The Perfect Minimalist Wallet?
- jdmeyer83
- Apr 17, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 28, 2025
Even though those who know me wouldn't describe me as a minimalist, I've come to realize that most of the items I used to carry in my wallet aren't necessary for every outing. When I'm running errands around town, all I truly need is my ID, a credit card, and possibly my debit card in case I need cash. This made me question why I always carry my bi-fold wallet with me.
I previously used the Leather Apple Wallet, which was ideal for holding three cards and magnetically attached to my iPhone via MagSafe. However, as it wore out over time, I found the replacement FineWoven wallet to be, quite frankly, awful. This prompted my search for the perfect minimalist wallet.
There are many wallets designed to fit into your front pocket and carry a few cards, possibly even cash. My specific requirement was a wallet that could fit in my front pocket without interfering with my phone or keys. This made my search more challenging but also more targeted, as I was specifically looking for a wallet that would attach to my phone. I've tried phone cases that function like a folio, offering a protective case, screen cover flap, and several slots for credit cards, but I find these types of wallets both cumbersome and restrictive.
I love MagSafe because it simplifies charging my phone and offers versatility for other accessories. Therefore, having a phone case that doubles as a folio wallet wasn't my preference. I narrowed down my options to a couple of brands: Ridge and Fantom. Each brand had only one model with MagSafe, making it easy to compare the two. In the end, I chose the Fantom wallet due to its unique patented fanning function, which is incredibly useful and undeniably cool.
Fantom offers a variety of wallets, but I opted for the Fantom M because it is MagSafe compatible. The wallet is available in three sizes: Extra Slim, which holds 4-7 cards; Slim, which accommodates 5-10 cards; and Regular, which can store 7-13 cards. I was torn between the Extra Slim and Slim since the Regular was too bulky for my needs. I chose the Slim because, although I planned to carry 3 cards, I also wanted the option to add a GPS wallet card and possibly a medical card occasionally, so the extra space was perfect.
The wallet offers several customization options, such as the finish, a money clip, an AirTag holder, and a MagSafe sticker for those without a MagSafe-compatible iPhone. These options can affect the price, but it's great to have such customization choices. I selected the Carbon Fiber finish, skipped the money clip and AirTag holder, and since my phone already had MagSafe, I didn't need the sticker.
The wallet is crafted from high-quality materials and comes with a lifetime warranty on all products. The front is made of the chosen finish, in my case, Carbon Fiber. The rest of the casing is plastic, but the back features a soft rubber coating to cushion the magnetic part that attaches to your phone.
Inserting cards is easy, and accessing them is straightforward with the fanning mechanism. By pulling down on the lever, all the cards fan out, providing visibility to each one. The front and back cards are the easiest to remove. The front card can be pulled out without fanning, thanks to the exposed front, while the back card is easily accessible once fanned. The middle cards are a bit trickier to remove, as you need to pull all the cards out to access them. I usually place my most used credit card in front and my ID in the back, with my debit card and GPS tracking card in the middle.
A feature I value highly is the RFID blocking for security. Some might question its necessity, but after having my credit card digitally stolen while traveling, I now only use RFID-blocking wallets. Every card in the Fantom M is protected from RFID scanners, providing peace of mind that no one can digitally steal your card.
The magnet is fairly strong. I've never had the wallet fall off while using my phone. The closest it comes to detaching is when I dig into my pocket for my phone, and sometimes the phone comes out without the wallet. Conversely, sometimes I only pull out the wallet, so a slightly weaker magnet makes it easier to detach in my pocket.
The wallet can become quite expensive depending on the options you choose. Interestingly, the price doesn't change based on the wallet size, only on the added extras. The base wallet ranges from $129 to $139, depending on the finish. Carbon Fiber adds $10, the money clip costs $18 to $22 (depending on the color), the AirTag holder is $14, and the MagSafe sticker is $8. While this may seem pricey compared to other wallets, there's nothing quite like the cool fanning feature of the Fantom wallets.
Overall, the Fantom M wallet delivers a premium experience for those seeking a sleek, functional, and highly customizable minimalist wallet that works seamlessly with MagSafe. While it comes with a higher price tag than many alternatives, its superior build quality, innovative fanning mechanism, and thoughtful features like RFID protection and modular add-ons justify the cost for anyone who values convenience, security, and style in their everyday carry.
N.X.T. L.V.L. Score
N – Needs Met: 9/10
I was looking for a minimalist, MagSafe-compatible wallet that could securely hold a few cards without interfering with my phone or keys. The Fantom M delivered exactly that, with thoughtful features like RFID blocking and easy access to my most used cards. One point off only because the middle cards are a bit harder to access.
X – X-Factor: 10/10
The patented fanning mechanism is a exceptional feature that adds a cool factor and real functionality. It’s not just flashy—it’s genuinely useful, and no other wallet I considered had anything like it.
T – Technology: 9/10
Strong MagSafe compatibility, RFID blocking, and optional AirTag integration make this wallet tech-forward. One small deduction since the magnet could be slightly stronger in certain pocket scenarios.
L – Longevity: 10/10
Crafted with high-quality materials like carbon fiber and backed by a lifetime warranty, this wallet is clearly built to last. It’s an investment piece with long-term value.
V – Value: 6/10
At $129–$139 base and more with add-ons, it’s not a budget option. But considering the materials, unique design, and customization, it offers fair value for the right user—especially if you plan to use it daily for years.
L – Learning Curve: 9/10
It’s mostly intuitive to use, especially with the fanning feature, though accessing middle cards might take a little getting used to at first.
Total N.X.T.L.V.L. Score: 53/60 = 88% B+
Got a favorite minimalist wallet? If you’ve tried the Fantom M or have another go-to wallet you swear by, I’d love to hear about it! Drop a comment and let me know what you’re using—or if there’s a wallet you think I should review next. Always on the hunt for the next level in everyday carry!
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