Quick answer

Choose a RAM drill-down base by matching the cradle type to your device size and how often you swap devices. For phones and small tablets, X-Grip offers adjustable arms; for larger phones you remove often, Quick-Grip XL's spring-loaded cradle is faster. Tablets 7–8 inches need a dedicated X-Grip tablet mount. GPS units like Garmin Fleet 770 need a specific cradle. Always confirm your device's width and depth against the mount's specs.

Decide by cradle type: X-Grip vs Quick-Grip

RAM drill-down bases share a permanent mounting plate but differ in the cradle that holds your device. The X-Grip design uses four adjustable rubber-tipped arms that stretch around your phone or small tablet. It works with many case sizes but takes a few seconds to position each arm. The Quick-Grip XL uses a spring-loaded cradle that opens wide and snaps shut around the phone — faster to load and unload, especially if you take your phone in and out of the vehicle multiple times a day.

If you mount a device once and leave it, either style works. If you frequently swap devices or remove your phone, Quick-Grip XL saves time. For very thick cases or unusual device shapes, X-Grip's independent arms can conform better.

Check device size and shape before buying

RAM drill-down mounts are not one-size-fits-all. The X-Grip phone mount (product 261122) fits most smartphones but has a maximum width limit — check your phone's width against the arm span. The Quick-Grip XL (product 261113) has a larger opening and works best for phones with or without a slim case. For 7–8 inch tablets, the X-Grip tablet mount (product 261124) uses larger arms and a wider base. GPS units like the Garmin Fleet 770 need a dedicated cradle (product 261120) that matches the device's shape and button layout.

A common mistake is buying a phone mount for a small tablet or vice versa. Measure your device's width and depth, then compare to the mount's published range. If the mount doesn't list a specific dimension, assume it won't fit — RAM designs each cradle for a specific size bracket.

Permanent installation: what drill-down means for you

All drill-down bases require drilling a hole into your mounting surface — desk, counter, vehicle console, or boat dash. The base plate is then bolted in place. This gives the most stable hold of any RAM mounting method, but it's not removable without leaving a hole. If you rent your vehicle or can't drill, look at RAM's no-drill or suction cup options instead.

Once installed, the drill-down base accepts different RAM arms and cradles, so you can swap the top part later if you change devices. The base itself is universal across most RAM phone and tablet cradles, but the cradle you choose must match your device.

Decision rules for choosing your RAM drill-down base

  • Rule 1: Match cradle to device type: Phones use phone cradles (X-Grip or Quick-Grip). Tablets 7–8 inches use the tablet X-Grip. GPS units like Garmin Fleet 770 need a dedicated mount. Never use a phone cradle for a tablet — the arms won't hold securely. Check device category before selecting a mount.
  • Rule 2: Pick X-Grip for flexibility, Quick-Grip for speed: If you swap devices or use a thick case, X-Grip's adjustable arms adapt. If you take your phone in and out multiple times a day, Quick-Grip XL's spring mechanism is faster and more convenient. X-Grip for versatility, Quick-Grip for frequent removal.
  • Rule 3: Confirm dimensions — don't guess: Measure your device's width and depth. Compare to the mount's published range. If the spec is missing, contact support or choose a mount with clear size limits. A loose fit can damage your device or the mount. Always measure first.
  • Rule 4: Drill-down is permanent — plan your location: The base requires a drilled hole. Choose a location where you won't need to move the mount later. If you might relocate, consider a no-drill or suction base instead. Drill only where you commit.

Mount options at a glance

  • RAM® X-Grip® High-Strength Composite Phone Mount with Drill-Down Base: The RAM X-Grip High-Strength Composite Phone Mount with Drill-Down Base provides a secure and adjustable mounting solution for your phone. X-Grip design securely holds a wide range of smartphones with adjustable arms. Best if you have a phone with a bulky case or need to adjust the grip for different phone sizes. The composite material keeps weight low, but the adjustable arms take slightly longer to set up than a spring-loaded cradle.
  • RAM® Quick-Grip™ XL Spring-Loaded Phone Mount with Drill-Down Base: The RAM Quick-Grip XL Spring-Loaded Phone Mount with Drill-Down Base offers a secure and adjustable mounting solution for your phone. Spring-loaded Quick-Grip XL cradle securely holds your phone in place. Ideal for daily drivers who pop their phone in and out often. The spring-loaded action is faster than X-Grip, but the cradle has a fixed width range — check your phone's width against the spec before buying.
  • RAM® X-Grip® Universal Drill-Down Mount for 7"-8" Tablets: The RAM X-Grip Universal Drill-Down Mount for 7-8 Tablets securely holds 7-8 tablets in place using a spring-loaded X-Grip design. Drill-down base allows for permanent installation. The only option here for tablets. If your tablet is 7 or 8 inches, this mount gives a secure hold without blocking ports. Tablets outside that size range need a different RAM solution.
  • RAM® Drill-Down Mount for Garmin Fleet 770, Overlander + More: This RAM Drill-Down Mount is designed to securely hold your Garmin Fleet 770, Overlander, and other compatible devices. Drill-down design for a permanent and secure installation. Purpose-built for specific Garmin models. If you own a Fleet 770 or Overlander, this is the cleanest fit. For other GPS units, look for a RAM mount that lists your exact model.

Which mount fits your use case?

Best for

  • Phones with bulky cases or unusual shapes — choose X-Grip phone mount for adjustable arms.
  • Frequent phone removal (e.g., delivery drivers, daily commuters) — choose Quick-Grip XL for one-handed snap loading.
  • 7–8 inch tablets used in a fixed vehicle or desk setup — choose X-Grip tablet mount.
  • Garmin Fleet 770 or Overlander GPS — choose the dedicated drill-down mount.

Not for

  • Tablets larger than 8 inches or smaller than 7 inches — no drill-down mount here fits them.
  • Renters or anyone who can't drill into a surface — look at RAM no-drill or suction mounts instead.
  • Users who need to swap between phone and tablet on the same base — you'd need to buy a separate cradle and swap the top, which is possible but not seamless.