Best Android accessories: Pixel Buds, smartwatches, custom cases and more

Whether you have a Samsung Galaxy, a Google Pixel or another Android phone, our guide highlights accessories that are genuinely useful day to day.

To create a shortlist of Android accessories that help you get more from your mobile, or simply add a bit of convenience to daily life, we asked Which? staff to share products they’ve enjoyed giving or receiving.

Keep scrolling for instant access to our first-hand recommendations, plus links to our expert product reviews that reveal the latest Which? Best Buys.

Bluetooth finders

Samsung SmartTag2

What is it? A compact Bluetooth tracker that uses the brand's Find network.

We like: Easy to set up

Watch out for: Only compatible with Samsung Galaxy devices

If you’re prone to misplacing things or know somebody who is, the SmartTag2 could be a savvy investment. It’s a compact Bluetooth tracker that helps you track down everyday items using Samsung’s Find network.

Once you’ve attached the tracker to an object, such as a laptop sleeve or a bag, you can make it play a loud sound to help you find it nearby, or mark it as lost so it can update its location when it comes within range of other compatible Samsung devices.

For more details, check in with our Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2 review, or see our page covering the best Bluetooth trackers.

Why we chose it:

‘If you’re already using a Galaxy mobile, the SmartTag2 is a handy way to keep tabs on everyday items. The tracker supports geofencing too, which means you’ll get an alert if the SmartTag2 leaves a set area. It’s a handy way to make sure you don’t leave things such as your keys at home.'

Tom Morgan

If you don't own a Samsung Galaxy smartphone, there are plenty of alternative trackers to help you find lost items.

For example, we've tried the Tile Mate, which uses the accompanying Android app to show the last known location and trigger a notification. SQUIRREL_TEXT_50020408.

Fitness and wearables

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6

What is it? An Android-compatible smartwatch available in 40mm and 44mm case sizes.

We like: Waterproof design, built-in GPS

Watch out for: Some might find the small screen fiddly

Although the Galaxy Watch 6 is made by Samsung and pairs seamlessly with its own Galaxy phones, it will also work with other Android smartphones that have the Galaxy Wearable app installed.

This smartwatch is powered by Google’s Wear OS, giving you access to popular fitness apps, notifications and contactless payments. It can act as a personal fitness companion, tracking activity levels and monitoring your heart rate. Built-in GPS also lets you record outdoor runs and walks without needing to take your phone with you. It's waterproof, too.

Read our Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 review or see our round-up of the best smartwatches.

Why we chose it:

'I was resistant to getting a smartwatch at first, as I didn’t want a mini phone on my wrist. But the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 has genuinely powered up my workouts and health.

'I’ve paired it with my Samsung Galaxy S23 and it lets me track VO2 levels during runs, log workouts and count steps. It’s been a real game-changer for my fitness.'

Faith Strickland

Armpocket Racer

What is it? A running armband designed to hold your smartphone.

We like: Helps secure your phone, handy pocket for keys or cards

Watch out for: Can be slow to dry

Running with a bulky smartphone crammed into your pocket or held in your hand can be uncomfortable, but an armband like this one keeps your phone secure and out of the way while jogging.

It has room for your smartphone, plus an extra internal pocket for items such as a front door key or bank card. The material also allows you to see and interact with your phone’s screen without needing to take it fully out of the holder.

For more ideas suitable for fitness fanatics, see our guide to the best gifts for runners.

Charging

Anker Nano Powerbank

What is it? A 5,000mAh portable charger.

We like: Small and lightweight design

Watch out for: You might prefer a higher-capacity power bank

This accessory is compatible with Android smartphones and tablets that use a USB-C charging port and gives you some extra screen time when you need it. It weighs around 100g and is small enough to tuck into your pocket while you’re travelling.

The charger is available in a range of colours and has a 5,000mAh capacity, which is enough to give most smartphones a useful top-up when you’re out and about. A built-in, foldable USB-C connector means you don’t need to remember to pack an extra cable.

See our full Anker Nano Powerbank review or browse our guide to the best power banks and portable chargers.

Why we chose it:

'I carry this little power bank everywhere I go, and it can be an absolute lifesaver when my phone is running low.

'Its compact size makes it incredibly convenient to use on the go. Some power banks offer much more capacity (we've tested a fair few alternatives), but not many are as handy or easy to carry as this one.'

Adam Speight

If you're shopping for an Apple user, check in with our advice covering the best iPhone accessories – featuring Apple AirTag, power banks, personalised cases and more.

In the car

Vanmass Car Phone Holder

What is it? A clamp-style car phone holder designed to keep your smartphone securely in view while driving.

We like: Range of attachment types, easy to attach to your car

Watch out for: Can be fiddly to put together

If you rely on your smartphone for maps or hands-free calls while driving, picking up a phone holder means you don’t have to hold your phone on the move.

There are several ways to install this holder – it comes with a suction cup for your windscreen, but you can also use the bundled vent clip or the adhesive dashboard mount. That flexibility means it should fit neatly into most car interiors.

See our full Vanmass Car Phone Holder review or explore our page on the best car phone holders.

Why we chose it:

'I recently picked up a car phone holder that sticks to the windscreen. Like this Vanmass mount, there’s a gap at the bottom of the phone, so you can charge it with a cable while you’re driving.

'If your smartphone supports wireless charging, it’s also worth considering a wireless mount so you can keep your phone powered up without needing to plug it in.'

Lisa Galliers

Audio

Google Pixel Buds 2a

What is it? Wireless headphones with active noise cancelling.

We like: Various fit options, noise-cancelling technology

Watch out for: Some people may find the eartips on the small side

These wireless earbuds come with a charging case and feature a twist-to-adjust stabiliser designed to keep them secure while you're exercising.

You can switch between noise-cancelling and transparency modes depending on whether you want to block out background noise or stay aware of what’s going on around you. Plus, from the Google Pixel Buds app, you can adjust the sound using an equaliser.

As these headphones are optimised for Android, you can access Google’s Gemini voice assistant to handle tasks such as checking for directions or controlling your music hands-free.

Read our Google Pixel Buds 2a review to see our guide to the best headphones.

Why we chose it:

‘If you have an Android phone, particularly a Google Pixel, these earbuds fit naturally into day-to-day use.

'I like that you can switch between noise cancelling and transparency depending on where you are, and having voice assistant access built in to the buds is genuinely handy when you’re out and about.’

Tom Morgan

If you have a Samsung smartphone and want headphones that make the most of its features, you might want to consider the Samsung Galaxy Buds FE. SQUIRREL_TEXT_50014610.

Cases and customisation

Dbrand smartphone skins

What is it? A custom-fit vinyl skin that sticks to your phone to change its look without adding bulk.

Available from: Dbrand

We like: Huge range of designs, easy to apply

Watch out for: Offers less protection than a full phone case

If you want to personalise your Android phone without making it bulkier, Dbrand skins are worth a closer look. It offers skins for a wide range of devices, including Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel and OnePlus mobiles.

You can choose between skins that just cover the back of your phone and camera module, or wraparound versions that extend around the sides as well. Some designs have distinctive textures, which can make your phone feel a bit different in the hand, and they’re also a handy way to disguise scratches or scuffs on an older handset.

Popular finishes include tan leather for a more premium look, minimalist matt white, eye-catching marble patterns, carbon fibre-style designs and bold holographic options.

Applying the skin is straightforward. Each one comes with a cleaning cloth, and Dbrand provides clear step-by-step instructions online to help you line everything up neatly.

Why we chose it:

'I'm a big fan of Dbrand's phone skins because they let me completely transform the look of my phone without having to buy a new one. I pair mine with a clear case and swap the colour or pattern every couple of months to keep things feeling fresh.’

Tom Morgan

Burga adhesive ring holder

What is it? A stick-on phone ring designed to make your smartphone easier to hold and use.

Available from: Burga

We like: Stylish designs, improves grip, doubles as a kickstand

Watch out for: The adhesive version can’t be repositioned once applied

If you have a big-screen smartphone that can be tricky to hold, a Burga ring holder can make everyday use more comfortable. The brand sells ring holders that stick to the back of your phone or case, and there are also MagSafe-compatible magnetic versions if you prefer something removable.

The ring rotates, which means it can double as a kickstand when you’re watching videos or enjoying video calls in landscape mode. Burga also sells matching phone cases, so you can create a coordinated look.

Why we chose it:

'I’ve been using a ring holder on my Android smartphone for years. Not only does it work as a handy kickstand for watching videos horizontally or scrolling vertically, but it also helps me grip my phone better.

I have small hands, so it makes one-handed scrolling much easier, and I never have to worry about dropping my phone when I’m taking photos.'

Yasmine Crossland

JETech Screen Protector

What is it? A screen cover made from tempered glass.

We like: Bundled with an installation tool

Watch out for: Only compatible with specific Android phones

These screen covers from JETech help to guard against fingerprints, oil residue and sweat. You get an alignment tool in the box, which makes it easier to attach the protector without it overlapping the edge of your phone display.

The protector we've linked to above will fit the Google Pixel 10, but the same brand also makes cases for other Google phones, plus Samsung and Xiaomi mobiles.

Why we chose it:

'Some newer smartphones leave the camera lenses a little vulnerable in my opinion, especially if (like me) you have a habit of dropping your phone. This tempered glass screen protector has saved my phone more than once.'

Emily Seymour

Photography

Amazon Basics Mini Tripod

What is it? An affordable phone tripod for filming while travelling

We like: Small enough to fit into a bag 

We don't like: Mobile holder attachment not included

If you're shopping for a keen photographer or video maker, this affordable phone tripod could be a great fit.

The adjustable legs and rubber feet are designed to keep the tripod stable while you're getting your shot, and it has a mini ball head that allows for 360-degree rotation and 90-degree tilt.

Why we chose it:

'Tripods for mobile phones are a dime a dozen, but this miniature tripod is solid enough. More for stability than height, it's great for those moments when you want to keep a phone super-steady.'

Paul Lester