There are different reasons you may need a personal GPS tracker. Gone are the days tracking devices were considered to be exclusively made for tech-minded individuals. With the technology becoming thinner, cheaper, and more useful for security and outdoor activities, many people are using it to enhance security and peace of mind. It is now very common among adventure seekers.
GPS devices can be used to track things you don’t ever want to lose. From children to pet and precious items, you can use a personal GPS tracker to know the exact location of anyone or anything at any particular time. They have been greatly modernized so that they can be fit into anything including your child’s cellphone or your pet’s collar.
While many of the personal GPS trackers in the market are affordable and simple to use, they are not all the same. Choosing from the several excellent models on the market can be very difficult. To make it easier for you, we will review some of the top ten options you can get today:
Top 10 Best Personal GPS Trackers
1. Garmin inReach Explorer+
This is a complete handheld satellite communication device that comes with maps and sensors. The 100% global Iridium satellite coverage enables 2-way text messaging with any cell phone number or email address from anywhere at all. There is more; it triggers an interactive SOS to 24/7 search and rescue monitoring team, making it a very reliable safety device to carry for adventures. The device can also be paired with mobile devices using the free Earthmate app for access to downloadable maps, U.S. NOAA charts, color aerial imagery and other helpful information. With the Garmin inReach Explorer+, you will be able to track and share your location with your friends and family. The device is not dependent on cell towers or phone services.
2. AMERICALOC GL300w
This is a small and compact personal GPS tracker that can be used for almost any tracking purpose. It is a new version of the famous GL300w tracker and offers more benefits: it is the longest battery life version with extended multicarrier coverage. The device can be used to track people, vehicles, and other important assets, and doesn’t have any activation or hidden fees. You are able to track with any computer, tablet or phone. A multipurpose app is available for Android and iOS devices. It offers Real Time tracking as well as one year tracking history. You will also get varying alerts including movement, parked, speeding, device on/off, low battery, entering and leaving zone, and front button pressed. It is a well-built compact device and comes with One Year Warranty.
3. Amcrest AM-GL300
This is a 2G all-purpose GPS tracking device. It is convenient for tracking kids, vehicles, pets, and other valuable assets and people. It offers Real Time tracking with up to 5-second updates through windows and MAC desktop web access, or through the Amcrest GPS smartphone app available for iOS and Android. The data offered through these different platforms come with intelligent reporting. With this personal tracker, you can create custom geo-fencing zones that alert you anytime the GPS tracker enters or exit a particular zone. Other important features that make tracking better include speed limit, harsh breaking, start/stop, and proximity alerts. It has a wonderful worldwide 2G coverage across all networks that support 2G. The device is built to last and has a strong battery that can last days depending on the subscription plan in use.
4. Garmin inReach Mini
This is a portable Global connector that is perfect for adventurers. Thanks to the global Iridium network (subscription required), the device lets you stay in touch globally, sending and receiving text messages, tracking and sharing your journey, and triggering an SOS alert to contact the GEOS 24/7 emergency response team when there is need for that. You will also be able to access downloadable maps, U.S. NOAA charts, color aerial imagery and more, thanks to the Eathmate app. Basic and Premium weather packages are available for subscribers. The device is not dependent on cell towers and phone services but will work anywhere at all. It is also built to last in a tough, durable, impact-resistant, and water-rated IPX7 body. There is a strong internal rechargeable battery that can last up to 20 days in power saving mode and 50 hours at 10-minute tracking mode.
5. Spy Tec GL300
This is a reliable tracking device that you can use to track your loved ones and valuables when you can’t be around. It will keep you up to date in real time and improve the safety of your loved ones and valuable assets. Measuring just 3 inches and weighing just 2 ounces, there is hardly anything you can’t track with this cutting-edge personal GPS tracker. It is also easy to fit the tracker into most things you will want to track; it can fit into a pocket, purse, or even attached to a belt with the available belt holster. There is also a magnetic waterproof case that you can use to attach the tracker underneath a vehicle. Geo-fencing is also an interesting feature that will let you know when a person or item leaves a particular zone: you will get a text or email about such movement. Asides from the monthly subscription, there is no activation or cancellation fees. No contract is even required.
6. Optimum Tracker Optimus 2
Another cutting-edge GPS tracker that will let you keep an eye on your loved ones and other things you hold dear. It offers Real Time tracking on websites and app, and will deliver push notifications to your cellphone, SMS and Email. One of the most interesting things about this GPS is the Powerful App which is available for iOS and Android. The App is super-easy to use and supports the essential features like notifications, geo-fencing, and driving reports. You will be notified for such events as when the tracker starts moving; when it enters or leaves a particular zone; speeding; low battery; and SOS Button. With the powerful water-resistant twin magnet case, you can easily attach this tracker under a car or truck. The Optimum 2.0 Bundle offers limited coverage to the USA only.
7. Garmin GPSMAP 64st
This is one rugged device that is ideal for all kinds of adventures like serious climbing and hiking. It features High-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS receiver with quad helix antenna. It also comes preloaded with TOPO U.S. 100K maps plus a 1-year BirdsEye Satellite Imagery subscription. It functions excellently when it comes to establishing your location. It will also maintain its location even in heavy cover and deep canyons. Wherever you are, you can always count on the device to get your bearing and find your way when you need it most. The device also supports paperless geocaching with 250,000 preloaded caches with hints and descriptions from geocaching.com. BaseCamp is another feature that can be very helpful to you: it enables you to view and organize maps, waypoints, routes and tracks. The device is well-built and offers wireless connectivity through Bluetooth technology or ANT+.
8. Garmin Foretrex 401
Yet another rugged personal GPS for adventurers, this is a slim wrist-mounted GPS navigator that combines a high-sensitive waterproof GPS receiver, electronic compass, and barometric altimeter into a single device. Some other impressive features you will get are trip computer, sunrise/sunset times, and hunting/fishing information. With the device, you will be able to keep track of such relevant data as routes, tracks, and waypoints. You will never worry about getting loss as you can easily retrace your steps by switching on the TracBack feature. You can also create and store routes and useful information about your favorite places. You can also connect the Foretrex 401 to a wireless accessory such as heart rate monitor, cadence sensor, or you clip it on a bike with accessory bike mount for even more data.
9. YEPZON Smart Tracker
This is one GPS Tracker that is most ideal for school age children. It can also be used for travel and personal safety as well as to track pets. This is one of a kind little device that combines SOS alarm button with 3 tracking technologies, including the world’s first WiFi indoor positioning. With all its amazing technologies, the Yepzon Freedom is super easy to use. All you need to do is to connect the device to a smartphone and let anyone you want to monitor or track wear it or keep it close. With the mobile app, you can easily monitor the movement of the tracker to ensure that your loved ones are safe. There are three user modes: locator, locator with alarm button, and locator only. Instant SOS alert is activated once the wearer pushes the button; the alarm will inform about the wearer’s exact location at that moment. It is possible to add several Yepzon devices to a smartphone, improving security for every member of your household.
10. Spot Gen3
This is a rugged pocket-size device that is perfect for adventurers. It will keep you connected even when you travel or explore beyond the boundaries of cell services. With the check in feature, you will be able to let your contacts know that you are alright with a preprogrammed message with your GPS location. The Track feature also let you automatically send and save your location and allow contacts track your progress using Google map. The Help/spot S. O. V. will also help you request help from family and friends or from professional assistance organizations. Like every good GPS device for outdoor activities, there is SOS feature that you can activate with a push of the button and send emergency responders to your GPS location.
Buyer’s Guide
As you can see from the products reviewed above, there are different types of Personal GPS trackers available. Asides from the ones reviewed, there are several others from many manufacturers that claim to be the best. Picking one even from the options we have reviewed can be very difficult. Here, we will attempt to guide you on how you can make the best decision and buy the right GPS device for any purpose.
Factors to Consider While Choosing a Personal GPS Tracker
There are some key factors that will determine the usefulness of any product you pick from the market place. For a Personal GPS tracker, here are the key factors you must consider before picking one:
Your Specific Need
You need to consider the exact reason why you need a Personal GPS tracker before picking one. While some of the devices are good for adventurers, others are good to track children or pets. A good number of the GPS trackers are multi-purpose; meaning they can be used for different purposes. Some, however, have some advantages over others in certain applications. By knowing the exact applications you are going to put the device to, you will be in a better position to pick the right personal GPS tracker.
Functionality
One of the most important factors to consider about a particular GPS tracker is the number of functions it can perform. You need to buy a device that is really effective and delivers Real Time reporting. The number of data you can obtain using different devices are not often the same and you need to consider all the functionalities of a given device and what you will need. It is also helpful to get a tracker that offers different mode settings so that you will be able to get exactly what you want. Being able to control the Real Time reporting is very desirable.
Portability
Portability is also very desirable in most instances. Many of the devices featured here are portable and versatile at the same time. Depending on what you really want to use the device for, you should consider the dimension and weight of a particular model of tracker before buying. If for instance, you want to track your pet, you must buy a GPS tracker that can be conveniently attached to the collar the pet wears.
Battery Life
You don’t want a GPS tracker that you will have to charge every day. It is always helpful when the device can last at least few days after full recharge. It is true that many smaller GPS trackers have smaller batteries that do not last so long, there are several good small ones that can last days when the right settings are used. If you plan to use your tracker often or you are an adventurer that goes for outdoor adventures for days, you should certainly prioritize battery life.
5. Durability
Durability is often a factor of the materials used to manufacture a particular product and the way it is designed. The warranty offered by the manufacturer can also give you an idea of whether a particular device can be durable or not.
Price and Affordability
You really need to consider your budget before buying a particular GPS tracker. Also, price shouldn’t be the only determinant factor when you are considering cost. Consider the subscription rate and any other fee applicable to using a particular GPS tracker or service.
Conclusion
There are certainly different Personal GPS trackers available to the public today. Depending on your specific need, you will be able to find a model that will suit you. We have reviewed some of the best products in this category that are available at the moment and provided links to get them at the best prices. It is also important that you understand some of the factors discussed under the buyer’s guide section and consider them before buying any particular model. It will greatly enhance your chances of getting the right product.