11 Best GPS Trackers For Cars In 2024
wedetso chirhah shreya vishwanathan Shreya is a gold medalist with a master’s degree in clinical psychology from SGT University, Gurugram. She graduated with a bachelor's degree in applied psychology from Amity University, Gwalior. Her interest in human behavior and extensive years of learning and training in psychology has instilled in her the skills to understand the consumer psyche to optimize the reader's experience.
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In This Article
Today there has been an increase in people using the best GPS trackers for cars. From maintaining your car’s performance history to keeping a check on the maintenance records and acting as an anti-theft device, these expertly crafted devices offer great advantages. They are also used as safety alerts and are easy to install as many of them are just plug-and-play installations. We have got you covered if you have considered buying a GPS tracker and do not know how to choose one. Check out the list of top-tier trackers that we have compiled.
Types Of GPS Trackers
There are three types of GPS trackers based on their power source.
- Battery-operated trackers: They are the most common and traditionally always left in the car. It is important to check the batteries regularly and change them when needed to ensure they work round the clock.
- Dash plugin trackers: They draw power directly from the car, and there is no need to check and change the batteries often. You still must check the amount of energy it draws and if the connections are working for it to function.
- Hardwired trackers: These are wired directly into the vehicle and are useful for trackick diesel trucks and hybrid vehicles. Hardwired car GPS trackers are used when there is no OBD (onboard diagnostics) port, especially in older vehicles.
Top Picks
11 Best GPS Tracker For Cars
1. Best Global Coverage:Tracki Mini Real-time GPS Tracker, 2021 Model
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 32,209 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
With advanced tracking abilities, the mini real-time tracker from Tracki ensures worldwide coverage of your vehicle as well as tracking for valuable belongings and loved ones. It comes with an international SIM card and has a magnet, Velcro, and belt clip, making it easy to attach to any iron surface or under the car.
Integrating Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular connections, it provides real-time tracking updates every one to five minutes and has a battery life of up to three days. This long-battery-life car GPS tracker takes only three minutes to go live and can report the history for up to five years, with dated records of all movements. Check out this YouTuber’s review of this emergency tracking tool.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy set-up
- Water-resistant
- Global coverage
- Speed, fence, and move alert
- GPS tracker with SOS button
- Long battery life
- Lifetime warranty
- Live phone customer service
Cons
- Requires a mandatory monthly fee subscription
- Not always precise
"Considering its decent battery life and a mostly accurate tracking feature, I find it a practical option. The waterproofing case and strong magnet are pretty handy too. It is a bit bulky, but I like everything else about it."
2. Best Easy-To-Set Up:Spytec GL300 Real-Time GPS Tracker
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 11,492 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
The Spytec GL300 Tracker is built to withstand extreme conditions. With high accuracy levels and real-time tracking updates supported by 4G LTE technology, this high-end device provides notification through an easy-to-navigate app. The rechargeable battery lasts up to two and a half weeks and prevents the need for frequent charging.
It can store up to one year of history and provides customized data summary reports. This emergency tracking tool has a follow-mode feature and an SOS button for emergencies, and it gives you the option to set up geofences and special alerts. You can also check this video out for a brief review of the product.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy set-up
- Water-resistant case
- Fence and move alert
- Long battery life
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Requires a monthly subscription
- Poor after-sales service
"Navigating the app is pretty straightforward. Also, the sense of security it offers me with its minute-by-minute updates makes it worthwhile. So far, I haven’t experienced any major technical issues or glitches, making this equipment a trustworthy option."
Quick fact3. Best For Speeding Alerts:Vyncs GPS Tracker
Image: Vyncs Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 5,992 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
The all-in-one tracker from Vyncs monitors engine diagnostics, maintenance alerts, fuel levels, battery health, gas mileage, and unsafe driving practices. In case you have commercial vehicles, you can avail the Fleet service to monitor your employees. Thanks to the advanced vehicle location tracking feature, the GPS tracker with tamper alert offers real-time tracking updates and hourly notifications, even when the ignition is switched off. If you need more convincing, feel free to take a look at this review video showcasing a tester’s experience with the product.
Pros
- GPS tracker with remote monitoring
- Engine alerts
- No monthly fee
- Driver scoring system
- Speeding alerts
- Fence alert
- Mileage tracker app
- Worldwide coverage
- 24×7 roadside assistance services
- No battery charging
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Delayed location updates
- Includes an activation fee
"It provides 20-second updates of the location consistently, making it a credible option for me. It also notifies me about my chauffeur’s driving habits and car health. I'm impressed."
Tracki Mini Real-time GPS Tracker | 2021 Model | Spytec GL300 Real-Time GPS Tracker | Vyncs GPS Tracker | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Black | Black | Black | |
| Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required | - | - | |
| Weight | 1.23 ounces | - | 2.33 ounces | |
| Dimensions | 1.81 x 1.5 x 0.6 inches | - | 2.4 x 1.9 x 0.9 inches | |
| Rating | ||||
| Reviews | 32,209 | 11,492 | 5,992 | |
| Price | $18.88 | $29.95 | $79.99 |
4. Best Smartphone Compatible:Primetracking Personal 4G LTE Tracker
The extremely compact device from Prime tracking is integrated with Google Maps to provide accurate location information and alerts for vehicle speed, acceleration rate, and rash driving. The GPS tracker with mobile app integration is compatible with Android, iOS, and desktop interfaces, allowing you to track multiple devices with one account. The tried-and-tested tracker provides real-time updates every ten seconds using 4G LTE technology and has an unlimited range.
Pros
- GPS tracker with historical route playback
- Provides location alerts, and geofences
- Small and lightweight
- SOS button
- Two-week battery life
- Tracks speed
- Unlimited range
Cons
- Can only track locations in the US, Mexico, and Canada
5. Best Water-Resistant:Optimus 2.0 GPS Tracker
The Optimus Tracker comes with a water-resistant twin magnet case with two neodymium magnets for secure placement on the bumper, chassis, or wheel well. Its small size is an added benefit for easy positioning. The easy-to-use app can track movement, location, and speed.
It provides instant alerts via email or SMS notifications for any triggers, including low battery, entering and exiting geofence zones, and SOS button activation. The ultra-efficient magnetic car GPS tracker comes with a data plan and SIM card with two subscription levels.
Pros
- GPS tracker with emergency roadside assistance
- SIM card and data plan included
- iPhone and Android compatible app
- Special routing features
- SMS and email alerts
- Driving reports
- Two-week battery life
- Can create geofences
- Water-resistant case
Cons
- Small time-lag
- Requires a monthly subscription
- Coverage only in the US
"I find this unit pretty dependable. Its battery lasts up to two weeks, which is excellent, and it's consistent in sending real-time alerts. Setting it up was a bit challenging due to a few complex features, but its overall utility makes it commendable."
Did you know?6. Best Battery:Trak-4 GPS Tracker
The Trak-4 Tracker is designed for commercial use and will bear the brunt of extreme conditions. The rechargeable internal battery lasts for 12 to 18 months with daily reporting, making it an excellent transport company option. It uses cell-trilateration to provide approximate locations when there is no GPS signal available.
This widely tested and trusted tracker also provides map history and geofence zones that support email and SMS notification alerts. It also has a daily check-in even when there is no motion and has a choice of in-motion updates from one minute to one hour.
Pros
- Includes a SIM card
- Can create geofences
- Map history
- High-capacity rechargeable battery
- Battery charge alert
- REST API for GPS reports
- Two-year warranty
Cons
- Coverage only in the US
"I give it full marks for its long-lasting battery performance and real-time geofencing notifications. Despite its temperature readings being slightly inaccurate, I recommend it for its efficient tracking features."
7. Best Compact:LandAirSea Sync GPS Tracker
The LandAirSea Sync Tracker plugs directly into the OBD-II port of your vehicle to source power. It is an energy-efficient device compatible with MAC, iPhone, PC, and Android devices. Using Google Maps and satellite technology, it enables real-time location tracking and maps your vehicle’s location accurately. The LED lights can be disabled via the user interface to provide discreet tracking that does not give away the device’s location.
Perfect for personal use, this high-performance OBD-II GPS tracker with multi-car tracking function can also be used to track business vehicles and fleets. You can customize the settings to receive instant alerts, notifications, and important updates through email or SMS notifications.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- SIM card included
- Easy to install and use
- Can create geofences
- Unlimited historical playback
- Plugs into the OBD-II port
Cons
- Coverage only in the US, Canada, and Mexico
"This gadget's battery-free operation eliminates the need to charge it, so I can use it worry-free. The connection lags when used in remote areas, but its feature of recording log history makes it a valuable tool for me. I also found its application pretty simple to follow."
8. Best Durable:Amcrest 4G LTE GPS Tracker
Fitted with an IPX5 water-resistant casing, the Amcrest magnetic mini GPS tracker is sturdy and durable. It operates on 4G LTE technology to access vehicle locations nationwide and transmit real-time tracking updates to your smartphone and other connected devices via the Amcrest app.
This quality-tested GPS tracker with geofencing feature sends you an alert every time there is an entry or exit from the restricted areas. It provides you with unlimited updates via SMS notification and email and has a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 14 days.
Pros
- Pre-installed SIM card
- Includes charging cable
- Water-resistant
- Stores history up to one year
- Quick start guide
- One-year warranty
Cons
- Coverage only in the US, Canada, and Mexico
- Battery is not durable
"This device's highly proficient geofencing feature lets me keep track of my son's whereabouts when he's traveling. Initially, the constant notifications were overwhelming for me, but altering the settings has reduced their frequency. Also, I am impressed with its commendable battery life."
9. Best Sturdy:Brickhouse Security Spark Nano 7
With continuous real-time geofence, speed, movement, SOS, and location alerts on the smartphone app, this high-end emergency tracking tool from Brickhouse is an ideal GPS tracker. It uses a super-fast 4G network and a satellite mode feature, giving access to your vehicle’s detailed and accurate locations. The magnetic mini GPS tracker with speed alerts has the Rapid Track feature, which offers the flexibility to switch to a faster tracking speed when you need more details.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Can create geofences
- Long-lasting battery
- Magnetic weatherproof case
Cons
- Requires monthly subscription
"This device allows me to customize the tracking settings as per my requirements. Barring an incident or two, its tracking abilities are pretty synchronized and precise. I’ve noticed the geofencing feature works only when there’s internet access, but the overall functionality and efficiency are impressive."
10. Best Accurate:Ablegrid 4G LTE GPS Tracker
Powered by a superior 10000mAh battery, the Ablegrid Tracker uses a super-fast 4G network to give you up to 90 days of non-stop service with a one-year standby time. It can be attached to any metallic surface of a vehicle and requires no installation. With no light indicators, it remains truly hidden and discreet.
The international SIM card works across Sprint, T-mobile, AT&T, and other networks to provide connectivity at all times. With geofence alerts, movement records, mileage statistics, and history records, this technologically superior, hidden GPS tracker for cars can be used for long-distance tracking.
Pros
- Built-in magnets
- International SIM card included
- Long-lasting battery
- Upgraded IoT technology
- Two-year warranty
Cons
- Requires monthly subscription
"I am happy that it stays budge-free even during rough rides, thanks to its strong built-in magnet. Plus, it is a discreet device, amplifying its security factor. However, I had to go through a couple of tutorial videos to better understand how it works."
Quick tip11. Best With OBD: Bouncie GPS Car Tracker
Featuring advanced tracking abilities, the Bouncie GPS car tracker updates your location every 15 seconds while driving, and using geo-zones, it sends out a notification when the car arrives at or leaves a specific location. To further enhance your safety, the ultra-efficient device automatically sends an SMS notification to your selected contacts to notify them in case of an accident. In addition, its OBD function constantly monitors the car’s vitals and instantly sends you a notification as soon as the engine, battery, or any other crucial part needs immediate attention.
Pros
- Easy to use and install
- Compact and minimalistic design
- Accessible on phone and desktop
- Monitors speed
- Provides trip history
Cons
- May not be energy-efficient
- May drain the battery quickly
"Besides ensuring the security of my family members, this device also alerts me about any maintenance issues in the vehicle. However, I wish the instructions were clearer for an easier installation process. Still, its consistent performance has impressed me."
How To Choose The Right GPS Tracker For Cars?
Here are some factors to keep in mind while choosing the best GPS tracker for a car.
- Signal reach: Most trackers work only in North America, but some have global coverage. If you are planning on taking your vehicle outside the country, do check on the coverage plans.
- SOS button: A GPS tracker’s primary function is to keep you covered in an emergency. The SOS button can save crucial time by its presence on a tracker.
- Privacy: To keep trackers from being hacked, change your passwords frequently, and choose one with encrypted data transmission.
- Waterproof: If you want to place the tracker at the bottom of the car secretly, consider a waterproof car GPS tracker.
- Compact: If your primary concern is theft, choose a compact tracker to place it secretly where it will not be noticed.
- Monthly subscriptions: You can save some money on a cheaper subscription plan if you do not need minute-to-minute updates.
- Battery vs. OBD-II port plugin: If you monitor only one vehicle, choose a tracker with the OBD-II port plugin. It can give you some additional inputs about your vehicle. But if you are tracking other items along with your vehicle, choose one with a long-lasting battery.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is the best place to hide a tracking device on a car?
You can hide a tracker in several areas of the car, such as under the vehicle, bonnet, glove box, or even between the car seats.
2. Can GPS trackers pinpoint your exact location?
A good quality GPS tracker can pinpoint your location with a few centimeters difference. The lower-quality GPS devices can have a deviation of up to sixteen feet and can get affected by signal barriers such as dense forests and skyscrapers (1).
3. Will my GPS tracker work in rural areas?
Yes, your GPS may work better in rural conditions with vast open areas and fewer barriers. However, tracking requires internet connectivity, which can be weak in rural areas.
4. Will my car insurance be affected if I use a GPS tracker?
A GPS tracker can make you a conscious driver and even help find the vehicle in case of theft or an accident. Hence, having a GPS tracker on your car can cause a reduction in the amount paid as an insurance premium.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Wedetso Chirhah is an electronics and automobile writer and reviewer passionate about researching new products and unique innovations that can make his readers’ lives more convenient. He has highlighted the best GPS trackers for cars with impressive tracking abilities and features, including safety alerts, tracking history, and global coverage. This article has been thoroughly researched before presenting to help you get the right one for your car.
The Bottom Line
Investing in a best-selling tracking device that enables you to precisely know your vehicle’s location can never go wrong, given the rise in auto theft and crime. Thanks to the real-time tracking feature, it provides real-time location, speed, and direction information and helps you recover your vehicle. Pick the best GPS tracker for your car from the list above and enjoy driving without worrying about theft. You can consider the Tracki Mini Real-time GPS Tracker, 2021 Model, with a long battery life. Our other recommendations include the Brickhouse Security Spark Nano 7 with a waterproof case and the Bouncie GPS Car Tracker, which auto-refreshes every 15 seconds. Additionally, the above buying guide will assist you in categorizing your preferences and selecting a product that best suits your needs.
Infographic: What Are The Advantages Of Using A Car GPS Tracker?
Car GPS trackers offer advanced tracking abilities, ensuring real-time tracking and enhanced security. With their compact design and reliable features, they provide peace of mind for vehicle owners. Discover the merits of using GPS car trackers and why you should install them right away in the infographic below.
Illustration: The Bridal Box Design Team
References
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