Many of us view retirement as the age to relax, slow down, and peacefully enjoy the rest of life without any worry about earning. But we often forget what comes with it. With aging, the human body undergoes several changes. Even a task as simple as taking a walk around the neighborhood or making coffee can become tiresome. And hence, they need more care and support.
Most American senior citizens live independently, without their families living with them or in an old-age care home. Living in isolation in their homes without proper care can increase the risk of illness and injuries. As a child, it is our responsibility to provide our aging parent’s love, care, and security they deserve.
While you cannot physically stay with your elderly for 24 hours, you can still protect them and monitor their activities virtually. A GPS tracker is a tracking device that can help you remain connected with your parents from far away.
In this way, you will not hinder their independence and can still ensure their safety. Nowadays, you can find different GPS trackers with various safety features such as fall detection, SOS buttons, smart alerts, geofencing, etc. These are also helpful in caring for the elderly with degenerative diseases such as dementia or Alzheimer’s.
So, if you are looking for a GPS tracker to safeguard your elderly, here is a guide and recommendation to make your search easier.
GPS Tracker Or Tracking App For the Elderly- Which One Is The Best For You?You can find two different alternatives to track your elderly out there. One is a GPS tracker, and the other is a tracking app.
A mobile application is a cheaper alternative to a GPS tracker. It allows you to track the elderly and provides added features with a subscription fee. Some of them also have an emergency button that your loved one can press to call for immediate help.
But in practical terms, it is only partly helpful.
According to a report, only 62% of older Americans can use smartphones. Many of them cannot use a smartphone application to call for help in an emergency.
Secondly, if your parents suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s tend to forget things, they may leave their smartphones at home or somewhere else.
The other reason is it is not always possible to carry a phone everywhere. For example, to the bathroom. But do you know that most fall accidents happen on the slippery bathroom floor?
Moreover, the tracking apps drain phone batteries at a faster rate. They cannot tell you the accurate location and depend on the phone’s performance and other apps.
And hence, it is not wrong to say that mobile applications are handy. But you cannot always rely on them for the safety of your parents.
And this is why we recommend you buy a dedicated GPS tracking device.
A GPS tracker is an indispensable tool that can help you to track the whereabouts of your elderly. You can ensure their safety without restraining them or taking them. It provides you peace of mind and provides your parents freedom to enjoy their life as they want.
Most GPS devices also provide additional safety features to ensure complete protection for your loved ones. Some of them are:-
Real-time location tracking
SOS alert
Geofencing alerts
Fall detection
Movement alert
Low battery alert
Assistive speakerphone
There are several security risks senior citizens face in their lives. Some are due to physical or mental health, while others can be due to external conditions.
A GPS tracker can be helpful for a senior citizen in several ways. Here are some real-life examples of how a GPS tracker can help you and the elderly face daily challenges and enjoy life.
Example 1- Way To Care/ Community CentreA care center can be a second home for many senior citizens. Here they can meet others of similar age and befriend them. It helps them to cope with depression caused due to isolation.
Senior citizens who live alone often go to community halls and centers to meet others like them and share stories. While this is a great way to keep them busy, how they reach there can cause worry. They might take the bus to their destination or walk down the street. Given their age, reacting, listening, or perceiving their environment can be difficult.
You can use a GPS tracker to ensure their safety in this situation. They can either wear it as a lanyard around their neck or clip them in their clothes. Now wherever they go, you can monitor them. You can even set geo zones to get alerts when they reach or leave the determined location.
Example 2- Driving A CarDo you know that more than 45 million licensed drivers in the USA are over 65 years old?
Senior citizens of the USA love to drive cars to carry out their daily activities and enjoy their independence. Let it be shopping for groceries or going for a regular checkup. But their family and caretakers are left worried about their safety.
Instead of depriving them of their freedom, you can put a GPS tracker in their vehicle and get their detailed driving reports. You can view in real-time their location and driving speed. It also has the SOS button that they can press in case of an emergency.
Example 3- Elderly with Alzheimer’s or DementiaAround 5.6 million senior citizens in America have Alzheimer’s, dementia, diabetes, or other life-threatening diseases. It is a daunting figure, and if your parents or loved ones suffer from it, you have to pay extra attention to them.
A GPS tracker can prove to be life-saving for them. While patients suffering from these diseases tend to forget things and get disoriented, it can help them to reduce their difficulties.
It can help them to find where they have parked the car.
It can help to avoid wandering and getting lost.
You can use assistive speakerphone or two-way communication features to talk to them and calm them.
They can attach it to their belongings and find them easily.
If they go out for a walk and forget their way back, you can locate them using the GPS tracker.
Fall accidents are common in older ages. According to a report, 36 million senior citizens suffer severe injuries due to falls every year.
Falling at this age can be detrimental for them. They can suffer from broken bones and other serious injuries. In extreme cases, it can cause death too.
You can avoid falls by doing home modifications such as installing anti-slip mats and railing to hold and walk, removing unnecessary clutter, fixing leaks, and more.
Most falls happen in the bathroom because of the wet and slippery floor. While sometimes they cannot avoid falls, you can reduce the risk of injuries by providing immediate help.
Some of the GPS trackers in the market come with a fall detection feature. As soon as the device detects a fall, it sends immediate alerts to the caregivers and 911.
12 GPS Trackers for the Elderly In 2024Disclaimer: The purpose of this article is to LIST the best products in the market, and not to review or rank them. All the products listed here have several unique features catering to a wide range of customer requirements.
Family1st Portable Elderly GPS TrackerCheck Price On Amazon
Buy Now
The Family1st Senior GPS Tracker is an invaluable tool for those looking for an effective and dependable way to keep their loved ones safe. At $25.95, this GPS tracker provides a comprehensive set of capabilities tailored exclusively to the needs of seniors.
The Family1st GPS tracker offers sophisticated Safeguard GPS technology, which ensures the most precise location tracking. This is especially important for seniors, especially those suffering from illnesses such as dementia and Alzheimer’s because it allows for quick and accurate location identification in the event that they wander or leave safe zones.
SOS alerts, geofencing alerts, low battery alerts, and more customized alerts and notifications are available with the tracker. These notifications are sent via email and SMS, keeping caregivers and family members up to date on any potential difficulties or crises in real-time.
The availability of live support 24 hours a day, seven days a week is a lifeline for both seniors and caregivers. Knowing that assistance is always available brings comfort, especially during emergencies.
The monthly membership fee of $21.95 includes a SIM card. The 30-day money-back guarantee allows you to test the service without risk.
Product Highlights
Low device cost and subscription plan
No Contract, No cost activation, and deactivation
Lifetime Warranty on device
Coverage in the USA, Mexico, and Canada
Battery & Specs
Size: 2.8” x 1.8” x 1.1”
Weight: 3.60 Oz
Battery: 2400 mAh Li-Polymer
Battery Type: Internal and Rechargeable
2 weeks battery life on the basic plan for an hour of drive time minimum every day
Check Price On Amazon
Jiobit is a small, long-lasting, real-time GPS tracker that you can use to stay connected with the elderly. It is a small and lightweight device that won’t interrupt the daily routine of the senior citizen. The company claims that it is similar to a cookie.
The GPS tracker uses Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular, and GPS technology to provide accurate information about your loved one. The device is built on a next-generation 5G compatible network which makes it ahead of its time.
Another notable feature of the Jiobit is that you can use it to mark trusted places over the map. So you can choose all the places your parents are likely to visit and get notified whenever they do. It will help you ensure that they don’t miss routine checkups, therapy, or any activity important to their health.
In case of an emergency, the elder can click on the button, which will send an immediate alert to you, and you can check them back to ensure their safety. It also allows you to add multiple members to your care team so that when you are not available, others can still respond to the alerts.
The Jiobit has partnered with Noonlight to create a personal and automated security system with a 911 emergency response. As soon as the elder presses the SOS button, the members of your care team and the professional dispatcher will get an immediate notification along with the location’s details. This feature can be life-saving, especially in emergencies when you are not nearby or need immediate help.
Product Highlights
Real-time tracking
Custom Geofences and Smart alerts
SOS mode, 911 emergency Dispatch
Can add trusted contacts
Battery and Specs
Size: 1.96” x 1.45” x 0.47”
Weight: 1.76 Oz
Battery:
Battery Type: 1 Lithium Polymer batteries
7 Days with constant tracking
Check Price On Amazon
Tracki mini GPS tracker is a super small and lightweight GPS tracker. It is 30% smaller and lighter than its competitors. You can easily place it in a car back pocket or the clothes of your elderly, and it won’t attract much attention. It comes with a versatile attachment collection, such as a belt clip, magnet, lanyard, and keychain, allowing use in multiple ways.
With the help of this GPS tracker, you can know the exact location of your parents or loved ones – no matter where they are. The device provides worldwide coverage, so you can use this if your parents love to travel abroad and you are often worried about their safety. Or if your family member lives in a foreign country and you want to monitor their location.
Tracki mini GPS tracker has a decent battery life that can last up to 5 days with active tracking reports every 1-5 minutes. You can extend the battery life to 30 to 75 days with a lowered reporting frequency of 1 to 3 times per day.
The device also has an SOS button, ensuring that you get immediate notification if your family member needs you. Other than these, there are other features such as safe zone notification, easy installation, friendly user interface, etc.
Product Highlight
Worldwide coverage
5 years of historical data
Option for an extra bigger battery
Indoor and outdoor tracking supported
Battery & Specs
Size: 1.74”x 1.5”x 0.6”
Weight: 1.26 Oz
Battery: 3500 mAh Li-Polymer
Battery Type: 1 Lithium-ion battery
5 days active battery life with 1-5 minutes update
Check Price On Amazon
AngelSense GPS tracker helps you provide maximum safety and quality of life for seniors. Moreover, it can offer a safe solution for seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s, given its extra safety and quality of life features.
It is a small and lightweight GPS tracker that you can easily attach to the clothing of the elderly. It is comfortable to wear and hence won’t interrupt their daily routine. It provides you with reliable and accurate real-time location of your loved ones.
It has a feature called “Smart Alerts” that sends you immediate alerts if your loved ones are wandering, found in unfamiliar places, late for their appointments, etc. It is also helpful to protect senior citizens having dementia or Alzheimer’s from losing their way back home.
Another feature of this GPS tracker is its assistive speakerphone. It allows you to connect with your loved ones with two-way voice communication and provide them with remote support.
AngelSense has recently included many new features to help you provide maximum security to your loved ones. Some of them are- indoor search, fall detection, and SOS call direct.
Product Highlights
Small and lightweight
Sensory-friendly
SOS button
2-way voice calling
Battery & Specs
Size: 2.4″ x 1.7″ x 0.63″
Weight: 1.4 Oz
Battery: NA
Battery type: NA
24 hours of active battery life
Check Price On Amazon
The LandAirSea 54 GPS device can help you keep tabs on your loved ones. It is a compact tracker that you can tuck into your pocket, purses, and backpacks easily to track the real-time location of the elderly. It is ultra-lightweight and hence doesn’t gain much attention. So you can use this for discrete tracking too.
The device combines 4G cellular and GPS-based technology to provide reliable and live-tracking of people, vehicles, or assets.
With the help of this micro GPS tracker, you can locate your loved one in real-time on web-based software or the SilverCloud mobile application. It is compatible with Mac, PC, iPhone, and Android devices, so you or your family members can keep an eye on your elderly on your device.
It is a 100% waterproof and dust-proof GPS tracker so your loved ones can take it to the bathroom where they are most likely to fall. Another notable thing is that if your parents or family members love to go on hiking or outdoor adventures, the LandAirSea 54 GPS tracker can be their perfect partner.
Product Highlight
Waterproof Device
Google Maps integration
Immediate Alerts and notifications
Versatile use
Battery & Specs
Size: 2.25″ x 2.25″ x 0.8″
Weight: 8 Oz
Battery: Lithium-ion battery
Battery Type: Internal and Rechargeable
3 weeks of active battery life with 3-minute updates
6 months battery life on Sleep mode
Check Price On Amazon
Geozilla GPS tracker is a powerful location-tracking device that can help you with versatile usage such as kids, seniors, pets, cars, luggage tracking, etc. The tracker comes with several accessories such as a hard case pouch, shell belt clip, and lanyard to aid usage.
It is a small and lightweight device that you can easily hide in a purse or clip to the clothing of the elderly. Despite its size, it has a good battery backup. It can last up to 5 days on a full charge with 60-second location updates. For better battery performance, you can lower the update frequency.
Geozilla is a unique GPS tracker that relies on GPS and global GSM networks to provide worldwide coverage and precise location information. It is an ideal tracker for you if your parents or relatives are someone who can’t simply sit back home and love to travel to different countries in their retirement.
The device also allows you to set geofence areas with customers. You can get immediate notification when the elderly arrive or leave home, medical care centers, or other locations. It also has the SOS button for an emergency that broadcasts the location information via notification, email, or text with one press.
Product Highlight
Lightweight and portable
Blends with surroundings
User-friendly app
Affordable tracking services
Battery & Specs
Size: 8″ x 1.6″ x 1″
Weight: 1.05 Oz
Battery: Li-ion 520mAh
Battery type: Internal and Rechargeable
2-3 days active battery life for 1-minute updates
6 days in sleep mode (no activity)
Check Price On Amazon
Spark Nano 7 is a versatile portable GPS tracker that you can use to track your elderly with ease. The device uses a 4G simulator service to provide fast and reliable reporting coverage all over North America.
It can help you get real-time location updates every 60 seconds, and you stay connected with your loved ones all the time. You can adjust the reporting frequency even lower or higher according to your needs.
The Spark Nano 7 GPS tracker has a compact and lightweight design to achieve ultimate versatility. You can easily attach it to their clothes to get real-time tracking reports. You can buy it with its magnetic waterproof case to keep it securely attached and ready to face rough conditions.
If your elderly like to drive a car, keeping you on your toes about their safety, then go for this device. With features like active tracking speed limit alerts and geofences, you can enjoy peace of mind while they are behind the wheel.
Product Highlights
Full 4G coverage over North America
Affordable subscription
Easy to install
Lifetime customer support
Real-time tracking
Battery & Specs
Check Price On Amazon
Another reliable and portable GPS tracker on our list is the Americaloc 300 mini GPS tracker. It is a compact and small tracking device that you can use for almost every tracking purpose: vehicle, family, employees, or assets.
It allows you to get real-time location updates of your elderly. You can also view the past tracking data to check where your parents or family members visited. The device works seamlessly in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. But what if your parents are suddenly going on a foreign trip? In that case, you can let the company know, and they will shift you to a different SIM card at no additional cost.
If your parents love to drive cars, this GPS tracker can be a perfect match. You can get notifications of movement and when they stop moving. You can use the feature geo zone to create circular or complex custom zones over the map to get notified whenever they enter or leave these zones. You can set up 200 zones which means you can cover all those places your loved ones regularly visit.
Product Highlight
Keeps a track record history up to 1 year
Can be converted to a Wired device if required
No Contract
No activation or cancellation fee
Battery & Specs
Size: 7” x 1.51” x 0.92”
Weight:24 oz
Battery: Lithium-ion battery
Battery type: Internal and Rechargeable
10-14 days of active battery life with one-minute updates
Check Price On Amazon
Amcrest GPS trackers are another suitable solution for anyone who wants to track the real-time location of their loved ones, property, or employees. With its 4G LTE GPS technology, you can get 100% accurate real-time location updates about your parents or relatives.
The device enables you to set the frequency of updates to as low as 5 seconds to stay connected with your loved ones as if you were there with them. You can view the location information and historical tracking reports through desktop web access or the Amcrest GPS smartphone app. They both have intuitive user interfaces that enable you to monitor the activity or access its various features.
You can even share location updates with your friends and family to provide maximum security to your loved ones. And ensure fast assistance in case of emergencies.
The Amcrest GPS tracker is a durable device built with heavy-duty materials, including IP65 weatherproof housing. So this device can be a perfect partner for your family member in extreme conditions. It is 100% waterproof so your parents can take it with them for a shower or in the rainy season.
The other notable features of this device are geofencing, instant alerts, longer battery life, exceptional customer support, etc.
Product Highlight
Compact size – smaller than a matchbox
Intelligent Battery Alerts
Motion and SOS Alarm
Weather-resistant
Supports up to 20 geofences
Battery & Specs
Size: 3” x 1.5” x 1”
Weight: 3.52 oz
Battery: Li-Polymer, 2600 mAh
Battery type: Internal and Rechargeable
5-6 days active battery life for 5 minutes updates
2 weeks battery life on sleep mode (no activity)
Check Price On Amazon
Another advanced GPS tracker on our list is the Spot Trace GPS tracker. It is an affordable and reliable device based 100% on satellite technology. It can help you keep track of your loved ones with accurate location updates.
Spot Trace is a fully customizable tracker that helps you enhance your tracking experience. It allows you to select the location update frequency from 2.5 to 60-minute tracking intervals. You can view the location coordinates on Spot or Google Maps.
It is a durable and waterproof GPS device. So if your parents or relatives love to challenge themselves a little by hiking in mountains or forests, this one can be a perfect fit for them. The device can send you a lot when it detects movement. And get alerts every time your loved ones are on the move.
Product Highlights
Extremely compact
Allows online tracking
Sends you instant alerts through mail
Provides a huge range of uses
Battery & Specs
Size: 6.9” x 2.02” x 0.95”
Weight: 1 oz
Battery: 4 AAA Energizer Ultimate Lithium 8x batteries (L92) – Installed
Battery Option: 4 AAA Energizer® NiMH rechargeable batteries (NH12) – Sold Separately
Battery type: Option of external, Internal, and rechargeable
10-14 days of active battery life with one-minute updates
Check Price On Amazon
Another reliable GPS tracker in our list is Qbit personal GPS tracker. It is a compact and lightweight device that excels in mobility and reliability. You can easily clip the device to your parents’ clothes or slip it in their purses or backpacks to enjoy real-time location tracking. It delivers accurate location information using a combination of GPS Wi-Fi and LBS positioning technology. It is a water-resistant and rugged device so you won’t have to worry even if your elderly forgets to remove it and wear it in the shower.
Qbit GPS tracker also enables two-way communications so you can always stay connected with your elderly. It is a helpful feature especially when your parents are suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia. It also allows remote listening so you can remotely monitor the environment & ensure the safety and comfort of your parents while they are out. You can also set a virtual fence to stay in a form whenever the person crosses the boundaries.
Product Highlights
Two-way communication
Inconspicuous mic
SOS button
Low battery alert
Compact and stylish design
Battery & Specs
Size: 1.7″ x 1.7″ x 0.6″
Weight: 1.16 Oz
Battery: 500 mAh/3.8V industrial grade Li-polymer
Battery Type: Internal and Rechargeable
Up to 2 days with an update frequency of 10 minutes
Check Price On Amazon
Another real-time and reliable GPS tracker that won’t disturb your budget is the Safe Track GPS tracker. It is a real-time GPS tracker that uses 4G LTE technology to deliver reliable location updates. It is a small lightweight durable and silent device you can use to track your parents discreetly. It has a long battery life so you can sit back and relax while you know that the device is working there and you won’t be outdated with the information.
It allows you to set up virtual fans over the boundary so you can drop as many geofences as you want over the maps and ensure no place is left. It is a helpful feature when your parents are suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia. If they leave the house without any assistance or your knowledge the device will let you know and you can bring them back home safely. It provides a limited GPS range throughout the USA, Canada, and Mexico so you can keep an eye on your loved ones no matter how far they are. It also has an SOS button that they can press to alert you and call for immediate help.
Product Highlights
Unlimited distance tracking
SOS button
Instant alerts
Real-time tracking
1-minute setup
Lifetime warranty
Battery and Specs
Size:
1.57″ x 1.05″ x 3.07″
Weight:
2.24 Oz
Battery Type: Internal And Rechargeable
2-4 weeks active battery life
Yes. Most GPS trackers designed for seniors are compact and lightweight. They do not hamper their quality of life in any way. Once you have customized the tracker as per your preference, they do not need to worry about it.
Do all portable GPS trackers come with fall detection?No. Not all GPS trackers have fall detection features. However, these devices have an SOS button, which the elderly can press and alert the family. You can share the location with 911 dispatchers and get them help.
My 70-year-old father has dementia. Can a GPS tracker be helpful?Yes. Dementia makes it difficult for seniors to remember. They might go for a walk, wander away, and forget their way home. With a GPS tracker and geofence feature, you get an alert when they have strayed and bring them back to safety.
We are a big family of 7 siblings. Can we all access the location information of our mom through the tracker?Yes. Once you have bought the GPS tracker, multiple people can access its data after downloading the companion app on their device of choice. You can be anywhere in the world and still keep an eye on your beloved parent.
Bottom LineTo conclude, we can say that a GPS tracker can be an indispensable tool to provide your elderly effortless security. It can be helpful for you as well as the elderly. It can offer you peace of mind and complete independence to them.
Do share your queries in the comment section below.
Stay in the know with our picks for the best car GPS trackers.
Written and Tested By:
Ben Kasierski Ben KasierskiBen Kasierski is a North Carolina native who covers the latest automotive and motorcycle products. He has tested hundreds of car detailing products – including tire shines, car wash soaps, and full detailing kits – as well as gadgets to make life easier for the everyday driver like key finders and GPS trackers.
Reviewed By:
Charles NoyesMotor1 Reviews Team Take:
The best GPS trackers for cars report a vehicle’s location in real-time and transmit driving data to a user’s cell phone. They can also report factors such as average vehicle speed and health, as well as provide roadside assistance in emergencies.
Trackers come in an array of shapes, sizes, and prices, with many requiring a monthly subscription for their services. Our expert review team has tested the best GPS trackers for cars to narrow down the top choices on the market.
There are many useful functions of having a GPS tracker either in your car or in an owned car. That said, GPS trackers can be easily abused, so carefully consider how you plan to use this product before purchasing. We do not condone using these devices to track people without their consent and in most states, installing a GPS tracker this way is illegal.
While researching and testing the best car GPS trackers, we looked for options that balanced excellent value for consumers with premier functionality. We chose options that could be stowed easily and provided tracking information speedily. To aid consumers’ purchasing power, we also looked for models with affordable acquisition costs and subscription fees.
We named car GPS trackers from Bouncie, LandAirSea, and BrickHouse as our top three picks for car GPS trackers. Other models that made our list include offerings from Tracki, Vyncs, and Spytec, which are more specialized options.
*Because cost data fluctuates, the prices in the table above are approximate values that our team regularly updates.
The car GPS trackers in this article went through two rounds of reviews. We started by searching retailers like Amazon, RealTruck, and Advance Auto Parts for top products, looking at factors such as warranties, updates, customer ratings, and prices.
Our product testing team then ordered the car GPS trackers that best met these standards. A team member tested each product on one of our testing vehicles, taking note of how navigable the car GPS tracker’s app interface was, how well it tracked, and the design of the device itself. Each car GPS tracker was given a rating out of 5.0 stars based on these criteria.
Learn more about how we tested car GPS trackers here.
Because of its ease of use and affordability, the Bouncie GPS Car Tracker is our pick for Best Overall car GPS tracker. Downloading the app, signing up, and plugging in the device takes only a few minutes and instantly gives you access to real-time tracking.
Below is a snapshot of how the Boucie GPS tracker performed during testing:
Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)Tracking4.5Ease of Use5.0Value5.0Overall Rating4.8Bouncie uses 4G LTE to transmit driving data, so a subscription is required. Most GPS tracker subscriptions are anywhere between $20 and $25 per month, while Bouncie only costs around $9 and even offers more features than competitors.
Below are the pros and cons of the Bouncie GPS Car Tracker:
Pros
Cons
Between the Bouncie‘s accuracy as a tracker and its superb value, we rated it at 4.8 out of 5.0 stars. Although it stopped tracking when our car wasn’t running, everything else about it made up for this minor design flaw.
We recommend the Bouncie Car GPS Tracker for anyone who wants an affordable, accurate means of tracking themselves or their loved ones on the road. Its ease of use makes it perfect for anyone unfamiliar with GPS devices.
Tracking
The Bouncie gave us real-time location updates every 15 seconds with remarkable accuracy. We had few issues with blind spots or service failures. One drawback is that the Bouncie turns off when the car isn’t on, so don’t expect to track your car if it has been towed.
Ease of Use
Easy installation was a huge plus with the Bouncie. We were able to plug it in and go. The app took little time to set up and had a friendly interface, too.
Value
The total cost of the Bouncie, including a year-long subscription, is roughly $175. This gives you access to resources including location tracking, reports on car health, and insights to improve your driving. Many competitors charge extra for features like these, making Bouncie a great value.
Positive reviews commended the Bouncie’s real-time notifications, with one customer going as far as to claim the tracker saved her son’s life when his car accidentally rolled over in an accident. Other satisfied customers enjoy being able to track their parents, grandparents, or young drivers with ease. The Bouncie GPS Car Tracker is also Amazon’s Choice for best GPS trackers for cars.
Top negative reviews say that consumers did not know the trackers would turn off with their cars.
As our favorite battery-powered positioning system, the LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker delivers exceptional tracking. Its frequent refresh feature provides accurate coordinates within 6.0 feet of your car’s location, and users can receive updates as frequently as every three seconds.
You can see how the LandAirSea 54 GPS tracker performed in each of our testing categories below:
Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)Tracking5.0Ease of Use5.0Value4.5Overall Rating4.8The device latches onto metal surfaces of your car with its built-in super strength magnet. Its battery normally lasts between one to two weeks when providing updates, but can survive up to six months when in low-power mode.
Below are the pros and cons of the LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker:
Pros
Cons
We liked the LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker’s physical design and tracking abilities. Its subscription is a bit expensive, but it provides detailed driving history in an accessible interface, earning it 4.8 out of 5.0 stars.
We believe the LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker is suitable for anyone who doesn’t mind time between updates and is comfortable with leaving a tracker under their car. While extra features come at a price, the basic subscription plan provides suitable peace of mind.
Tracking
We had no issues with the 54 GPS Tracker’s real-time tracking, which can be as accurate as up to one-second intervals based on your subscription plan. It provided us with accurate trip information and a clear map to follow our testing car. One thing we wish the app would have done was automatically activate notifications.
Ease of Use
Setup was relatively simple. The tracking device must be held to the sky in an outdoor area to locate satellites, so we had to do some light stretching. We found that the best spot for it is the undercarriage of your vehicle, but the tracker was small enough to fit in the glovebox, too. We had slight issues with the LandAirSea app’s payment system.
Value
At the lowest monthly subscription rate of $19.95, the LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker will run for about $270 per year. This includes a free one-year warranty as long as you are enrolled in a subscription. Users who prepay for an annual subscription can get a rate as low as $9.95 per month.
The LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker has earned its spot as the number one bestseller on Amazon for car GPS trackers. Positive reviews highlight LandAirSea’s helpful technical support and compact design.
Negative reviews center around claims that customers have lost their trackers while driving because the magnetic body did not stick well in wet road conditions.
The BrickHouse Security Spark Nano 7 is a battery-powered GPS tracker designed to be small and lightweight. An optional waterproof magnetic case allows for exterior placement.
You can see how the BrickHouse Security Spark Nano 7 performed in each of our testing categories below:
Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)Tracking5.0Ease of Use5.0Value4.5Overall Rating4.8While this tracker will work to monitor your personal vehicle, the subscription plan may be a little costly for just this purpose. If you want to monitor a commercial vehicle or a fleet of vehicles, the data, geofencing options, and ability to manage multiple trackers at once may be very helpful.
Below are the pros and cons of the BrickHouse Security Spark Nano 7:
Pros
Cons
We tested not only the Spark Nano 7, but also the BrickHouse Security TrackPort 4G. Both devices performed similarly in our testing. The difference between these two GPS trackers is that the TrackPort must be plugged into a vehicle’s OBD-II port. BrickHouse also offers a hard-wired option, the Livewire Volt.
Tracking
BrickHouse offers three tiers of service: basic, plus, and premium. Depending on the tier, location updates are provided every five seconds (premium), thirty seconds (plus), or sixty seconds (basic). According to some customers, the tracking information at the lower tiers is less precise.
We tested these devices at the highest level of service, which was accurate to within several feet. However, the tracking works best when the GPS tracker is moving. While parked, the live tracking software would sometimes misplace the tracker by a couple hundred feet.
Ease of Use
Because the Spark Nano 7 is battery-powered, it must first be charged. It takes about five hours to fully charge this device, but once charged, it can run for a long time without dying. A full day of use only drains about four percent of the total battery life.
We attached the Nano 7 underneath our test vehicle using the waterproof magnetic case. The magnets on this case are strong and we had no concern that the tracker might accidentally come off.
The BrickHouse Security tracking software is simple to use, though there are a lot of options. It is designed to easily generate reports and data about the activities of multiple tracking devices. It also has features useful if you are only tracking a single car, such as the ability to set up text alerts whenever your vehicle leaves (or enters) a certain area.
Value
BrickHouse provides a lot of information, detail, and features in their tracking software, but this all comes at a cost. The highest level of service costs $34.99 a month. According to some customer reviews, the lowest level of service, at $17.99 a month, isn’t as accurate.
Most reviewers claim to use this GPS tracker to monitor either a commercial vehicle or a teenage child. In both cases, most are satisfied with this tracker. The magnetic mount is effective and the long battery life allows the Nano 7 to operate for several days without charging.
Some appreciate the amount of detail that goes into the tracking software and are happy with how accurately locations are tracked. Multiple reviewers described a responsive and helpful customer service team.
Not everyone considers these trackers accurate. For several reviewers, the 60-second update interval is too inconsistent. Another complaint has to do with the cancellation process, which cannot be done simply online but requires calling customer service.
The Tracki 4G Mini GPS Tracker is a highly versatile device you can attach to your car using a magnet, belt clip, keychain, or lanyard, making it perfect for use beyond your vehicle. It can provide updates every 15 seconds and has highly accurate geofencing capabilities, too.
You can see how the Tracki 4G Mini GPS Tracker performed in each category below:
Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)Tracking4.5Ease of Use5.0Value5.0Overall Rating4.8This tracker also comes with a lifetime warranty. Should the 4G Mini stop working at any time, you can reach out to Tracki and receive a replacement device free of charge.
Below are the pros and cons of the Tracki 4G Mini GPS Tracker:
Pros
Cons
Not only is the versatility of the Tracki 4G Mini GPS Tracker device useful, but the app comes preloaded with a number of features to help you have a productive experience. The only real con is the battery life, but overall we rated the Tracki at 4.8 out of 5.0 stars.
With its great design and navigable app, we recommend the Tracki 4G Mini GPS Tracker for anyone who likes to have customizable tracking options at their disposal. Users should be willing to commit to a prepaid subscription plan for the best value.
Tracking
The 4G Mini provided updates every 15 seconds with accuracy within 50.0 feet of the device’s location. We liked that the app provided us with speed alert updates while driving. One flaw we found was the low battery life, which required the 4G Mini to be charged every two to three days.
Ease of Use
At first, we were a bit overwhelmed by the sheer amount of features provided by the Tracki app. It lets you do everything from geofencing to viewing your driving history from up to five years ago, but after a few uses, we felt comfortable with the app. The 4G Mini was very easy to place anywhere in our car, and the additional attachments allowed undercarriage installment.
Value
With a $19.95 per month subscription, drivers get access to all of the 4G Mini’s features. Tracki also offers six-month, one-year, and two-year prepaid plans that cost less per month but will cost more upfront. Although the prices rival those of competitors, drivers must be willing to commit to their 4G Mini for an extended period.
Some customers note positive experiences and highly recommend the 4G Mini for its small size and reliable warranty. Others cite the 4G Mini for its limited tracking range and software malfunctions.
The Vyncs GPS Tracker for Vehicles provides loads of driving data at a price. The basic plan is free, but users must purchase pricey upgrades to receive more frequent updates.
While these costs are high, this device uses an international SIM card, so it can be used virtually anywhere. It also attaches through an OBD-II port which means no recharging is necessary.
You can see how the Vyncs GPS Tracker For Vehicles performed in each category below:
Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)Tracking5.0Ease of Use5.0Value4.0Overall Rating4.7We recommend the Vyncs GPS Tracker for Vehicles for drivers who like to know their vehicle’s whereabouts as well as receive consistent health updates. If you’re willing to pay more for added benefits, it can be a great choice.
Below are the pros and cons of the Vyncs GPS Tracker For Vehicles:
Pros
Cons
We give this product a score of 4.7 out of 5.0. Its tracking capabilities and features for the basic plan are good, plus we like how simple the setup is. The only real kicker is the cost of the upgrades.
Tracking
The tracking features on the Vyncs were thorough for a basic plan. We were able to receive driver scores, notifications for safe and unsafe driving patterns, and even vehicle health updates including fuel level and emissions.
Ease of Use
This was the best tracker setup we tested. Plugging it into our car required little effort, and the Vyncs app walked us through the activation process.
Value
Purchasing the Vyncs device is costly. Its upfront total cost amounts to around $120, and then upgrades can pile on even more. If you aren’t worried about having fast updates and extra driving data, the basic plan works well.
Top positive reviews are mostly for fleet users, which track business vehicles en masse. Other single-user reviews discuss how they enjoy knowing their vehicle’s health status.
Those who leave negative reviews call the Vyncs tracker “frustrating,” arguing that its interface repeatedly charged them for monthly fees when they weren’t due and customer service response times were poor.
For drivers who like a steady stream of notifications for tracking purposes, the Spytec GPS GL300 Tracker is a go-to option. Spytec’s app automatically provides updates when the tracker starts moving. The app also has an inviting interface with plenty of useful specifications.
You can see how the Spytec GPS GL300 Tracker performed in each category below:
Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)Tracking5.0Ease of Use3.5Value4.0Overall Rating4.2If you’re looking for a car GPS tracker that gives you excellent updates, the Spytec GPS GL300 Tracker is for you. Check out more on what we had to say about this tracker here. We recommend it for anyone who doesn’t mind paying a higher monthly subscription for better features and prefers an uncomplicated interface.
Below are the pros and cons of the Spytec GPS GL300 Tracker:
Pros
Cons
We give this product a score of 4.2 out of 5.0 stars. While the GL300 can be stored nearly anywhere in a vehicle and updates vehicle locations frequently, the setup and cost lost it some points in our book.
Tracking
We were impressed with how well this device updated us on our vehicle’s location. It was able to find our vehicle within a few yards consistently. The app even alerted us when the tracker stopped moving using the Time Machine feature.
Ease of Use
Setting up the GL300 was slow. Spytec required multiple password inputs that were more confusing than secure, and after all this, the device still took hours to activate on the app. Besides this, the app had a similar interface to Google Maps that we enjoyed using.
Value
We activated our GL300 tracker with the basic $19.95 per month plan and found it workable. The device was durable, and the app worked well for the price.
Positive reviews compliment the GL300’s tracking accuracy and swift cancellation policy. Some customers complain about monthly subscription costs that they did not know existed.
Before you shop for GPS trackers for your car, consider the following factors to help you determine how you want it to function. It is also important to be sure that you have a clear understanding of how GPS trackers work before making your purchase.
There are two types of GPS tracking devices: real-time and delayed time.
There are several designs for GPS tracker placement, including:
Many car GPS trackers require a subscription to function. These subscriptions are generally monthly or annual depending on the company. The average GPS tracker subscription is anywhere between $20 and $25 per month for a basic plan but can cost more for premium features such as driving habits. Trackers can sometimes also have activation and cancellation fees as well.
Not all GPS trackers have a monthly subscription cost. Some allow you to pay an annual fee, which can range between $100 and $300 depending on the data plan. Although, similar to car insurance, many providers will offer a discount for paying an annual fee versus month-to-month plans.
While you can use an AirTag as a tracking device, they’re not suitable for real-time tracking of vehicles. AirTags do not offer data updates as quickly as most GPS trackers are better for locating stationery items.
Many car GPS trackers are designed with SIM cards built for international use, meaning you can be safely covered anywhere from Canada to Mexico – and anywhere in between.
Many insurance companies offer discounts for using a car GPS tracker. This is because the device serves as another form of anti-theft protection and encourages safe driving.
In this article, we explained some of the benefits of a car GPS tracker and some of the common costs associated with the investment. Additionally, our team examined how GPS trackers can be installed and the differing levels of data brands can provide.
Below are our top picks:
Below are some frequently asked questions about car GPS trackers:
The best car GPS trackers are designed to help you track driving data. This data can be used for reporting driving habits, locating a stolen vehicle, fleet management for business owners, or keeping track of a teenager or elderly family member’s location.
As long as you own the car, you are legally allowed to track it. However, it is illegal to track a vehicle without the owner’s permission.
Our pick for the best GPS tracker for cars is the Bouncie GPS Car Tracker. It tops our list for the installation point, price, and tracking updates.
Cars can track in real-time via small devices that either attach magnetically to the OBD2 port or simply store it in the vehicle.
Our pick for the longest range is the LandAirSea 54. It also has a battery life of up to six months.
Trackers cost anywhere from $50 to $100, although subscriptions vary depending on longevity and location refresh rate.
If you have a luxury vehicle or operate a fleet of vehicles, a car GPS tracker may offer better peace of mind.
For each GPS tracker, we bought the base-level tracking subscription. All tracking apps were accessed using iOS 15 on an iPhone 12 Pro. Next, each of the GPS trackers we tested was placed in the same testing vehicle and tracked over 24 hours. It should be noted that the Bouncie and Vyncs GPS trackers were tested separately since our vehicle only has one OBD-II port.
Tracking
You want a GPS tracker that works consistently without failure or faulty tracking. Trackers in this review that had real-time updates and accurate readings received a good rating. Trackers that stayed powered on even when the car was not running scored highest in this category.
Ease of Use
When testing and setting up any electronic, our team wants a product that’s going to be easy to install, quickly connect to our smartphone, and use reliably. GPS trackers that had a plug-and-play setup, great app user interface, and precise tracking information scored highest in this category during our testing process.
Value
To determine the value of each GPS tracker, we not only considered the initial price but also the monthly or annual subscription options and what amenities were included. GPS tracker subscriptions that include driving tips, precision tracking, car health reports, and more, all at a fair price, scored highest in this category.
How We Score Products
In addition to price and installation method, we also looked at the value of each car GPS tracker’s subscription tier offered for consumers. This included variables like the refresh rate of information, activation fees, and user experience of each brand’s mobile application. Across these categories, every GPS tracker was given a rating out of 5.0. Here are what those ratings mean in simple, concrete terms:
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Each year, we test over 350 auto products on vehicles and in our testing lab. Our team of product testers thoroughly researches top products, unboxes and puts our hands on each component, and tests the items on real vehicles before making recommendations to readers.
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*Data accurate at time of publication. Products subject to availability.
Ben KasierskiBen Kasierski is a North Carolina native who covers the latest automotive and motorcycle products. He has tested hundreds of car detailing products – including tire shines, car wash soaps, and full detailing kits – as well as gadgets to make life easier for the everyday driver like key finders and GPS trackers.
Charles NoyesAs a member of both the APA and IMPA, Charles Noyes has devoted himself to creating and refining quality content covering automotive products and accessories, motorcycle products, RV products, and more. As the lead editor serving the product review team, he has personally reviewed, critiqued, and fact-checked over 200 product reviews.