For riders who prefer to use their smartphones for navigation, music, and other functions, mounting and charging while on the go are primary concerns. For obvious reasons, mounts used on motorcycles must be extra secure, as dropping the phone at speed could prove catastrophic. Likewise, wireless charging is a far more convenient option than plugging in, especially in inclement weather.
The Q-Mount Pro combines solid mounting and wireless charging into one IP67-rated weatherproof package, which boasts true one-handed operation for both locking and releasing the phone. Squeezing the two “quick access switches” on the sides of the mount chassis extends four stainless-steel expansion arms outward to approximately 7.25 inches diagonally, enough to easily hold a typical smartphone with a 6.5-inch screen and then some. My test subject was an Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max inside an Otterbox Defender case, which is about the largest rig you can fit within the Q-Mount Pro.
Once the phone is placed flat on the mount’s soft silicon mats, it depresses the center button which actuates a spring mechanism, snapping the expansion arms inward to pull tight onto the four corners of the phone. The phone is now firmly locked into position until the quick access switches are pressed in again to release it. The expansion arms have oversized plastic tips that accommodate phone cases up to approximately 0.5 inch thick like the aforementioned Otterbox, so there’s no need to remove the phone from the protective case to mount it.
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The device features a waterproof rocker switch on its rear side that allows the user to toggle between off, Qi wireless charging at 15 watts max, and USB 3.0 charging via a waterproof covered port at the bottom of the Q-Mount’s chassis. USB output is 5V/3A, 9V/2A, or 12V/1.5A. A power indicator LED on its left side lets you know if there’s juice available.
Installation is very simple using the included handlebar mount, which utilizes a ball end to interface with the phone mount chassis, allowing a wide range of adjustment. Once locked in place, the setup is solid and simple to operate with one hand. A mirror mount is also included for even more placement options, though we were happy with mounting to the handlebar.
Wiring is direct to the bike’s 12-volt DC power source, using the included hardwired harness.
Consult Q-Mount’s website for a comprehensive list of which phones are compatible with Qi wireless charging; nearly every major brand of phone is covered.
In short, the Q-Mount Pro is a functional, inexpensive device that enhances convenience for mounting and charging a smartphone on the fly. MSRP is $45, which includes free shipping.
For more information, visit q-mount.com.
Check out more product reviews and articles on Moshe K. Levy (aka Moto Mouth Moshe) on his website and YouTube channel.
The post Q-Mount Pro Charging Phone Mount | Gear Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com