GPS Tracker Vs. Bluetooth Tracker – A Comprehensive Comparison

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Written By Carson Rogers

 

 

 

 

 

When you begin your tracker research, you will come across these two options- GPS tracker and Bluetooth tracker. 

On the one hand, Bluetooth trackers are relatively cheaper than GPS trackers. And on the other hand, a GPS tracker provides broad coverage. 

Which one is the best for you and can cater to your individual tracking needs? Well, the answer to this question varies. 

So before you choose, here is an in-depth analysis between you. Check out this article about GPS Tracker Vs. Bluetooth Tracker and choose the one that is the best option for your tracking needs.

What Is A Bluetooth Tracker? 

Bluetooth trackers use a wireless technology protocol called Bluetooth Low Energy 4.0, often referred to as BLE or LE. 

BLE is often used to connect something to mobile platforms such as iOS, Android, Windows, Google, etc. Bluetooth is a wireless, low-energy, and short-distance communication protocol to connect devices directly to each other and transfer data. 

Some of the applications supported by BLE are home devices such as lights, blinds, smoke sensors, weighing scales, and air conditioners.

How Does The Bluetooth Tracker Work? 

Bluetooth works by pairing two devices, in this case, a Bluetooth tracker and a computer or smartphone. The pairing creates a trusted relationship between two devices by encryption and allows them to exchange data. Bluetooth wireless communication was designed for continuous data streaming of applications, at closer distances, for example, connecting mobile phones to BLE-enabled headsets to make phone calls. BLE being ultra-low-energy is designed to work at a short transmission radius between the two paired devices

Bluetooth trackers are used in day-to-day lifestyles to track personal devices, luggage, keys, and track movements.

Benefits Of A Bluetooth Tracker 

Real-time location

Bluetooth trackers work in real-time, offering all-day monitoring and accurate location tracking.

Emergency Alerts

Most trackers offer inbuilt SOS alerts. The notifications are often customizable for up to 10 people. The SOS button can be pressed by anyone in an emergency, alerting those registered as emergency contacts. Some devices offer an inbuilt speakerphone that allows conversations when the SOS button is activated.

Water-resistance

Most Bluetooth devices are water-resistant and are anti-rust, thus making them suitable for outdoor activity and saving them from accidental water spills.

Tracking Radius 

Bluetooth trackers are primarily for short-range tracking. Wearable devices such as Smartwatches, Fitness trackers, and medical devices rely on Bluetooth tracking technology. Although the short range helps save battery, it poses a disadvantage in a larger setting. Users cannot go too far away from the device they are connected with; hence best works within localization. 

Limitations Of Bluetooth Tracker

One of the most significant limitations of the Bluetooth Tracker is that it usually provides a limited range, i.e., about 200 meters. And the accuracy of the tracker can be interfered with by the wall or other obstructions. 

What Is A GPS Tracker? 

GPS trackers work on the United States Global Positioning Systems (GPS) technology. GPS is a space-based radio navigation system that relies on signals from at least 30 operational satellites that orbit the earth. GPS continually emits the location and time. A GPS tracker can pinpoint your location anywhere in the world at any given time.

GPS trackers often come with SIM cards to transmit location. GPS trackers help to track vehicles, people, or animals. For anyone with GPS these devices like the Family1st Portable tracker, the GPS will provide accurate location and time anywhere in the world, making it integral to modern-day navigation, land, sea, and air navigation.

The GPS tracker comes with a powerful and interactive app that you can use on any desktop PC, tablet, or smartphone to track. It can track location, real-time movement, and driving performance and patterns. GPS tracking systems allow us to be safe and to know what we may not otherwise know.

Benefits Of The GPS Tracker 

GPS tracking devices cater to specific lifestyles and age ranges, but you’ll generally want to consider a few key features while shopping for a GPS tracker.

Emergency Alerts

Get notified when your dear ones need you with a call request or an emergency SOS button. In an emergency, GPS trackers will allow one to dial an emergency contact. Emergency contact information can be added to the device while setting up. Most GPS devices also allow dialing 911 if something goes wrong.

Geofencing 

One of the key features of GPS trackers is Geofencing. Geofencing is a technology that provides a personalized experience. It is a virtual fence or border. It allows users to customize geofences around an unlimited number of locations area. If your child walks to school, you can set a predefined route. Geofencing can be used to notify parents if the child breaks this predefined route. You can also set the GPS tracker to alert you when your child arrives, leaves a designated location, or wanders too far. You can customize the alerts to email notifications, phone calls, or text messages. 

Real-time Location Map 

A suitable GPS device provides continuous, nonstop access to the latest information about its location through a computer or mobile device. It indicates the location and status on a map. Displays trip history and even speed in case of a vehicle. 

Waterproof

A robust GSP unit should be fully waterproof. The waterproof unit makes it ideal for motorcycles, biking, water sports, and many similar harsh environments without the risk of rusting.

Waterproof GPS trackers have several benefits for consumers. So if you want one for yourself, We listed the 7 best waterproof GPS trackers in 2022. You can find the best waterproof GPS trackers on the market here. 

Limitations

The limitation of a GPS tracker is that it consumes more power; hence the battery life is always an issue. But it can be mitigated by purchasing one with a good battery backup. 

Difference Between Bluetooth Tracker And GPS Tracker 

Price

Bluetooth cheapest tracker is relatively more inexpensive than GPS tracker, and you can buy them by paying $10 to $50. On the other hand, a GPS tracker can cost you $50 and more. 

Connection range

Bluetooth trackers offer a limited range of over 200 to 300 feet as they depend on the Bluetooth signal of your mobile phone. 

On the other hand, a GPS tracker maintains a constant connection and can provide you with broad coverage. 

Geofencing

Bluetooth trackers offer a limited tracking range and can get notified whenever you are in or out of the connection range. 

GPS trackers allow you to set up virtual fences over the map to be notified whenever a person crosses the region. 

Battery Life

Bluetooth trackers have long battery life and can last up to 1 to 2 years. 

GPS trackers consume more power than Bluetooth trackers as they constantly provide location updates in real-time; therefore, the battery lasts up to 3-13 days. 

Final Verdict 

The short range poses a disadvantage for a Bluetooth tracker and only works if you are close to a Bluetooth-enabled device. In certain circumstances, this is ineffective and limiting. 

Another disadvantage of a Bluetooth tracker is its speed, making it incapable of transferring large quantities of data.

On the other hand, GPS trackers are a perfect option to protect your loved ones and valuable assets from theft. They provide an excellent tracking range and allow you to monitor in real-time.

Editor at GPSTracker247 | + posts

Carson Rogers is a technology writer and reviewer. With over 5 years of experience in the industry, he has established himself as an expert in the technology niche. His passion for all things tech and his keen eye for detail enable him to provide thorough and insightful product reviews that help readers make informed decisions. Carson enjoys hiking in his free time when he's not busy reviewing the latest gadgets. His love for the outdoors also inspires him to write about tech gadgets that are useful and make life convenient.

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