What to Look For in a Find My Tag Tracker

What to Look For in a Find My Tag Tracker

A find my tag tracker is a small electronic device you attach to your items, so that when they get lost, you can use your phone to locate them. The devices connect to your mobile phone via Bluetooth, and report their location when the two are within range. Some, like the popular AirTag, also have a large user network that can help you locate your stuff even when out of range.

These trackers can be found in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and prices. Some, such as the Tile Mate, can be attached to anything, while others are designed specifically for keys and wallets. The Samsung SmartTag 2 can be slipped into a key ring, while the Tile Slim and Apple AirTag are designed to slip inside your pocket.

The most important feature for a find my tag tracker is smartphone compatibility. Most of the models on our list connect with your phone via Bluetooth, but a few use Ultra-Wideband (UWB) to offer more precise tracking than what Bluetooth can provide. These include the Apple AirTag, Samsung SmartTag 2, and Motorola Moto Tag.

Another consideration is battery life. A few trackers use lithium batteries, which are rechargeable and last a long time. Others, such as the Tile Mate and AirTag Pro, use AA batteries that are replaceable. Finally, some are designed to automatically go to sleep when their battery reaches a low level.

The Apple AirTag, Samsung SmartTag 2, and the Motorola Moto Tag all work with iOS devices. However, the AirTag is unique in that it's compatible with both iPhones and iPads and can be shared among family members. It also warns any other iPhone users who may be nearby if the device is being moved by someone unknown to the owner, an anti-stalking feature that's not available on Android phones. In contrast, Android models have to rely on the Google Find Hub network to function, and a small user base can limit their effectiveness outside of Bluetooth range. The Samsung SmartTag 2 and the Tile Mate are exceptions, as both support the Google Find Hub network and have a battery that lasts longer than many of their rivals.