10 Differences Between a GPS Tracker and a Phone Tracker

GPS tracking devices have become an essential tool for businesses and individuals alike. Whether you are tracking a fleet of vehicles, monitoring the whereabouts of a loved one, or keeping an eye on valuable assets, GPS trackers offer a reliable solution for real-time tracking and monitoring. However, not all GPS tracking devices are created equal.

1. Purpose of Tracking

The primary difference between GPS and phone trackers lies in their intended purpose. GPS trackers are standalone devices specifically designed for tracking and monitoring purposes. These devices are typically compact and discreet, making them ideal for covert tracking of vehicles, assets, and people. On the other hand, phone trackers rely on the GPS capabilities of a smartphone to track its location. While phone trackers can be useful for keeping tabs on family members or friends, they may not offer the same level of precision and reliability as dedicated GPS trackers.

2. Tracking Range

Another key difference between GPS trackers and phone trackers is their tracking range. GPS trackers are equipped with a built-in GPS receiver that allows them to receive signals from GPS satellites and determine their precise location. This enables GPS trackers to provide accurate location data even in remote or isolated areas where cell phone coverage may be limited. On the other hand, phone trackers rely on the availability of cellular networks to transmit location data. As a result, phone trackers may have limited range and be less effective in areas with poor cell phone reception.

3. Battery Life

GPS trackers typically have longer battery life compared to phone trackers. This is because GPS trackers are designed to operate independently of a phone or other external power source. GPS trackers are typically equipped with rechargeable batteries that can last several days or weeks on a single charge, depending on the device’s settings and usage. On the other hand, phone trackers rely on the battery life of the smartphone they are installed on. This means that phone trackers may drain the phone’s battery more quickly, especially if the phone is being used for other purposes in addition to tracking.

4. Tracking Accuracy

One of the key advantages of GPS trackers over phone trackers is their tracking accuracy. GPS trackers are designed to provide precise location data, typically accurate to within a few meters. This level of accuracy is essential for tracking assets, vehicles, and people with precision. On the other hand, phone trackers may not always provide the same level of accuracy, as they rely on the GPS capabilities of the smartphone they are installed on. This means that phone trackers may be less reliable in certain situations where precise location data is critical.

5. Tracking Frequency

GPS trackers typically provide real-time tracking data, updating the location of the device at regular intervals. This allows users to track the movement of vehicles, assets, or people in real time and receive instant notifications of any changes in location. Phone trackers may not offer the same level of real-time tracking, as they rely on the periodic transmission of location data from the smartphone to a remote server. This means that phone trackers may have longer intervals between location updates, making them less suitable for scenarios where real-time tracking is essential.

6. Ease of Installation

GPS trackers are typically easy to install and set up, requiring only a simple activation process and placement of the device in the desired location. GPS trackers are available in a variety of form factors, including portable devices that can be easily attached to vehicles or assets. On the other hand, phone trackers may require additional software installation on the smartphone and configuration of settings to enable tracking. This can make phone trackers more cumbersome to set up and may require technical expertise to ensure proper functioning.

7. Data Storage and Retrieval

GPS trackers typically store location data on the device itself, allowing users to retrieve historical tracking data at a later time. This can be useful for analyzing trends, reviewing past routes, and identifying patterns of movement over time. On the other hand, phone trackers may not always have the same level of data storage capabilities, as they rely on the smartphone’s memory for storing location data. This means that phone trackers may be limited in the amount of historical tracking data they can store and may require additional cloud-based storage solutions for long-term data retention.

8. Tracking Features

GPS trackers often come equipped with various tracking features specifically designed for tracking and monitoring purposes. These features may include geofencing, speed alerts, tamper alerts, and remote locking capabilities. Geofencing allows users to create virtual boundaries around a specific area and receive notifications when the tracker enters or exits the designated zone. Speed alerts notify users when the tracker exceeds a pre-set speed limit while tampering alerts alert users to any unauthorized removal or tampering with the tracker. Phone trackers may not offer the same level of tracking features, as they are primarily designed for locating lost or stolen phones rather than dedicated tracking purposes.

9. Cost

Cost is another important factor to consider when comparing GPS trackers to phone trackers. GPS trackers are typically more expensive upfront, as they are standalone devices requiring no additional hardware or software. However, the cost of GPS trackers may be offset by long-term savings in battery life, data usage, and maintenance costs. Phone trackers, on the other hand, are often more affordable upfront, as they utilize the existing GPS capabilities of a smartphone. However, phone trackers may incur additional costs for data usage, software subscriptions, and device upgrades over time.

10. Reliability

Finally, the reliability of a GPS tracker versus a phone tracker is crucial. GPS trackers are designed for tracking and monitoring purposes and are built to withstand harsh environments, extreme temperatures, and rugged conditions. GPS trackers are typically water-resistant, dustproof, and shockproof, making them suitable for use in a wide range of environments. On the other hand, phone trackers may not always offer the same level of durability and reliability, as smartphones are not specifically designed for tracking purposes. This means that phone trackers may be more prone to technical issues, software glitches, and hardware malfunctions that could impact their reliability.

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GPS and phone trackers offer unique advantages and limitations that suit different tracking scenarios. GPS trackers are standalone devices that provide accurate, real-time tracking data with long battery life and superior tracking accuracy. On the other hand, phone trackers rely on a smartphone’s GPS capabilities and may offer a more limited tracking range, battery life, and tracking features. Ultimately, the choice between a GPS tracker and a phone tracker will depend on the specific tracking needs and requirements of the user.

GPS Technologies is your foremost authority for the best tracking and monitoring systems backed by sophisticated GPS precision. We help businesses understand what their fleets say and assist with battery, teen, and asset tracking. Our software solutions provide drivers, dispatchers, and decision-makers with an open line of communication. We are proud to serve you! Contact GPS Technologies today to learn more about our cutting-edge GPS tracking devices and how they can help you track and monitor your assets with precision and reliability.

Categorised in: Fleet Tracking

This post was written by Malcolm Rosenfeld