8 Best Personal GPS Trackers For Pets, Cars & More
Looking for the best personal GPS tracker to keep your loved ones, pets, or assets safe? Whether you need to track a teen driver, monitor your pet’s location, or manage business vehicles in the field, personal GPS tracking devices offer powerful solutions. With features like real-time location updates, geofencing alerts, and two-way communication, these trackers help you stay connected to what matters most.In this article, you’ll learn:
- The top 8 personal GPS trackers for 2024
- Key features like location updates, battery life, and SOS alerts
- How to choose the right GPS device for your specific needs
Let’s explore the best trackers to help you monitor, protect, and find what matters—wherever life takes you.
SpaceHawk GPS – Best Personal Tracker For Car
SpaceHawk is the first portable GPS that can be used for everything from catching a cheating spouse to tracking business vehicles.
What makes SpaceHawk stand above other tracker devices such as Geozilla GPS and the Brickhouse Security Spark Nano are the awesome features. First of all, with unlimited updates every 3 seconds, no other vehicle tracker on the market updates as fast as SpaceHawk. However, the most impressive feature of this product is the housing design. Why? SpaceHawk is the only product that is small, waterproof, and engineered with a powerful magnetic mount. This makes it easy to put the tracker inside or outside any vehicle!
For less than $100, the SpaceHawk GPS locator will allow you to discover the truth about what any driver is really doing. So if you want to secretly track service vehicles, cars, or assets without them knowing, SpaceHawk is the personal GPS tracker we recommend.
Visit website: https://spacehawkgps.com/
Product Highlights:
- Waterproof + Magnetic Mount
- Rechargeable Battery
- Location History Updates Every 3 Seconds
- Super Easy Tracker App (iOS + Android)
- Free Tech Support
- Dimensions: D: 2.275″ H: 0.945″
- Battery Life: 1-3 Weeks
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As of 4/02/2024 4.2 Stars | 22,344 Ratings |
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Spot X With SOS Protection – Best Personal GPS Tracker For Hiking
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Best Personal GPS Tracker For Hiking Spot X With SOS Protection
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The Spot X personal GPS tracker is perfect for hikers and adventurers who explore off the beaten path. With worldwide coverage through the GlobalStar satellite network, this tracker ensures you can reach search and rescue services with just the push of a button—no matter how remote your location.
Every year, around 120 to 150 people lose their lives while hiking, and thousands more get injured from falls, harsh weather, or getting lost. If you ever find yourself without cell coverage, the Spot X could be a lifesaver. It’s built to handle tough conditions, and the easy-to-read screen and built-in QWERTY keyboard let you send short messages or GPS coordinates directly to first responders. When venturing into the wild, having a reliable tracker like the Spot X gives you peace of mind that help is always within reach.
Excited to climb that mountain? Take the Spot X with you! A 4.1-star rating on Amazon from over 800 reviews shows the device is a trusted GPS tracker for hiking, keeping lovers of the outdoors connected when it matters most.
Check out a detailed product review on Spot X portable GPS trackers by CLICKING HERE!
Product Highlights:
- 240-hour battery
- Location updates every 5, 10, 30, or 60 minutes
- Multiple subscription plan options
- SOS button
- Rechargeable battery
- Dimensions: 2.9 x 0.94 x 6.54 inches
- Weight: 7oz
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, Satellite
- Display size: 2.9 inches
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AMAZON RATING |
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As of 4/02/2024 3.9 Stars | 583 Ratings |
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Colton Positive Review |
Amazon.com- Review Date -April 3, 2023 The product has a great size and easy-to use software. The subscription for the satellite service is super cheap and affordable compared to competitors. The exterior is made of a sturdy rubber that has a good grip, and the screen lights up well. It definitely helps solo hikers feel secure and safe, no matter where they are on the planet. |
Jennifer Negative Review |
Amazon.com - Review Date -January 3, 2024
The device will not receive text messages or emails due to interference caused by 5G cell towers. So basically, it is obsolete now, and they don't admit that while selling it. There will be no way to know if your SOS was received. Way to go! Buy a different product. |
Tile Mate – Best Bluetooth Tracker For Personal Item
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Best Bluetooth Tracker For Personal Items Tile Mate
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The Tile Mate stands out in the smart finder world thanks to its long battery life and practical features, all packed into a small device. Unlike trackers that rely on cellular networks, the Tile Mate uses low-power Bluetooth, which gives it a potential battery life of up to three years. Of course, the more you use it—whether as a key finder or to locate your phone lost in the couch—the quicker the battery drains.
One reason to skip competitors like the Samsung SmartThings tracker is the required monthly subscription for real-time tracking over cellular networks. Plus, with only 7 days of battery life, you’ll need to recharge it constantly.
The Tile Mate has earned a solid 4.6-star rating from over 12,000 Amazon reviews, and for good reason. While it doesn’t offer cellular tracking, Tile goes a step further with item insurance. Starting at just $2.99 a month, you can insure items up to $100, or even up to $1,000 for a little over $8 a month. That’s a unique feature you won’t find with other mini GPS trackers.
Check out a detailed product review on Tile Mate smart finders by CLICKING HERE!
Product Highlights:
- Water-resistant
- 250 ft range
- 3-year battery life
- Lost & Found feature
- Insurance plan
- Dimensions: 1.49 x 1.49 x 0.28 inches
- Battery: non-replaceable
- Weight: 0.304 oz
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As of 4/02/2024 4.5 Stars | 20,674 Ratings |
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Tiffany G Positive Review |
Amazon.com- Review Date -December 19, 2023 I finally bought an actual tile since my devices like ear buds or headphones came with them already installed, so I figured I'd get one for my keys! So convenient! I love the reverse feature in case I lost my keys and misplaced my phone too! I will definitely buy more for my loved ones and myself. |
Ccoak Negative Review |
Amazon.com - Review Date -September 19, 2023
I followed all the instructions. The battery is supposed to last 3 years. In less than 1 month, the battery is dead. It is a non-replaceable battery. I opened it up and tried to replace the battery, but to no avail. The battery is welded in and cannot be replaced. I would not recommend this piece. I have ordered a new one with a replaceable battery that I can replace myself. I am not going to go to the trouble of returning the old one. I am throwing it in the trash. It is a worthless piece of junk. I haven't even had it for a whole month. My dog loses his collar in our 4 1/2-acre yard once in a while. He has not lost his collar at all since this finder was placed on it. In other words, it hasn't even been used, and it is already dead. |
Tractive – Best Personal GPS For Dogs And Cats
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Best Personal GPS For Dogs And Cats Tractive
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If your pets mean the world to you, the Tractive pet GPS tracker is worth a look. These trackers are designed to fit right on your pet’s collar, so no matter where your cat or dog wanders, you’ll always know where they are. With up to 7 days of battery life, you’ll get instant alerts if they leave your property and can track their movements in real time from your smartphone or tablet.
For older pets, the built-in activity tracker is a game-changer. It gives you insights into how active they are, tracking playtime and calories burned each day. This way, you’ll know if they’ve earned those extra treats or need a bit more exercise to stay healthy.
Priced at $49.99 with a $9/month subscription for cellular service, it’s a small investment for peace of mind. Plus, with worldwide coverage and a full year of location history, you’ll always feel connected to your furry friend. No surprise it has over 2,700 reviews on Amazon with a solid 3.9-star rating.
Check out a detailed review to learn more about Tractive pet GPS trackers by CLICKING HERE!
Product Highlights:
- Water-proof
- Custom virtual fences
- Activity tracking
- 2-3 second updates
- Tracker app
- Dimensions: 2.8 x 1.1 x 0.67 inches
- Weight: 1.23 oz
- Battery: Lithium polymer
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As of 4/01/2024 4.0 Stars | 26,890 Ratings |
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G.H. Positive Review |
Amazon.com- Review Date -January 12, 2024 I was unsure how well this would really work. I was willing to risk the purchase price but was not sure about the subscription fee. So far, it’s been well worth the money! It’s extremely accurate, and we can pinpoint where our rambling dog is in real time. It answered a lot of questions about where she was disappearing. Easy set up. Easy to charge. She goes through woods and rough terrain and hasn’t lost it off of her collar. |
Robert Rodriguez Negative Review |
Amazon.com - Review Date -January 6, 2024
The rubber clip that attaches the device to the collar broke within two months. It is like a cheap rubber band. Obviously, it was not made to last. They sell new ones. Just one more way for them to make money. So in addition to the price of the device and GPS service, plan to jut the clips often. Costs add up quickly. |
AngelSense – Best Medical Alert System For Alzheimer’s
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Best Medical Alert System For Alzheimer's AngelSense
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Extra features like the included sensory-safe protective sleeve of the AngelSense portable GPS trackers make them the perfect tools in device and function to care for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients.
Getting an elderly loved one with Alzheimer’s to keep a GPS watch on can be challenging—they might not understand its importance. That’s why the AngelSense tracker is designed with features like a protective sleeve and non-removable pins, ensuring it stays put. It’s also available in other secure options, like undershirts or waterproof belts, making it ideal for adults or children with special needs. No wonder it’s maintained a solid 4-star rating on Amazon.AngelSense stands out with practical features families love.
The panic button sends medical alerts instantly, and the auto-answer 2-way call feature lets you reassure your loved one right away. Even if they’re in a care facility, those systems often don’t cover areas outside. With GPS tracking and 4G cellular connectivity, your family members can maintain their independence while you keep them safe, no matter where life takes them. That peace of mind is reflected in the 500+ positive reviews it has earned.
Check out a detailed review to learn more about AngelSense GPS tracking devices by CLICKING HERE!
Product Highlights:
- Realtime GPS tracking
- Behavior monitoring
- 2-way autoanswer
- Panic button
- Geo-fences
- Dimensions: 1.73 x 2.4 x 0.63 inches
- Weight: 0.704 oz
- Battery: Li-ion, 48hr charge
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AMAZON RATING |
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As of 4/01/2024 4.1 Stars | 738 Ratings |
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E. Shaklee Positive Review |
Amazon.com- Review Date -June 25, 2021 Angelsense is the GPS device. It has been so helpful to have someone on hand with my autistic son. I have clocked a bus driver that was speeding, located my son when he was allowed to go on the wrong bus home, and been able to talk to him with the two-way call feature when he was having a hard time one afternoon on the bus, keeping him from melting down. The set-up is so simple. The app is extremely user-friendly. The customer service has also been very helpful when I've had questions. |
OldBoy Negative Review |
Amazon.com - Review Date - May 11, 2021
I have this device for my dementia mother, and she wouldn't wear it. I want to cancel this, so I checked the app, and there's no function to cancel, so I googled, and their info says I can do it through chat, so that's what I did. The CS on chat verifies my account and says someone will call me to cancel, or I would have to call the number she gave to cancel. So I called the number, and the CS again took my information, verified the account, and then told me that someone would call me to cancel. WTF? Why is it so difficult to cancel that I have to speak to three different people? I abhor these bloodsucking companies that make the cancellation process appear so complicated that it requires you to jump through numerous hoops. Due to this experience, I cannot recommend anyone use it. |
Apple AirTags – Best For Tracking Your Personal Items
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Best For Tracking Your Personal Items Apple AirTag
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The Apple AirTag has become so popular for its low price, small size, ease of use, and long-lasting battery that “AirTagging” it has broken into meme-territory!
Low-power Bluetooth and ultra-wideband tracking allow devices like AirTag to run for almost a year on a single battery with regular use. Designed to go wherever you go, it’s popular with families and pet owners thanks to accessories like the Poppy tracker watch for kids and collar tags for pets.
One of the best parts? Unlike the Geozilla GPS tracker, AirTag doesn’t require a monthly subscription. Instead, it uses Bluetooth to connect with any nearby iPhone to report its location in real time. With over 99,000 reviews on Amazon and an impressive 4.7-star rating, it’s clear why so many people trust it for everyday tracking needs.
Check out a detailed review of the popular Apple AirTags by CLICKING HERE!
Product Highlights:
- Bluetooth tracking
- Device alarm
- Replaceable battery
- IP67 water and dust resistance
- One-step setup
- Dimensions: 1.6 x 1.6 x 0.31 inches
- Weight: 0.39 oz
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As of 04/02/2024 4.7 Stars | 175,768 Ratings |
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StormTrooprSubZ71 Positive Review |
Amazon.com- Review Date -January 9, 2024 The Apple Air Tag is a lifesaver. We needed a way to track our luggage when traveling, and the Apple Air Tag is the perfect solution. The setup is extremely quick, and the app is very easy to use. With its compact design, you can use this device anywhere, from luggage to keys to wallets; the possibilities are endless. I ordered only one of these to try out, but I will be ordering more since it's an excellent product. The 5-star rating is well deserved. |
Naomi R Negative Review |
Amazon.com - Review Date - January 4, 2024
It worked fine for about two weeks. Then it stopped working less than a month after purchasing. AirTag was on my keys with an old Toyota key fob, which still works fine. Apple Care had me open it for the serial numbers, and it was difficult to open and impossible to close. This product was not damaged in any way. |
Jiobit – Best Personal Tracker For Child
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Best Personal Tracker For Child Jiobit
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Where the Jiobit really shines is when it’s used for tracking special needs children. With the multiple mounting options, the Jiobit can be placed just about anywhere on a child’s person, backpack, belt, or shoes so it can remain out of reach for sensory-sensitive kids and hard to take off.
Parents and guardians using the Jiobit know why it has a 4-star rating with over 2000 reviews! For children just getting started on bus rides or walking home from school, the Jiobit is a handy device to provide peace of mind to parents and guardians. Smart geofences notify you when your child has left trusted locations like school or Grandma’s house and let you turn on live tracking modes so you can find them quickly.
Learn more about Jiobit realtime GPS personal trackers by CLICKING HERE!
Product Highlights:
- 7-10 day battery5G cellular connection
- Geofences and Live Tracking mode
- Water-resistant
- Government-level encryption
- Dimensions: 1.96 x 1.45 x 0.47
- Weight: 0.8 oz
- Connection: Bluetooth, WiFi, Cellular, and GPS
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As of 4/02/2024 4.0 Stars | 2,463 Ratings |
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Sal USA33 Positive Review |
Amazon.com- Review Date -August 27, 2023 I love it. I’m using it to track my son walking to school back and forth; this is the first year for him to walk to school. I’m using AirTag as well; for me, it’s way better than AirTag for two reasons: live tracking mode and more updates with timing. I noticed AirTag is always behind on location updates, and AirTag is the cheapest option to pin locations. |
Slakjak Negative Review |
Amazon.com - Review Date - October 10, 2023
Half the time, my daughter is getting off the bus before the device even tells me she has left school. The other half of the time, it says she never arrived at school and is on some random street, and you simply cannot connect to the device to verify where she actually is. There is no support; you can email the support team and hopefully wait for a reply in 1-2 days. What a joke. |
Brickhouse Security Spark Nano 7 – Best Personal GPS Under $20
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Best Personal GPS Under $20 Brickhouse Security Spark Nano 7
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Since 2005, Brickhouse Security has been a trusted name in spy gear, providing the best for nanny cameras, counter-surveillance devices, and GPS tracking units.
Fleet managers often subscribe to the premium plan with 5-second updates because they rely on these trackers for commercial applications like dispatch and routing, API access, and a 15% discount on future devices. Field reporters and parents alike use them for personal safety with geofencing features and a panic button.
This car tracker has a 4.4 rating with close to 4 thousand reviews, and it’s listed as the #3 tracker sold on Amazon. All of the devices’ great features and customer service reliability ensure their place at the top of the list. The Primetracking personal GPS tracker, a competitor using the same hardware as the Nano and offering 10-second updates, comes from a much younger company and is listed at #61.
Check out a detailed product review of the Brickhouse Security Spark Nano by CLICKING HERE!
Product Highlights:
- Panic button
- Waterproof magnetic mount
- 60, 30, or 5-second updates
- Speed limit alerts
- Optional extended 140-day battery
- Dimensions: 3 x 1.58 x 1 inches
- Dimensions of magnet mount: 3.5 x 2.5 x 2 inches
- Weight: 15.2 oz
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As of 4/02/2024 4.6 Stars | 7,322 Ratings |
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Judy Braga Positive Review |
Amazon.com- Review Date - December 15, 2023 For the price I've been really pleased with the GPS tracker. I'm not that techy, but I was able to navigate the website and set it up. I really like the phone app. It does what I need. I'm very happy with the tracker. It requires a subscription but is reasonable. Highly recommend. |
Manyi Liu Negative Review |
Amazon.com - Review Date - December 7, 2023
I used it for 4 days, registered for the highest package, the GPS was not accurate, the alarm did not respond, I applied for a refund, it deducted me 50 yuan, the service is cheating you, earn your difference is what they hope. |
What Is A Personal GPS Tracker?
A personal GPS tracker is a device that enables you to locate an individual, asset, or item using GPS data from Global Positioning Satellites orbiting in space. Some personal GPS tracking systems only store location data, while others have a transmitter that allows real-time viewing of GPS data. These devices are commonly used to improve safety and security. Applications include tracking family members, pets, lost items, and vehicles. As well as, providing real-time location data for hikers, wandering seniors, and children.
How A Personal GPS Tracker Works
A personal GPS tracker helps you keep tabs on what matters most—whether it’s your car, a loved one, or a valuable asset. With real-time tracking, you can check its location instantly on your phone or computer (active GPS). Or, if you prefer, you can review the movement history later (passive GPS). These trackers give you peace of mind by showing you exactly where someone or something is, how fast it’s moving, and when it arrives or leaves a location.
Key Features To Consider When Buying A Personal GPS Locator
From tracking spouses to kids or commercial fleets, there are some common features to consider when buying a tracker.
Battery Life
Battery life is a key feature for a personal tracker because it determines how long you can rely on it without recharging. Devices like AirTag and Tile last longer because they use low-energy Bluetooth, which is perfect for basic tracking. But if you need detailed, real-time updates, GPS trackers that connect through cell towers are the better option—though they use more power. A longer battery life means less hassle for you, especially if you’re tracking a car, a person, or something valuable over long periods. The last thing you want is the tracker dying right when you need it most.
Range
Bluetooth trackers, like those for keys or wallets, have a limited range of about 10 to 50 feet. That’s fine for small spaces, but if you need coverage beyond that, range becomes a key feature to consider. If you want reliable tracking throughout the U.S., choosing a GPS tracker with real-time location services is the way to go. These devices use activated SIM cards and connect to major carriers like Verizon, T-Mobile, or AT&T, giving you coverage whether you’re indoors or outside. If you’re traveling internationally, a global SIM card is essential to ensure your tracker works across borders without interruptions. The right range ensures you can depend on your tracker wherever life takes you.
Subscription Costs
Nobody likes adding another monthly subscription, but knowing you can find your kids, car, or other valuables when it matters most can take a huge weight off your mind. Subscription plans for GPS trackers usually range from under $10 to around $50 per month. If you plan on using the tracker regularly, yearly plans can save you money and sometimes unlock extra features. It’s worth thinking about how often you’ll need it and choosing a plan that fits your needs without breaking the bank.
Special Features
Special features are important to consider because the right ones make a tracker more useful for your specific needs. If you're tracking a fleet of vehicles, you’ll want a GPS tracker like the Nano or Primetracking Pro that provides detailed data and analytics. But for kids or elderly loved ones, features like geofencing, found in AngelSense or Jiobit, are key. These create virtual boundaries and send alerts if they wander off, offering extra peace of mind. Choosing a tracker with features that match your situation ensures you get the most value and reliability when it matters most.
How We Test, Review, And Rate GPS Surveillance Products
We know these devices are among the best because we rigorously test them ourselves. Usability is one of the biggest factors—if a tracker is too complicated, no one will bother using it. Every product on our list is simple enough for a parent tracking their kid’s first bus ride and reliable enough for a professional investigator.
It’s also important to mention that we don’t sell any of the products on this list, and we didn’t receive any compensation for featuring them. Our recommendations are completely unbiased, based on how well these trackers perform and how reliable they are. We also look at factors like how long the device has been on the market, how many reviews it has, and whether the company provides good customer support.
Versatility is something else to look at. Could it be used on a person, on farming vehicles, cars, and trucks? What about in a backpack, purse, or pocket? Is it waterproof? Is there an app for it? These are the questions we ask at Konnect GPS when testing each product to help buyers get the GPS device right for them!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Put A GPS Tracker On A Person?
Yes! Many trackers are designed to be worn or carried by people, though you’ll always want to check local laws on doing this covertly.
How Much Does A GPS Locator Cost?
Trackers can range in price from around $20 to $150. Here are some of the best-rated models on Amazon:
- Tracki: $16.88
- LandAirSea 54: $29.95
- Optimus 3.0: $39.95
- SpyTec: $39.95
- Bouncie: $77
Do GPS Tracking Systems Work Internationally?
Some GPS units offer international coverage, but most personal trackers only work within the United States. That’s why it’s important to double-check coverage before you buy. Not every tracker works across borders, so if you plan to travel, make sure your device includes an international roaming SIM card. This way, you won’t run into surprises when you need it most.
How Do Personal GPS Systems Work And What Functions Do They Offer?
Personal GPS trackers use satellite technology to track and locate objects or people with GPS units. They offer several functions like real-time location tracking, geofencing, alerts, and monitoring. Some advanced models also feature two-way communication, Wi-Fi, and 4G LTE cellular connectivity.
Do Personal Tracking Devices Require Subscription Costs, And How Much Do They Cost On Average?
Yes, most personal GPS trackers require a subscription to access real-time tracking features and alerts. Subscription costs depend on the manufacturer, tracking features, and cellular connectivity. On average, monthly subscription costs range from $10 to $50.
Can GPS Trackers Be Used As Luggage Trackers, Fitness Trackers, Medical Guardians, Or Car Trackers?
Personal GPS trackers can serve all kinds of purposes, from tracking luggage and cars to monitoring fitness or acting as medical guardians. Some advanced models come with 4G LTE connectivity, giving you real-time tracking, alerts, and updates right when you need them. If you’re looking for something to keep tabs on pets, there are trackers designed specifically for that too. Battery life varies by model—some last a few days, while others can run for several weeks on a single charge, so it’s worth checking how long it will hold up between charges based on your needs.