Introduction
Vehicle theft is a growing concern, and many owners are turning to tracking devices for peace of mind. Two popular options are Apple AirTags and dedicated GPS trackers. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, and the right choice depends on your priorities. This article compares both systems based on cost, ease of installation, reliability, and effectiveness in recovering a stolen vehicle.
Apple AirTags: Cheap and Simple
Apple AirTags are small, inexpensive Bluetooth trackers that can be placed virtually anywhere in a vehicle. They cost about $29 each and require no subscription. Installation is as simple as hiding the tag in a glove compartment, under a seat, or inside a panel. You can buy multiple AirTags and scatter them throughout the car, making it harder for thieves to find and remove them all.
Tracking is done via the Find My network, which uses nearby Apple devices to relay the tag's location. This means you can check the location from your iPhone at any time, but the update frequency depends on other Apple devices passing by. In a densely populated area, updates can be frequent; in a remote area, they may be sparse.
GPS Trackers: Reliable but Costly
Dedicated GPS trackers are hardwired to the vehicle's battery and use cellular or satellite networks to provide real-time location data. They typically cost $100 to $300 upfront, plus a monthly subscription fee of $20 to $50. Installation can be DIY if you're comfortable with basic car electronics, or you can pay a professional, which adds to the cost.
The main advantage of GPS trackers is reliability: they update location continuously, regardless of nearby devices. Many also offer additional features like remote engine start, geofencing, and kill-switch capabilities to disable the vehicle remotely.
Key Differences in Theft Scenarios
A critical difference emerges when a vehicle is actually stolen. AirTags have a privacy feature that alerts thieves if an unknown AirTag is traveling with them. This is designed to prevent stalking, but it also tips off thieves that a tracker is present. They can then search for and remove the AirTag, rendering it useless. In contrast, most GPS trackers do not broadcast their presence, so thieves may not know the vehicle is being tracked.
According to a Jalopnik writer who had two motorcycles stolen while equipped with AirTags, both tags were found and discarded by the thieves. This suggests that AirTags may be ineffective for theft recovery. GPS trackers, on the other hand, offer a higher chance of recovery because they remain hidden and provide continuous location data.
Cost Comparison
- AirTags: One-time cost of ~$29 per tag; no monthly fees. Multiple tags can be used for redundancy.
- GPS Trackers: Upfront cost of $100–$300; monthly subscription $20–$50. Professional installation may add $50–$150.
Over a few years, AirTags are significantly cheaper. However, if the goal is to recover a stolen vehicle, the extra cost of a GPS tracker may be justified.
Additional Features
GPS trackers often come with advanced features that AirTags lack. These include real-time speed alerts, geofencing (notify you if the vehicle leaves a defined area), remote engine shutdown, and integration with car alarm systems. Some can even be used to remotely start the car or check vehicle diagnostics. AirTags offer only basic location tracking and a lost mode that notifies you when the tag is detected by the network.
Which One Should You Choose?
For most vehicle owners, a dedicated GPS tracker is the better choice for theft prevention and recovery. The reliability and hidden nature of GPS trackers outweigh the lower cost of AirTags. However, if you are on a tight budget or want a simple way to keep tabs on your car's location in everyday situations (e.g., parking in a large lot), an AirTag can be a useful tool.
Motorcycle owners, in particular, may find AirTags less effective because thieves can easily remove them. For high-value vehicles or those at high risk of theft, investing in a GPS tracker with a kill switch is recommended.
Conclusion
Both Apple AirTags and GPS trackers have their place in vehicle security. AirTags are cheap and easy, but their anti-stalking feature can alert thieves. GPS trackers are more expensive and require a subscription, but they offer reliable, continuous tracking and additional security features. Assess your needs, budget, and risk level to make the best choice for protecting your vehicle.
This article is based on reporting by Jalopnik. Read the original article.
Originally published on jalopnik.com
