Amazon

Five of the 12 wallets we tested had essentially the same basic design, and there are dozens — if not hundreds — of nearly identical models, all made in China, listed on Amazon. Prices start at just $10, for the Chelmon model, and other models generally cost between $15 and $20, though some colors, patterns and fabrics are more expensive than others. They’re all about the size of a deck of playing cards, though they measure about 0.25 inch thick. The five we tested all have their brand names embossed on them:

• Hammer Anvil RFID Blocking Minimalist Front Pocket Wallet
• Kinzd Slim Wallet
• Zitahli Slim & Minimalist Front Pocket Bifold Wallet
• Buffway Slim Minimalist Front Pocket RFID Blocking Leather Wallet
• Chelmon Slim Wallet RFID Front Pocket Wallet

Each of these slimmer wallets had the same basic elements: two or three card holder pockets on each side; a transparent window that lets you flash your ID without removing it; an inner space that can be used as a cash pocket or to stow a few more cards; RFID blocking on its card sleeve to block electronic pickpocketing of your credit and debit cards; and, in the case of the slightly pricier Zitahli, a magnetically attached money clip. (That company claims this money clip wallet can safely hold up to 25 bills, but when I put in just 10 folded bills, the magnets failed to connect.) But my top choice overall is the shorter, wider Hammer Anvil; I don’t mind that it lacks the ID window, which, for all of its practicality, I find tacky and not befitting of our top wallets list.

I also really like the Kinzd, which has a slightly broader design that separates it from the cookie-cutter field. It has a terrific inner pocket — which is closed on one side only, allowing you to open it up wide — that comes together firmly with a satisfying magnetic snap.