How GPS tracking works
A GPS receiver estimates its position using signals from satellites.
GPS tracker buying guides.
Explore English guides to GPS tracking, subscriptions, privacy and installation. Choose a suitable tracker for pets, people, vehicles or bicycles.
Editorial comparison based on product information and source review. We have no documented own field tests. Hardware prices and service terms are checked separately. How we compare →
Choose a topic
Technology, costs and privacy
GPS vs Bluetooth trackers
Choose a tracker by how it obtains and shares a position.
GPS tracker data privacy: practical checks
Location records can reveal routines, visits and home addresses.
GPS tracker costs over 24 months
The device price is only the start.
AirTag vs a connected GPS tracker
An AirTag is a Bluetooth-network item finder, not a cellular GPS tracker.
Which SIM does a GPS tracker need?
First check whether the tracker has an included managed SIM or accepts your own card.
GPS tracker range: what the term really means
GPS positioning does not have the short fixed radius of a Bluetooth connection.
GPS trackers for older adults: consent and usability
A tracker for an older adult should be chosen with that person, with attention to consent, dignity and everyday usefulness.
GPS tracking in Germany: questions to check
This guide highlights questions for GPS tracking in Germany, not a universal rule for all countries.
PAJ GPS trackers: choosing the right model
PAJ has several tracker designs for different tasks, including wearables, pet units, bicycle products and vehicle devices.
Luggage trackers for travel
A luggage tag can help you see an approximate bag location, but it does not replace the airline’s baggage process.
Comparing GPS tracker battery life
Battery claims depend on the test conditions and settings.
How to set up a tracker geofence
A geofence is a virtual boundary that can trigger a notification when the device appears to enter or leave an area.
GPS trackers for hiking and off-grid use
A device may obtain a satellite position where it cannot send a mobile update.
Your tracker shows stolen property: what to do
If you believe a tracked item has been stolen, prioritise personal safety.
GPS trackers for dogs
How reliable are GPS trackers for dogs?
A dog tracker needs two connections: a satellite position and a way to send it to your phone.
Read guide →Lost dog: using a GPS tracker during a search
If your dog goes missing, switch to the available live-tracking mode and check when the displayed location was recorded.
Read guide →Choosing a GPS tracker for your dog
The best fit depends on the dog, the walks and the person using the app.
Read guide →Tractive: features, costs and limitations
Tractive offers connected pet trackers with a provider-managed service.
Read guide →Dog tracking without a subscription
A connected live pet tracker needs a way to send data.
Read guide →GPS trackers for small dogs
For a small dog, compare the complete weight and dimensions of tracker, mount and collar or harness.
Read guide →Dog training and geofences: sensible boundaries
A location history can offer clues about a dog’s movements, while a geofence can notify you when an updated position falls outside a chosen area.
Read guide →GPS trackers for cats
GPS trackers for outdoor cats: what matters
For an outdoor cat, fit and attachment matter as much as location features.
Read guide →Missing cat: using location data sensibly
A missing cat may be close to home, hidden in a garage, shed or quiet corner.
Read guide →Choosing a collar for a cat GPS tracker
A cat tracker must be considered together with its collar and holder.
Read guide →Tracking an outdoor cat: GPS, Bluetooth or neither?
Start by asking what problem you want to solve: understanding roaming, finding a missing animal, or simply adding identification.
Read guide →Cat GPS trackers: everyday checks before relying on one
Daily usefulness depends on comfort, attachment and a manageable charging routine.
Read guide →GPS trackers for children
Children’s GPS trackers: safety and privacy
A child’s location is sensitive information.
Read guide →Children’s smartwatch or compact GPS tracker?
A smartwatch suits families who want direct contact as well as location.
Read guide →At what age does a child GPS tracker make sense?
There is no single age that makes a GPS tracker appropriate for every child.
Read guide →Children’s GPS smartwatches: a buying checklist
A children’s GPS watch combines communication, location and a wearable interface.
Read guide →Car GPS trackers
Car GPS trackers and theft protection
A car tracker can provide an additional alert and location trail if a vehicle is moved unexpectedly.
Read guide →Installing a concealed vehicle GPS tracker
Concealment is useful only if the tracker still receives a position and mobile signal.
Read guide →GPS trackers for motorhomes
A motorhome tracker needs to suit both regular travel and long parked periods.
Read guide →Installing an OBD car GPS tracker
An OBD tracker uses the vehicle’s diagnostic connector for a simple plug-in installation.
Read guide →Car trackers and motor insurance
Insurance requirements vary by policy and vehicle.
Read guide →Bicycle and e-bike trackers
Stolen bicycle: how a tracker can help
A bicycle tracker can offer a location clue after theft, but it cannot ensure recovery.
Read guide →Where to mount a bicycle tracker
A discreet mounting point should still permit reception, charging and safe use of the bicycle.
Read guide →GPS trackers for e-bikes
An integrated e-bike tracker can use the bicycle’s power supply, but compatibility is specific to the motor, wiring and connector.
Read guide →Bicycle trackers and insurance requirements
A bicycle GPS tracker does not automatically qualify for an insurance discount.
Read guide →Motorcycle GPS trackers
Motorcycle tracker installation and alerts
Motorcycle installations must cope with vibration, weather and limited storage space.
Read guide →Motorcycle trackers: alarms, recovery and insurance
A motorcycle tracker can add movement alerts and location clues to locks and other security measures.
Read guide →Trackers without subscriptions
Trackers without subscriptions: the actual trade-offs
“No subscription” can describe a Bluetooth tag, a GPS device using your own SIM, or a tracker with a prepaid period.
Read guide →Understanding monthly GPS tracker costs
A monthly equivalent can hide a longer up-front commitment.
Read guide →The limitations of subscription-free trackers
Avoiding a provider subscription can mean accepting a different tracking method.
Read guide →