It’s all about the little things in life. That one cutting board you love to use in your kitchen, that car accessory that lights up your drive every time you get behind the wheel, or that keychain that sets your keys apart from the rest. Keychains have been around for a while now, and there are some that we’re used to seeing. Your keys may be attached to that graphic palm tree from your trip to the Big Island, your initials made out of metal that glisten in the sunlight or a compass that always points due north. These are great options, but there are some cooler keychains out there that are worth exploring for yourself or for a friend as a thoughtful and practical gift.
Choosing a keychain is important business — there is not unlimited space for them and the one you choose is going to be an item you look at quite frequently. Some keychains serve a purpose, some are purely decoration, and some are both at once. Sure, you could carry around your house and car key with nothing else attached and they would do their job. You’d be able to unlock what needs opening, but what about unlocking a sense of play, fun and curiosity? That’s where these cool keychains come in. If you really want to take things to the next level, invest in a cool keychain. It’s worthwhile to spice up such a rudimentary item and make it interesting. In a world of dull jangles of metal, make your keys the ones that break the pattern and stand out in the crowd.
1. Cat Sushi Keychain
I mean, come on. We had to put this one first. If you’re not a fan of this cat sushi keychain we don’t know what to say to you. These adorable pieces will compliment your keys perfectly and make you smile each time you glance at them. Daily guaranteed joy? Priceless.
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2. Peel Brass Keychain Touch Tool
This one has a more defined purpose and that is keeping your hands off of gross, bacteria-ridden high-touch surfaces. The hook can grab door handles while the pointer can press buttons at the ATM, elevator, etc. It’s very convenient in the pandemic age and beyond, and is easy to use once you get in the habit.
3. Bronze Custom Map Key Ring
You’ll never forget where you come from (or are headed to) with this beautiful, high-quality map ring. You can customize which detailed location is on it with coordinates of your choosing, preserved in resin and mounted on bronze.
4. Saguaro Bottle Opener Keychain
We’ve seen your classic bottle opener keychain, and this one’s much more sleek in our opinion. Embrace the southwest aesthetic with this cleverly camouflaged cactus bottle opener that’ll have you covered whenever you’re thirsty.
5. Funko Groot POP Keychain
This Groot keychain has 5/5 stars on Amazon and over 1,000 reviews — we can see why. Take this little guy everywhere you go with this fun POP Keychain from Funko.
6. RepliCade Insert Coin Keychain
I love this concept — an arcade replica at your fingertips. This keychain is LED illuminated and has an auto-shutoff feature so the battery won’t die. It has the authentic plastic and metal construction and a changeable battery.
7. Mini Emergency Survival Kit Keychain
If you’re in a pinch, pinch this tiny emergency kit and you’ll have your basics covered. We’re not sure how effective the knife would be, but the lighter could definitely come in handy.
8. ThinOptics Keychain Case + Reading Glasses
If you need cheaters at a moment’s notice, this keychain is a pretty great way to ensure you’ll always have them. These glasses are feather-light and designed to grip your face despite being extremely compact and portable.
9. Spinning Top Keychain
Beat the boredom anywhere you are with this stainless steel spinning top. Inception, anyone?
10. Star Wars Lightsaber Keychain
These mini light sabers are the cutest, and have long-lasting battery life built in so the force will be strong with you. The button access is easy and the hook and loop closure makes them easy to attach to any keys.
11. World’s Coolest Polaroid Camera
Is it the world’s coolest polaroid camera because it’s a tiny keychain? Probably. This camera does not actually take pictures but it’s pretty photogenic in and of itself. It does include the flash sound of a camera, red shutter button and simulated film.
12. hoo(key) Antimicrobial Silicone No-Touch Keychain Tool
This is a no-touch tool I currently have attached to my keys that’s proven to be quite useful in the age of COVID-19. It doesn’t scratch or damage surfaces and is strong enough to open heavy doors, press buttons, lift bags and touch all the surfaces I’d rather avoid. It’s only available for pre-order at the moment but I highly recommend it.
14. Ramen Keychain Set
Anything miniature really works for a keychain in my opinion, including this adorable ramen. You get to choose which ramen variety you want to sport on your keys and serve as a reminder of your favorite decadent noodle dish.