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10 tiny ‘everyday carry’ tools and gadgets I keep on my keychain

A selection of tools on a keychain.

My keychain essentials.

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET

I own countless multitools and other gizmos, but I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve needed something and it’s been left at home or in the car because it’s just not possible to have a toolbox dangling off my belt.

Yet what I do have with me most of the time is my keychain — and, as it turns out, it’s the perfect way to EDC (Every Day Carry) useful bits and bobs.  

Also: 7 hacking tools that look harmless but can do real damage

Yes, I use my keychain to carry my keys, but I also add tools and other handy things. In fact, it’s the one bit of kit that 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 keychain.

Here’s a tour of what I carry on my keychain. Don’t feel you need everything. Remember, the beauty of this approach is that you can customize your EDC to suit your needs.

1. KeySmart Air

<!–> KeySmart Air

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KeySmart/ZDNET

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.

2. YubiKey 5C NFC

<!–> YubiKey 5C NFC

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Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET

Hardware security keys are a high-tech, high-security alternative to using text messages and two-factor authentication (2FA) to log in to websites. 

See also: The best security keys: Expert tested

This security key from Yubico<!–> features both USB-C and NFC, making it suitable for most modern devices, from computers to smartphones and tablets.

3. KeySmart MultiTool, 5-in-1

–> KeySmart MultiTool <!–>
KeySmart/ZDNET

This tiny multitool–> fits inside the KeySmart Air.

It’s a box opener, a mini pry bar, a mini ruler, a flathead screwdriver, and a Phillips head screwdriver.

4. KeySmart Safe Box Cutter

<!–> KeySmart Safe Box Cutter

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KeySmart/ZDNET

This handy box cutter<!–> is made from tough polyamide plastic, and is a safe way to open letters and packages.

Also: 3 security gadgets I never leave home without

However, I use this device in a different way, and find that it’s a handy pry tool for opening electronic devices without damaging the plastic shell of the device.

5. KeySmart NanoScissors

–> KeySmart NanoScissors <!–>
KeySmart/ZDNET

These are retractable, portable, and lightweight scissors–> that are designed to fit into KeySmart accessories. They’re perfect for cutting threads and fingernails, snipping tags, or slicing zip ties. 

6. Nite Ize S-Biner SlideLock

<!–> Nite Ize S-Biner SlideLock

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Nite Ize/ZDNET

This stainless steel S-Biner SlideLock<!–> has two gates with sliders that lock securely in place. I find these locks perfect for things that need to be easily removed from the keychain, and they’re far simpler to use than split rings.

7. Lumintop EDC Pico

–> Lumintop EDC Pico <!–>
Lumintop/ZDNET

This tiny rechargeable flashlight–> has a runtime of 4.5 hours on low-power mode, it’s constructed of tough aircraft-grade aluminum, and is water and dust resistant to IP68.

Unlike most tiny flashlights that are controlled by a myriad of complicated button presses, this device has a twist cap — twist to get a low-power beam, twist more to get a high-power beam.

8. Gear Aid Glowing Keychain

<!–> Gear Aid Glowing Keychain

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Gear Aid/ZDNET

This glow-in-the-dark tag<!–> makes locating keys a lot easier. The tag is waterproof up to 50 meters, dustproof, and weatherproof.

9. KeyUnity Carabiner Clip Multitool

–> KeyUnity Carabiner Clip Multitool <!–>
KeyUnity/ZDNET

This compact multitool keychain–> has seven functions built into the carabiner:

10. SIM Tray Tool

<!–> SIM tray tool

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EagleWireless/ZDNET

I regularly need a SIM tray eject tool, so now I carry this one<!–> on my keychain.