Look, I am not going to romanticize my experience with the Orbitkey Crossbody Phone Strap because it is, after all, a strap. There is not a lot of love between us. It is purely a one-way transactional relationship. What I am going to do is tell you my real-world experience with it. So, yeah, I am reviewing the Orbitkey Crossbody Phone Strap, but it is going to be a quick one because, as mentioned, it is just a strap. Before I proceed, here is a rundown of the specs and features of the accessory:
Features:
• Innovative, quick-adjustable strap
• Keeps your phone hands-free, yet within reach
• Premium woven cord
• Durable zinc alloy hardware
• Universal compatibility (iPhone, Samsung, and more)
• Swivel hardware prevents tangles
Specs:
• Strap: 100% Recycled Dacron Cord
• Metal Hardware: Zinc Alloy
• Metal Coating: Matte Oil Electroplated
• Phone Tab: TPU laminated fabric
• Usable length: Minimum 500 mm / Maximum 730 mm
How It Works
The accessory has two parts: the strap with the hardware, and a phone tab. You place the phone tab inside the case, letting the integrated loop stick through the charging port opening of the case, and then snap your phone into the case. Next, all you have to do is attach the carabiner-style hardware to the tab’s loop, and voila! You are good to go. It is really that simple.
First Impression
Well crafted with solid materials, and it looks great too. The thick diameter of the woven cord gives me confidence that it will not just snap in the event of a heavy tug. And it most definitely will not wear out like thin straps will. The innovative, quick-adjustable strap worked as advertised, though it does need some practice to get it to operate like in the promo video because it is not your usual adjustment. But once you get the hang of it, this swift action does turn heads. Also, the adjustment will not go renegade on you. Once it is set, it is set—even if you happen to tug on it firmly.
My Experience
The fact that it is adjustable is already a step up from its competition (looking over at Apple). You may think the thick cord is an eyesore, but heck, not only is it not—it is a head-turner, screams individuality and non-conformation—just the way I like it. Plus, because it is thick, it has less pressure on my shoulder. That is important because my iPhone 14 Pro with a dbrand Ghost 2.0 Case weighs a ton. OK, I may have exaggerated here, but if it does get tugged on, the pressure on your shoulder is definitely going to be way less. Under normal circumstances, though, it is comfortable to wear.
I love how this strap mimics a shoelace with the aglet. But obviously, this is no ordinary aglet. Like the rest of the hardware, it is made of zinc alloy. That luxe is geek speak. Unlike most crossbody straps, this little guy has swivel hardware that liberates your phone from tangles. The only thing is, your phone may be facing in and out due to movement as you wear it. But that is hardly a dealbreaker and does not even bother me. But if you are anal about keeping your phone screen facing in or out, then it may be a nuisance.
Anyhoo, the swivel offers much convenience. It is equivalent to a toy’s articulation, allowing freedom of “posability.” In this case, you just pick the phone up; if it is facing the wrong side, just swivel it. You are not restricted when taking photos or videos, either. I never knew a swivel could be this useful in such an application.
I have not encountered a problem with the zinc alloy hardware yet, but I foresee it running the risk of scratching the phone’s screen if you stuff them into a bag.
Standout Features
Universal compatibility. The accessory uses a tough but super-thin phone tab to create a connection between your phone and the strap. It will work with virtually all phones, and even iPads and tablets, as long as these devices are using full-coverage cases. The best part is, it will work with most phone/tablet cases. In case anyone’s wondering, it works on a tiny device like the iPhone 13 mini, too. Tried and tested.
Another standout feature includes the ability to remove the strap quickly, as and when you want to. The swivel, the ability to adjust the length, and the ease of adjustability are also standout features of this accessory.
Limitations
Nothing is perfect, and neither is this little guy. The only limitation is that it has to be used with a case. Duh, obviously. But as a boon, you can use any case of your fancy—except for open-bottom style cases. That is the sub-limitation.
Another limitation is rare but worth mentioning, and is, if you use it with a skin and a case like I do, the phone will not be able to fit well in the case. I observed a slight protrusion. Though it is barely noticeable, it is there, alright. Another type of case that may not achieve perfect flush is a case with a card slot that has an open back inside.
Not only will it not achieve a perfect flush for the phone in the case, but you will not be able to insert any card into the phone case card holder. But if you have a larger phone, like say the Pro Max, this may not be a problem since the card holder is further away from the bottom edge.
Who Is This For?
This is not just some random accessory; it is a full-on fashion statement—one that actually looks good, if you ask me (and I know you did not, but here we are). Perfect for anyone who wants to yank out their phone faster than a cowboy at high noon. The only difference is, instead of firing bullets, you are blasting out TikToks and unread WhatsApp messages.
Not going to lie, it will spoil you, because it saves you the hassle of digging into your bag or pocket when you need to use the phone. It is a convenience you never knew you needed. I am not in retail, but I have seen retail people enjoying such convenience. It is for anyone who wants to keep their phone close while keeping their hands free.
Verdict
For:
- Universal compatibility
- Adjustable length and swivel
- Quality build
Against:
- The phone is unable to sit completely flush in the case of some types of phone cases
Where to Buy?
If you are sold by this idea—and why would anyone not be?—you may pick up the Orbitkey Crossbody Phone Strap from the Orbitkey website for US$35.
Images: Mike for Mikeshouts.com.
