GPS Tracker v/s GPS Apps- What To Choose?

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Written By Carson Rogers

 

 

 

 

 

A GPS tracking device can track someone’s movements or mark the location of an object. They enable you to pinpoint the tracker’s location on a map. Keeping a digital schedule will keep you informed at all times. Numerous GPS tracking devices and applications are several GPS tracking devices and apps currently on the market due to their immense utility. The availability of many choices and options for anyone looking for a GPS device or app to accommodate their purposes can be confusing. Before investing, you must determine which features you require and how you intend to use them. 

Many people mistakenly believe that GPS devices and applications are the same, but they are not. Applications and trackers, on the other hand, serve the same purpose. You must select one based on your requirements. In this article, we will further discuss How To Choose GPS Tracker v/s GPS Apps. 

GPS tracking devices aid in locating positions, fleet monitoring, and navigation and serve as a map. Aside from sharing locations, directions, and weather alerts, mobile GPS apps also provide a timeframe.

How Does A GPS Tracker Assist?

In today’s world, GPS tracking solutions and apps are the first things that come to mind when discussing safety. It provides not only location but also security. You can use the GPS tracker to locate your child who goes out to play with friends, pets, and even your elderly parents at home due to medical reasons. Other industries that use GPS technology include marine, defense, agriculture, mining, etc. The GPS device will assist you in keeping track of your valuable personal items. You can, for example, carry a small GPS tracker in your bag and be confident that it won’t get lost. Real-time alerts are a differentiator for fleet operators who must oversee hundreds of vehicles and shipments.

GPS tracking devices and applications are beneficial for personal and commercial purposes. Listed below are some situations when GPS devices and apps are advantageous. 

Here are some situations where GPS devices and GPS apps can be favorable. 

GPS Apps 

  • Weather alerts 
  • Directions
  • Location sharing
  • Location tracking 
  • Estimated timing 

GPS Tracking Devices 

  • Navigation 
  • Fleet tracking 
  • Locating positions
  • Mapping 
  • Security Artworks 

A GPS Tracker Is Functional In The Following Situations (Device And App)

A GPS tracking device does more than share location information and provides added security; it is a multi-purpose solution. An excellent GPS tracker will enable its users to pinpoint the exact location of people and things. GPS devices work on vehicles, children, and pets. GPS tracking systems have several applications, from mining to marine, agriculture to defense. You can use GPS technology on your app to find the latest Chinese restaurant or book a hotel room in your favorite tourist hotspot. You will learn as soon as your shipment is ready for delivery. 

Let’s start with vehicle GPS tracking

A GPS device for vehicles is currently synonymous with safety. A GPS tracking device is only capable of tracking one at a time. Of course, you can install it on another wireless vehicle. It can provide specific information about a vehicle’s current location, previous locations visited, and the duration a truck/car appeared to be at rest. It can even tell you how much fuel is in the tank. GPS tracking solutions alert drivers to unsafe driving habits. You can also receive a notification if your vehicle enters an accident-prone zone using geofencing. With real-time data on speeding and rash driving, you can warn the driver to be cautious.

Let’s talk about using GPS to track your resources and other valuable possessions.

Approximately 80% of all GPS tracker users use this technology to handle things, including belongings and valuables stored or transported. Almost all businesses related to the transportation of high-value items such as jewelry to expensive cars rely heavily on motion-based alerts. Users can use GPS to track any unusual activity. Even determining whether or not their belongings have been tampered with is possible.

Each app on your phone uses GPS tracking systems extensively. Did you know that?

Web browsers and search engines even use them to determine your precise location and display results that are relevant to your site. GPS tracking systems have become a more inseparable part of our daily lives than we realize.

GPS service for people you care about – tracking toddlers, pets, etc. 

GPS devices are prevalent because of their accurate location updates and quick alert feature, ideal for worried parents who are constantly concerned about their child’s whereabouts. It also keeps an eye on elderly relatives, teen drivers, and pets.

GPS Sports Tracker, Find My Kids, Sygic, Map Factor, and even Google Maps are some renowned GPS tracker apps. On the Play Store, you’ll find a variety of other apps.

Now that you know about GPS tracking devices – let us assist you in determining which of the two—a device or an app—will work best for you! 

Distinctions Between GPS Phone Apps And Devoted GPS Tracker Devices

Structure And Function 

There is a difference in the anatomy between the app and the device. The GPS tracking device consists of four components: a global positioning system transceiver, a small computer, a digital storage device, and a cellular transmitter. GPS trackers exist to provide real-time updates. In a nutshell, they take location tracking to an entirely new level. Monitoring is more than just a convenience. You will only receive the most accurate results from the dedicated software. The primary goal of the GPS tracking device is to produce only the best results.

The GPS app works by receiving cellular data to assist with geolocation; this data is collected from cell towers by your phone carrier. GPS apps are a more advanced form of GPS technology. They are regarded as the more cost-effective option because users do not need to purchase a separate device. They only need to download an app! These apps are simple to use and enable you to share your location with family and friends.

Speed And Consistency 

Since GPS devices mainly follow up, they provide consistent results. You cannot make phone calls or send text messages. They do, however, include a specialized slot for a SIM card to provide you with a real-time location. Yet, they have a SIM card slot since the real-time location service requires one. On the other hand, GPS tracking apps work on your laptop or phone. When multiple background apps are running on the same system, the GPS app may slow down or deliver delayed results.

Battery Life 

Another distinction between GPS apps and trackers is battery life. GPS devices function because of batteries crafted purely for the purpose. Add-on batteries are also available from the companies. Furthermore, smartphones aren’t for tracking. When you have the tracking app installed, the battery on your phone is more likely to die sooner.

GPS Tracker v/s GPS Apps
Source: Logistimatics

 The Mode Of Operation 

 GPS trackers rely on the global positioning of satellites to provide precise location information. The feature does not require active data services on your device. GPS apps rely solely on cell phone signals, not GPS trackers, which rely on actual satellites for positioning. Because cell phone signals are frequently weak, you may receive slightly inaccurate data. To use a GPS phone app, you must have a reliable internet connection. 

Customer Service 

Customer service is necessary to consider before purchasing a GPS tracker or installing an app. GPS device manufacturers have a committed customer service team to assist. If you have any questions, you will be directed and provided a solution. You can count on after-sales service. However, GPS apps lack a dedicated after-sales support team. You may have to fight the companies to get a response to your inquiries. Some applications have a unit for your problems, but a prompt response is not guaranteed. 

You can make an informed decision now that you know the five noticeable differences between the GPS app and the device. Selecting the perfect option for yourself becomes less challenging. You must choose the best one for you.

The Difference That Will Affect Your Choice

One of the most significant distinctions is discrete tracking. You can use a GPS tracking device to track an asset or person without their knowledge. To follow another person, you need to download an app on their phone and choose to share their location. GPS devices have a unique mechanism for performing specific functions. People require GPS devices to monitor valuable assets for professional and personal reasons.

Shipping and transportation companies use GPS devices to track their shipments. Their fleets frequently travel remotely and transport goods to remote locations. GPS-enabled solutions must provide location information, diagnostic tools, driving behavior, fuel consumption, and regulatory compliance for these companies. You can use GPS tracking apps if the only reason you need it is to share your location information or find out where your family members are. People frequently use GPS tracking apps to share or define their location. 

If you require location services for a brief period, GPS tracking apps will come in handy. If you don’t need real-time data every minute, you can install a GPS app on your driver’s phone or have your child install the app on a smartphone they carry.

Conclusion 

Everything boils down to one factor when using a GPS tracking app: the app must be visible on the phone or computer of the respective individual or asset. You will only be able to see results once the setup is complete.

Remember that GPS technology is simple to use, operates automatically, and can combine with several other functions. It has become an essential component of our surveillance system. You can either purchase a device or install an app to take advantage of its benefits.

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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