Apulat Portable Magnetic Side Mount (for iPhone, iPad, and second screen)
Quick take
This portable magnetic side mount uses a rubber-coated neodymium magnet plus adhesive metal plates to attach a phone, iPad, or secondary display next to your laptop or monitor. It’s a practical choice for desk setups and mobile workflows like Apple Sidecar and Samsung DeX, but the hold quality depends on flat, compatible surfaces and giving the adhesive time to cure.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Strong magnetic mounting with a rubber-coated neodymium magnet for side-by-side device positioning.
- No tools required, setup is straightforward once metal plates are applied.
- Designed to support Apple Sidecar and Samsung DeX-style second-screen workflows.
- Provides multiple plate options (rectangular and round) and supports devices heavier than 12 oz with recommended setup.
Cons
- Metal plates rely on adhesive bonding, so proper surface prep and cure time matter.
- Plates do not stick well to round surfaces, and fit can vary by device/hinge/cover texture.
- Angle and viewing position may not satisfy everyone for longer portable monitors.
- For heavier devices, you may need more than one unit, which increases cost.
What buyers think
Buyer feedback is mixed but mostly falls into two themes: strong magnetic performance when installed correctly, and inconsistent adhesion or fit when the mounting surface is not ideal. Several buyers report the concept works well for holding tablets or adding a nearby display, emphasizing the importance of applying plates carefully, cleaning surfaces, and allowing adhesive time to cure. Others mention the adhesive plate attachment can fail after initial use, or that compatibility is limited on certain device backs or specific laptop/cover surfaces (for example, cases where the plates did not bond as expected). There is also limited but recurring concern about the viewing angle when attached to a side, plus some buyers find the setup can feel difficult to reposition quickly due to how powerfully the magnet engages.
How it works (and why surface prep matters)
The system is simple: the rubber-coated neodymium magnet snaps to the metal plates you attach to two devices (your laptop/monitor on one side, and your phone/tablet/second screen on the other). The plates are steel with an adhesive backing, so the magnet only does part of the job. If the adhesive does not form a solid bond, the magnetic strength cannot fully compensate.
Two practical takeaways show up across buyer experiences. First, the mounting surface should be clean and dry before you stick the plates. Second, adhesive strength builds over time, so it is wise to avoid stressing the connection immediately after installation. If you are setting this up for a second-screen workflow you rely on during the day, plan a “set it and let it cure” window before regular use.
Compatibility and device fit
This mount is intended for pairing a phone or tablet with a laptop or monitor for nearby placement. It is also positioned as a way to expand your desktop with Apple Sidecar (iPad as secondary display) and to support Samsung DeX (phone attachment alongside the computer display).
It also includes plate options so you can match different device backs. The key limitation is that the adhesive plates need a flat, compatible surface. The manufacturer guidance notes that the plates will not stick properly on round surfaces, and buyer feedback supports that some laptop/cover textures can reduce plate adhesion. If your device has a curved back, unusual coating, or a case or cover that hides a flat metal surface, test fit expectations accordingly.
Weight and how to set up for heavier tablets or portable monitors
The mount is rated for devices over 12 oz, and the setup guidance recommends using two units (one near the top, one near the bottom) for heavier loads. This is mainly about stability and reducing stress on a single attachment point. If you are planning to attach a heavier portable monitor or a large tablet, it’s worth budgeting for that multi-point approach rather than expecting one mount to handle everything comfortably.
Pros and cons by buyer use case
Best for
- People using an iPad as a secondary display via Apple Sidecar and want the iPad positioned beside the laptop.
- Samsung DeX users who want a phone held next to the desktop screen for a tidy, side-by-side workspace.
- Desk setups where you want a phone or tablet within view for calls, notifications, or quick reference.
- Buyers comfortable with adhesive-based mounting and willing to follow installation steps carefully.
Who should be careful (or choose another approach)
- Anyone whose laptop/monitor back or cover is not flat, has curves, or uses a surface that may not bond well with adhesive plates.
- Buyers who need frequent repositioning, because strong magnet engagement can make it harder to adjust quickly.
- People expecting perfect side-angle viewing for all portable monitor sizes, since angle satisfaction appears variable.
- Anyone who wants a purely removable, non-adhesive mounting solution (this uses adhesive plates).
Installation tips that affect real-world results
- Clean and dry: Wipe the bonding area and let it fully dry before applying plates.
- Peel carefully and align: Apply plates with correct positioning near the edge as intended for side mounting.
- Let adhesive cure: Give bonding time before using the mount in its normal “load-bearing” role.
- Use the recommended multi-unit setup for heavier devices: This helps spread forces and improves stability.
- Watch wireless charging compatibility: If you plan to mount a phone that supports wireless charging, be mindful of how the plate and phone back design could affect charging performance.
Price and availability
Pricing can vary, but this mount is positioned as an affordable add-on compared with many monitor arms and second-screen accessories. If your use case calls for two units to support heavier devices, the total cost becomes more important. Check the current price and shipping options before deciding.
Verdict
The Apulat Portable Magnetic Side Mount is a strong fit for users who want a compact, no-tools way to place a phone, iPad, or secondary display next to a laptop or monitor, especially for Apple Sidecar and Samsung DeX workflows. The main tradeoff is that success depends on adhesive plate installation, including using a flat compatible surface and allowing proper cure time. If your device backs are curved, or you want non-adhesive mounting, you may be better served by a traditional stand or bracket system.
FAQs
Will it work with Apple Sidecar?
It is designed to support Apple Sidecar setups by letting you attach an iPad as a second display beside your MacBook or desktop workspace.
Will it work with Samsung DeX?
Yes. The mount is intended to attach a compatible Samsung phone to a laptop or desktop display setup to support DeX-style workflows.
Does the metal plate stick permanently?
The plates use an adhesive backing, so they are meant to bond to your device back. Adhesive strength improves as it cures, and you should follow surface cleaning and cure time guidance for best results.
Can I use it on a round or curved laptop back?
It is not recommended for round surfaces. The plates need a flat, compatible mounting surface for reliable adhesion.
How heavy of a device can it hold?
It’s rated for devices over 12 oz. For heavier devices, the setup guidance recommends using two units (for example, one near the top and one near the bottom) to improve stability.
Does it interfere with wireless charging?
It could, depending on your phone model and how the plate sits on the back. If wireless charging matters to you, be cautious when attaching plates to a wireless-charging phone.
Specifications
| Product Title | Portable Magnetic Side Mount, Strong Holder to Attach Your iPhone, iPad or Second Screen to Your Laptop or Desktop Computer Monitor, Expand Your MacBook with a Mobile Display |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Computers & Accessories > Tablet Accessories > Mounts |
| Brand | Apulat |
| Manufacturer | Apulat |
| Model Name | holder |
| Model Number | 85-93WJ-E2VQ |
| Item Weight | 340.19 Grams |
| Color | Black |
| Form Factor | Desk stand |
| Compatible Devices | Laptops, Desktops, Second Screen or Display, Tablets, iPad, MacBook, iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, Samsung |
| Compatible Phone Models | iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, Samsung |
| Mounting Type | Magnetic, Side and Top Mount |
| Other Special Features of the Product | Portable |
| Antenna Location | Laptop, Desktop, MacBook, iPad, iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Screen, Display |
| Adjustable Length | Yes |
| Fastening Type | Magnetic |
| Theme | No theme |
| Style Name | Portable |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Mfr Part Number | 85-93WJ-E2VQ |
| Built-In Media | 1 magnetic holder, 2 rectangular metal plates, 2 round metal plate |
| Warranty Description | 1 year |
| Age Range Description | Adult |
| Enclosure Material | Alloy Steel, Polycarbonate, Rubber |
| Finish | Rubberized |
Recommended next
Lamicall Gooseneck Tablet Holder, Tablet Stand
A flexible gooseneck clip stand designed for 4.7 to 10.5-inch tablets and e-readers, aimed at comfortable reading and viewing from desk or bed. It offers adjustable positioning and easy mounting, but it is mainly for low-interaction use, and some buyers report the arm or base hardware can fail over time if moved or adjusted aggressively.
Coolpow tablet holder for car (windshield + dash) suction cup 360°
A universal suction-cup tablet mount designed for car dashboards and windshields, with a deep clamp and 360° adjustability. It’s a strong fit for using your iPad or tablet as GPS or for media, but buyers should note it can feel slightly shaky on rough roads and it depends on suction placement and surface conditions.
FANGOR Car Headrest Mount Holder, Tablet Holder for Kids in Back Seats, Anti-Slip Strap and Holding Net,Angle-Adjustable/Fits All 7 Inch to 12.9 Inch Tablets
A strap-and-net style headrest tablet mount designed for kids’ tablets in the back seat. It focuses on quick installation, angle adjustment, and a rubber net plus elastic/Velcro-style fastening meant to reduce device movement while driving. Main caveat: durability of the elastic bands is a common concern, so it helps to handle the straps gently.
WONNIE Tablet Holder for Car, Upgraded iPad Holder for Car Mount Headrest, iPad Mount Back Seat for Kids with Anti-Slip Strap
The WONNIE car headrest tablet holder uses a silicone holding net and nylon strap to secure 7 to 12.9-inch tablets (including iPads) for backseat movie time. It is designed to install without tools and detach quickly, with a fit-and-grip approach intended to reduce tablet slipping during drives.