Get the Best Vehicle Tracker Today
If you’re looking to monitor your car’s location, then a GPS tracking device is what you need. As technology advances, tracking a vehicle’s location in real-time has become more accessible and affordable through GPS trackers.
Vehicle tracker devices are beneficial for concerned individuals looking after their loved ones or commercial entities monitoring their fleet of vehicles. Unfortunately, the market is heavily saturated with an extensive selection of diverse GPS trackers making it incredibly challenging for beginners to find a reliable vehicle tracker.
Do you fall in that category? This article will help you select the best option for your car confidently.
Types of Vehicle Trackers
Vehicle tracking providers often categorize vehicle trackers into the plug-in, hardwired, and battery-powered GPS auto trackers.
OBD GPS trackers are plug-in GPS trackers that attach to a car’s port. These devices are small and simple to install, and they detect whether a car is turned on or off.
On the other hand, hardwired vehicle GPS trackers are directly attached to a car and can be utilized if the vehicle lacks an OBD II connection. Lastly, the portable Battery-Powered GPS Trackers for Vehicles are not powered by the car and may operate for months (or even years) without recharging.
Since OBD GPS vehicle trackers are portable and straightforward to install, they are suitable for personal use. They are also often used to track work trucks by company owners and fleet management agencies.
Typically most people prefer hardwired GPS trackers because they are suitable for people who wish to follow their diesel or hybrid vehicle. They are also useful for firms that require vehicle tracking. On the contrary, battery-powered GPS trackers are meant for trailers and other equipment that lacks a consistent power source.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Vehicle Tracker
When it comes to finding the best vehicle tracking providers, there are several factors to consider to help you choose the right tracking solution for your needs.
Purpose
Identifying the primary purpose for which the GPS tracker will be utilized is critical. You must decide if the tracker is used for navigation, outdoor leisure, tracking a fleet of vehicles, or monitoring an item. This evaluation will help you know the features a GPS tracker should have to suit your needs.
Cost
The user’s budget influences which GPS trackers to consider. Once the primary purpose of the GPS tracker is identified, you should determine the essential features needed and then select the most cost-effective GPS tracker. Additionally, consider the cost of the monthly plan, which ranges from as low as $5 to as much as $49.95.
Size
GPS trackers come in different sizes, and the user needs to choose one that fits their intended use. For example, some compact trackers can be placed in various locations, such as a toddler’s knapsack, a pet’s collar, or a teen’s purse. Size is also essential for professions such as private investigators, where surveillance should be discreet.
Distress button
The SOS button is a critical feature that can save lives in GPS trackers. When in distress, the user can press the button to alert the authorities or chosen individuals of the device’s current location, including directions.
App
Whichever vehicle tracking provider you choose, always ensure that they have a standalone app for easy tracking. The application will help you create or view geofences, view account settings, track battery life, and receive notifications.
Water resistance
Water-resistant GPS trackers can withstand occasional water splashes without damaging the internal wiring or chip. This feature is critical for tracking pets, kids, drones, cars, trucks, boats, and more. Outdoor GPS trackers must be durable enough to last for the price paid.
Smart alerts
Smart alerts ensure the user gets instant notifications if the device exits a safe zone, moves beyond the schedule, changes location, or breaches speed limits. This feature is essential for safety, efficiency, security, and proper management.
Attachment accessory
It’s essential to have attachment accessories such as cases, cables, vehicle mounting brackets, and pouches to attach the GPS tracker to the intended recipient.
Coverage
GPS trackers use cellular technology to relay data to the server where smartphones and computers access it. Before choosing GPS trackers, you must know the cellular network through which the device will operate from and whether there are coverage issues in the areas the recipient travels.
Battery life
The battery life of GPS trackers influences how the gadget reports information. Therefore, you must choose a tracker that fits your specific lifestyle. Battery life varies and is an imprecise science.
While not in use, portable, battery-powered GPS trackers with built-in motion sensors consume very little electricity. However, power banks may extend battery life and charge devices.
Top Vehicle Trackers on the Market
RAM GPS Tracking
RAM GPS tracking is ideal for monitoring fleet vehicles. Both managers and drivers can use it to automate communication and simplify reporting. RAM Tracking’s user-friendly tracking technology reduces administrative workload because of its fast response and high accuracy. This boosts efficiency, making them among the best vehicle tracking providers in Canada.
Pros:
- Vehicle speed monitor
- Travel report
- User friendly
- Exceptional customer support
Cons:
- An activation fee might be required
MOTOsafety GPS Tracker
The MOTOsafety GPS Tracker is best suited for new drivers, as it comes with a driving education course for teens, customizable location alerts, geofencing, and Google Maps route replay. It can help enforce curfews and monitor driving behavior.
Pros:
- Google Maps route replay
- Geofencing
- Curfew
- Teen driving course
Cons:
- Sensitivity to acceleration
- Inaccurate speed limits
Bouncie GPS Tracker
The Bouncie GPS Tracker is best for vehicle maintenance, offering real-time alerts for speed, hard braking, acceleration, gas levels, and maintenance needs. It tracks mileage and provides data for business purposes. It is compatible with smart assistants like Amazon Echo.
Pros:
- Vehicle maintenance alerts
- Geofencing
- Mileage tracking
- The low monthly subscription fee
- Real-time vehicle operation alerts
Cons:
- Flashing light
- Alexa command glitches
Conclusion
Several factors to consider when looking for a tracker, including its real-time tracking ability. Not all trackers offer real-time tracking; some only ping the device intermittently or at predetermined intervals. In addition, it’s important to select a tracker that can connect to multiple satellites, ensuring accurate tracking and quicker time-to-first-fix. If you plan on traveling internationally, choosing a tracker with roaming ability is essential.
Lastly, when considering the design of a tracker, it’s essential to choose one that is easy to use and durable enough to withstand harsh weather conditions. The best vehicle tracker should have long battery life, high water resistance, and robust build quality to ensure the optimal safety of your vehicle.
