car mount, verify the laws in your state. There are certain states that allow windshield mounts, but only in particular places (like the bottom corners). Other states ban them completely. Dashboard mounts are usually always legal.
Have you not yet decided which one to buy? Maybe it is time to think about where you are buying your car mount.
Why Choose GRxplore for Your Car Mounting Requirements
We at GRxplore know car accessories like the back of our hand. Our car mounts are made to solve real problems for real drivers.
Reliable Design and Quality
Our dashboard and windshield car mounts are grip-tested, tested for durability, and performance-tested. Our mounts will not be shaken loose by heat or rough roads — they grip and stay in place.
Driver-First Features and Support
We focus on the key aspects: strong suction, easy adjustment, thin profile, and compatibility with any phone. And with our customer support team always ready to help, you can always rely on us if you need help selecting the best product.
Used by Thousands of Drivers
Whether they're everyday commuters or road-tripping enthusiasts, GRxplore has helped thousands of drivers make the switch to safer, smarter driving with our car mounts.
Thus, which mount do you use?
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a dashboard mount and a windshield car mount really just boils down to what works for you.
If you want more visible space and easy access, and local law allows it, then a windshield car mount would be the appropriate choice. But if you want a legal, low-profile unit that won't get in your face, then a dashboard car mount is your best option.
Whatever you choose, ensure that it is appropriate to your lifestyle, your car, and the way you drive. And don't forget — the most important thing of all is keeping your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road.
Still, have questions or need help selecting the perfect car mount?
We're here for you. Contact us at GRxplore, and we'll help you find the ideal match for your vehicle. Safe driving begins here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is a dashboard car mount better than a windshield mount?
It's up to your needs. Dashboard car mounts are legal in all places and will not block your view. Windshield mounts provide improved visibility but may be illegal in certain states.
2. Are windshields or dashboards cracked by car mounts?
Better mounts like GRxplore mounts are not designed to be damaging. Poor-quality adhesives or suction cups, on the other hand, might leave residue or detach after a while.
3. Can one use a car mount with a phone case?
Yes, most phone mounts accommodate standard phone cases. Just ensure the mount's grip or magnetic pad is sufficiently strong for the extra thickness.
4. Are you entitled to use a car mount while driving?
It is acceptable to have a car mount anywhere except where windshield mounts are not allowed. Check local regulations for safety.
5. How do I keep my car mount from coming loose?
Install after the surface has been cleaned and kept away from harsh temperatures. GRxplore car mounts use high-quality suction and adhesives for extra grip.
