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If you’re prone to losing things like I am, you’ve probably considered using Bluetooth trackers to help you find your missing items, whether it’s your wallet, keys, phone, or TV remote control. Heck, some pet owners are even using them (with a special collar) to track their cats or dogs.
Bluetooth trackers are small devices that attach to your items and are equipped with Bluetooth and/or GPS functionality. When paired with an app on your smartphone, the app can ping your missing item, utilizing the permissions on other users’ phones to help you find it or at least see the general or last known location (which is great for the times you leave your phone or wallet at the office, a restaurant, or friend’s house).
The three most popular Bluetooth trackers on the market right now are Tile (they offer various models, but I tried the Pro), Apple’s Airtag, and KeySmart’s SmartCard. Each of the devices features similar technology to help you keep track of easy-to-lose essentials but offers different features. To find out which one is best, I put all three to the test. Read ahead to see which one is best for you.
Apple AirTag
Pros:
- No need to download additional apps for iPhone users—the software is built into the phones (Find My App).
- Can be used to track pets with compatible collars.
- Doesn’t require a subscription plan.
- Easy and quick setup.
- Superior Bluetooth connection.
- Great for Apple users who have limited storage space or just don’t want to download another app.
- Replaceable batteries.
Cons:
- Only compatible with Apple devices.
- No anti-theft protection
- Limited anti-stalking features.
- AirTag’s pinging sound is quieter than Tile Mate Pro’s.
- Relied on being within 30 feet of another AirTag user to function properly.
KeySmart Smart Card
Pros:
- Compatible with iPhones and iPads using the Find My App.
- Ultra slim design (only 2 millimeters thick—about two credit cards stacked together).
- Rechargeable—no replacement batteries required.
- Ultra slim design means it can be used for more items, including ID cards, lanyards, etc.
- Solid Bluetooth connectivity.
- It offers ‘Left Behind’ notifications, making it great for those who frequently forget their wallet, phone, etc., at home.
Cons:
- Not suitable for pet tracking.
- No anti-theft protection.
- Not compatible with Android phones.
- Slightly more expensive than comparable Tile and Airtag models.
Overall, all three tracking devices are solid options. Because I’m paranoid about both losing my items and them being stolen, I prefer Tile’s Bluetooth trackers most thanks to the company’s innovative anti-theft technology. Unlike Apple Air Tags and Keysmart trackers, Tile’s anti-theft features allow Tile users to choose whether or not to activate Anti-Theft Mode—and if they do, they must agree to stringent usage requirements, terms, and verification measures. This prohibits thieves from being “tipped off” and gives owners control over their belongings if stolen, which gives me peace of mind (priceless!).
In short, which device you’ll want will depend on your phone and which features are most important to you, as each has unique advantages and drawbacks. No matter what, you can’t go wrong with having something to help you find those misplaced items. Now, where are my keys… ?
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