How to Choose the Right RAM Mount and Ball Size: A Complete Guide

Are you looking for the perfect mounting solution for your devices? At Mounts New Zealand, we understand that choosing the right RAM Mount can be a bit overwhelming, especially with the variety of clamp mounts and ball sizes available. In this blog, we'll break down the different types of RAM clamp mounts and explain the ball sizes to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding RAM Mount Ball Sizes

RAM Mounts come in various ball sizes, each suited for different applications and environments. Here's a quick overview:

B Size (1" Ball)

The B Size ball, measuring 1 inch in diameter, is ideal for most applications, including lighter devices such as smartphones and small tablets. It offers a good balance of strength and flexibility, making it one of the most popular choices among users.

Popular B Size Ball Mounts:

RAM-B-202U: This is a versatile 2.5" round plate with an AMPs hole pattern. It is commonly used for mounting small devices and accessories.

RAM 2.5" Round Plate with AMPs Hole Pattern (RAM-B-202U) - Image1
RAM-B-202U

C Size (1.5" Ball)

The C Size ball, at 1.5 inches in diameter, is suitable for heavier devices or rougher environments. This size provides additional stability and durability, making it perfect for mounting larger tablets or other substantial equipment.

Popular C Size Ball Mounts:

RAM-202U: This 2.5" round plate with an AMPs hole and C Size 1.5" ball offers robust support for heavier devices.

RAM-202U - RAM 2.5" Round Plate w/ AMPs & 1.5" Ball - Image1
RAM-202U

D Size (2.25" Ball) and E Size (3.38" Ball)

The D Size (2.25 inches) and E Size (3.38 inches) balls are designed for heavy devices and applications that demand maximum stability. These sizes are typically used in aviation and military settings where reliability under extreme conditions is crucial.

Popular D Size Ball Mounts:

RAM-D-202U: This mount is perfect for extremely heavy devices requiring utmost stability.

RAM 3.68" Dia Round Plate with 2.25" Ball (RAM-D-202U) - Image1
RAM-D-202U

Popular E Size Ball Mounts:

RAM-E-202U: This mount is perfect for extremely heavy devices requiring utmost stability.

RAM 3.68" Dia Round Base with 3.38" Ball (RAM-E-202U) - Image1
RAM-E-202U

Understanding the types of RAM Mounts

RAM Mounts offers a variety of mounts designed to securely hold your devices in place. Here are some of the most popular types:

Suction Cup Mounts

Suction cup mounts are great for temporary setups and can be attached to any smooth, non-porous surface. They are perfect for vehicle windshields, glass, and other smooth surfaces.

Popular Suction Cup Mount:

RAM-B-224-1U: This mount features a powerful suction cup base with a B Size 1" ball, making it ideal for mounting lightweight devices in your car.

RAM Suction Cup Base with 1" Ball (RAM-B-224-1U) - Image1
RAM-B-224-1U

Handlebar and Rail Mounts

These mounts are specifically designed for attaching devices to handlebars or rails, making them perfect for bicycles, motorcycles, and boats.

Popular Handlebar and Rail Mount:

RAM-B-231ZU: This mount is designed for handlebars and rail.

RAM Zinc U-Bolt Rail Base with 1" Ball (RAM-B-231ZU) - Image1
RAM-B-231ZU

Clamp Mounts

Clamp mounts are versatile and can be attached to a variety of surfaces, including flat, round, or irregular shapes. They are often used in industrial and commercial applications.

Popular Clamp Mount:

RAM-B-247U-4: This mount features a clamp base with a B Size 1" ball, allowing you to attach it to various surfaces with ease.

RAM 4" Width Clamp Base with 1" Ball (RAM-B-247U-4) - Image1
RAM-B-247U-4

Tough-Claw Mounts

The Tough-Claw mounts are ideal for quick and easy attachment to round, square, or odd-shaped rails and bars. They are known for their robust grip and versatility.

Popular Tough-Claw Mount:

RAP-B-404U: This Tough-Claw mount with a B Size 1" ball is perfect for attaching to a wide range of surfaces, providing a secure hold for your device.

RAM Medium Tough-Claw™ Clamp B-Size (RAP-B-404U) - Image1
RAP-B-404U

U-Bolt Mounts

U-Bolt mounts are designed to attach to rails and tubes, making them suitable for use on vehicles, boats, and other equipment with round structures.

Popular U-Bolt Mount:

RAM-B-231U: This U-Bolt base mount with a B Size 1" ball is excellent for mounting on handlebars, rails, and other cylindrical objects.

RAM 1" Ball with Steel U-bolt Rail Base (RAM-B-231U) - Image1
RAM-B-231U

Making the Right Choice

When choosing a RAM Mount, consider the following factors:

  1. Device Weight: Heavier devices require larger ball sizes for stability.
  2. Mounting Surface: Select a mount that is compatible with the surface you plan to attach it to.
  3. Environment: Consider the conditions where the mount will be used. For example, rough environments may require more durable mounts.
  4. Application: Think about how you will use the mount. For instance, a temporary setup may benefit from a suction cup mount, while a permanent installation might need a clamp mount.

Video Demonstration

The following videos provide further information about RAM Mounts Ball and Socket Sizes, and weight capacities.


For a detailed demonstration, watch our YouTube video where we walk you through the process step by step.


Conclusion

Selecting the right RAM Mount and ball size is crucial for ensuring the safety and stability of your devices. At Mounts New Zealand, we offer a wide range of RAM Mounts to suit various applications and environments. Whether you need a simple suction cup mount for your car or a robust clamp mount for industrial use, we have you covered. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to contact us. We're here to help you find the perfect mounting solution for your needs.

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