Comparing GPS, RF, WiFi, Bluetooth, and Microchip Pet Trackers: Which One is Right for Your Pet?

Choosing a pet tracking technology can be intimidating. We will compare GPS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, RF, and microchip trackers for real-time tracking, coverage, activity monitoring, geo-fencing, subscription fees, mobile app integration, battery life, health concerns, multi-pet tracking, smart home integration, and technology. By the end, you’ll know which pet tracker technology is ideal for your pet.

Features
Real-time Tracking	Provides real-time tracking and location info via satellite signals	Uses radio frequency signals to relay the pet's location.	Uses WiFi signals to track pets within a specified area, such as a home or yard	Bluetooth connects the tracker to your device; the range is usually 100 meters.	Cannot provide real-time location data or tracking
Coverage	To get location info, you need a cellular data plan and a device with GPS.	The radio frequency signal's range is normally a few miles, depending on the equipment and location.	Requires a WiFi network and a WiFi-enabled device to access location data	Bluetooth range is 100 meters (328 feet) in open places, less in obstructed regions.	Requires a handheld scanner to access identification data
Activity Monitoring	Built-in sensors can track your movement (steps, distance, etc.) and send the information to your device or an app.	Designed for position tracking, not activity monitoring.	Best for monitoring pets' activity and location within a specific area	Built-in sensors send activity data to your device or app in some models.	Does not support activity monitoring
Geo-fencing	Many GPS trackers have geofencing features, which let you set up virtual borders for your pet.	Designed for location tracking, not geo-fencing.	Set virtual boundaries within the Wi-Fi network range and receive warnings if your pet leaves.	Short range limits geo-fencing; alerts you when the pet leaves Bluetooth range.	Does not support geo-fencing
Subscription Fees	Many GPS trackers require a monthly fee for real-time tracking and alerts. The device and its advantages determine the monthly or annual cost of most subscription programmes.	No membership costs; the portable receiver and tracker are included in the purchase.	Advanced features require subscriptions, but the basic functionality is usually free.	Tracker gadgets and software are usually free.	One-time microchip implant cost; some suppliers charge a one-time or annual price for national database registration.
Mobile App Integration	Typically includes a mobile app for real-time tracking, activity monitoring, geo-fencing, and other features.	Tracks and locates pets with a portable receiver, not a smartphone app.	A mobile app for real-time tracking, activity monitoring, and geo-fencing is usually included.	Includes a mobile app for real-time tracking, activity monitoring, and geo-fencing.	Online databases or microchip registry apps provide information.
Battery life	Includes a smartphone app for real-time tracking, activity monitoring, geo-fencing, and more.	Long battery life; location tracking only.	Battery life depends on usage, signal quality, and device characteristics.	Battery life depends on usage and device characteristics, spanning weeks to months.	No battery is required
Health concerns	Check for irritation and ensure the tracker isn't excessively heavy or tight.	Minimal health concerns; make sure the tracker isn't too heavy or tight for your pet.	Check for irritation and ensure the tracker isn't overly heavy or tight.	Bluetooth trackers shouldn't harm pets. Bluetooth trackers employ low-power radio waves to communicate with smartphones and other devices.	Implantation is a short, minimally invasive operation with low risk of health issues, but watch for infection and swelling.
Multi-Pet tracking	The app tracks multiple pets with individual trackers.	May support multi-pet tracking with individual trackers and handheld receivers.	With trackers for each pet, the app can track multiple pets' locations within the Wi-Fi range.	With individual trackers for each pet, app can track multiple pets simultaneously within Bluetooth range. With individual trackers for each pet, app can track multiple pets simultaneously within Bluetooth range.	Real-time tracking and multi-pet tracking are not supported. Each microchip identifies one pet.
Smart Home Integration	Voice assistants and IoT systems may be compatible with location updates and warnings.	No smart home integration; pet tracking and location via a handheld receiver.	Enhanced smart home integration; connects with Wi-Fi devices, voice assistants, and IoT platforms for location updates and warnings.	Voice assistants or IoT systems may be compatible for location updates or warnings within Bluetooth range.	No smart home connectivity; only a permanent ID for identification.
Technology	Finds your pet's whereabouts using satellites and sends it to your phone or device over mobile networks.	Send invisible radio waves between your pet's tracker and a handheld device. The signal leads to your pet.	Tracks your pet inside your home's Wi-Fi network.	Bluetooth lets devices exchange data wirelessly. Bluetooth pet trackers pair with a smartphone or other device through Bluetooth and use the device's GPS to track the pet.	A small chip under your pet's skin saves contact information that a vet or shelter scanner can read. No tracking.