Axwell vs Ekster - Minimalist Wallet Comparison

Oct 21, 2022

Axwell vs. Ekster: Finding the Best Ekster Alternative

For this post, we invited guest writer, Adam Zlotnik, to carry both the Ekster Aluminum Card Holder Wallet and Axwell Aluminum Wallet for 30 days. After a month of daily use, here were his findings. If you’re in search of the best Ekster alternative, this detailed comparison will help you make an informed decision.

The Minimalist Wallet Dilemma

The rise in popularity of minimalist wallets has brought many new brands and designs to the market. For anyone considering switching from a traditional bifold or trifold wallet, choosing the best minimalist wallet can feel overwhelming. With so many features to compare, it’s easy to experience paralysis by analysis.

If you’ve researched minimalist wallets, you’ve likely come across two major players: Axwell and Ekster. While both brands offer sleek, modern wallets, only one truly stands out as the best choice. Let’s dive into a side-by-side comparison of the Axwell Wallet and the Ekster Aluminum Card Holder, and find out which is the superior Ekster alternative.

About the Brands

Ekster Overview

Founded in 2015, Ekster aims to provide modern alternatives to traditional wallets, catering to an on-the-go lifestyle. One of the standout features of Ekster wallets is their solar-powered tracking device, designed for people who are always on the move. The company’s eco-friendly approach and minimalist designs have garnered a global following of over 500,000 customers.

Axwell vs Ekster - Minimalist Wallet Comparison

Besides wallets, Ekster has expanded its product line to include laptop sleeves, phone cases, and more, all aimed at simplifying everyday life.

Axwell Overview

Since 2017, Axwell has been designing durable, secure, and adaptable minimalist wallets. With a focus on longevity, Axwell wallets are made from premium materials that can stand up to anything. The Axwell Wallet also includes a variety of accessories like the Axwell Multi-Tool Card and Chipolo GPS tracker, designed to maximize utility.

Axwell’s commitment to durability and security extends to their mission to support veterans. A portion of every sale goes toward ending veteran homelessness in the U.S. and Canada, making it a wallet with a purpose.

Ekster Aluminum Card Holder: Key Features

The Ekster Aluminum Card Holder is known for its innovative design, especially the switchblade-style card ejection system. Here’s how it works: you load your cards into the card slot, press the ejection button at the bottom, and your cards pop out for easy access. It’s a fun and functional feature, but it does come with some downsides.

Specs:

Material: 6061-T6 aluminum
Weight: 3.94 oz
Size: 105 x 60 x 7.5 mm
Card Capacity: Holds 1-15 cards (1-6 non-embossed cards in the cardholder)
Retail Price: $89 USD
Theft Protection: RFID-blocking
Warranty: 12-month warranty
Return Policy: 45-day return policy

Drawbacks of the Ekster Wallet:

The spring-loaded card release mechanism is prone to failure, and if it breaks, the wallet is rendered useless.
A 12-month warranty isn’t enough for a product that needs to last longer.
Limited customization options.
The tension in the cardholder can vary, causing cards to either fall out or get stuck.
Embossed cards (with raised lettering) can get stuck in the wallet, making it less versatile than advertised.

Axwell Aluminum Wallet: Why It’s the Best Ekster Alternative

In contrast, the Axwell Aluminum Wallet excels in terms of durability, security, and versatility. Built with tear-resistant elastic and Mag-Lock™ replaceable cover plates, this wallet is designed to last a lifetime.

Specs:

Material: 6061-T6 aluminum
Weight: 2.60 oz
Size: 86 x 54 x 8 mm
Capacity: Holds 1-12 cards, including embossed cards
Retail Price: $90 USD
Theft Protection: RFID-blocking
Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Return Policy: 50-day return policy

Why the Axwell Wallet Is Superior:

No mechanical failure risk: The oversized finger slot allows for easy manual card access without the risk of a broken card-release mechanism.
Lifetime warranty: Axwell stands behind their product, offering a lifetime warranty for repairs or replacements.
Customizable design: The Mag-Lock™ cover plates are interchangeable, allowing for personalization and RFID-blocking technology. Axwell releases new accessories every year, giving customers ongoing customization options.
Lighter and more durable: At 2.6 oz, the Axwell Wallet is significantly lighter than the Ekster, yet the thicker metal plates provide added security and durability.
Versatile carry options: The wallet includes both a cash strap and money clip, allowing users to customize how they carry their cash.

Final Verdict: Axwell Is the Best Ekster Alternative

After 30 days of testing both wallets, it’s clear that the Axwell Wallet is the best alternative to the Ekster Aluminum Card Holder. With unmatched durability, a generous lifetime warranty, and customizable options, Axwell has created a wallet that’s built to last. Plus, the manual card access eliminates the risk of being stuck without your cards due to mechanical failure.