The Best Key Organizers (Review & Buying Guide) in 2023
Protect your keys from damage and loss with these key organizers.
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Organizing is all the rage these days. Whether you're organizing a closet, garage, or personal belongings, there's something satisfying about keeping items neat and tidy. But one thing some people neglect to organize is their set of keys. Even though they are part of your everyday carry set up, they are often overlooked.
Keeping keys on a standard key ring isn't the best option. If you carry them in your pocket, they can wear down your pants and poke you in the leg. They can also be bulky, noisy, and move around uncomfortably when you walk. If this type of situation isn't working for you, you may want to use a key organizer. These affordable devices streamline your keys, so you don't make noise when you walk or hang out with an unsightly bulge in your pocket. Check out some of the best options available in the buying guide below.
CARBOCAGE KEYCAGE - The Smart Carbon Key Organizer
This key organizer is made in Germany. It is 3.27 by 1.07 by 0.32 inches and accommodates one to 14 keys up to 2.95-inches long.
- Easy to locate your keys
- One-handed access
- Firm grip
- Looks cool
- Configuring it can be time-consuming
- There is a learning curve to using it
EM Compact Key Holder Premium
This key holder comes in three colors and has a pocket clip for convenience. It holds up to 14 keys.
- Slim and simple to use
- Easy to tighten
- Hardware prevents keys from loosening
- Keys can be too hard to remove if screws are too tight
KeySmart Pro - Key Holder w LED & Tile Smart Technology
This smart key organizer lets you find your keys and your phone should you misplace either of them. It can hold 10 keys.
- Flashlight and bottle opener included
- Easy to use
- Two-year warranty included
- Slim and space-saving
- Made of plastic instead of steel
- Assembly can be a bit of a hassle
Benefits of a Key Organizer
- Streamlined. If you hate carrying bulky keychains in your pocket or purse, a key organizer is a great solution. They are often sleek and minimalistic, making them more comfortable to hold, carry, and use.
- Eliminate noise and damage. A typical keychain haphazardly holds your keys and can be noisy while you’re moving around. It can also poke holes in your pants or bags or scratch other items you keep nearby, such as a smartphone. A key organizer can prevent that from happening.
- More comfortable than a key ring. Most people don't enjoy the feeling of loose keys in their pockets. Most key organizers are compact, so they take up less space and just feel better all around.
Types of Key Organizers
Basic Key Organizer
If you're a no-frills, basic kind of person, you may want a key organizer that does only that: organizes keys. These devices are designed solely to store keys and have no other purpose. They're simple yet effective and get the job done. However, you may have to carry other EDC items separately as a result, which can add bulk to your pockets.
Multifunctional Key Organizer
Many brands of key organizers come with extra accessories. This can include bottle openers, built-in tools, LED lights, or a USB. Some feature smart technology, which enables you to track misplaced keys or even a lost smartphone. These key organizers are quite versatile and combine several functions into one device, which is very convenient.
Top Brands
KeySmart
KeySmart, based in Elk Grove Village, Ill., was launched on Kickstarter in 2013 and earned over $329,000 before growing into a company that now offers over 50 products to its customers, including wallets, backpacks, and more. We recommend the KeySmart Pro - Key Holder w LED & Tile Smart Technology.
Keyport
Navy veteran Josh Downes founded Keyport in 2005. A biker, Downes wanted to find a solution to keep his keys from scratching his motorcycle and making noise while he was riding. Check out the KeySmart Pro - Key Holder w LED & Tile Smart Technology.
KeyBar
Based in Savannah, Ga., KeyBar was founded in 2014 by a man who wanted to stop the noise of his jangling key chain. Assisted by his wife, the couple created the pocket key organizer known simply as the KeyBar | Everyday Carry Compact Key Holder.
Key Organizer Pricing
- $15-$50: Some key organizers are very budget-friendly, while others are a little more expensive. Those on the lower end of the spectrum tend to have fewer features, while premium options can accommodate more keys and may come with smart technology.
Key Features
Ease of Use
Not all key organizers are the same as some are easier to use than others. Check to see how easy it is to remove and use a key from the gadget. For example, is it so tight that it’s tough to operate?. Also, look for organizers that are less likely to loosen over time because this can be annoying if you constantly need to tighten the screws.
Construction
Key organizers are made of a variety of materials. Some are built with aluminum, brass, copper, or titanium, and they may include stainless steel hardware. Other models may feature leather construction. Still, more may be made of carbon fiber or even plastic. Some materials are more durable than others, and some are pricier as a result.
Key Capacity
Key organizers typically hold between four to 20 keys, depending on the model. Determine how many keys you carry daily (and add in how many you may add on in the future) before making a purchase. If you carry less than 10, you don't need one that can accommodate 20. It’s better, however, to have more key slots than not enough.
Other Considerations
- Setup. Many key organizers require a little bit of effort to set them up properly. It depends on the model as well as the number of keys you plan on attaching to the device. Make sure to choose one that's not too difficult to adjust to your needs. One way to find out is by reading user reviews.
- Comfort. If you plan on carrying the key organizer in your pocket, obviously you want one that feels comfortable without any awkward angles. Also, check how it feels in your hands while operating it. Does it feel smooth and streamlined? Some products are lighter weight than others, which can also make a difference.
Best Key Organizers Reviews & Recommendations 2021
The Carbocage Keycage is 3.27 by 1.07 by 0.32 inches and accommodates one to 14 keys up to 2.95 inches long. The German-made, CNC-machined device is made of carbon fiber and the bolts are stainless steel, so it's lightweight yet solidly constructed. It provides one-handed access and makes it easy to locate your keys (even in the dark) due to its asymmetrical design. Simply use your thumb to pull out the necessary key. You can also adjust the force needed to swing out the keys. There are Teflon spaces to minimize friction between each key as well as an Allen wrench for mounting the keys. Overall, the device is well engineered and provides a firm grip. It's also very functional and is pretty cool looking.
One downside is that it can take some time to configure the organizer to situate the keys perfectly based on your needs. It can also take a little while to get used to using it.
The EM Compact Key Holder Premium is available in gray, navy blue, and rose gold. Featuring a pocket clip design, you can hook it onto your jeans, bag, or jacket, which is very convenient and provides quick access to your keys. This organizer can hold up to 14 keys and is slim and simple to use with just one hand. Instead of traditional screw extensions, the device has multi-sized screws. With three rivet nut sizes, you can easily assemble it using the step-by-step instructions provided by the manufacturer. The organizer also has rubber washers that prevent the screws from loosening due to use and friction between the keys.
The gadget is fairly easy to tighten; however, you don't want to over-tighten the screws as it will be hard to remove the keys. Also, the more keys it holds the harder it can be to remove the one you want.
The KeySmart Pro - Key Holder w LED & Tile Smart Technology sets itself apart in that you can track the key organizer should you lose it by using an app on your smartphone. The Tile app works in conjunction with the KeySmart Pro by playing a tune if you misplace it. Also, you can find a misplaced phone by pressing the Tile button on the key organizer. The device also has a built-in LED flashlight and a bottle opener. It can accommodate up to 10 keys and is backed by a two-year manufacturer's warranty. It's sturdy, is very easy to use, saves space, and is quite slim.
Unfortunately, it's made of plastic, so it's likely not as durable as some other key organizers with metal construction. Some users also complain that the initial assembly is a bit of a hassle.
The Keyport Pivot Key Organizer is 3.3 by 0.6 by 0.7 inches and weighs just 0.7 ounces, which is quite lightweight. It holds up to nine keys and is simple and quick to assemble. The most notable feature of this device is the proprietary locking mechanism, which operates smoothly and prevents the keys from coming loose. It also has a D-ring, which can accommodate a large key fob you may use for your vehicle. When you purchase a Keyport Pivot, you receive a two-year subscription to the lost and found service KeyportID. Should you lose your key organizer, the unique serial number will be used to reunite you with your keys. No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth is required. Also, you can purchase additional accessories, such as a mini flashlight or pocket knife. The product is backed by a two-year limited warranty.
One downside is that it's not very grippy and may slip from your hands if you're not careful. Also, it doesn't hold as many keys as some competitor organizers.
If you're looking for a basic key organizer, check out the KeyBar | Everyday Carry Compact Key Holder. This heavy-duty gadget is constructed of aircraft-grade aluminum with stainless steel hardware for durability. Made in America, the KeyBar holds up to 28 standard-sized house keys using extension screws (available separately) or 12 keys with the included screws. The device weighs less than two ounces and comes with two O rings to adjust the tension, a titanium key fob link, two 1/2-inch screws, two 3/4-inch screws, two 7/8-inch screws, and 16-20 washers.
One problem with this key organizer is that it can be challenging to set up, but that's not uncommon with these devices in general. It's also a bit pricier than some of the competition. Also, it's a little heavy compared to some rival brands.
The KeySmart - Compact Key Holder and Keychain Organizer holds up to eight keys and is available in several colors, including red, blue, and black. Made of aircraft aluminum and stainless steel hardware, it features an s-shaped design, and keys can be a maximum of 80mm long and 2mm thick. The organizer is easy to use, and no tools are required. You can attach larger keys, such as car key fobs, to the device's loop attachment. The KeySmart organizer is compact and lightweight, which makes it easy to carry. Users report that the key holder won't snag on your pocket and is also easy to slip in and out of a pocket. Overall, it's a good product for the price.
One downside is that you may have to re-tighten the screws on occasion. Also, it can be a bit of a hassle when you want to use just one key as all the keys can get hung up on each other when you try to remove them.
Northwall's Smart Key Organizer Keychain is a minimalist key holder made of top-grain Italian leather that is durable and ages nicely. It's compact with a space-saving design, so it slips easily into your pocket. It can accommodate up to seven keys and holds them tightly together, so they won't jingle. It features a locking mechanism to keep your keys solidly in position, and you can adjust the swing-out force of the keys using the bolt. The holder is also designed not to scratch other items in its vicinity, such as a cell phone. Plus, it comes with an EDC stainless steel multitool, which includes a flathead screwdriver and a bottle opener. The manufacturer also provides a 100-percent, money-back guarantee should you experience any issues.
You may have to tighten the screws every now and then, unfortunately. Also, it's not designed to hold car key fobs, but that's common with key holders with this design.
We like the Orbitkey Active Rubber Key Organizer because of its weather-resistant design. Constructed of polymer TPU, it can withstand dust, rain, snow, and other elements, making it a durable choice. It feels nice and smooth in your hands and can hold between two and seven keys. This practical key holder prevents your keys from jingling and has a D-ring on one end to hold larger keys, such as car key fobs. The Orbitkey is slim and won't scratch other items in your pocket or bag. It also comes with a two-year warranty should it fail under normal wear and tear. Available in midnight blue, dusty pink, hunter green, and jet black, you can tighten the screw with a coin, which is convenient should you not have a screwdriver available.
Some complain that the Orbitkey is a little pricey, but it does its job well. Another problem is if you only fill it with two keys they have a tendency to swing out easily and feel a little loose.
The Aladin Leather Pocket Key Organizer is a different type of key holder. Available in over a dozen different colors, this split-leather key wallet is high-quality and feels soft and comfortable in your hands. However, it's a little larger than many of the other options on our list as it measures 4.6 by 2.6 by 0.09 inches. It has a snap closure and can hold six home keys and one car key fob using its metal hooks. It also has a slot to hold credit cards. Users love how affordable it is.
The biggest issue with this key holder is that it's a little large for some pockets. Also, the leather loop is a little thin and may tear, and the colors may not be exactly as they appear online.
Tips
- Most key organizers can't accommodate thick plastic keys or certain key fobs that are used to start your vehicle. Unless you drive a newer car with keyless entry, a pocket key organizer may not be convenient for your application.
- Look at the specs to determine how long the key organizer is and the longest-length keys it can accommodate.
- If you don't plan on carrying your keys with you, you may want to consider a key cabinet. Many options are lockable, so you can keep your keys secure. They're great for property managers, repair shops, etc.
FAQs
Q: What is the best way to organize keys?
The obvious first step is to put aside any keys you don't use and only keep the important ones on hand. Next, invest in a key organizer, so you can keep them together in a neat and tiny package.
Q: What is the average capacity of a key organizer?
Typically, a key organizer can hold 10-12 regular-sized keys.
Q: What other benefits do key organizers have apart from holding and organizing keys?
Some key holders have built-in tools, such as screwdrivers, as well as LED lights, bottle openers, and other useful components that come in handy in certain situations.
Final Thoughts
Our pick for the best key organizer is the CARBOCAGE KEYCAGE - The Smart Carbon Key Organizer. The German-made device is constructed of carbon fiber and stainless steel and can hold up to 14 keys. It's well-engineered, easy to use, and looks pretty cool. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the EM Compact Key Holder Premium.
Why Trust Us
Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.
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