An array of budget-friendly add-ons from screen protectors to portable chargers are transforming daily use of the iPhone 17 Pro Max, making practical upgrades more accessible than ever.
A new iPhone 17 Pro Max is only the start of the upgrade. As Tom’s Guide notes, a handful of inexpensive add-ons can make a much bigger difference to daily use than the phone alone, especially once protection, grip and charging are factored in. Apple’s own Belkin UltraGlass 2 protector for the iPhone 17 Pro Max highlights how far screen-film design has moved on, with an Easy Align tray and claims of much stronger impact resistance than conventional glass protectors. PopSockets and other case makers also continue to build MagSafe compatibility into their latest iPhone 17 Pro Max accessories, reflecting how central magnetic attachments have become to the platform.
The first sensible purchase is a screen protector that is easy to fit properly. Tom’s Guide favours applicator-based designs that reduce dust, bubbles and poor alignment, while Apple’s Belkin UltraGlass 2 model goes further with a precise alignment tray and ultra-thin glass construction. The practical point is simple: modern iPhone glass is tougher than it used to be, but it is not immune to scratches or drops. A protector remains a low-cost way to limit repair risk.
A MagSafe PopSocket is the next accessory that meaningfully changes use. Tom’s Guide says the grip makes the large handset easier to hold one-handed and gives the user a more secure feel in the hand, which matters on a device as big as the Pro Max. PopSockets’ own MagSafe case range is built around the same ecosystem, with slim profiles, raised edges and compatibility with grips, wallets and mounts. That modular approach is what makes the accessory useful rather than merely decorative.
Portable charging is another area where magnetic accessories have become genuinely useful. Tom’s Guide points to Ugreen’s 10,000mAh magnetic power bank as a strong option because it snaps onto the phone and keeps charging without a cable in the way. That matters on a handset with a large display and heavy battery use, where convenience is as important as capacity. The key benefit is not just extra power, but uninterrupted charging while the phone stays usable in hand or in a bag.
For wall charging, Tom’s Guide recommends Anker’s Nano II 65W GaN charger. The point here is efficiency rather than novelty. Gallium nitride chargers can be smaller and cooler-running than older silicon designs, which is why compact units can now deliver enough power for an iPhone, an iPad and even a MacBook. In practice, that makes one small charger more useful than the bulky brick Apple no longer includes in the box.
The final piece is a stand that doubles as a charging dock. Tom’s Guide highlights Belkin’s foldable 2-in-1 Qi2 model because it holds the iPhone magnetically, supports StandBy mode in landscape orientation and adds a second pad for AirPods. Belkin says its latest Qi2-focused accessories are built to work across a wider range of devices, not just iPhone, which gives the format extra appeal for households with mixed hardware. For less than $50, that combination of desk stand, phone charger and earbud pad is one of the most practical upgrades you can buy.
Disclaimer: This content is intended for informational purposes only. Readers are advised to exercise their own judgement, conduct due diligence, or consult a qualified expert before acting on any information provided.
