The light also pushes the limits of portability, measuring only 3“ long and weighing in at 1 ounce. Despite this smaller build, it’s still rated IP68 for water and impact resistance, providing you with security and reliability. The Fenix E12 V2.0 is more than just a backup light—pick it up at the link below.

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But the practicality doesn’t stop there—you get 12 other functions to help you out. It features two different screwdrivers, a can opener, a bottle opener, a smaller blade, Victorinox’s signature toothpick, and tweezers, and even a corkscrew to open up a nice bottle of wine during a picnic, just to name a few. You can pick up this versatile and compact companion at the link below.

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This fan favorite weighs in at only 2.1 oz, providing plenty of functionality without any bulk. Finally, you can find it in its classic red scales or seven other different colors, so you can match it with your style and carry. Pick one up at the link below.

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For its functions, you’ll find the now-standard stopwatch, timer, daily alarms, world time, calendar, and even a radio signal receptor in this GW-M model, all powered by a solar cell. Another unique feature is its full-auto illumination, which activates it when it’s in low-light conditions and deactivates the backlight there’s enough surrounding light. Finally, 200 meters of water resistance seal the deal with this durable timepiece. Pick one up this modern classic at the link below.

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Out of the box, the F-301 Compact comes with a black 0.7mm fine point refill to lay down smooth lines onto paper. To finish things off, an integrated steel pocket clip takes care of additional carry options. At just over six dollars (at the time of writing), the F-301 Compact offers tremendous value, convenience, and durability for your EDC. Pick one up at the link below.

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There’s even a little window built into the body so you can look at how much ink in the included cartridge you have left. This version of the safari comes with a medium stainless steel nib, a great starting point for newbies and a good general-purpose size for experienced fountain pen users. Finally, the cap has a wire pocket clip on it, so you can attach it to a notebook, bag, or pocket to facilitate its everyday carry.

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Like the katanas of old, the Higo no Kami has both hard and soft steel melded into a single blade, a combination that allows the edge to be very sharp while not being so brittle that it will chip as a result of everyday use. The steel on this particular knife is called Warikomi steel, measuring approximately 3“ with the brass satin handle approximately 4”.

This particular Higo no Kami is crafted by hand in Japan by one of the last remaining trademarked makers, Nagao Kanekoma Seisakusho. At approximately 1.58 oz, this friction folder will disappear inside your pockets or bag and offers a touch of the old world for today’s modern EDC. Pick one up at the link below.

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The fenix 6 Pro is compatible with multiple global navigation satellite systems like GPS, GLONASS and Galileo, and has built-in sensors for 3-axis compass, gyroscope, and barometric altimeter. You can also use its topographical maps to see difficulty ratings for over 2,000+ skiing courses worldwide. You can pick one up with a stainless steel, titanium or DLC-coating bezel. Finally as far as battery life goes, it will give you up to 14 days in smartwatch mode and up to 48 days in battery saving mode. Pick one up at the link below.

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The post Trending: Garmin fenix 6 Pro GPS Watch appeared first on Everyday Carry.

This version of the Seamaster features a “Master Chronometer,” which is visible through the watch’s caseback. Compared to the original 1993 version, this one sits taller, so it’s less likely for the crown to dig into your wrist. The stainless steel 42mm case sports a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal for extra protection. On top of this case, you’ll find a uni-directional aluminum bezel with a luminous point at the 12 o’clock position. At its heart is an in-house automatic movement, powering the watch, the chronometer, and the date complication at the 6 o’clock position. A 300M water resistance gives the Seamaster the seafaring capability of its namesake. This is a watch with an amazing performance, aesthetic, and history, and you can check it out at the link below.

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NOTE: These products are meant to carry an assortment of your gear. The original climbing carabiners inspired some designs, but not all of them are rated to bear heavy loads. Review your requirements before buying and ensure you’re using the right carabiner for the job.

Our Top Picks

The Best Overall Carabiner: Petzl Attache [Buy]

The Best Carabiner on a Budget: Black Diamond HotForge Screwgate [Buy]

The Best Carabiner for EDC: Heroclip [Buy]

The Best Carabiner for Sport Climbing: EDELRID HMS Strike [Buy]

The Best Carabiner for Trad Climbing: Black Diamond RockLock Twistlock [Buy]

Petzl Attache	Black Diamond HotForge Screwgate	Heroclip	EDELRID HMS Strike	Black Diamond RockLock
$	$	$	$	$
Length: 5.51″	Length: 6.3″	Length: 3″	Length: 3.5″	Length: 3.9″
Weight: 2.11 oz	Weight: 1 oz	Weight: 2 oz	Weight: 2.3 oz	Weight: 3 oz
Key Features: Optimized for belaying	Key Features: Screwgate sleeve	Key Features: 3-in-1 clip and hook	Key Features: Ideal for alpine climbing	Key Features: Hot-forged for lighter-weight construction
Buy Now	Buy Now	Buy Now	Buy Now	Buy Now

Petzl Attache Carabiner

Purchase

Key Features

Locking system screw-lock

Major axis strength 22 kN

Sideway strength 7 kN

Specifications

Length

5.51″

Weight

2.11 oz

Materials

‎Aluminum

EDC Rating

703 ratings

Price

$

The Petzl Attache will make a fine addition to your climbing gear if you like to partake in more extreme adventures. Optimized for belaying, the Attache enjoys a 4” size and ultra-light 1.8oz weight. This is achieved by its aluminum construction and its H-Shaped cross-section. The shape increases its strength-to-weight ratio and provides a broader surface area for better gliding of the rope, reducing wear on the biner itself. It uses a SCREW-LOCK system for its gate, equipped with a red visual locking indicator for improved safety. Finally, its nose and Keylock system dramatically reduces the chances of snagging during use.

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DMM Alpha Trad Carabiner

Purchase

Key Features

Wire gate for maximum weight saving

Clean nose for snag-free clipping

I-Beam construction for optimum strength to weight ratio

Specifications

Length

5″

Weight

1.12 oz

Materials

Aluminum

EDC Rating

13 ratings

Price

$

Like its name suggests, the Alpha Trad will make another fine addition to your trad rock climbing gear. For its purposes as a trad biner, the Alpha Trad uses an auto-locking wire gate. This helps with functionality and keeps the overall weight down at a feather-weight 1.2oz, despite its 3.9” size. Another focus of the Alpha Trad is its ergonomic shape. The back of the carabiner features grooves for a better grip, and the nose (and overall body) was designed smooth to prevent snagging.

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Black Diamond RockLock Carabiner

Purchase

Key Features

Hot-forged for lighter-weight construction

Square hinge end holds belay loop securely in place

Keylock nose prevents snagging

Specifications

Length

3.9″

Weight

3 oz

Materials

Synthetic

EDC Rating

731 ratings

Price

$

Another belaying carabiner, the Black Diamond RockLock Twistlock has everything you need to support yourself and your fellow climbers. It starts with a Type H or HMS connector designed for dynamic belaying using a Munter Hitch or belay device. Its locking gate features a twist-lock mechanism to reduce accidental openings. A Keylock Nose reduces the chances of rope snagging considerably. Finally, its redesigned spine and shape allow for a more effortless one-handed operation if you find yourself in a pinch.

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EDELRID HMS Strike Locking Carabiner

Purchase

Key Features

H-profile construction

Keylock closure system

Ideal for alpine climbing

Specifications

Length

3.5″

Weight

2.3 oz

Materials

Aluminum alloy

EDC Rating

447 ratings

Price

$

The HMS Strike places safety above everything else. It uses a triple-locking slide gate. This means that unlocking it requires three separate actions. While this does provide more protection, it may need additional practice to perform a one-handed operation. The HNS Strike is also outfitted with a steel insert to prevent premature wear from rope friction. Like other climbing carabiners, the HMS Strike features a Keylock closure system to avoid rope snagging. Finally, a spring bar holds the carabiner in place when belaying to prevent cross-loading.

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Heroclip Carabiner

Purchase

Key Features

3-in-1 Clip and hook

Can hold up to 60 lbs of load

Compact design

Specifications

Length

3″

Weight

2 oz

Materials

Aluminum

EDC Rating

6143 ratings

Price

$

While it may look like a technical climber’s tool, the innovative Heroclip is designed to securely hang your bag or other things like a traditional carabiner. In its extended form, it gains double its height and a 360-degree pivot to better secure your gear. Use it to hang your EDC pack onto a table edge, off the back of a chair, or even over a restroom stall door, keeping your belongings elevated and clean. The latest version of its largest model can handle up to a 60-pound load—more than enough for your typical daily carry—yet its compact size and form factor make it easy to hang off your pack or bag’s strap out of the way until needed.

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Nite Ize S-Biner SlideLock Carabiner

Purchase

Key Features

Made in the USA

Lockable dual carabiner

Gates lock independently

Specifications

Length

3.6″

Weight

2.4 oz

Materials

Stainless steel

EDC Rating

1659 ratings

Price

$

These nifty, lightweight, double-gated carabiners offer more flexibility and utility than a traditional, single-gated carabiner. The addition of the SlideLock mechanism, a plastic boot that slides over the gate spring to prevent it from accidentally opening, gives it a locking capability that affords an extra level of security and peace of mind. Depending on the size you choose, these can be used to individually hang keys, a small light, or even a tiny multi-tool off a keychain, or even become a hanging keychain itself.

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RovyVon U4 Carabiner

Purchase

Key Features

Foldable multitool keychain

Compact and lightweight

Replaceable blade

Specifications

Length

2.64″

Weight

0.55 oz

Materials

Titanium

EDC Rating

136 ratings

Price

$

If you are looking for something more suited for EDC than rock climbing, the U4 might be just what you need. Sporting a premium titanium construction, the D4 will securely hold on to anything you attach, thanks to its double loop design. Since it’s more EDC-focused, the D4 also comes with a small ruler and a tiny folding blade, perfect for opening up packages. This sharp addition uses #11 scalpel blades, which are entirely replaceable. Its EDC focus also means it sports a much more compact frame at 2.64” and an ultra-lightweight 0.56oz.

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Black Diamond HotForge Screwgate Carabiner

Purchase

Key Features

Hot-Forged for lighter-weight construction

Keylock nose prevents snagging

Screwgate sleeve

Specifications

Length

6.3″

Weight

1 oz

Materials

‎Synthetic

EDC Rating

867 ratings

Price

$

This lightweight, screw-lock, offset-D locker is an affordable, more traditional choice from the climbing and skiing enthusiasts from Black Diamond. While it may not be the lightest in its class, the hot-forged, I-beam construction removes material where it isn’t needed and beefs up high-stress areas, leading to a high functional strength-to-weight ratio, crucial for camping and climbing applications. The multi-twist Screwgate sleeve ensures safety during locking, and it’s sized up to fit a clove hitch knot. The gate opens up to 0.7”, and it’s rated for up to 24kN when locked. You can get this no-frills, utilitarian climbing carabiner in a value-packed set of three.

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James Brand The Mehlville

Purchase

Key Features

Simple and sleek design

Dual compartments secure your keys

Integrated bottle opener

Specifications

Length

3.125″

Weight

0.58 oz

Materials

Aluminum

EDC Rating

Just released

Price

$$

While this has been produced in 6063 Aluminium and CNC-machined titanium, the stainless steel version of the James Brand Mehlville still keeps weight down to a respectable 1.58 ounces while bringing extra strength and durability to a key carrier that will likely be jingling around in your pocket or hanging off a belt loop, along with the rest of your keys. Dual compartments allow the single spring-loaded pivot to easily attach this carabiner to your pants or pack while ensuring your keys don’t fall off carabiner to your pants or pack while ensuring your keys don’t fall off when you do. A stainless steel disk at the mouth of one of its notches allows you to use The Mehlville as a bottle opener.

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CRKT Compano

Purchase

Key Features

Slip joint secures knife in the open and closed positions

Black stonewash handle with bronze accents

Designed by Mike Bond

Specifications

Length

1″

Weight

2.2 oz

Materials

Blend

EDC Rating

81 ratings

Price

$

While some might argue that the Compano seems more knife than a carabiner, its versatile functionality is undeniable. The Compano is a highly versatile tool for those who like something with a little more edge. It features a carabiner-shaped shaped body, complete with a wire gate. This self-closing gate makes it easy to attach to any belt loop or bag. The hole on the other end is a deployment platform for the knife part and allows you to connect additional gear securely. The small blade measures 1.42″ and uses a slip joint for deployment.

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GPCA Carabiner Pro

Purchase

Key Features

Lots of integrated utility and tools

Secret capsule compartment for small medicines

Screw-locked spring-loaded carabiner gate

Specifications

Length

4.25“

Weight

4.1 oz for stainless steel

Materials

Aluminum/titanium/stainless steel

EDC Rating

Just released

Price

$$

This uniquely designed carabiner seeks to maximize the utility you get from your carry by integrating multiple functions into its design: a screw-lock gate for security, a small secret capsule compartment for carrying flintstones or emergency medicine, a box cutter, and a locking blade, plus Philips and flathead screwdrivers and a pry tool machined into its chassis. Par for the course, it also includes a nifty bottle opening notch. It’s available in lightweight aluminum, titanium, and robust stainless steel.

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BLANK FORCES HyperLink Carabiner

Purchase

Key Features

Front Pocket Deep Carry

Gate anti-deflection features

Stainless steel spring & pivot mechanism

Specifications

Length

2.5″

Weight

0.7 oz

Materials

Titanium

EDC Rating

Just released

Price

$$

This svelte and streamlined design features an integrated deep carry clip, giving you multiple pocket and bag carrying options and letting you maximize convenience according to your use. Primarily meant as an EDC key hanger, the HyperLink is 3D-machined from solid Grade 5 titanium, lending the material’s high durability, corrosion resistance, and lightweight to something you’ll likely have on you all the time. A wide gate opening lets it quickly latch on to your belt loop or bag strap, while smooth and rounded edges all over its body reduce the possibility of hotspots while in your pocket or pack.

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Handgrey H6 Carabiner

Purchase

Key Features

Full Grade 5 titanium construction

Wire EDM-cut for precision

Traditional reliable carabiner design

Specifications

Length

2.5″

Weight

N/A

Materials

Grade 5 Titanium

EDC Rating

Just released

Price

$$

The Handgrey H6 exhibits an industrial, Bauhaus-inspired design, supported by the fact that it’s completely EDM (electrical discharge machine) wire-cut, ensuring high levels of precision. This two-piece design sports a simple and symmetric traditional carabiner’s profile, executed in Grade 5 6Al4V titanium, pairing the material’s strengths with sound and precise construction. The stone-tumbled finish keeps it scratch-resistant and looking new even after years of use. This simple yet elegant key carrier is a tribute to the original carabiners that provided immense utility and reliability to climbers of old, offered in a premium, minimalist, and exotic modern iteration.

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KeyBar KeyVice Carabiner

Purchase

Key Features

Collaborative design between KeyBar and ViceHardware

Designed to prevent any accidental slip

Available in 4 colors

Specifications

Length

2.75″

Weight

>2 oz

Materials

Titanium

EDC Rating

5 ratings

Price

$$

Coming in as a collaborative design between Keybar and Vice Hardware, the KeyVice carabiner is an excellent choice if you want to add a bit of flair to your EDC. Featuring a premium titanium construction, the KeyVice stays solid and lightweight at less than 2 oz. Its compact 2.75″ length further helps this. The design features sharp angles, unlike traditional biners, giving it a futuristic look. Adding to that appealing aesthetic, the KeyVice is available in 4 different colors for the body and five for the gate. The KeyVice is also available in a more wallet-friendly aluminum option if you don’t care as much for the titanium body. Finally, you can attach a Keybar organizer to the carabiner by using a set of MagNuts with the hole on the bottom.

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Dango Carabiner and Shackle

Purchase

Key Features

Stainless steel bolts

CNC machined

Made in USA

Specifications

Length

3.35″

Weight

2 oz

Materials

6061 Aerospace aluminum

EDC Rating

Just released

Price

$

Sporting Dango’s traditional overbuilt design, this two-part carabiner holds more than just your keys. As its name suggests, this Dango product comprises two items, a carabiner, and a shackle. The carabiner features a CNC-machined, 6061 aerospace aluminum body with two separate gates. The first chamber is helpful for anchoring, while the second can help you segregate the rest of your items. The carabiner also features multiple holes along its square body to attach more articles. The shackle is designed to hold up to 8 of your keys, keeping them organized while reducing jingling. Both of these parts can be attached or used separately to increase versatility.

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How to Choose the Best Carabiner

Carabiners exist in many different types, shapes, and sizes due to their versatile nature. Some might be more suited for EDC as a hanging point for your keys and gear. Others were designed as tools of paramount importance when climbing. Below, we’ll show you the characteristics you should consider when purchasing a carabiner.

Use Case

• Everyday use: Small, portable carabiners with additional tools like bottle openers or screwdrivers. They’re used as hanging points for backpacks, coats, or purses. They also attach your keys to your belt or some gear to another.
• Belaying and rappelling: Large, pear-shaped locking carabiners. Belaying is a variety of techniques used to create friction within a climbing system, particularly on a climbing rope, so that a climber does not fall very far or fast. This system is created with these carabiners.
• Quickdraws: Asymmetric D carabiners with straight, bent, and wire gates. A quickdraw consists of two carabiners connected by a semi-rigid material. One carabiner has a straight gate and connects to an anchoring device, while the other is for the climbing rope and uses a bent gate.
• Racking trad gear: Asymmetric D, D, or oval carabiners. A “trad rack” is the equipment climbers need to keep themselves safe during “traditional” climbing. Carabiners allow you to easily clip the rope into the protection you’ve just placed.

Locking carabiner vs. non-locking carabiner

Locking carabiners are best used when you want an extra step for safety. They usually include a protective sleeve or lock that requires additional steps for opening, giving their operators extra peace of mind. This does mean that by design they’re “slower” to use. For quickdraws, a lot of people prefer non-locking carabiners instead.

Gate type

• Straight: These are the most common carabiner type due to their versatility and reliability. They feature a straight piece of metal, straight from hinge to closure.
• Bent: Since the shape of the gate makes clipping and unclipping significantly easier, bent gate carabiners are perfect for quickdraws. Keep in mind that bent gate carabiners shouldn’t be used for clipping directly into protective gear as their nature makes them more prone to accidental unclipping.
• Wire: Wire gates can come in both straight or bent designs. However, some people prefer wire gates over traditional gates due to their superior resistance to corrosion, snow, and freezing. Their wire construction also means less mass, which in turn means significantly lighter weight.

Shape

• D-shape: These are generally the strongest carabiners out of the three. Their design directs force away from the gate and points it towards the spine instead. This shape excels at quickdraws, clipping protection equipment, and locking anchor points. They also tend to be more expensive.
• Oval: The oldest design of all, the oval shape has been around for quite a while. Oval-shaped carabiners are inexpensive and more accessible to rack and manipulate due to their symmetry. However, this also makes it so that they transfer force equally between the gate and the spine, making them weaker in comparison.
• Pear-shape: Also referred to as HMS carabiners, these are larger versions of D-shaped carabiners. Their oversized nature makes them excel at belaying tasks. Just like the oval carabiners, they tend to be weaker due to how they distribute force. However, they compensate for it by using thicker, more robust materials for the spine.

Certifications

For such a potentially dangerous activity, your gear needs to have certifications, ensuring that the carabiner will be strong enough to hold your weight or more in the event of a mishap. On the spine of every certified carabiner, there will be a CE and/or UIAA icon.

CE stands for European Conformity (translated from French). In broad terms, CE certifications are required by the European Commission to establish specific safety standards. They help ensure carabiners are strong enough to climb on.

The UIAA is the first and foremost developer of global climbing and mountaineering equipment standards. The UIAA board is made up of climbers and manufacturers. The UIAA has an online database where you can search and confirm each model name of a particular brand is UIAA certified.

Since Brexit, England, Scotland, and Wales have created their CE-equivalent standard, the UKCA.

Carabiner FAQs

With so many types, shapes and sizes, understanding carabiners can sometimes be a little confusing. Below you’ll find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about carabiners:

When should I retire a carabiner?

The best time to retire a carabiner is if the body has any type of crack, if the locking mechanism seems excessively worn or if the gate doesn’t function properly anymore.

Is a carabiner a good gift for a climber?

Carabiners can make excellent gifts for climbers. Make sure you research the product and your giftee’s climbing habits to give a biner that meets their needs.

What is the difference between a D and an HMS carabiner?

D-shaped carabiners transfer more force away from the gate towards the spine, making them the strongest type of carabiner. HMS (or pear-shaped) carabiners are oversized versions of the offset D-shape optimized for belaying.

What is a locking carabiner?

Locking carabiners have a mechanism that can lock the gate in a closed position, protecting against accidental gate openings.

How we picked

Decades of experience and deep connections in the everyday carry industry give us a unique viewpoint on the market to inform our product recommendations. We have the depth of information for thousands of products that have come before and an extensive eye on the market to see what’s new and trending for each piece of gear. The result is a buying guide that we feel is informative and useful for EDCers of every trade, industry, and budget.

What is Everyday Carry?

Everyday Carry is both the concept of what people carry in their pockets and the process of picking out gear that thoughtfully considers what one wants or needs in their daily lives. It encompasses everything from style to preparedness to utility, meaning an entire industry full of valuable tools and essentials to choose from.

Why you should trust us

Our team has decades of combined experience in all aspects of everyday men’s essentials, from wallets to pens to bags and everything in between, and we know where to find great gear ideas that you may not come across at your local stores or when shopping online. Our expertise with the industry and familiarity in design, materials, and usability help you make more informed choices when it comes to picking up your next piece of gear.

The post 15 Best Carabiners for EDC in 2024 appeared first on Everyday Carry.

However, the utility of the CA53W-1 doesn’t stop at figuring out how much you should tip. It also comes with a lot of time-related features that you’d expect from a Casio watch: a 1/100 second stopwatch, measuring elapsed time, split time, an auto calendar that goes up to 2079, a daily alarm and dual time. All of this practicality is housed inside a 42mm case that weighs in at 29 grams and has a battery life of approximately 5 years. You can pick one up at the link below.

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And while it is a simple design, it is by no means cheap or flimsy. The carabiner is made of steel, so it can securely hold onto your clothes bags or wherever you post it. The tether is made from climb-spec nylon, featuring double lanyard webbing and industrial-strength stitching. This means it’s way more likely for your bag or belt loop to break than the tether. Finally, you’ll find a keyring to attach your keychain essentials.

The cool thing about this keyring is that it comes attached to a quick-release swivel. This means you don’t have to remove the entire Link from the carabiner to gain access to your gear. Instead, press its easy-access button, and you’re good to go, not to mention posting it back to the tether is just as easy. Pick one up at the link below.

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This guide looks at convenient and pocket-friendly utility knife options and box cutters that can help save your primary EDC knife from unnecessary wear and tear. From knives as tiny as zipper pulls to highly functional multi-tools that integrate a retractable utility blade, we round up the choices that could deserve a spot in your shirt or pants pocket, organizer, or daily pack.

Best Utility Knives — 2023 Edition

Best Overall Utility Knife for EDC: Exceed Designs TiRant [Buy]

Best Budget Utility Knife: Mossy Oak 2-pack [Buy] / [Full Review]

Best Premium Utility Knife: Rexford RUT V4 [Buy] 

Best Utility Knife for Arts and Crafts: Olfa SVR-1 [Buy]

Best Utility Knife for Heavy-Duty Work: Milwaukee Fastback II [Buy] / [Full Review]

Content

Content

• 1 – Milwaukee Fastback II Flip Utility Knife
• 2 – Exceed Designs TiRant Razor V2 Utility Knife
• 3 – Gerber E.A.B. Lite Folding Utility Knife
• 4 – Lenox Tools Utility Knife
• 5 – Screwpop Ron’s Utility Knife
• 6 – Mossy Oak Folding Pocket Utility Knife
• 7 – Olfa Craft 34B Utility Knife
• 8 – Gerber Prybrid Utility Knife
• 9 – CountyComm Slide Lock Ti Utility Knife 2.0
• 10 – Gil-Tek RUK-S Utility Knife
• 11 – BigIDesign TPT Slide Utility Knife
• 12 – Slice 10495 Utility Knife
• 13 – Stanley Classic 99 Utility Knife
• 14 – Outdoor Edge SlideWinder Utility Knife
• 15 – Nova SK-022 Slim Auto-Retract Utility Knife
• 16 – Olfa SVR-1 9mm Utility Knife
• 17 – Rexford RUT V4 Utility Knife

Milwaukee Fastback II Flip Utility Knife

Purchase

Key Features

One handed operation

Wire-stripper

Belt clip

Specifications

Blade type

Standard

Material

Metal

Size

11.54” x 4.92” x 1.18”

EDC Rating

899 ratings

Price

$

The Milwaukee Fastback maximizes what you can do with a single replaceable blade. This folding utility knife enjoys a one-handed operation thanks to a simple onboard button. Once out, you’ll be able to use its blade effortlessly for any cutting tasks. One distinctive feature is a built-in wire-stripper slot that can handle up to a ten gauge wire. A cord-cutting notch will allow you to cut through a small rope even when closed. Finally, a wire belt clip on its durable metal body can handle your EDC needs.

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Exceed Designs TiRant Razor V2 Utility Knife

Purchase

Key Features

Flipper deployment

Quick release

Super slim

Specifications

Blade type

Standard

Material

Titanium and metal

Size

7.64” x 4.53” x 1.77”

EDC Rating

504 ratings

Price

$$

The TiRant Razor is as durable as it is elegant. This low-profile utility folder features a slim profile, making it a breeze to carry anywhere. Thanks to its titanium construction, this is only enhanced by a 2.6 oz weight. For operation, the TiRant Razor features a flipper tab. After deployment, the blade is securely held in place via a locking mechanism. It uses standard utility knife blades that can be easily replaced via its quick-release mechanism.

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Gerber E.A.B. Lite Folding Utility Knife

Purchase

Key Features

Finger grooves

Small and portable

Lightweight

Specifications

Blade type

Standard

Material

Stainless steel

Size

2.8” closed

EDC Rating

7146 ratings

Price

$

If you’re looking for a super-compact option you can take anywhere, you might want to keep the Gerber EAB Lite in mind. Designed to be as portable and lightweight as possible, the EAB Lite comes in at a 2.8” overall length and a 2.5 oz weight. Despite its smaller size, a generous 2.3” blade length when open will be more than enough for all your cutting tasks. Finally, Gerber outfitted it with ergonomic finger grooves and a strong liner lock to keep it comfortable despite its reduced footprint.

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Lenox Tools Utility Knife

Purchase

Key Features

Quick change

Blade storage

Stainless steel nose

Specifications

Blade type

Standard

Material

Stainless steel

Size

10.63” x 3.75” x 0.94”

EDC Rating

213 ratings

Price

$

With a hefty body and a stainless steel nose covered in titanium, the Lenox utility knife can take on more abuse than most. The use of only two buttons makes the operation quite simple. One lets you unlock the blade to rotate or replace it with a new blade. The second button allows you to access its internal blade storage, a convenient place to carry spare blades for quick on-the-field action. An ergonomic shape ensures the handle remains comfortable despite its wider frame.

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Screwpop Ron’s Utility Knife

Purchase

Key Features

One-handed operation

Magnetic and portable

Bottle opener

Specifications

Blade type

Standard

Material

Stainless steel and metal

Size

3.95” x 2.7” x 0.35”

EDC Rating

1316 ratings

Price

$

Enjoying an extremely reduced footprint, Ron’s Utility Knife by Screwpop should be on the top of your list if you want to save as much space as possible in your EDC. Paper-thin and only 3.25” long, this knife will fit in nearly any pocket or attachment point. Thanks to its smaller size, the Ron features a one-handed operation designed around sliding the blade in and out. This works in tandem with a neodymium magnet that serves as a stop for the blade and a convenient way to keep it handy by sticking it on metal surfaces. Finally, a keychain hole and a bottle opener add even more utility to this tiny knife.

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Mossy Oak Folding Pocket Utility Knife

Purchase

Key Features

Framelock

Easy change

Compact and portable

Specifications

Blade type

Standard

Material

Aluminum

Size

2.95” x 0.94” x 0.43”

EDC Rating

2499 ratings

Price

$

At only 3” when closed, this folding utility knife is a great alternative if you’re looking for something big enough for a full-handed grip while being compact enough to fit inside any pocket. Once unfolded, a secure framelock makes sure the blade stays in place while in use. A simple 2-step process handles Blade replacement: push upward on the small rectangular button and gently pull the blade out. Finally, a pocket clip also makes an appearance to enhance its portability even more.

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Olfa Craft 34B Utility Knife

Purchase

Key Features

Extra-slim

Lightweight

Portable

Specifications

Blade type

OLFA XB34

Material

Stainless steel

Size

4.57” x 0.91” x 0.41”

EDC Rating

482 ratings

Price

$

The Olfa utility knife stands out among its peers for its extra-slim lightweight construction and its elegant blade design. Weighing in at only 0.48 oz, you’ll barely notice it’s on you until it’s time to use it. Another peculiar thing about the Olfa 34B is its use of XB34 blades. These feature a pronounced tip for extremely detailed work and piercing tasks. One thing to keep in mind is that these blades are usually more expensive and harder to find. You should consider this as part of your workbench if you engage in many DIY projects.

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Gerber Prybrid Utility Knife

Purchase

Key Features

Push-button lock

Rugged

8 tools

Specifications

Blade type

Standard

Material

Metal spine with G10 scales

Size

4.25” x 1.3” x 0.4”

EDC Rating

3444 ratings

Price

$

With eight everyday functions in total, this rugged multi-tool by Gerber puts the “utility” in “utility knife.” The Prybrid Utility comprises standard replaceable blades sandwiched between two G10 scales. These help the knife’s durability and grip without adding much weight. The blade itself deploys via a sliding button for adjustable length. Its other functions include a pry bar, a nail puller, a wire stripper, two sizes of flathead screwdrivers, a cord cut notch, and the ever-useful bottle opener.

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CountyComm Slide Lock Ti Utility Knife 2.0

Purchase

Key Features

Compact

Full titanium build

Twist retract

Specifications

Blade type

No. 11 hobby blade

Material

Titanium

Size

1.85″ closed

EDC Rating

78 ratings

Price

$

The CountyComm Slide Lock Ti 2.0 proves that big things can come from small packages. Measuring only 1.85” when closed, the Slidelock employs a complete titanium construction, keeping things strong and lightweight while holding its own as a box cutter. It uses a No. 11 hobby blade that retracts and extends by twisting a knob on its body.

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Gil-Tek RUK-S Utility Knife

Purchase

Key Features

Made in USA

One-handed operation

Small and lightweight

Specifications

Blade type

Standard

Material

6061 T6 Aluminum

Size

3.5” x 1.13” x 0.19”

EDC Rating

74 ratings

Price

$

This USA-made utility knife was designed with both portability and ease of use in mind. It remains small and lightweight at 3” long when closed and weighing 2 oz, so you can easily add it to any EDC. It also features a one-handed operation that lets you slide and lock the blade in place by directly pushing it. Though it lacks a pocket clip, adding a lanyard slot makes up for it. The RUK-S Comes in titanium, brass, and aluminum options, so you can pick the one that best suits your style and budget.

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BigIDesign TPT Slide Utility Knife

Purchase

Key Features

Small and portable

Multiple integrated tools

Pocket clip and lanyard

Specifications

Blade type

Standard

Material

Titanium

Size

4.1” x 2.6” x 0.9”

EDC Rating

336 ratings

Price

$$

Making another entry into the multi-tool list, the TPT slide comes in with a chunky titanium body and extra functions to spare. As its name implies, this portable utility knife operates using a slider to deploy and retract the blade. Its compact footprint allows for an easy one-handed operation of the actual blade and most of its other functions. These include a bottle opener, a flathead screwdriver, a hex bit opening, a mini pry bar, and a scraper edge. The TPT has been outfitted with a lanyard slot and a removable pocket clip for EDC purposes.

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Slice 10495 Utility Knife

Purchase

Key Features

Lanyard hole

Finger-friendly blade

Ambidextrous

Specifications

Blade type

Ceramic blade

Material

Carbon steel

Size

3.94” x 1.02” x 0.47”

EDC Rating

176 ratings

Price

$

If you place safety features very high on your list, and your tasks don’t require much piercing, the Slice 10495 might be what you need. This ambidextrous utility knife ships with a rounded tip, #10404 zirconium oxide blade with a safety grind, making it extremely finger-friendly. However, this means that blade replacements are only available through the manufacturer. The knife features an automatic folding design for portability, enhanced with a lanyard hole. While it ships with a rounded blade, pointed options are available on Slice’s website.

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Stanley Classic 99 Utility Knife

Purchase

Key Features

Handle storage

Interlocking nose

Three-position

Specifications

Blade type

Standard

Material

Alloy steel

Size

8.43” x 3.94” x 1.26”

EDC Rating

227 ratings

Price

$

It would be unwise to make a list about the best utility knives and not include the Classic 99 by Stanley. As you might have guessed, it features an uncomplicated, reliable design that has been tested and used for decades. Slide the blade through its interlocking nose and place it in one of three preset positions to start working. If your blade dulls or breaks, you need only replace it with another you can store inside its metal body. It is worth mentioning that accessing the blade storage does require taking apart the knife with a screwdriver.

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Outdoor Edge SlideWinder Utility Knife

Purchase

Key Features

Removable pocket clip

Extra tools

Compact and lightweight

Specifications

Blade type

Standard

Material

Synthetic

Size

1” x 1’’ x 1”

EDC Rating

2607 ratings

Price

$

If you want a sturdy knife you can keep around without worrying about space, the SlideWinder could be the right fit for you. The body is constructed from stainless steel parts and a glass/nylon chassis, texturized for an enhanced grip. Aside from its sliding utility blade, you’ll find a flathead and a Phillips screwdriver on its corners, along with a trusty bottle opener. The SlideWinder is a compact addition to any glove box, toolbox, kitchen drawer, or jacket pocket, thanks to its size and removable clip.

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Nova SK-022 Slim Auto-Retract Utility Knife

Purchase

Key Features

Auto retract

Super-slim and lightweight

Easy blade change

Specifications

Blade type

Nova SB009 SK2 9mm blade

Material

Metal

Size

6.5” x 0.59” x 0.39”

EDC Rating

65 ratings

Price

$

Shaped like a pen but outfitted with a razor-sharp blade, the Nova SK-022 makes a fine addition to any office or crafting station. Adding even more convenience, it features an auto-retractable blade. It works like any box cutter; however, the blade automatically goes back into the body when you release the deployment button. The exceptionally slim blade is perfect for detailed work, piercing tasks, and hard-to-reach spots.

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Olfa SVR-1 9mm Utility Knife

Purchase

Key Features

Razor sharp

Easy blade change

9mm blade

Specifications

Blade type

ABS Stainless Steel Snap-Off Blade

Material

Alloy steel

Size

8.66” x 2.56” x 0.46”

EDC Rating

847 ratings

Price

$

Another super-slim design from Olfa, the SVR-1 9mm could be a great addition to both your crafting station and your EDC. Featuring a 9mm snap-off blade, the SVR-1 excels at more detailed work and reaching into places where wider blades would struggle. Its convenient snap-off nature makes it easier to keep working if your blade fails or dulls out. Despite its super-slim profile, this made-in-Japan knife features a stainless steel body, making it much more durable than its plastic counterparts. Finally, a small pocket clip allows you to carry it inside a shirt or pants pocket without much issue.

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Rexford RUT V4 Utility Knife

Purchase

Key Features

Slide mechanism

Replaceable razor blade

Split-ring hole

Specifications

Blade type

Standard

Material

Titanium

Size

3.53″ x 0.90″

EDC Rating

2 ratings

Price

$$$

While pocket knives tend to be the EDCer’s preferred tool for cutting tasks, sometimes the humble utility blade can get the job done even better. And few utility knives can round out an EDC better than the Rexford Utility Tool from knife designer Todd Rexford. In its 4th iteration, the RUT features an improved lock mechanism and slimmer construction in a pocket-friendly profile. The RUT’s core functionality is its integrated replaceable razor blade, which gives you access to a sharp blade for precision tasks or cutting through packing tape. It’s helpful in a pinch or when you don’t want to risk dirtying or damaging your primary EDC knife. But the RUT is more than a utility blade: it has the added functionality of a pry bar, bottle opener, and flathead screwdriver.

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How to Choose the Best Utility Knife for Your EDC

While most of us are used to opening up packages with a trusty pocket knife, that‘s not a good idea in the long run. That is if you want to keep maximizing your blade’s lifespan. Sure, one or two now and then is ok, but regular pocket knives weren’t designed to deal with all the gunk and glue found in packaging tape. That doesn’t mean they can’t; you’ll just have to clean and re-sharpen them more often.

That’s the primary purpose of the replaceable utility blade. They are thin, highly sharp blades meant to deal with tough, repetitive tasks that might damage regular pocket knives with constant use. Instead of re-sharpening and cleaning a blade after a day or two of opening packages, a utility blade was meant to be disposed of and replaced.

Pocket knives, on the other hand, can handle tougher, heavy-duty tasks that might be too demanding for utility blades, like camping applications, food preparation, and cutting or piercing through denser material.

In conclusion, if it’s a to be performing quit in the long rune often, and the materials might mess up your blade, use a utility knife. And if it requires more versatility and strength, a pocket knife is usually the way to go.

Types of Utility Knives

• Safety Knives: Safety knives focus on reducing accidents as much as possible. They typically come with blunted tips to prevent piercing and cutting hooks to guide your hand. Some more sophisticated blades even come with special grinds to reduce their cutting power against human skin.
  
• Retractable Knives: Most knives on this list (and on the market) count as retractable knives. Retractable blades gained popularity due to their ease of transport and generally safer operation. Retractable blades also provide more versatility regarding blade length, letting the user decide depending on their task.
  
• Fixed Blade Knives: While fixed blade utility knives offer less flexibility than retractable blades, they offer more reliability as a trade-off. Since they have fewer moving parts, knife malfunction or failure becomes less likely. And since you don’t have to “deploy” the blade, it’s always ready for use. They also tend to be more durable than their counterparts.

Types of Utility Blades

• Hook Blades: These blades excel at cutting extremely thick or heavy-duty materials. These are normally used for linoleum, carpet, or trimming the edge off roof shingles.
  
• Serrated Edge Blades: While more uncommon, serrated utility knives excel at cutting through tougher, fibrous materials. These may include twine, netting, burlap, rope, and thick leather.
  
• Pointed Tip Blades: Some blades will have a more pronounced tip than standard blades. This makes them ideal for detailed work, piercing tasks, and reaching into places where thicker blades normally couldn’t.
  
• Rounded Tip Blades: Some blades come with their tips rounded or dulled out. This is usually done to enhance safety measures. Whitypically means that you won’t be able to pierce through the material, you’ll significantly reduce piercing-related accidents.
  
• Snap-Off Blades: These are commonly found in stationery or hobby knives. They’re typically long blades divided into smaller, even sections. They’re designed this way so that you can snap off the section when the tip breaks instead of replacing the entire blade. These knives usually come with a mechanism to perform these tasks safely.

Features You Should Consider

• Folding: A utility knife that can fold usually means that you can more easily add it to your EDC. When not in use, you can store it inside a pocket or bag without occupying too much space, compared to bulkier, more traditional knives. But when it’s time to work, you’ll be able to open it up for a full-hand grip, which is usually more comfortable and precise.
  
• One-handed operation: One-handed operation is not required but is usually preferred for utility knives. This means deploying and retracting the blade efficiently with just one hand. A lot of the usual tasks for utility knives require your second hand to be in use as an anchor.
  
• Grip type: A comfortable, ergonomic grip is of paramount importance when it comes to utility knives. Since you’ll be performing repetitive cuts, an ergonomic form factor can reduce strain or injury. And as far as detailed work goes, an uncomfortable grip can affect not only your body but also the quality of your work.
  
• Durability: If your environment constantly tests your equipment, getting a particularly durable knife is highly recommended. Heftier knives will usually stand up to abuse more efficiently, even if made with plastic. However, even smaller knives can withstand wear and tear with titanium or high-quality aluminum builds.
  
• Portability: For EDC, portability is usually king. That’s why with the rise of utility knives, more and more designs have come out with lanyard holes and pocket clips. Compact, minimalist designs have also increased in popularity since they help save precious pocket space.
  
• Blade storage: Some knives have built-in storage for spare blades, usually inside the handle. This is handy if you often find yourself on the field, where stopping your work to retrieve spare blades would be less than ideal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the use of a utility knife?

Utility knives were designed to perform strenuous, repetitive tasks that might quickly dull a blade. They are made to be disposable and replaceable. Some of these tasks include: Cutting through boxes, tape, and dense materials.

What do you call a utility knife?

A utility knife is called by other names, such as a box cutter, razor blade, or craft knife. They are mainly used in crafts and repair projects where precision is needed. They’re also used in rough cutting tasks because the blades are usually replaceable instead of a dedicated EDC pocket knife.

Is a utility knife a weapon?

Utility knives generally perform poorly as weapons. While extremely sharp, their thin structure makes them prone to break when improperly used.

What is a serrated utility knife used for?

While more uncommon, serrated utility knives excel at cutting through tougher, fibrous materials. These may include twine, netting, burlap, rope, and thick leather.

How we picked

Decades of experience and deep connections in the everyday carry industry give us a unique viewpoint on the market to inform our product recommendations. We have the depth of information for thousands of products that have come before and an extensive eye on the market to see what’s new and trending for each piece of gear. The result is a buying guide that we feel is informative and useful for EDCers of every trade, industry, and budget.

What is Everyday Carry?

Everyday Carry is both the concept of what people carry in their pockets and the process of picking out gear that thoughtfully considers what one wants or needs in their daily lives. It encompasses everything from style to preparedness to utility, meaning an entire industry full of valuable tools and essentials to choose from.

Why you should trust us

Our team has decades of combined experience in all aspects of everyday men’s essentials, from wallets to pens to bags and everything in between, and we know where to find great gear ideas that you may not come across at your local stores or when shopping online. Our expertise with the industry and familiarity in design, materials, and usability help you make more informed choices when it comes to picking up your next piece of gear.

The post The 17 Best Utility Knives and Box Cutters in 2024 appeared first on Everyday Carry.

For cutting tasks, the Mini Champ features two different sizes of blade, as well as a pair of scissors for more delicate work. For tinkering, you get two kinds of screwdrivers, a wire stripper, and a scraper. There’s a nail file, a nail cleaner, a cuticle pusher, a toothpick, and a pair of tweezers for personal hygiene, and other miscellaneous items include a ballpoint pen, an inch and centimeter ruler, an orange peeler, and the ever reliable bottle opener. All your bases covered, from a multi-tool you can hang off your keychain. Pick one up at the link below.

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For the ultimate sharpness, this fixed blade has been sharpened to an 18-degree edge angle with up to 3200 grit; then, it’s detailed by hand. This ensures you’ll get buttery smooth cuts and a long-lasting edge. This new iteration of the knife also features a finer point, similar to a tanto shape, for easier precision work. It comes with small o-rings you place and adjust along the handle to help with grip since the entire build is metal.

This handle features a skeletonized design made with waterjets, which is then hand-finished with belts and buffers. The lack of CNC machining or a mass-production process also means that no two knives are the same, and you can own one uniquely yours. And to complete its premium build, the clip, the spacer, and the screws are all made from titanium. Once you’re done cutting, you can put its included sheath back on to prevent accidental slices in your pockets. Pick one up at the link below.

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Though they might look like regular pages, Moleskine uses ivory-colored 70gsm paper to enhance your writing experience further. This not only makes ballpoints feel extremely smooth, but it also allows for fountain pens not to bleed through and stain other pages. Not to mention it significantly reduces smudging, which is an excellent feature for lefties.

The notebook is available in multiple sizes aside from this one, so you can choose the one that better suits your needs. You can also choose between blank, dotted, grid, and lined pages, giving you all the versatility you need.

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Header: Austin Gillespie

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The handles are also entirely metal with a skeletonized build to shave the weight down even more. They also feature grooves and bumps throughout to help enhance grip since metal tends to be more slippery. Inside, you’ll find an assisted opening mechanism for a lightning-fast deployment. Once it’s open, the blade stays in place via a robust back lock. You can choose between a natural, satin, and black colorway for the whole knife and between a clip point or tanto shape for the blade. Once you’re done, you can slide it right into your pocket with its included low-profile pocket clip. Pick one up at the link below.

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But like its purpose as a dive watch, its true excellence lies under the surface. Its construction allows it to have up to 1000 meters (3,300 feet) of water resistance, about five times as much resistance as most other dive watches on the market. It’s way more resilient than you’ll ever need, even as a professional diver, but the design and features ensure it’ll hold its own against any adventure on land, too.

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Thanks to a unique and innovative design, the inCharge 6 works as a universal connector for charging devices, while being built as compact as possible to stay right on your keychain so you’ll never leave it behind. It features USB-A and USB-C on one end and a combination of USB-C, Micro USB, and Lightning on the other. This means you can use it to charge nearly any device available out there. It features a zinc-aluminum alloy metal housing, a TPU cable guard, and 90 braided copper wires for everyday durability. At just under $20 (at the time of writing), this Swiss Army Knife of cables will make a great addition to anyone’s keychain.

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