Best GPS Tracker Review

GPS trackers are the perfect solution for monitoring your valuables, pets, or vehicles, giving you peace of mind and keeping you in control. Whether you're a business owner managing fleet tracking, a pet parent wanting to monitor your dog’s whereabouts, or someone who wants to ensure their vehicle stays safe, there's a GPS tracker out there that fits your needs. In this guide, we’ll explore the best GPS trackers currently available, focusing on their key features and what makes them stand out. Here’s what you’ll find in this guide:

1.The best GPS trackers for personal tracking, vehicle GPS tracking, pet monitoring, and asset management.

2.Important features to consider, including battery life, accuracy, and real-time GPS tracking.

3.Affordable options that still deliver reliable performance.

4.Practical answers to common questions, such as how long GPS trackers last on a single charge and whether they are legal to use.

Now, let’s check out some of the different options available to help you find the perfect GPS tracker that fits your needs!

SpaceHawk GPS Tracker – Best For Vehicle Tracking

The SpaceHawk GPS tracker is designed specifically for vehicle tracking, making it perfect for personal cars, work trucks, and fleet management. What makes it unique are the super-fast updates every 3 seconds and powerful magnetic mount. This means you can slap the SpaceHawk real time GPS tracker anywhere on a vehicle. Roughly the size of a peanut butter cup, it uses GPS technology to provide real-time tracking of your vehicles, allowing you to monitor their locations from anywhere. The device is easy to install, and the mobile app provides instant access to the real-time location of your vehicles.

According to the experts at Fleet1st, SpaceHawk is the best waterproof GPS tracker on the market today. Why? Because it offers global coverage, ensuring it works in most locations, and provides detailed route history, which can be helpful for both fleet management and personal use. And yes, it is waterproof, dust-proof, wireless, and just a bad ass tracking device. Especially, if you have teenage drivers!

Key Features:

•Real-time GPS tracking for vehicles

•Mobile app for location access

•Global coverage for tracking anywhere

•Route history tracking for vehicles

•Easy installation for cars, trucks, and fleets

Pros:

•Simple setup process

•Provides real-time location tracking

•Compact and discreet design

•Global coverage for tracking

Cons:

•No SOS or emergency features

•$9 per month for data plan

•Does not offer kill switch option

Apple AirTag – Best For Personal Use

The Apple AirTag is a small, lightweight GPS tracker designed mainly for personal use. It’s ideal for keeping track of everyday items like keys, wallets, and luggage. The AirTag uses Bluetooth technology to connect with nearby Apple devices, allowing you to track your items through the Find My app. There are no monthly fees or subscriptions, and it’s easy to attach the AirTag to your belongings using a keyring or holder.

According to the tech experts at Cult of Mac, the AirTag is awesome when it comes to tracking personal belongings. Why? The bluetooth tracker offers precision finding, which helps you get directions to your lost items when they’re nearby. Lost keys? Lost wallet? No problem! And with its long battery life and compact design, the AirTag offers a convenient solution for tracking personal items.

Key Features:

•Bluetooth-based tracking via the Find My app

•No monthly fees or subscriptions

•Precision finding for nearby items

•Long battery life (up to one year)

•Compact and lightweight design

Pros:

•Simple setup with Apple devices

•No ongoing fees and affordable

•Precision locating using nearby Apple devices

•Small and portable for everyday items

Cons:

•Best used with Apple devices (limited compatibility with non-Apple products)

•Can only track personal items within the range of Apple devices

•Does not provide real-time GPS tracking or live location updates

Pit Pat GPS Tracker – Best For Pet Tracking

Did you know that an estimated 10 million dogs are lost every year? It is a scary number, but thankfully GPS tracking is providing a solution. But what pet tracker is best? Introducing the Pit Pat GPS tracker - a tracking device designed specifically for tracking pets. Lightweight, waterproof, and easy to attach to your pet's collar, this tracker allows you to monitor your pet’s movements via a mobile app. It provides real-time tracking, so you can always know where your pet is, whether they’re out on a walk or simply exploring the backyard.

For example, if you're walking your dog and they slip out of their collar and run off, you can quickly check the app to track their real-time location. This added security provides peace of mind for pet owners concerned about their pets getting lost.

Editor Note: Tractive is another great option for pet safety according to the animal lovers at rover.com

Key Features:

•Real-time GPS tracking for pets

•Lightweight and waterproof design

•Mobile app for location tracking

•Activity tracking to monitor pet movements

•Long battery life for continuous use

Pros:

•Ideal for pet owners focused on their pets' safety

•No monthly subscription fees

•Compact and lightweight, suitable for small animals

•Waterproof and durable for outdoor use

•Provides peace of mind with real-time location tracking

Cons:

•Requires Bluetooth connection (limited range)

•Not suitable for pets with very small collars

•Designed for pet tracking only, not for other uses

PowerDrive GPS Tracker – Best For Asset Tracking

The Overdrive is an absolute powerhouse designed to track valuable assets such as construction equipment, trailers, ATVs, and other important items. Yes, if you want a rugged and durable real time GPS, this is the product for you. This commercial GPS tracker provides real-time location updates, geofencing, and alerts to help keep you informed about the movements of your assets. The device is easy to set up and works immediately, offering global coverage in over 155 countries.

The Overdrive tracker is ideal for businesses and individuals who need to monitor large or valuable equipment. In fact, the surveillance experts at GPS Tracker Shop have stated that this device even has some of the longest battery life on the market1 With location updates as frequently as every 3 seconds and the ability to track historical movements for up to one year, it ensures you can stay on top of your assets at all times. The tracker’s long battery life, enhanced by motion-activated sleep mode, makes it reliable for extended use, especially for equipment that isn’t constantly in motion.

Key Features:

•Real-time GPS tracking with updates every 3 seconds

•Geofencing, email alerts, and notifications

•Historical playback of locations for up to 1 year

•Extended battery life with motion-activated sleep mode

•Waterproof, durable design (IP67-rated)

•Global coverage in over 155 countries

•Lifetime warranty with optional hardwire kit for continuous runtime

Pros:

•Accurate and reliable real-time tracking

•Long battery life with motion-activated sleep mode

•Simple setup and global coverage

•IP67 waterproof rating for durability

•Lifetime warranty for added peace of mind

•Suitable for a wide range of assets, including vehicles and equipment

Cons:

•Requires a mobile app or web-based software for tracking

•Larger size may not be ideal for very small assets

•SIM card for international tracking

Tracki - Best For Budget Tracking

The Tracki GPS tracker is a budget-friendly option for those in need of basic tracking functionality. While it doesn’t include high-end features like waterproofing or built-in magnets, it still delivers reliable performance for personal use or vehicle tracking. And yes, it even is a top seller on Amazon. This compact device offers real-time GPS tracking through a mobile app and works globally in over 180 countries. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable GPS tracker for basic needs, such as tracking a car or personal items.

While it doesn’t have some of the premium features found in more expensive trackers, it provides solid performance at a lower cost. If you’re looking for simple location tracking without the extra features, the Tracki is a reliable and affordable option.

Key Features:

•Real-time GPS tracking via mobile app

•Global coverage in over 180 countries

•Compact and easy-to-use design

•Basic location tracking without advanced features

Pros:

•Very affordable compared to other GPS trackers

•Global tracking coverage at a low price

•Compact and portable design

Cons:

•Not waterproof, limiting outdoor use

•No magnet for easy attachment

•Limited features compared to higher-end trackers

Key Features Of GPS Trackers

Battery Life

When choosing a GPS tracking device, battery life is a crucial factor, especially for devices used in vehicles or for tracking assets like delivery trucks. A long-lasting battery reduces the need for frequent recharging or replacement, offering a more convenient and cost-effective experience. Whether you’re using a mobile GPS tracker or a vehicle locator, choosing a GPS tracker with a battery that lasts several days or weeks ensures continuous tracking without interruptions. For pet tracking or devices for kids, extended battery life also provides peace of mind, knowing the device will reliably work throughout the day.

Accuracy and Reliability

The accuracy and reliability of a GPS tracking system are essential to ensure trust in the location data. Whether you're tracking vehicles, personal belongings, or family members using a family locator, having accurate, real-time GPS tracking is critical for making informed decisions. Reliable GPS locators help avoid frustrating moments, like tracking your vehicle, only to find the location is off by miles. In fact, this was the feature people on Reddit stated was most important.

Subscription Fees or Additional Costs

Some GPS trackers come with subscription or activation fees, which can add up over time. It’s important to consider these ongoing costs when selecting the best GPS tracking device for your needs. While some vehicle tracking systems offer affordable monthly rates, others may have higher fees for additional features like live GPS updates or advanced safety zones. Whether it’s for fleet tracking or a personal tracker for kids, make sure the device fits your budget, including any associated costs for full functionality.

Device Compatibility (Smartphones, Apps, etc.)

Device compatibility plays an important role when selecting a GPS tracker. For seamless tracking, it’s important that the GPS tracker works well with your smartphone or any other device you plan to use for monitoring. Many GPS tracking devices work with downloadable apps on mobile devices, giving you easy access to live GPS or real-time location tracking. If you’re using a vehicle tracker or car GPS, ensure the device is compatible with your preferred mobile device and operating system for smooth performance and convenience.

Tracking Features (Real-time Tracking, Geofencing, Alerts)

Different GPS trackers offer a variety of features such as real-time tracking, geofencing, and alerts. Real-time GPS tracking allows you to monitor the location of vehicles, pets, or assets as they move, making it essential for deliveries or fleet tracking. Geofencing lets you create safety zones, sending alerts when the tracker enters or leaves a specific area, which is useful for monitoring family members or kids. Alerts notify you of unusual movements or behavior, whether it’s for vehicle tracking, car GPS devices, or mobile GPS trackers used for personal safety or equipment tracking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the Difference Between a GPS Tracker and a GPS Locator?

While both GPS trackers and GPS locators serve the same basic purpose—providing the location of an object or person—they have some differences. A GPS tracker typically refers to a device that continuously monitors and records the real-time location of an object, such as vehicles, pets, or assets, and sends updates at regular intervals. For example, a car tracker or GPS vehicle tracking system sends updates to help you keep track of your vehicles in real-time. In contrast, a GPS locator is more commonly used to find lost items, like keys or wallets, and usually offers more limited functionality than a full GPS tracker. Locators are typically simpler devices used for personal tracking, while trackers are often used for vehicles, family locators, or equipment tracking.

How Long Do GPS Trackers Last on a Single Charge?

The battery life of a GPS tracker can vary based on the type of device and how often it’s used. On average, many GPS trackers, such as a GPS vehicle tracker or a dog tracker, last anywhere from 1 to 10 days on a single charge. Some models, especially those designed for vehicles or asset tracking, offer extended battery life. Features like sleep tracking (motion-activated sleep mode) can help preserve battery life by reducing updates when the tracker isn't in use. Larger devices, such as those for equipment tracking or GPS vehicle tracking systems, tend to have bigger batteries that last longer. For trackers used on pets or for kids, the battery might need to be charged more frequently. Always consider how long the battery lasts when choosing a tracker, particularly for mobile GPS devices.

Are GPS Trackers Legal to Use?

In general, GPS trackers are legal to use for personal tracking, such as monitoring your vehicle, pets, or family members, like a GPS tracker for kids. However, be mindful that GPS tracking laws in Canada will not be the same as in the USA. Why? Local regulations and laws differ and you don’t want to break any laws. So remember this before using a GPS tracker, especially when tracking other people’s vehicles or property. so make sure Using a car tracker or GPS vehicle device on someone else's vehicle without their consent could be considered an invasion of privacy and may violate privacy laws, depending on your location. It's also crucial to ensure compliance with any laws regarding the use of tracker devices in commercial settings, such as fleet tracking or equipment tracking. Again, always verify the legal requirements in your area before using a GPS vehicle tracking system or any other GPS locator.