Pop, grip, and never drop! That tiny disc on the back of everyone’s phone isn’t just trendy—it’s revolutionized how we hold our devices. PopSockets, invented by David Barnett, a philosophy professor at the University of Colorado Boulder, have sold over 230 million units across 75 countries since 2012 [1]. They continue to be one of the best promotional items each year. Here’s everything you should know about custom PopSockets and why they make standout giveaways.
What Is a PopSocket?
A PopSocket is a collapsible grip and stand that attaches to the back of your phone or phone case.
Key features include:
- A flexible accordion-style stem that pops out and folds flat
- A round, customizable disc on top where your logo or artwork goes
- A sticky, repositionable adhesive that retains grip with multiple uses
- A slim, lightweight design that doesn’t add bulk
When it’s expanded, a PopSocket gives users a more secure grip for texting, scrolling, or snapping selfies. It also props up the phone on a flat surface, perfect for video calls or watching content hands-free.
There are multiple styles, including:
- PopGrips: The original and still a fan favorite
- PopWallet+: With built-in card storage
- MagSafe-compatible versions: Designed for newer iPhones without compromising grip
No matter your audience, there’s a PopSocket style to match—and that’s why they’re still a go-to for giveaways.

How to Put a PopSocket On
Attaching a PopSocket is quick and easy. Here’s how to do it right the first time.
- Clean the back of your phone or case using an alcohol wipe to remove oils
- Let the surface dry completely to ensure a firm hold
- Peel off the film covering the adhesive base
- Stick the PopSocket where you want it—centered or slightly lower than center is ideal
- Press down for at least 30 seconds to lock it in place
Pro tips: Let it sit for about an hour before heavy use. This helps the adhesive form a strong, lasting bond. Place it where it feels natural to hold your phone one-handed, but not so low that it interferes with wireless charging (especially for MagSafe users).
How to Remove a PopSocket
If you need to move your PopSocket or switch it to a different case, follow these simple steps.
- Grip the base (not the top disc) and gently lift one side
- Slowly peel it back across the surface instead of pulling it straight up
- If it’s stuck, slide dental floss or a thin card under the base to loosen it
Pro tip: Taking your time helps preserve the adhesive, so you can reuse the same PopSocket again. Many users successfully switch their PopSockets between phones using this gentle removal method.
How to Change a PopSocket
Some PopSockets feature swappable tops, making them even more fun and functional. Want to change up the design without replacing the whole thing? Here’s how.
- Fully expand the PopSocket to access the twist-lock
- Push down and turn the top counterclockwise until it pops off
- Align your new top with the base, press down, and twist clockwise to lock it in
This lets users mix and match styles while keeping your branded base in action. It’s a small touch that gives your promo product extra staying power.
How To Customize a PopSocket
PopSockets were made to be customized, and that’s where your branding can shine.
Custom branding options include:
- Full-color prints that wrap edge-to-edge
- Background colors that match your brand palette
- Unique finishes like matte, gloss, soft-touch, or metallic
- Co-branding that pairs your logo with the trusted PopSockets name
Our team here at Pinnacle Promotion can help bring your vision to life. We’ll work with your branding to make sure every detail pops—literally—and that your design translates beautifully to the circular format.
How Long Do Custom PopSockets Take to Ship?
We offer fast and flexible turnaround times to match your schedule.
- Standard Production: 1-3 business days after artwork approval
- 24-Hour Rush: Available for some PopSocket items, upon request
Shipping time is additional, but we’ll walk you through all your options to make sure you get your order on time. Just let us know your event date—we’ll help you pick the right production path.
Need to ship to multiple locations? We offer drop shipping services for sending products directly to your team members or clients without handling the logistics yourself. This is perfect for remote teams or distributed events.
8 Reasons Custom PopSockets Are Still a Top Giveaway Item in 2025
PopSockets continue to dominate the promotional products landscape, and for good reason!
- The appeal spans practically all age groups, from teens to seniors
- Your brand gets thousands of daily impressions as users handle their phones
- These grips significantly reduce phone drops and protect expensive devices
- Say goodbye to “pinky fatigue” and hand strain from holding large phones
- Recipients genuinely appreciate and use the practical functionality
- Easily pack them for trade shows, direct mail campaigns, and event giveaways
- Brand exposure lasts for years, long after most promotional items are forgotten
- Virtually any phone or case works with PopSockets, ensuring universal compatibility
They’re perfect for college recruitment events, tech conferences, corporate wellness initiatives, retail promotions, and virtually any occasion where you want your brand in hand—literally.

Elevate Your Brand with Custom PopSockets Today
PopSockets check every box when it comes to promotional products: they’re functional, fun, long-lasting, and used by almost everyone. And when your logo is printed on something people carry every day, your brand stays visible and memorable.
Pinnacle Knows Promo and we can help you create a custom PopSocket that gets attention in the best way possible. From design help to on-time delivery, our team is here to make your giveaway a success.
Explore our PopSockets and reach out to get started today.
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