GoKawiilMy keychain essentials. Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET
Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google.
I've collected my fair share of multitools and gadgets, but I've lost track of how often I've needed one -- only to realize it's sitting at home or in the car. It's just not practical to carry around a full toolbox everywhere I go.
What I do have with me almost all the time, though, is my keychain -- and it turns out, it's the perfect way to keep essential tools within reach.
Also: The best $5 I've spent this year is on these breakaway USB-C connectors that overdeliver
My keychain is the one bit of kit I get asked the most questions about. People are often surprised at the things I carry around. I guess most people just carry their keys on their keychains. Weird.
Here's a tour of what I carry on mine. Don't feel like you need everything on this list. Remember, the beauty of this approach is that you can customize your EDC to suit your needs.
1. KeySmart Air
The KeySmart Air is the core of my keychain. This device acts as both the main key loop and also as a way to attach an Apple AirTag to my stuff, so I don't lose my entire keychain.
If I didn't need the AirTag carry feature, I'd probably go for the KeySmart Mini (yes, I like KeySmart gear). If you are a Tile user, the KeySmart Max is a good alternative.
... continue reading