In a world where just about everything has gone smart, are we surprised that the next big thing is smart wallets? The next question everyone is asking: How can a wallet be smart? And more, importantly, do I actually need one?
No one can escape such a daunting question, so we did a deep dive on all things smart wallets.
Turns out, wallets can - and should - be more than a pocket piggy bank with a few cards along for the ride. Not to mention, our editors found an endless variety of smart wallets! We couldn’t believe there are some made that protect your cards from electronic theft, some with tracking capabilities, the list goes on. These wallets are way more exciting than your Dad’s old bifold.
There are so many features that streamline your day and protect your money and essentials. So we made it our mission to find out which was the most genius smart wallet on the market.
We enjoyed checking out Secrid, Forrest & Harold, and even Bellroy. But when it came down to it, Ekster and The Ridge were the two companies that came out on top.
Here's what we found when we compared Eksterto The Ridge:
Ekster Vs The Ridge: Styles
With Ekster, there are so many styles offered you’ll never get bored with their options. From their sleek Aluminum Cardholder - made from space-grade 6061-T6 aluminum - to their Parliament wallet’s premium leather to the Senate cardholder, Ekster sure knows how to make unique and stylish wallets.
When it comes to style options, we noticed right away that The Ridge has one tried-and-true minimalist design that they’ve stuck with in all of their collections. However, variety comes in the form of the wallet's material. You can choose from titanium, aluminum, carbon fiber, or even 18K gold-plated.
Ekster Review: 9/10
The Ridge Review: 6/10
Ekster Vs The Ridge: Quality
Ekster only uses premium, environmentally-certified leather and space-grade aluminum, so every wallet is built to last.
The Ridge wallets are constructed with two metal plates held together by elastic bands with either a cash strap or money clip attached on the outside. Despite this basic configuration, there's no skimping here. Each wallet is made of high-quality materials, so the finished product is minimalistic but a bit more luxe than ordinary.
Ekster Review: 9/10
The Ridge Review: 9/10
Ekster Vs The Ridge: Size
Starting at 0.15 inches (0.38cm), Eksteris the slimmest smart wallet on the market. Small, but mighty despite its size, an Ekster wallet is slim and thin and still holds up to 7 cards. There's even a strap for cash!
Softer and lighter than most wallets on the market - weighing in at only 2 ounces - The Ridge wallet can comfortably hold around 12 cards and offers add-ons like a cash strap, a money clip, or both.
Ekster Review: 8/10
The Ridge Review: 7.5/10
Ekster Vs The Ridge: Tech
Ekster wallets are packed with functionality that streamlines your day-to-day lives. They feature solar-powered tracker cards that allow you to call your wallet or your phone when you've misplaced or lost it. And no need to worry about data skimming with Ekster's built-in RFID protection, which keeps cards safe no matter where you are or what you're doing.
Although The Ridge offers RFID protection, they don’t have as many seamless features as Ekster. The wallet’s metal plates actively block wireless theft attempts, perfectly protecting the data stored on your cards. We were a bit disappointed that there weren't any tracking capabilities. Being slightly thinner wallets, we found it difficult to remove cards when they were tightly packed.
Ekster Review: 9/10
The Ridge Review: 7/10
Ekster Vs The Ridge: Price
Ekster products range in price from $34 to $76 which is more reasonable than most of their competitors. High-quality materials, a wide variety of styles, and amazing high-tech features make Ekster the best buy out there.
The Ridge runs from about $85 for the aluminum and up to $225 for the 18K gold plated wallet. Although the price reflects the materials used in each wallet, not everyone can break the bank for a wallet.
Ekster Review: 8.5/10
The Ridge Review: 6.5/10
Verdict
Both Ekster and the Ridge are serious upgrades for those holding on to our ratty and torn bi-folds. But when it comes down to it, Ekster’s sleek, streamlined wallets are our editors' new go-to for everyday carry essentials.
Both Ekster and The Ridge have an elevated look that’s stylish and cool, but Ekster’s tech and price are unbeatable.
Time to say goodbye to your old accessories and upgrade to the smartest wallet brand on the market, Ekster.