The Apple AirTag has ultra-wideband technology for seamless communication with other Apple devices. But one drawback of the AirTag is its limited compatibility with older iOS versions and Android devices.
If you use devices other than Apple or an older iOS version and want alternatives to AirTag, look no further! We’ll guide you through some of the best AirTag alternatives.
1. The PebblebeeClip – Editor’s Choice
If you need a tracker with an impressive range, the Pebblebee Clip is your go-to choice. Its 500 ft Bluetooth range sets it apart from the competition, making it an outstanding option. It seamlessly integrates with Apple Find My, allowing it to leverage the extensive Find My network and locate items even when they are further away. What’s more? It also works perfectly with Android devices.
The Pebblebee Clip has a rechargeable battery with an impressive lifespan of up to 6 months on a single charge. It seamlessly integrates with popular smart home assistants such as Amazon’s Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri, allowing you to locate your items effortlessly.
Featuring a sleek design and a stainless steel keychain attachment, the Pebblebee Clip combines both style and functionality. The bright LED lights enhance its visibility, making it easy to locate even in the dark.
Additionally, it emits a loud ring sound of about 90dB, ensuring that you can easily find your belongings. Although it can handle everyday splashes and spills, be cautious when close to water.
Pros
- It features an LED emission for night search
- Works with both iOS and Android devices
- It uses a long-lasting rechargeable battery
- Integrates with popular smart home assistants
Cons
- The associated app can occasionally be tardy
2. The Chipolo ONE Spot – Loud and useful
The Chipolo One Spot is another innovative Bluetooth finder that seamlessly integrates with the Apple Find My network on iOS devices, with compatibility for Android devices. Moreover, it has a Bluetooth range of up to 200ft.
To set up the Chipolo One Spot on your Apple device, add it to the items tab in the Find My app. Considering the vast Apple Find My network of millions of Apple devices worldwide, locating your missing belongings becomes easier. By activating the Lost Mode feature, Chipolo ONE Spot will display a customized message with your contact information to anyone who finds it.
Featuring a keyring hole, the Chipolo ONE Spot allows you to attach your keys directly. Its 120dB loud sound ensures you locate your belongings even in noisy or distant environments. Moreover, its water-resistant design guarantees worry-free usage. However, to unlock the full potential of the Chipolo ONE Spot and use the Find My app’s features, we recommend using the latest version of OS on your Apple device.
Pros
- Broad compatibility with iOS and Android devices
- Water-resistant
- The 120dB ring volume is fairly loud
- Integrates easily with Apple Find My
Cons
- It has a thinner tracking network on the Android
- No ultra-wideband tracking
3. The Tile Bluetooth Tracker – Multiple models
Tile is arguably one of the best alternatives to the AirTag. Whether you’re an iPhone or Android user, Tile has you covered. It works seamlessly with popular smart home assistants like Amazon’s Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri, allowing you to locate your items effortlessly.
You can install the free Tile app, which allows you to locate your Tile within Bluetooth range. If you misplace your Tile outside of Bluetooth range, the app will let you view your Tile’s most recent location on a map. Additionally, the Tile Network enables other users to assist you in finding your lost items. With an IP67 water-resistant rating, it can handle exposure to water without affecting its functioning.
Tile features different models, including Tile Mate, Pro, Slim, and Sticker, which come in different shapes and sizes. Each model has unique features and is adapted to suit different needs. Although you can use its Tile app for free, Tile Premium offers additional features.
Pros
- Broad compatibility with iOS and Android devices
- Water-resistant
- Wide range and loud ring volume
- Incredibly durable and Sleek design
Cons
- Subscription required for advanced features
- No ultra-wideband tracking
4. The Samsung Galaxy SmartTag+ – 120m Bluetooth range
The Galaxy SmartTag+ works perfectly with the Samsung ecosystem. It bonds excellently with the Galaxy Find Network, allowing you to track the SmartTag with every compatible Samsung phone nearby. The Galaxy SmartTags effortlessly track misplaced items within a remarkable range of about 390 feet, even when you’re offline.
Its single tap-to-find feature and the bonded app (SmartThings) enable you to control various Samsung smart products in your home. For example, you can turn on your lights by tapping the SmartTag button. In addition to requiring a Samsung account, pairing it with an ultra-wideband (UWB) enabled Galaxy smartphone running Android 11 or higher guarantees optimal functionality.
That said, the simple design and small size make it very handy. It also has a hollow for can attaching your keys. Its battery is a replaceable CR2032 lithium coin cell. This has an average lifespan of up to four years. You can get the battery over the counter should it drain out.
Pros
- Water-resistant
- The ultrawideband technology in SmartTag+ enhances precise tracking
- Long-lasting and replaceable battery
- It supports smart home integration
Cons
- A bit more expensive than the AirTag
5. The Cube Pro Tracker – Replaceable battery
The Cube Pro Tracker is an excellent alternative to the Apple AirTag. It is compatible with both Apple and Android devices, and its 101dB ring volume makes it easy to find. Download the CUBE Tracker app from the App Store or Play Store to connect it to your phone.
It also has a Bluetooth range of 200 feet. The Cube Pro Tracker is water-resistant and features a replaceable battery that can last up to a year. You can also use it as a selfie remote, and the app allows you to check your battery percentage and notifies you when a replacement is necessary.
If you lose your device beyond Bluetooth range, the Cube Pro Tracker offers a crowd-finder feature that notifies the community to help you search for it. You will get notified if any Cube user gets within Bluetooth distance of your device.
Pros
- Works with both iOS and Android devices
- IP67 waterproof
- Location notification
- 101dB ring is fairly loud
Cons
- It might be prone to false alarms
6. The ATUVOS Key Finder – Built-in NFC
Looking for a more affordable alternative to the AirTag? Look no further than the ATUVOS Key Finder. It is stylish and features a hollow ring design, allowing you to attach your keys easily. Offering similar functionality to the AirTag, it seamlessly connects to the Find My app on your Apple device. Mark an item as lost. The network will help you locate it.
One unique feature of the ATUVOS Key Finder is its built-in NFC function. By adding your contact information, anyone who finds your lost tag can access your details and contact you promptly. Additionally, scanning the NFC tag will automatically update the last-found real-time location.
Durability is a priority with the ATUVOS Key Finder, as it boasts an IP67 waterproof rating, ensuring its resilience in various conditions. You can quickly locate your items within the range with a Bluetooth range of up to 400 feet and a beeping sound ring of 80 dB. With a battery lifespan of up to a year, you can enjoy long-lasting performance before needing a replacement. Plus, the key finder will notify you when the battery needs replacement.
Pros
- Affordable
- Built-in NFC function makes it easy to contact the item owner
- Super-wide range of up to 400 ft
Cons
- The 80dB volume might make lost items difficult to find in noisy areas
Things to consider when exploring AirTag alternatives
- Compatibility: Ensure the device is suitable and works well with your smartphone or device.
- Design: Another thing to consider is the tracker’s size, shape, and design. You’ll need to look for a form factor that suits your needs.
- Range: How far a device can effectively track your belongings is worth considering. You may want to evaluate the range capabilities of the tracker as to whether it is suitable for your intended use.
- Tracking ecosystem: The size of the tracking ecosystem determines how effective the tracker will be. You may want to check if the tracker provides a user-friendly app or platform that lets you easily track your items, set up alerts, and manage multiple devices simultaneously.
- Waterproofing: Considering the waterproofing capabilities of the tracker is essential. If you intend to track objects or pets exposed to water or moisture, a tracker with a high water resistance rating is what you want.
- Battery: It is essential to consider the battery life of the tracker. Choosing a tracker with long-lasting battery performance guarantees you can track your belongings without worrying about frequent battery replacements.
- Pricing: Generally, Bluetooth trackers are often affordable. However, buying them in sets can save you some money. Also, you may want to assess each option’s features, performance, and value for money to make a decision that aligns with your budget.
Never get lost!
In today’s fast-paced world, losing track of our belongings has become a very common occurrence. However, thanks to various AirTag alternatives, you can now choose from the options available to suit your needs. Searching for lost or stolen items has become more convenient than ever. These cutting-edge devices have quickly gained popularity and emerged as trusted companions for users seeking ultimate convenience in tracking their valuable possessions.
Read more:
- How to find the owner of a lost and stolen iPhone or iPad
- Here’s how to find a lost Apple Pencil
- Clever ways to use Apple AirTags
Idowu is an avid tech writer and a software surfer who loves covering knowledge gaps in consumer software, including anything related to iPhones. Well, when he's not reading and learning new things, you'll find Idowu losing gallantly on a solid chessboard or virtually on Lichess.
I’m looking for a location tag that would let me know when my dog gets out and leaves the yard or goes outside of the range. Do these devices do this? It’d have to be somewhat waterproof I suppose. Also, it would be nice if I could drive around and find my dog if he got out, which happens occasionally (he’s fast).
So I was intrigued by the Tracki GPS Tracker, however, when I looked at it on Amazon there is a monthly subscription that is required which I would put as a con. It kind of makes sense that there would be a subscription aspect but it should be called out.
It has a monthly fee because it’s a GPS tracker. Think of it as a SIM card. Just like you can’t use a SIM card for free you can’t use the GPS tracker for free given the service it’s providing you.