Apple AirTags vs. GPS Trackers: Which is Best to Buy?

Key Takeaways

• Apple AirTags are great for tracking small personal items like keys, wallets, and bags using Apple’s Find My network.
• GPS trackers provide real-time tracking, making them the better choice for vehicles, pets, and valuables that need continuous monitoring.
• AirTags do not offer live tracking, while GPS trackers use satellite and cellular networks for instant location updates and geo-fencing alerts.
• Family1st GPS Tracker is a compact, affordable solution with real-time tracking, long battery life, and an easy-to-use mobile app, perfect for keeping loved ones and valuables secure.

What is an Apple AirTag?

An Apple AirTag is a small, coin-shaped tracking device to help you find lost items like keys, wallets, and bags. It connects to Apple’s Find My network using Bluetooth and Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology.

The AirTag sends its location to nearby Apple devices, which update its position on your Find My app. It works on Bluetooth and Apple’s Find My network.

How does Apple AirTag work? 

1. Pairing with iPhone: Connects instantly to your iPhone via Bluetooth and is managed through the Find My app.
2. Location Tracking: It uses Bluetooth and Ultra-Wideband (UWB) to communicate with nearby Apple devices and update its location.
3. Find My Network: Uses a vast network of millions of Apple devices to securely and anonymously update the AirTag’s location when it is out of Bluetooth range.
4. Precision Finding: If your iPhone has a U1 chip, it enables Precision Finding, which guides you with arrows and distance cues.
5. Lost Mode: If misplaced, you can activate Lost Mode, which notifies you when another Apple device detects it.
6. Anti-Stalking Alert: Sends a notification if an unknown AirTag is moving with you for security purposes.
7. Battery & Durability: It runs on a CR2032 coin battery that lasts up to a year and is water-resistant (IP67-rated).

You can use the Find My app on an iPad to view the AirTag’s location and track lost items. However, setting up an AirTag requires an iPhone or iPod Touch, as iPads lack Ultra-Wideband (UWB) support.

What is a GPS tracker and how does it work?

A GPS tracker is a device that uses satellites to find locations in real-time. The device provides continuous updates to help monitor movement.

Each tracker receives signals from multiple satellites and calculates its exact position. Location data is then sent to an app or platform through a cellular or radio network.

Users can view real-time locations on a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Some models also store past locations, allowing movement history to be reviewed.

Also see: How do GPS Tracking Devices Work

GPS Trackers vs. Apple AirTag: What are the differences?

Technology Used

Apple AirTags use Bluetooth and Ultra-Wideband (UWB) to locate lost items through nearby Apple devices. GPS trackers rely on satellite signals and cellular networks for real-time tracking anywhere.

Tracking Range

AirTags only work where Apple devices are nearby to update their location. GPS trackers provide continuous tracking worldwide, even in remote areas.

Real-Time Tracking

AirTags do not provide live tracking but update locations when detected by Apple’s network. GPS trackers give real-time movement updates, making them better for tracking vehicles or people.

Best For

AirTags are great for finding personal items like keys, wallets, and luggage. GPS trackers are ideal for monitoring cars, pets, and valuables over long distances.

Battery Life

AirTags last up to a year on a replaceable battery. GPS trackers need frequent charging, lasting from days to weeks, depending on usage.

Subscription Costs

AirTags have no monthly fees and work with the Find My app. GPS trackers require a monthly subscription ($5–$25/month) for mobile data access.

Anti-Theft & Security

AirTags alert users if an unknown tag is following them, making them less useful for hidden tracking. GPS trackers don’t send alerts, making them better for covert anti-theft tracking.

Price

AirTags are cheaper, costing $29 each or $99 for four. GPS trackers, plus monthly service fees, range from $50 to $150.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between an Apple AirTag and a GPS tracker depends on what you need to track and where you need to track it. Below is a detailed use case provided to help you make the right decision.

 

Use Case	Best Option	Why?
Finding lost keys, wallets, and bags	Apple AirTag	Works well in populated areas with Apple’s Find My network
Tracking luggage while traveling	Apple AirTag	Easily track luggage in airports or cities with Apple devices
Locating a parked car in a busy area	Apple AirTag	Find the car’s last known location using nearby Apple devices
Tracking a stolen vehicle in real-time	GPS Tracker	Provides real-time tracking and works even in remote areas
Monitoring pets that roam outside	GPS Tracker	Allows live tracking even if the pet moves far away
Keeping track of kids or elderly family members	GPS Tracker	Ensures safety with constant location updates
Securing motorcycles or bicycles from theft	GPS Tracker	GPS tracking offers real-time theft recovery
Tracking valuable shipments or deliveries	GPS Tracker	Essential for tracking high-value shipments in transit
Monitoring assets in remote areas	GPS Tracker	Works in areas without Apple device coverage
Tracking employees or fleet vehicles for business	GPS Tracker	Useful for fleet management with continuous tracking

Buy Family1st Portable GPS Tracker For All Your Need

Family1st Portable GPS Tracker is a small and easy-to-use device that helps you track cars, loved ones, and valuables in real time. It works anywhere in the U.S., giving you peace of mind wherever you go.

With geo-fencing alerts and long battery life, you can set virtual boundaries and get instant notifications if the tracker moves. The mobile app makes checking locations on iOS and Android devices simple.

This tracker is affordable and comes with a lifetime warranty. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to install, and the weatherproof case (optional to buy) ensures durability.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can Apple AirTags be used to track a car in real time?

Apple AirTags do not provide real-time tracking and only update locations when detected by nearby Apple devices. For continuous vehicle tracking, a GPS tracker is the better option.

Do GPS trackers require a monthly subscription?

Yes, most GPS trackers require a subscription ($5–$25/month) to use cellular networks for real-time tracking. Apple AirTags, however, do not have any monthly fees.

How far can an Apple AirTag track an item?

Apple AirTags do not have a fixed range but rely on nearby Apple devices to update their location. In areas with fewer Apple users, tracking can be delayed or unavailable.

Which option is better for tracking pets or kids?

A GPS tracker is better because it provides real-time tracking and works anywhere. AirTags are unreliable for tracking pets or kids as they depend on Apple’s network to update locations.

Can I use an Apple AirTag outside of the United States?

Yes, Apple AirTags work worldwide, but tracking depends on the presence of Apple devices nearby. GPS trackers offer global real-time tracking, making them more reliable for international use.

Conclusion

Apple AirTags track small personal items like keys and wallets using Apple’s Find My network but lack real-time tracking. They are not suitable for monitoring vehicles, pets, or valuables over long distances.

GPS trackers provide real-time tracking with satellite and cellular networks for instant location updates and geo-fencing alerts. The Family1st GPS Tracker is an affordable, reliable option with long battery life and a user-friendly mobile app for continuous security.