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Bluetooth Trackers vs GPS Trackers: What Are The Differences, And Which One Should You Get?

We get deep into the world of smart trackers, what works, its limitations and some surprising ways people use it. 

Bluetooth Trackers vs GPS Trackers: What Are The Differences, And Which One Should You Get?

You know you've had one of those days when you spend half of your life rummaging through your cluttered apartment, tearing up sofa cushions, and even offering whispered prayers to the household deities, all in the desperate hope of finding your elusive car keys. If this scenario sounds all too familiar, you're in the right place. Let's talk about smart trackers, the tiny heroes of modern life that help us keep our belongings in check.

Smart trackers come in a variety of shapes and sizes and offer an abundance of different and specific features. The two main types of trackers on the market are the Bluetooth ones and the GPS tracker – but how do you decide which one is the right one for you?

How do smart trackers work?

Usually small and discreet, smart trackers can be stuck on or attached to belongings. When activated, it will exchange information regularly with the mobile device or app it is connected to. This can be done directly between the gadget and the device, or remotely through an external third party.

What is the difference between a Bluetooth tracker and a GPS tracker?

Bluetooth trackers may be small, but they're steadfast, ever-ready to help you locate your keys, wallet, or phone that you thought you had left in a coffee shop, only to discover that it's nestled between your couch cushions.

Bluetooth trackers use a short-range wireless connection with your phone to help you find your misplaced items. They're affordable, easy to use, and are champions at assisting you in the great indoors. If you're an expert at losing your stuff while staying within the cosy confines of your home, Bluetooth trackers are probably the MVPs you've been waiting for.

GPS tracking technology on the other hand can give you the precise location of your item, even if it's lost somewhere in the vast, uncharted wilderness of the great outdoors. They maintain a constant connection and can provide real-time updates on the whereabouts of your belongings at any time.

But, they do come with their own quirks. GPS trackers are more expensive, bulkier, and their batteries tend to drain faster than your smartphone during an all-day Netflix binge. So, while they may be the perfect companions for your outdoor adventures, they might not be the best fit for finding your TV remote.

Bluetooth trackers

From the most popular offering – the Apple AirTag – to the colourful Chipolo, Bluetooth trackers come in plenty of shapes, colours, packs and sizes to suit your budget. 

GPS trackers

As more tech is required, these heavy duty devices tend to be slightly bulkier. Still, GPS is a better option for larger and open spaces you're not familiar with. 

People have been using it for more than just personal belongings

More recently, we've found more people using trackers for more valuable things than wallets and keys. It's more common than ever these days for people to tag loved ones and pets.

My grandfather has dementia and tends to wander off on his own, sometimes in the neighbourhood and sometimes during a family gathering in a public place. While he never goes away too far, we placed an AirTag in his wallet (which is somehow remembers to carry everywhere) just for peace of mind. There are some memorable and touching moments as well, where we'll find him at an old haunt if we're dining in the area, showing that he still remembers some places he is sentimental about. 

8Days Editor Douglas Tseng also uses an AirTag for his cat, Ben. It sits comfortably on the collar – but that's an added $45 (the usual price if AirTags aren't on sale). 

"It's useful insofar as giving us – my wife and I track him via Find My app – an idea of how far and wide his paw-trolling area. And if he hasn't checked in for a while, we'll know WHERE to start searching first instead of wondering, Of all places, where would he go?," he said.

We've also heard of cases of parents placing AirTags and trackers on their children... 

Bluetooth vs GPS trackers: Which tracker should I get? 

Depends on what you want to use it for.

The choice between Bluetooth and GPS trackers ultimately boils down to your lifestyle and preferences. If you're more inclined to misplace your essentials indoors, the reliable Bluetooth tracker is your guy for everyday life. But if you're an intrepid explorer who ventures into the wild, GPS trackers will be your guiding star.

Tracker Holders & Accessories to consider

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