Using your rear view mirror as a mounting point for a phone, GPS, or radar detector has become increasingly popular—and for good reason. It places your device directly in your line of sight without cluttering your dashboard or windshield.
Compared to traditional windshield mounts, rear view mirror mounts offer a cleaner setup, better visibility, and often a more stable long-term solution—especially for drivers who don’t want suction cups stuck to their glass.
Why Use a Rear View Mirror Mount?
The biggest advantage of a rear view mirror mount is positioning. Your device sits just below or next to the mirror, keeping your eyes closer to the road compared to dashboard or lower-mounted solutions.
- Better line of sight – closer to your natural driving position
- Cleaner interior – no suction cups or dash adhesives
- Stable mounting point – mirror posts are typically very solid
- Legal advantage – may help avoid windshield mounting restrictions (check local laws)
| Mount Type | Best For | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Mirror Clamp (Top/Bottom) | Phones & GPS | ★★★★☆ Budget Option |
| Mirror Post Mount | Phones, GPS, Cameras | ★★★★★ Best Overall |
| Radar Detector Mount | Radar Detectors | ★★★★★ Best for Detectors |
1. Mirror Clamp Mounts (Budget-Friendly Option)
These mounts attach directly to the rear view mirror housing by clamping onto the top and bottom of the mirror. They are typically the least expensive and easiest to install.
Some of these use an adjustable arm with a universal cradle, however we suggest going with a MagSafe option. This magnetic attachment works on all iPhone 12 and newer as well as Android models that have a MagSafe friendly phone case.
Simple clamp design with adjustable arm and MagSafe attachment.
Before buying, make sure to measure the height of your rear view mirror to ensure compatibility. Also confirm that your mirror is firmly mounted—if it moves easily, this type of mount can cause unwanted shaking.
Pros
- Easy installation
- Affordable
- Works with most phones
Cons
- Can cause mirror movement
- Bulkier appearance
2. Mirror Post Mounts (Best Overall Setup)
This is where things get serious. Mirror post mounts attach to the stem behind the rear view mirror—the same structure that connects the mirror to the windshield.
These mounts are significantly more stable and are ideal for long-term use, especially if you drive frequently or rely heavily on GPS.
Highly adjustable and extremely stable system for phones and GPS devices.
This setup uses a modular system, allowing you to swap cradles, arms, or even mount different devices like cameras or GPS units. Removing the cradle exposes a ball which can accomodate other adapters and devices.
Most mirror posts fall within the 0.5” to 1” diameter range, but it’s always worth measuring before purchasing.
3. Radar Detector Mirror Mounts (Best for Clean Install)
If you’re running a radar detector, rear view mirror mounts are one of the cleanest installation options available.
Instead of using suction cups on the windshield, these mounts attach directly to the mirror post and provide a factory-like appearance.
Vehicle-specific insert system for a clean, OEM-style radar detector install.
These mounts are designed for specific radar detector models (like Escort or Beltronics), so compatibility is critical. Be sure to check prior to purchase. Blendmount makes some serious heavy duty mounts and have been at it for a long time.
Common Mounting Problems
- Loose mirrors – cause vibration and instability
- Incorrect sizing – mounts won’t fit properly
- Overloading the mount – larger devices reduce stability
- Poor positioning – can block visibility
Installation Tips
- Always measure mirror height and post diameter
- Keep devices small and lightweight
- Test stability before driving
- Avoid overtightening clamps
Bottom Line
Rear view mirror mounts are one of the most underrated mounting solutions available. They offer excellent visibility, a clean setup, and strong stability when done correctly.
For most users, a mirror post mount will provide the best long-term performance. If you’re on a budget, clamp-style mounts can still work—but expect some trade-offs.
If you’re running a radar detector, a dedicated mirror mount is easily the cleanest and most professional setup you can achieve.
