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The Best Smart Wallet of 2024! Here’s What We Found

Ekster & Ridge Review - RFID Wallets With Solar Powered GPS Tracking Make Life Easier.

Today it feels like everything has gone smart. Smartphones, smart televisions, smartwatches, and of course, the newest big thing, the smart wallet. How can a wallet be smart? And why would anyone need that?!

We had the same questions, so we did some research.

It turns out wallets can serve more than just the purpose of holding your cash and cards - there are wallets that can protect your cards from electronic theft. There are even wallets that you can track with your phone when you've misplaced it. These are undoubtedly useful features.

We decided to try out the top smart wallets on the market, compare them, and figure out which one is the ultimate, smartest wallet. Although we also bought wallets from Secrid and Forrest & Harold, we settled on Ekster and Ridge as our top two. Here's what we found:

(TLDR: in a hurry? Scroll down to our Overall Verdict to see why we're hailing Ekster as the slimmest and smartest winner.)

Ekster Review

Ekster wallets are incredibly attractive, thanks to handcrafted sustainable leathers in a good range of colors. Starting at 0.15 inches (0.38cm), Ekster is also officially the slimmest smart wallet on the market, but it still holds 7 cards and has a strap for cash. With the click of a button, all the cards pop up for easy access. Ekster wallets also have RFID protection, which stops pickpockets swiping your data and electronic theft of your cards.

Ekster wallets have solar-powered tracker cards that allow you to call your phone or wallet when you lose it or track it on a map. You can even take selfies in your phone with the tracker card, and connect your wallet to your Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, or Siri.

Ekster wallets are affordable, starting at just $69, so they're great for gifting.

Ridge Review

Ridge wallets are very sturdy and made from aluminum, titanium, and carbon fiber. They're small and resistant to being stretched out, but not as slim. They can hold up to 12 cards and have the option for a cash strap, a money clip, or both. They're unique and minimal, but come in a wide variety of colors and prints such as rose gold, navy, and even a tropical print!

Overall Verdict

Ekster, Secrid, and Ridge have an elevated look compared to other wallets, along with a revolutionary design when it comes to their card design. However, the cold and metallic material of both Secrid and Ridge's wallets aren't for everyone, and we personally were fans of Ekster's sophisticated leather look.

While each wallet features RFID protection, what makes Ekster stand out is the solar-powered tracking card, which fits almost invisibly into the back of the wallet. This is what truly makes them a smart wallet - if you lose your wallet, you can track it from your phone!

Between the two, Ekster wallets are slimmer, more affordable, and have the best card pop-up feature. If you're looking for a convenient, trackable, and aesthetically pleasing wallet, Ekster is the clear winner.

SPONSORED

The Best Smart Wallet of 2024! Here’s What We Found

Ekster & Ridge Review - RFID Wallets With Solar Powered GPS Tracking Make Life Easier.

Today it feels like everything has gone smart. Smartphones, smart televisions, smartwatches, and of course, the newest big thing, the smart wallet. How can a wallet be smart? And why would anyone need that?!

We had the same questions, so we did some research.

It turns out wallets can serve more than just the purpose of holding your cash and cards - there are wallets that can protect your cards from electronic theft. There are even wallets that you can track with your phone when you've misplaced it. These are undoubtedly useful features.

We decided to try out the top smart wallets on the market, compare them, and figure out which one is the ultimate, smartest wallet. Although we also bought wallets from Secrid and Forrest & Harold, we settled on Ekster and Ridge as our top two. Here's what we found:

(TLDR: in a hurry? Scroll down to our Overall Verdict to see why we're hailing Ekster as the slimmest and smartest winner.)

Ekster Review

Ekster wallets are incredibly attractive, thanks to handcrafted sustainable leathers in a good range of colors. Starting at 0.15 inches (0.38cm), Ekster is also officially the slimmest smart wallet on the market, but it still holds 7 cards and has a strap for cash. With the click of a button, all the cards pop up for easy access. Ekster wallets also have RFID protection, which stops pickpockets swiping your data and electronic theft of your cards.

Ekster wallets have solar-powered tracker cards that allow you to call your phone or wallet when you lose it or track it on a map. You can even take selfies in your phone with the tracker card, and connect your wallet to your Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, or Siri.

Ekster wallets are affordable, starting at just $69, so they're great for gifting.

Ridge Review

Ridge wallets are very sturdy and made from aluminum, titanium, and carbon fiber. They're small and resistant to being stretched out, but not as slim. They can hold up to 12 cards and have the option for a cash strap, a money clip, or both. They're unique and minimal, but come in a wide variety of colors and prints such as rose gold, navy, and even a tropical print!

Overall Verdict

Ekster, Secrid, and Ridge have an elevated look compared to other wallets, along with a revolutionary design when it comes to their card design. However, the cold and metallic material of both Secrid and Ridge's wallets aren't for everyone, and we personally were fans of Ekster's sophisticated leather look.

While each wallet features RFID protection, what makes Ekster stand out is the solar-powered tracking card, which fits almost invisibly into the back of the wallet. This is what truly makes them a smart wallet - if you lose your wallet, you can track it from your phone!

Between the two, Ekster wallets are slimmer, more affordable, and have the best card pop-up feature. If you're looking for a convenient, trackable, and aesthetically pleasing wallet, Ekster is the clear winner.


At Popdust, we make it our mission to find gifts that'll make your wallet happy and your giftees thrilled.

Let’s face it, men can be impossible to shop for, and there are only so many pairs of socks or bottles of whiskey you can get for someone. But don't worry, this year, we think we've found the right gift for your man.

Ekster makes slim, trackable leather wallets and accessories that look super slick and have cool features to prevent you from losing them. Perfect for your s.o. who has almost everything. Even for your dad or scatterbrained brother and yourself!

Here are all the great features of our favorite affordable, high-quality gifts from Ekster.

The Parliament Wallet

The Story

This sleek, pocket-sized smart wallet will elevate your man's every day. The easy card access makes it perfect for on-the-go and all he'll need for a night out.

With the click of a button on the bottom left, the cards pop up from the top — no fumbling for debit at dinner or searching for his ID at the bar (been there).

He'll never lose it with a solar-powered Tracker Card (which lasts 2 months). As long as he's got a smartphone, he's got a path back to this wallet.

It comes in 7 classic colors, 3 matte colors, and 3 prime Tuscan leather options. Fit for all occasions the Parliament quickly becomes one of his everyday carry essentials.

The Recap

  • Holds 10-12 cards
  • Quick card access with the push of a button
  • Top-quality leather
  • 13 color options
  • RFID blocking (no skimming)
  • Tracking ability
  • Selfie timer ability with the Tracker Card

The Price

Starting at $79, it's a must-have. Currently only $55 with our promo!

The Aluminum Cardholder

The Story

If you want to get him something even sleeker, go with the Aluminum Cardholder.

Same pop-up card access, RFID blocking layers to fend off data skimmers, tracking capabilities, and a selfie timer, but made from space-grade aluminum. This compact cardholder is the ideal solution for those who value efficiency and modern design.

The Recap

  • Holds 1-12 cards and bills
  • Quick card access at the click of a button
  • Blocks RFID to prevent wireless theft
  • Space-grade 6061-T6 aluminum
  • Expandable aluminum backplate
  • Add a Tracker Card to make it unlosable

The Price

Starting at $89, it's a great option. Currently only $62 with our promo!

The GRID™ Backpack

The Story

Ekster adapted the brilliant design philosophy behind their revolutionary smart wallets and created The GRID™ Backpack — a bag that adapts to your specific needs. At a glance, the bag may look small but don’t be fooled by its slim design.

The semi-auto-lock zipper, an easy-access side pocket, and attachment straps allow you to fit everything you need — it can easily store a laptop, iPad, camera, book, plus all the travel essentials. And it's totally TSA-approved.

The GRID™ Backpack’s ergo-padded and air-mesh ventilated back panel ensures active cooling meets the highest ergonomic design standards.

Made from recycled PET bottles, this bag has a water-resistant 600D body and waterproof zippers so it's ready for all weather conditions. And just like their wallets, the GRID™ includes RFID lining that protects your data.

The Recap

  • Easy access with 180° opening
  • Quick access 16” laptop compartment
  • Soft-lined tech or sunglasses pocket
  • External storage
  • Compression straps for extra gear
  • Elastic water bottle pocket
  • Luggage pass-through strap
  • Internal organization
  • Mesh zip pocket for valuables
  • iPad / A5 document sleeve
  • Pocket for laptop power bank & Tracker Card
  • Carry comfort (TSA approved) with air-mesh ventilated back panel, padded back, and shoulder support
  • Materials: Water-resistant 600D body, Waterproof zippers, Made from recycled PET bottles

The Price

Valued at $195, but it's $156 with our special deal. Compared to other travel bags on the market, this is a steal for the high quality we’ve come to expect with Ekster.

The Xmas Bundle

The Story

With the Holidays fast approaching the Xmas bundle offers a wide variety of colorways on their most popular smart wallets — the Parliament, the Aluminum Cardholder, and the Carbon Fiber Cardholder in addition to the Key Case.

The Carbon Fiber wallet has the same quick card access, RFID protection, and tracking capabilities as the Parliament and Aluminum Cardholder. This one is made from 3K space-grade carbon fiber and has an expandable backplate — so he can travel light or carry more as needed.

The Key Case offers slim and silent key storage — so he won't hear that annoying jingling sound all the time. And he’ll never scramble to find the right key again. This case organizes 2-8 keys with easy access.

The Recap

  • Smart Wallet
    • Quick card access mechanism
    • RFID blocking technology
    • Environmentally certified leather
    • Add a Tracker Card to make it unlosable
  • Key Case
    • One-handed key access
    • Slim & silent key storage (2-8 keys)
    • Premium leather and stainless steel
    • Removable D ring for larger keys like car keys
    • Prevents scratches to your phone in your pocket

The Price

This bundle has a value of $150, but it's just $99 with our promo.

Final Thoughts

With free shipping, 100-day free returns, and a 12-month warranty on all products, Ekster makes shopping for him a little easier. Every guy needs a slim wallet with easy access to cash and cards, so there's no way he won't be happy with any of these options this holiday season.

To ensure you won't ever get another text from your man asking you to retrace his steps with him to find his wallet…go with Ekster.

Ekster's Christmas Sale Is Expiring Soon, Save 50% For A Limited Time

  • Smart wallets have become one of the biggest must-haves in menswear carry accessories
  • The Ridge and Ekster both offer a range of wallets that combine stylish designs and innovative tech
  • To discover why you should switch from The Ridge to Ekster - Keep reading

Now that the entire world has gone digital, everything seems to be tailored for life on-the-go. Between smartphones and smart watches, connected-carry accessories are all the rage. And the next big thing is the smart wallet.

Two big contenders in the smart wallet market are Ekster and The Ridge. We’ve heard a lot about The Ridge, but after using it we felt like it was missing something.

Then we heard about Ekster, a company that creates next generation wallets, cardholders, and iPhone cases that are sleek, affordable, and made with the highest quality materials. And the wallets’ Tracker Cards make them virtually impossible to lose.

Here’s why you should ditch The Ridge and fall in love with Ekster:

Trackability & Technology

Misplacing your wallet or worrying about your wallet being stolen is never a problem with Ekster. Their cutting edge, solar-powered Tracker Card is brilliant — something The Ridge doesn’t even offer.

The Tracker Card is the size of a credit card and perfectly suits Ekster's other main accessories.

Once your Tracker Card’s in your wallet, you can find it anywhere. Two-way ringing allows you to call your wallet from your phone and vice versa. And if it's out of range, Ekster uses a worldwide crowd GPS network that can help you find it.

In today’s increasingly digital world, everyone’s concerned about privacy. Ekster’s cardholders and wallets come equipped with RFID blocking technology that protects your card from data theft. Talk about peace of mind.

Affordability

A smart wallet isn’t cheap, but it shouldn’t break the bank. Ekster wallets start as low as $69 — quite affordable. And a much better deal than The Ridge, which starts at $85, even though Ekster has smarter features.

Sleek

Officially the slimmest on the market, Ekster’s smart wallets are utlra-sleek — they fit in your jeans pocket without the bulge. With the pop of a button, your cards eject for easy access.

The Ridge wallets are constructed with two metal plates held together by elastic bands with a money clip on the outside. In comparison, Ekster wallets come in a great range of colors and are hand-crafted from the highest quality, premium leathers available.

The Ridge may be popular, but we’re definitely loving Ekster. They combine style, functionality, and technology for a truly sophisticated look. The Tracker Card gives Ekster the edge — never lose your wallet again.

Some of our Ekster favorites include:

Whether your vibe is modern, or you prefer a more classic aesthetic, Ekster has a next-level essential for you.

VALENTINES SALE: Get 20% Off And Choose A Free Gift Bag Above $90

Father's Day is coming up (yes, again already!), but don't worry, we've got you covered. Ekster's Father's Day Gift Bundle gives you two sets of their famous smart wallets and accessories, saving you over $66 and the pain of browsing department store patterned ties.

Ekster's become the wallet of choice, especially in a cashless culture. They provide slim, sleek wallets in leather, vegan and metal materials with wallets trackers, so you'll never be in danger of losing your wallet ever again.

This year, the Ekster Father's Day Bundle contains:

  • 2x Ekster Wallet
  • 2x Tracker Card
  • 2x Metal Cash Clip FREE
  • 2x Premium Gift Bag

Note: There are only 500 of these bundles available, so first come first served.

The Ekster Parliament Wallet is classic but perfect for the modern age. Their Aluminum Cardholderis sturdy with a contemporary metal finish. Both fit 12+ cards with some cash, plus a cash clip with more space for bills, but either is slim enough to fit in your front pocket.

With easy pop-up card access, you'll never fumble at the bar or the grocery store checkout again, and you can always shop safely with their RFID-blocking technology. And each wallet comes with a complimentary dad joke generator!

The Metal Tool Card is something every Dad needs in their wallet. It's stainless steel and has so many uses: 5-inch wrenches, a flathead screwdriver, a phone stand, a SIM card pin, a box opener, a bottle opener, a metric ruler, and an inch ruler. All in one!

Dads will love the wallet tracker card that can be added to make these wallets unlosable. The solar-powered tracker card only needs 3 hours of sunlight to last for 2 months and allows you to ring your phone or wallet when you lose it. You can even track it on a map!

All types of Dads are gonna love this thoughtful present, so if you want something practical and stylish, the best gift is this wallet for Dad.

Limited Time Only: Get 40% OFF this gift and 30% OFF SITEWIDE on all Ekster products! Follow this link to shop!

I don't even remember where I got my previous wallet. I'd had it so long, I don't know if it was a gift from family, or even an ex. It was an unappealing checkered print, ripping at the corners from too many years of use - and that mystery black smudge had been there for a long time.

It grossed me out, so I wanted to find a sleek new wallet in a neutral color that would go with everything and last me a long time - that's how I found Ekster.

This online retailer would deliver my efficient, sophisticated, and crisp-looking wallet right to my door. They're known for their high-tech features, like trackability and RFID protection, but they're also high-end and super slim - they fit in your pocket without being bulky.

Here are four reasons why Ekster is the best upgrade I've ever made.

High Quality Leather + High Tech Features

Their leather feels premium and comes in several shades, but more important are the features, which most other wallets don't have. What makes them particularly unique are two things: trackability and pop-up cards.

Adding the tracker to your wallet makes it unlosable - Chipolo's solar-charged, Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa-accessible Bluetooth technology means that if you ever misplace your wallet, you'll be able to find it with your phone. This gives me such peace of mind - I'll never lose my wallet again!

There's also the pop-up feature - with most of their wallets, there's a discreet button on the bottom that when pressed, will instantly "pop up" all of your cards. They stagger evenly at the top of your wallet, so you can get to them without even opening your wallet! I haven't fumbled for my cards once with this feature, and it eliminates awkward moments at the register (it's also super impressive when I pull it out while buying drinks at the bar!).

No Cash

Last year, I got a $5 bill in change from the 1990's. This got me thinking - if it's been in circulation that long, how many people have touched that dollar? What dirty places has it been? And it's obviously never been cleaned?! I'm not even going to go into the statistics on fecal matter on money…

People don't talk about this enough, but cash is disgusting. The Ekster wallet has a band that fits a few bills, just in case, but in general, I use less cash now and don't miss it at all. Everything's more seamless and much more sanitary with their card pop-up design. I also don't have a near-useless pile of pennies lying around either.

Less Is More

Ekster's slim design makes me feel like a modern minimalist. I only use my credit card and ID anyway, and I never realized how much junk was in my wallet. I've had a P.F. Chang's gift card for 6 years and I don't even like P.F. Chang's. Getting rid of ancient gift cards and outdated things (a coffee punch card from a neighborhood I don't visit anymore) really felt like a weight gone from my shoulders and my pockets. Spring cleaning!

Delivered Right To My Door (For Free)

I appreciate that Ekster always has free shipping and free returns, as well as a 12-month warranty. In under a week after ordering, it arrived on my doormat In sleek matte packaging. I ordered the Vachetta Parliament in Torino Tan - the wallet looked even better in person!

This smart wallet is one of my favorite purchases in the past few years - it elevated my look as well as how I deal with money. And if I ever lose it, I'll be able to track it with my phone!

It's a luxury, but it's not priced as one - shipping is free, and the wallets start at $69. There's also a HUGE sale! So if your dirty, overused wallet is holding you back, Ekster's the way to go.

VALENTINES SALE: Get 20% Off And Choose A Free Gift Bag Above $90