They don't get much attention, but tablet headrest mounts have been an improving lot. The initial designs that came out after the iPad's debut were interesting, yet not overly practical. A second wave has hit the market in the past 12 months that offers sturdier form factors and more inclusive designs targeting more than just Apple's tablet.
Bracketron Universal Tablet Headrest Mount
- $26.99
- Available at: Amazon.ca
Of the three in this group, Bracketron's mount is the most nondescript, particularly because the actual mounting bracket doesn't overwhelm the device. So long as the four holders, which are smartly fitted with foam, are pressed into the tablet, you should have no problem while on the road.
The benefit of having a swivel is that the tablet can be oriented in landscape or portrait, and can be tilted for easier viewing for passengers in the back. Like any tablet mount, glare from daylight outside can be frustrating, but tilting it vertically or horizontally can mitigate that somewhat.
This is made better by the fact the mount can accommodate just about any tablet, regardless of screen size, weight or form factor. The lock mechanism is secure and unobtrusive to the driver or shotgun passenger, and the latches are thin enough to allow them to adjust the headrest to their comfort level.
iCan Car Headrest Mount
- $19.99
- Available at: Canada Computers
As the cheapest of the three, iCan's mount is also the bulkiest, with a footprint that is definitely more pronounced. This may not ultimately matter, but it is something to consider if you'd rather have something a little less noticeable.
What's surprising about this unit is that it also comes with a suction mount. Mounting this on to the windshield would be ridiculous, unless it was an RV perhaps, so it could be used on a window in the back. The suction holds decently but is no match for the headrest mount.
The mount tilts, but doesn't swivel. It also doesn't orient in portrait, so this is aimed at landscape viewing. Tablets with seven-inch screens won't fit properly here, either, so this is definitely a niche mount for larger sizes. For just a few dollars more, Bracketron's mount does the same job and offers more with a better overall design.
IQ 1350C Tablet Headrest Mount
- $59.99
- Available at: Future Shop, Best Buy
They don't make it obvious, but IQ's mount is largely designed for the iPad, despite the fact the tabs can be adjusted to place any tablet you want on it. The plastic used is probably the hardest of the bunch here, so it would probably take a lot for this one to break or crack.
What might be inconvenient here is that you would need to remove the headrest and then slide it back in with the mount in place, since it doesn't lock around the posts. The mount can pivot, tilt and swivel, so there shouldn't be much of a problem there. IQ does include 3M adhesive tabs as well.
Even with its solid construction and simple mechanics, it seems a little hard to justify the price tag for this mount. It's more than double the price of Bracketron's, but doesn't offer a huge difference. It is more secure because it's embedded in the posts, and is definitely made of better materials, but still seems a bit expensive for what it does.
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