Bluetooth trackers have completely changed how we keep track of our belongings, and for a fairly small price, they’re something you can’t afford not to buy. If you’re not sure what one is, read on to learn what they do, how to use them, and how they can offer peace of mind to yourself and to loved ones.
From lost keys to forgotten phones, these small gadgets offer a solution to everyday problems, and they’re particularly useful for older people who may appreciate the added peace of mind they bring. Whether you’re looking for the best GPS tracker for travel or the best key finder for those forgetful moments, these GPS trackers have much to offer.
Best GPS tracker
What does a GPS tracker do?
GPS trackers are small devices that help you find lost items. Many popular trackers, like Apple’s AirTag or Tile, rely on Bluetooth to talk to your smartphone. When your tracker is within Bluetooth range, it sends a signal to your phone, allowing you to pinpoint its location using an app.
For items lost beyond Bluetooth range, some trackers use other networks, or ways of communicating to your phone. For example, AirTags use Apple’s large ‘Find My’ network, which uses nearby Apple devices to securely relay the location of your item back to you.
In the same way, the other top-market choice, Tile, uses a network of other Tile users to help locate missing objects.
More advanced trackers, like Invoxia, use GPS or cellular technology. These devices offer real-time location updates regardless of distance, making them ideal for tracking luggage, pets, or even loved ones.
Whether you’re getting keys out from under the sofa or checking your suitcase's location halfway across the world, GPS trackers make it easier to find what matters.
How Bluetooth trackers offer peace of mind
The benefits of Bluetooth trackers are more than just finding lost items. For many, they offer peace of mind in various ways:
Supporting memory and independence
For older adults who might be experiencing mild cognitive impairments, Bluetooth trackers can act as a gentle reminder system. Whether attached to keys, wallets, or frequently misplaced items, these devices help minimise frustration and provide reassurance to both users and their families.
Enhanced safety features
Many GPS trackers now include SOS alarms or location-sharing features. These are particularly useful for those living alone or with limited mobility. For example, a tracker can be attached to a walking aid or handbag, allowing family members to check in if needed.
Stress-free travel
Placing trackers in luggage can take away the anxiety of lost bags when travelling. All you have to do is glance at your phone, and you’ll know exactly where your suitcases are.
Finding your phone – even if it’s on silent
Trackers like Tile and Chipolo have a reverse-finding feature that allows you to ring your phone from the tracker itself. It’s a small but life-changing feature, especially for anyone who frequently misplaces their phone like I do – and always leave it on silent!
Choosing the best Bluetooth tracker for you
When selecting a tracker, consider your specific needs:
Compatibility: AirTags work best with Apple devices, while Tile and Chipolo are good for Android and iOS users.
Range and accuracy: Choose devices with long Bluetooth ranges and precise location features.
Extra features: SOS alarms, waterproofing, and rechargeable batteries might be worth the investment depending on your lifestyle or who you’re buying for.
The best GPS trackers and key finders
1.
Tile
Best tracker overall
Amazon We've popped the Tile tracker at the top of our list for best GPS tracker or best key finder because it works with both Apple and Android devices.
You can issue an SOS call, find your phone even if it's on silent, and locate anything from lost keys to a water bottle.
You can also buy them in a variety of colours and also in a 2-pack or 4-pack.
Pros
- Works with both Apple and Android devices
- SOS alarm
- Uses a wide Tile network to locate items
- Reverse finding feature - find phone on silent
Cons
- Water resistant but not fully waterproof
Best GPS tracker for pets
Amazon Pets are wonderful but they do like to make us worry! Whether it's a cat that doesn't come home for days or a dog who won't come when called, this Pawfit GPS tracker puts an end to your worries.
The app will update you on their location (providing they're wearing the tracker, of course), and you can also set a boundary so you'll get an instant notification if they stray beyond it - if your dog jumps the fence, for example.
You can also use voice commands on it, which is particularly useful for recall for dogs. you do need a subscription for the app, but at £3.39 a month, this could provide peace of mind for a relatively small outgoing.
Pros
- Instant notifications if your pet strays beyond the designated area
- Use up to 5 voice commands
- Fully waterproof and cold-weather proof
Cons
- Subscription needed (£3.39 a month)
3.
Apple AirTag
Best GPS tracker for Apple users
Apple www.johnlewis.com
The AirTag's capabilities are second to none, using the 'Find My' network to locate items even halfway across the world. However, they only work with Apple devices, like all its products. So there's no point buying one if you've got a Samsung phone, for example, because you won't be able to use the app to locate anything.
Like the Tile, these come in 4 packs, and also in a keyring which is great as it looks stylish and doesn't look like you're carrying a tracker. The keyring option is particularly useful for tracking family members (with their permission of course!). My teenage daughter has one on her car keys so I can see via the Find My app when she's reached her destination safely.
Pros
- Excellent tracking capabilities due to a wide Find My network
- Comes in a keyring too
- Extremely accurate
Cons
- Only for Apple users
Best GPS tracker for supporting older people
Amazon The Invoxia uses real-time tracking to continually update an item's - or person's - whereabouts. This is particularly useful if you're caring for an elderly relative who might be prone to wandering. Using the Invoxia, you can see where they are and also track them as they keep moving, so you can easily find them. Many reviewers have commented how helpful it is in caring for people with dementia.
Of course, it also works as an item locator, which is useful for things like handbags as you can see whether you've left it somewhere or if someone's taken it. You can also set anti-theft alarms as well as ring-fencing a specific location, so alarms will sound if your tracked device enters or exits these locations.
It is much more expensive than the Tile or AirTag, but that's because it's a cellular GPS tracker, and offers more precise location services than the other GPS trackers featured on our list.
Pros
- Real-time location updates
- Excellent aid for supporting people with dementia
- Anti-theft alarms
Cons
- Very expensive - but that's because of its capabilities
5.
Chipolo DUO
Best budget GPS tracker
Chipolo chipolo.net
The Chipolo device is a great budget option, and we really like this duo pack, which currently has £10 off. It means you'll get a round Chipolo tracker and a card-shaped one for just £38. The card-shaped one slots easily into a purse or wallet, while the round one is suitable for a phone or keys.
Chipolo has a range of devices. Some of them work with Apple Find My, some of them work with Google's Find My Device, and some work with neither.
The reason we've chosen to feature this duo pack, which works with neither of the aforementioned apps, is that we like to include products that will suit as many of you as possible. Therefore, you can download thew Chipolo app and use the device featured here with that.
Pros
- Pack contains a round GPS tracker and a card-shaped one for purses
- Great budget option
- Range of colours available
Cons
- Doesn't work with Apple Find My or Google's Find My Device
Frequently asked questions about GPS trackers
What’s the most accurate key finder?
How accurate a key finder is mainly depends on their Bluetooth range and the technology they use. The AirTag is the best for accuracy thanks to its very precise tracking. If you’re holding your phone, it will guide you directly to the lost item with on-screen arrows.
For non-Apple users, Tile Pro is a great choice. Its Bluetooth range extends up to 400 feet, making it one of the longest-range trackers available. Tile also has a loud ringer, helpful for finding items buried under cushions or in another room.
If you’re looking for something simpler but reliable, Chipolo’s range of key finders is worth considering. These trackers are water-resistant, have loud alarms, and offer phone-finding capabilities—even if your phone is on silent.
Is there a better tracker than an AirTag?
Apple’s AirTag is one of the most popular Bluetooth trackers, mainly thanks to how many people use Apple products. As its an Apple device, it works seamlessly with other Apple items. It uses the ‘Find My’ network to help you locate lost items, even at a distance.
But AirTags aren’t the only choice and if you’re an Android user, you’ll need something different. Tile trackers are an excellent alternative, offering similar features but with compatibility across both iOS and Android devices (so Apple and non-Apple products).
Tile’s network is smaller than Apple’s but still excellent, and their range of devices includes ultra-thin models for wallets and stickers for remote controls.
For those seeking an SOS feature, some GPS trackers like Jiobit or the Invoxia Cellular GPS Tracker go a step further. These are designed with personal safety in mind, allowing users to send alerts to designated contacts in emergencies. Such features make these trackers very useful for carers or family members looking to support elderly relatives.
Can you put a GPS tracker in your luggage?
Yes, and it’s one of the best uses for these them! Travelling can be stressful, especially if you’re dealing with lost or delayed luggage. Placing a GPS tracker like an AirTag or Tile in your suitcase allows you to check its location in real time.
Many travellers swear by this simple trick, particularly with the rise in lost luggage incidents at airports. AirTags are particularly useful here because of their long battery life and precision tracking within the Find My app.
For international travel, consider trackers with global coverage, such as Chipolo or Jiobit, which offer features that work beyond Bluetooth range, like GPS or cellular connectivity. These can provide updates even if your luggage is halfway across the world.
Bluetooth trackers are more than just gadgets; they’re tools that can make life easier, reduce stress, and provide added security for you and your loved ones. Whether you’re looking for the best GPS tracker for travel or the best key finder for everyday use, there’s going to be one for your needs.
Becky Fuller is a senior digital writer for Yours.co.uk and an experienced Black Friday bargain hunter. She is also a fully qualified personal trainer and strength coach, specialising in fitness and wellbeing for over 50s. Prior to joining Yours, Becky was a fitness writer for Saga, and a freelance entertainment and theatre journalist. Becky is passionate about helping people to move well and discover the many benefits of strength training.