If you want a dedicated, secure mounting solution for your iPhone that handles the heat of high-speed charging while keeping your phone perfectly positioned for off roading, choose EXELIQ Cup Holder Phone; if you need a versatile, clutter-free power source that keeps your cabin tidy and charges multiple devices simultaneously without tangled cords, choose BERTHALESS Retractable Car Charger.
• EXELIQ Cup Holder Phone: Its biggest strength is the powerful magnetic hold and active cooling system designed specifically for MagSafe iPhones, but it trades off versatility since it only works with Apple devices.
• BERTHALESS Retractable Car Charger: The standout feature here is the 4-in-1 retractable design that eliminates cable mess and powers any device, though it lacks a built-in mount to hold your phone in place.
• Best for: EXELIQ is for the driver who needs their phone locked in view for navigation or dashcam use during rough terrain, while BERTHALESS is for the passenger-heavy car or anyone prioritizing a clean dashboard over a single-device mount.
The EXELIQ Cup Holder Phone is engineered for a very specific type of driver: someone who relies heavily on their iPhone for real-time navigation or safety monitoring while driving through challenging environments. This isn't just a phone holder; it is a complete ecosystem designed to keep your device safe and functional. The core of its appeal lies in the magnetic array, which utilizes 17 super strong N52 magnets across two ring arrays. In my experience analyzing these specs, this level of magnetic density suggests a grip that can withstand the vibrations and bumps common during off roading. Unlike standard holders that might wobble or slip, this unit is built to stay put when the road gets uneven.
One of the most critical features for long drives is thermal management. High-power wireless charging generates significant heat, which can throttle performance or even damage your battery over time. The EXELIQ addresses this with an automatic heat dissipation system featuring a built-in fan. This isn't just a passive vent; it actively pulls air through holes to cool the device while it charges. If you are planning a trip where your phone will be mounted for hours under direct sunlight or while navigating remote trails, this active cooling capability is a genuine advantage. It ensures your GPS doesn't slow down due to overheating, keeping your route clear no matter how long the journey takes.
However, this product is not for everyone. It is strictly limited to the iPhone ecosystem (iPhone 18/17/16/15/14/13/12 series). If you use a Samsung, Pixel, or older Android device, this holder will not function as intended unless you use the included metal ring, which still requires a flat surface and does not offer the same seamless magnetic connection. Furthermore, because it is a cup-holder based mount, it occupies space in your center console. If you frequently need to access your cup holder for beverages or storage, you may find the adjustable base (which expands from 3" to 4") slightly intrusive. It is ideal for the tech-focused driver who wants their phone permanently visible and charged, but it is less suitable for those who prioritize maximizing storage space in their vehicle's center console.
We compare products from their published specs and features; the verdicts below are our independent editorial opinions.
Updated: 2026-11-05 · 7 min read · Independent comparison
The BERTHALESS Retractable Car Charger serves a different primary need: it is the ultimate solution for managing power distribution in a shared vehicle. While the EXELIQ focuses on holding one device, the BERTHALESS is designed to power four devices simultaneously. It features a "4 in 1" configuration that supports both USB-A and USB-C ports, meaning it can charge your iPhone, your spouse's Android tablet, a child's gaming handheld, and perhaps a portable speaker all at once. This makes it an essential accessory for families or groups where multiple passengers need to stay connected during a long haul. The ability to support a wide range of voltages, from 12V DC to 24V DC, ensures compatibility with almost any modern vehicle, including trucks and larger SUVs that might have higher electrical demands.
The most defining characteristic of this charger is its retractable cable design. This mechanism solves a common annoyance in cars: the tangle of loose wires that accumulate around the gear shift or between seats. When you aren't using them, the cables vanish, leaving a sleek, compact unit. The charger itself also boasts an 180-degree adjustable direction, allowing you to angle the ports toward the driver, the front passenger, or the rear seats. This flexibility is crucial for ensuring that every port is easily accessible without having to reach blindly under the dashboard.
That said, this product has clear limitations if your goal is to mount your phone. It provides zero physical support for your device. You must rely on your own suction cup mount, adhesive mount, or the existing cup holder setup to keep your phone upright. If you are an off roader who needs hands-free navigation, this charger alone will not solve that problem; it only solves the power problem. Additionally, while it includes safety features like overcharging, over-current, and over-temperature protection, it does not have an active cooling fan like the EXELIQ. It manages heat passively through its internal circuitry. It is perfect for drivers who already have a separate mount they trust and simply want a cleaner, more powerful way to charge everything else in the car without the mess of dangling cords.
• Best for Off Roading Stability → EXELIQ Cup Holder Phone. The rigid three-ball joint design and heavy-duty magnet array provide superior vibration resistance compared to a loose cable-only charger.
• Best for Multi-Device Households → BERTHALESS Retractable Car Charger. With four simultaneous ports, it supports the entire family's electronics, whereas the EXELIQ is single-device focused.
• Best for Heat Management → EXELIQ Cup Holder Phone. The built-in fan actively dissipates heat during fast charging, a feature completely absent in the BERTHALESS model.
• Best for Cabin Aesthetics → BERTHALESS Retractable Car Charger. The retractable cables eliminate visual clutter, while the EXELIQ adds a large mechanical arm and base to the console.
• Best for Navigation Visibility → EXELIQ Cup Holder Phone. It holds the phone at eye level with a flexible pivot, turning your device into a dedicated screen rather than a loose object.
• Best for Cable Length Flexibility → BERTHALESS Retractable Car Charger.
• Best for iPhone Users → EXELIQ Cup Holder Phone. The native MagSafe integration offers a seamless, case-friendly experience that generic USB chargers cannot match.
• Best for Universal Compatibility → BERTHALESS Retractable Car Charger. Works with any device with a USB-C or USB-A port, regardless of brand or operating system.
For the specific scenario of off roading, I would buy the EXELIQ Cup Holder Phone. The combination of a secure, vibration-resistant mount and an active cooling system is non-negotiable when you are navigating rough terrain. In off-road conditions, your phone is often your primary tool for tracking location and safety; if it slips, falls, or overheats, you lose your map and your peace of mind. The EXELIQ's design directly addresses these risks by locking the device firmly in place and keeping it cool under load. While the BERTHALESS is excellent for general commuting and keeping a fleet of devices powered, it leaves the critical issue of device stability to chance. If you need a reliable, integrated solution that keeps your iPhone safe and visible while tackling difficult roads, the EXELIQ is the clear winner.
No, the magnetic system is designed exclusively for the iPhone 18 through 12 series. You can use other smooth-surface cases by attaching the included metal ring, but the functionality is optimized for MagSafe iPhones.
They automatically retract into the body when pulled out by just one inch, helping to keep your car interior organized.
No, the EXELIQ is a magnetic wireless charger specifically calibrated for iPhone models. Tablets generally require wired connections or different charging standards that this magnetic mount does not support.
Yes, the BERTHALESS includes built-in safety systems for overcharging, over-current, and over-temperature protection to ensure safe charging for all connected gadgets during extended journeys.
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