What is an EDC keychain?

Also called an everyday carry keychain, an EDC keychain is designed to hold and clip to other everyday necessities. According to Kanary, this includes anything from a bottle opener to a multi-tool to a self-defense item to a flashlight. Depending on the design, it can also hook onto a small wallet or card holder, too. “Such keychains are often more industrial in appearance and can be quite a bit larger than your average keychain,” says Kanary. “It provides an all-in-one accessory that makes a great gift for the friend who is always prepared,” she adds.

How big should a keychain be?

Keychains come in lots of different shapes and sizes and, according to Kanary, the recommended size will vary depending on where the keychain will be featured. “Before purchasing, it’s important to determine where you plan to use your keychain,” she explains. “Keychains of greater weight and larger size feature best on a larger bag, suitcase, briefcase, or backpack, while a smaller and more lightweight keychain works well on a smaller purse or bag and car keys,” she adds.

How much does a keychain typically cost?

The beauty of a keychain is you can find one for virtually any budget. “You can find keychains that are anywhere from $5 to $500, but most keychains are in the $15 to $50 range,” Kanary notes. The price of a keychain depends greatly on the materials used as some metals and additional style details such as gemstones and crystals can increase the overall cost.

The 9 Best Keychains of 2023

Both stylish and functional, keychains are a must-have for keeping everything from house keys to car fobs organized and within reach. “The ability to accessorize in fun, personal and practical ways is what makes keychains popular,” says Kim Kanary, certified diamontologist and vice president of community development and engagement at JTV. “Keychains can dress up seemingly boring everyday items, such as purses, bags, backpacks, suitcases, briefcases, and car keys,” she adds. In addition to the ability to dress up and accessorize, keychains serve the beneficial purpose of making keys more easily accessible in purses, totes, gym bags, and more.

We researched dozens of examples, paying close attention to durability, function, extra features, and style to determine the top keychains on the market.

Here are the best keychains to make your keys easier to keep your keys organized—and make them easier to find when they’re buried in handbags or totes.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Thread Wallets Sanders Keychain Clip at Threadwallets.com

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Best for Multiple Keys:

The Ridge Leather Keychain at Amazon

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Best Oversized:

Lululemon Never Lost Keychain at Lululemon

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Best with Alarm:

She’s Birdie Safety Alarm at Amazon

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Best Retractable:

Titrys Retractable Keychain at Amazon

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Best Multi-Tool:

Victorinox Classic Swiss Army SD Pocket Knife at Amazon

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Best Key Finder:

Apple Key Ring at Amazon

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Best Screwdriver:

Swiss + Tech ST60300 Key Ring Multitool at Amazon

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Best EDC:

James The Mehlville at Thejamesbrand.com

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In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQ

Thread Wallets

View On Threadwallets.com View On Waterandoakoutdoor.com

What We Like

Many different colors and patterns available
Durable metal hardware
Matching accessories available

What We Don’t Like

Carabiner can be bulky for some users

“You should consider two main categories when purchasing a keychain: function and aesthetic,” says Kanary. The Thread Wallets Sanders Keychain Clip balances both with its durable and stylish design. This keychain features a 1-inch sturdy polyester strap and strong metal hardware to carry multiple keys at once, making it a reliable option for everyday use. Arguably, the best part of this keychain is that it’s available in over 23 different colors and patterns.

The polyester strap features a chic leather accent on one side and a carabiner on the other. Clip the carabiner to a belt loop to keep keys close at hand. If your bag has a key strap or ring, you can clip the keychain to that so you can easily find your keys in your bag. Like the fabric strap, the finish of the hardware also varies, depending on the pattern.

At 6 inches long, this keychain isn’t the most compact choice, but that’s also what makes it great for organizing your keys. The keychain also matches several of the brand’s other accessories—including a phone case, lip balm holder, lanyard, and several wallets—so you keep all of your essentials color-coordinated. Some of the accessories include loops to attach to the keychain, as well.

Price at time of publish: $14

_{Dimensions: 6 x 1 inches | Material: Genuine leather, polyester, metal | Color: 20 color options}

The Ridge

View On Amazon View On Ridge.com

What We Like

Minimalistic design
Durable leather and metal construction
User-friendly quick-release clip

What We Don’t Like

Limited color options

If you’re carrying multiple keys at once, you need something strong enough for the job. The Leather Keychain from The Ridge is our top pick for multiple keys, because while it appears stylish and cool, it’s also a utility keychain with durable hardware and an oil-waxed leather strap.

The keychain has a quick-release clip, which makes it easier to clip it onto straps (be it a belt loop or bag). While only available in two colors, Its minimalistic design and neutral hues make it ultra-versatile in terms of style, as well.

Price at time of publish: $28

_{Dimensions: 4 inches long (width not listed) | Material: Full-grain leather, metal | Color: 2 color options}

Lululemon

View On Lululemon

What We Like

Large enough to find in totes and gym bags
Made from recycled materials
Large clip

What We Don’t Like

Logo isn't subtle

Keys love to live at the bottom of our bags, so a keychain such as the Lululemon Never Lost Keychain is a must to remedy that. At 12 inches long, the extra-large strap is certainly large enough to find your keys in totes and gym bags. The clip is large enough to clasp onto your bag strap for easy access, too. When you're on the go, you can conveniently thread your wrist through the loop for hands-free carrying.

We also appreciate that the keychain is constructed from recycled materials, including recycled nylon and recycled polyester, making it a great option for eco-conscious shoppers. It's also a natural fit for anyone who shops at lululemon—if you're not a lululemon fan, though, you might not appreciate the front-and-center branding.

Price at time of publish: $20

_{Dimensions: 1.7 x 12 | Material: Recycled nylon, recycled polyester | Color: 5 color options}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Shesbirdie.com

What We Like

Stylish design
Very loud alarm
Flashing light
Great for travel

What We Don’t Like

Bulkier than standalone keychains

Keychains can also double as personal safety devices—and the Birdie Alarm Keychain is a prime example of that. Aside from good looks, the keychain is also highly functional with an ultra-loud alarm and bright flashing light you can initiate in case of emergencies. The keychain is travel-approved and causes a lot of commotion when turned on, making it useful for commuters, runners, and more.

It features brass hardware and comes in many solid colors, including rose gold, blue, coral, black, and yellow. If you’d like to upgrade your Birdie and don’t mind paying a subscription, consider getting the Bluetooth-enabled Birdie+, which has an easy-access button to access additional features, such as quickly sharing your location with emergency contacts.

Price at time of publish: $30

_{Dimensions: 3.5 x 1.125 x 0.5 inches | Material: Not listed | Color: 9 color options}

Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

Budget-friendly
Clip is easy to use
Cord extends over 2.5 feet

What We Don’t Like

Limited color options

If you carry a badge and need a retractable keychain to keep your ID secure, opt for the Titrys Metal Badge Reels Retractable Keychain. It features a 31.5-inch retractable cord, which you can extend to swipe your badge or unlock doors—without having to remove your keys from your belt loop or bag. Constructed from metal, the keychain can hold up to 8 ounces in weight.

This utility badge keychain is constructed from metal and comes in two neutral colors—black and green. Although it is a little on the bulky side, you can rest assured, knowing it will get the job done without the risk of snapping. It also boasts an excellent price for the overall value.

Price at time of publish: $13

_{Dimensions: 1.7 x 1.7 x 0.5 inches | Material: Metal, steel, rubber | Color: 2 color options}

Victorinox Classic SD 7 Function Pocket Knife

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Focuscamera.com View On Paragonsports.com

What We Like

Has six different tools
Stainless steel construction
16 colors and patterns available

What We Don’t Like

Not a replacement for a heavy-duty multi-tool

Whether you need to file a broken nail or snip off a forgotten price tag, a multi-tool is handy to have in everyday life. With a helpful key ring, the Victorinox Classic SD 7 Function Pocket Knife also doubles as a keychain.

It’s constructed from durable stainless steel and holds a blade, nail file, screwdriver, scissors, tweezers, and a toothpick all inside its compact 2.3-inch-long design. Compared to traditional pocket knives, this pick is on the smaller side. Therefore, it's best used when in a pinch rather than as a replacement for a more heavy-duty multi-tool.

Price at time of publish: $22

_{Dimensions: 2.3 x 0.4 inches | Material: Stainless steel, ABS plastic | Color: 16 color options}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Apple View On Quzo.net

What We Like

Ideal if you lose your keys often
Fits the Apple AirTag perfectly
Stainless steel and leather construction

What We Don’t Like

On the pricey side
Doesn’t include the AirTag

Apple AirTags make for excellent key finders, and this Leather Key Ring case helps keep the tag in place alongside your rings. (After all, you don’t want to lose the AirTag in addition to your keys.) Designed to fit perfectly over the Apple AirTag, this keychain boasts high-quality construction with stainless steel and leather components. You can also choose from several colors, including brighter yellow and orange as well as neutrals like saddle brown and forest green.

The price tag for this keychain is on the higher end—especially considering that you don’t get an AirTag along with it. Still, if you’re investing in an AirTag, you may want to spend a bit more money to make sure it doesn’t slip out due to poor design. We think this keychain is worth the price, considering its high-quality, durability, and simple yet functional look.

Price at time of publish: $35

_{Dimensions: ‎Not listed | Material: Stainless steel, leather | Color: 5 color options}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart

What We Like

Useful for camping and everyday uses
Features five different tools
Doubles as a flashlight

What We Don’t Like

Quality can vary, according to users

Many multi-tool keychains come with screwdrivers, but they’re not all made equal. The Swiss + Tech ST60300 Key Ring Multitool features not one but two screwdrivers—a Phillips screwdriver and a flathead screwdriver. It has a compact design but also packs in a long-lasting LED flashlight. Simply press the button on the side of the keychain to activate the light, which is sure to make unlocking your home’s door in the dark simpler. It also has a pocket knife and bottle opener.

One thing to note is that some users have reported quality concerns. Fortunately, the manufacturer offers a one-year limited warranty. Whether you need something for everyday use or for camping, this keychain can take care of things in a pinch.

Price at time of publish: $18

_{Dimensions: 2.38 x 1.13 x 0.5 inches | Material: Not listed | Color: Silver}

The James Brand

View On Thejamesbrand.com

What We Like

Dual-compartment carabiner
Sleek design
Includes a bottle opener

What We Don’t Like

Expensive
Not ideal to place in pockets

The classic carabiner gets an elevated makeover with The Mehlville from James. This 304 stainless steel keychain features a carabiner-inspired design—only with two compartments instead of one. This allows you to keep your keys and belongings even more organized and accessible.

This is a sleek take on an EDC keychain, and it includes an integrated bottle opener. While the price point is on the high end, we think it's worth it, considering its durability and multi-functional use, and how nice it looks and feels. We also think it would make a great gift for someone who loves using carabiner keychains. Just keep in mind that it might be too large to store comfortably in a pocket with a full set of keys attached.

Price at time of publish: $59

_{Dimensions: 3.13 x 1.63 x 0.25 inches | Material: Anodized 6063 aluminum, 304 stainless steel | Color: 6 color options}

Final Verdict

Our best overall pick is The Thread Wallets Sanders Keychain Clip, which meets both style and function requirements with its aesthetically pleasing design and durable construction. If you’re shopping for an oversized keychain you won't lose, the Lululemon Never Lost Keychain is an excellent choice. It’s sturdy enough to keep multiple keys organized, and the large loop will be easy to both carry and locate your keys, even when they’re buried in the depths of a bag.

Material

It’s important to consider what they’re made of, as the material can inform how durable the piece is. “Keychains are most often comprised of metallic materials such as stainless steel, gold, silver or platinum, but you can also find keychains of leather or fabric, gemstones, crystals, or enamel,” says certified diamontologist Kim Kanary. The materials can be an important factor in longevity, as keychains can experience significant wear and tear through everyday use. Kanary says, “They are utilized most days and are generally exposed to relatively harsh conditions, such as colliding with metallic keys, tossing into a drawer, or residing at the bottom of a purse.” When shopping for keychains with durable materials, steel hardware and leather or nylon straps can be some of the sturdiest options.

That being said, it might not always make sense to purchase the most expensive option if you know your keychain will be put through the wringer in everyday use. Kanary says that it sometimes makes more sense to “consider a more cost-effective keychain [or one designed for heavy-duty jobs] so that you aren’t worried about damaging something particularly expensive.” Ultimately, whether you’d like to splurge on a keychain for higher-quality materials is a matter of preference.

Functionality

According to Kanary, you'll want to consider factors such as "size, weight, strength, and purpose." Thinking about your day-to-day lifestyle will help you determine what size keychain best suits your needs, as they can vary drastically from keychain to keychain. A keychain with durable construction and a spacious ring will typically be better equipped to carry lots of keys. It might also be helpful to consider a keychain's weight. If you enjoy running with keys in your pocket, for example, a smaller, lighter keychain will be more practical.

Take a look at the clip design, as well. Some keychains, including The Ridge's Leather Keychain, feature quick-release clips that make it easier to attach and detach the keychain from a bag or belt loop. This functionality can also be helpful if you tend to carry many keys you use often throughout the day. If you require a keychain for your work badge, look for one with a sturdy clip and a retractable cord (like the Titrys Metal Badge Reels Retractable Keychain) so that you can quickly flash your ID as needed.

Style

In addition to functionality, you'll also want to consider any style preferences you might have when choosing a keychain. This is an item that is used daily so you want to make sure it’s not just functional but also kits your style needs as well. “Some people prefer a sleek, simple design, others like to have keychains that represent something special to them or are particularly fancy,” she adds.

If you have more utilitarian needs, a keychain with a multi-tool, such as the Victorinox Classic Swiss Army SD Pocket Knife, could be a better fit.

FAQ

What is an EDC keychain?

Also called an everyday carry keychain, an EDC keychain is designed to hold and clip to other everyday necessities. According to Kanary, this includes anything from a bottle opener to a multi-tool to a self-defense item to a flashlight. Depending on the design, it can also hook onto a small wallet or card holder, too. “Such keychains are often more industrial in appearance and can be quite a bit larger than your average keychain,” says Kanary. “It provides an all-in-one accessory that makes a great gift for the friend who is always prepared,” she adds.
How big should a keychain be?

Keychains come in lots of different shapes and sizes and, according to Kanary, the recommended size will vary depending on where the keychain will be featured. “Before purchasing, it’s important to determine where you plan to use your keychain,” she explains. “Keychains of greater weight and larger size feature best on a larger bag, suitcase, briefcase, or backpack, while a smaller and more lightweight keychain works well on a smaller purse or bag and car keys,” she adds.
How much does a keychain typically cost?

The beauty of a keychain is you can find one for virtually any budget. “You can find keychains that are anywhere from $5 to $500, but most keychains are in the $15 to $50 range,” Kanary notes. The price of a keychain depends greatly on the materials used as some metals and additional style details such as gemstones and crystals can increase the overall cost.

Contributing writer Jessie Quinn covers everything from organizing solutions to home essentials for The Spruce. When researching the best keychains, Quinn considered the design, function, purpose, and quality of materials. She also considered options with multifunctional designs, as well as ones that would be easier to find in large bags. Additionally, Quinn reached out to accessory expert Kim Kanary, certified diamontologist and Vice President of Community Development and Engagement at JTV, to learn more about the features to look for when shopping for a keychain.