This $15 Phone Armband Won't Slip or Chafe While You Run (2024)

This affordable phone holder is a fan favorite that has nearly 50,000 reviews on Amazon! Our experts love that it comes in three sizes so it's guaranteed to fit your phone, and it even has two adjustable strap sizes to fit most arms. Even though there's a clear screen cover, you can still use your touchscreen to unlock your phone or answer calls. We also love this armband has extra features such as an anti-tangle headphone cord organizer, key pocket and reflective strips. Best of all, it's offered in 11 color options and designs, which is more than many other phone armbands.

Fits: Phones up to 6.5 inches, arms 9-17 inches

This armband makes it easy to check your mileage mid-workout because all you have to do is twist your phone to remove it from your arm. You just attach the included adapter to the back of your phone case, which is also compatible with the brand's other mounting accessories (like for your home or car). The Good Housekeeping Institute's Chief Technologist, Rachel Rothman, says "while it may take a bit of time to get used to the clip, it's super easy once you do and very pragmatic." In general, this case is both durable and well-constructed.

Fits: Any phones with LifeProof or other cases, arms 8.5-19 inches

If you're worried about your arms feeling unbalanced from one being heavier or want to be able to easily access your phone while running, a belt is your best bet. This FlipBelt is moisture-wicking, machine washable, and has multiple openings to store your belongings — plus, it's a favorite of former Associate Editor Blake Bakkila. "I love how I can fit my phone, keys, and money and then throw it in the wash," she says. It even includes a zippered pocket for valuables as well as a key hook so nothing gets lost.

Fits: Stretches to fit most large phones, comes in sizes XXS through XXL to fit various hip sizes

This phone armband is different from the rest because it fits large phones up to 6.9 inches as well as phones with large cases, like OtterBox and LifeProof for example. You can use your touchscreen through the clear window, and there's even an opening for your lightning connector (meaning you can charge it or use wired headphones with your phone inside).

Fits: Phones up to 6.9 inches, arms 9-16 inches

The Good Housekeeping Institute's Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Amy Fischer, says that many runners have adopted running belts to avoid some of the inherent bouncing and sliding that can occur with a phone armband. The advantage of a running belt such as this popular Fitletic one is that it has room to hold your phone along with other valuables such as an ID, keys or credit card. We like this pick thanks to its sizeable zippered pouch as well as multiple color options. It's also adjustable so it will fit most waists and phones!

Fits: Waists 24-55 inches

If you already own a few Nike sports bras and shorts, why not complete the outfit with this slim and lightweight phone armband from Nike? Though we wish it was offered in more colors, we love its large and lean design as well as its clear window so you can still see your texts as you run.

Fits: Most smartphones

Unlike most running belts, this one from Tune Belt has a clear window so you can still use your touchscreen. It even has an extra pocket behind the phone holder so you can store some extra cash and keys, as well as an opening for headphones and a lightning connector. Though you can wash this belt, you'll have to do it by hand.

Fits: Phones up to 7 inches, waists up to 40 inches

If you want easy access to your phone as well as even weight distribution while you're running, a chest phone holder is a great option. Our experts love that this vest has extra pockets for keys, credit cards and more, and the waistband is adjustable so you can get a snug fit. We also like that you get little to no bounce with this vest, making it an excellent pick for long trail runs.

Fits: Small to large phones such as the iPhone 11 Pro Max and Samsung Pro

✔️ Size: The first factor to consider when shopping for a phone holder is the size of your phone. Over the years, phones have increased in size so double-check that your armband or running belt can support your smartphone as well as its case. You should also measure your arm (or your waist) to make sure the straps offer a secure fit to prevent bouncing, though most armbands and running belts come with adjustable sizes and stretchy fabric.

✔️ Style: While phone armbands strap around one of your arms and typically include a clear window so you can access your phone, running belts strap around your waist and oftentimes allow you to store your phone in a secure pouch. Though there are variations to each style and you'll likely be able to find a combination that works for you, the most important question you should ask yourself is whether or not having immediate access to your phone is a priority. Sometimes while you run you might need to send a text or answer a quick phone call, which is easier with certain phone holders. You should also consider whether you'll feel more comfortable running or working out with some extra weight on your arm or your waist. For the most part, phone armbands can be prone to sliding or feeling itchy, while running belts might bounce if they don't properly fit. It's also worth noting that running belts often have more room for storage so you can fit your ID, keys or other valuables inside, while storage space on a phone armband tends to be limited.

✔️ Material: The material will affect how comfortable you are during your run. According to the Good Housekeeping Institute's Executive Textiles Director, Lexie Sachs, "most armbands will be made with synthetic performance fibers, just like you’ll find in activewear. Most will include polyester or nylon with spandex for stretch. These materials are lightweight yet durable and keep their shape over time." Other adjustable features (like Velcro) are key to making sure you get a good fit on your armband and that it's able to support the weight of your phone.

✔️ Extra features: Don't forget to check out whether your phone holder has any extra features, such as a water resistance rating, clever storage, little pockets for valuables or even an anti-tangle cord organizer for your headphones.

The Good Housekeeping Institute's Wellness Lab tests everything from fitness equipment to healthy snacks. Amina Lake Abdelrahman was formerly an editorial assistant at the Institute, where she worked with Lab experts who test latest products and wrote original content based on their recommendations.

Media & Tech Reviews Analyst Olivia Lipski oversees product testing and covers everything from connected devices to appliances, health, home and fitness. With a B.A. from George Washington University and a master’s in communications from Sciences Po Paris, Olivia has several years of experience writing about tech and trends. She continues to stay on top of the industry’s latest innovations and helps readers make better buying decisions by testing and reviewing the best gadgets to hit the market.

Rachel Rothman, Chief Technologist and head engineer, has a B.S.E. in mechanical engineering and applied mechanics with a mathematics minor from the University of Pennsylvania and has been at GH for 14 years. She leads efforts for the constant evolution of GH’s technical and testing protocols, responding both to market drivers and growth opportunities.