Best GPS Devices for Navigation in 2023
GPS devices have become an essential tool for many people in recent years. Whether you are driving to a new location, hiking in the wilderness, or tracking your fitness progress, a GPS device can help you navigate your way and keep you on track. In this article, we will be discussing the best GPS devices available on the market.
When looking for the best GPS device, there are several factors to consider. The first thing to consider is the intended use of the device. Different GPS devices are designed for different purposes, so it's essential to choose one that will meet your specific needs. For example, if you are looking for a GPS device for your car, you will want one with turn-by-turn directions and traffic updates. On the other hand, if you are looking for a GPS device for hiking, you will want one with topographic maps and a long battery life.
Another factor to consider is the size and portability of the device. If you plan to use the GPS device while on the go, you will want one that is lightweight and easy to carry. Additionally, the screen size and resolution are important factors to consider, as they can affect the readability of the device.
After researching and testing several GPS devices, we have identified the best options for different use cases. Whether you are looking for a GPS device for your car, hiking, or fitness tracking, we have got you covered.
Best GPS Devices
We know that finding the right GPS device can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available on the market. That's why we've done the research and testing for you, so you can make an informed decision. Our team has compiled a list of the best GPS devices that offer accurate navigation, easy-to-use interfaces, and long battery life. Whether you're a hiker, a road tripper, or just need directions around town, we've got you covered. Check out our top picks below.
Tracki GPS Tracker
If you're looking for a reliable GPS tracker for your vehicles, kids, dogs, motorcycles, or any other valuable asset, the Tracki GPS Tracker is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Unlimited distance real-time tracking with 4G LTE + extra triband coverage
- Smallest and lightest GPS tracker with worldwide coverage
- Rechargeable battery life of up to 5 days
Cons
- Monthly fee is required for tracking services
- Software can be a bit buggy at times
- Battery life decreases with frequent movement
We've been using the Tracki GPS Tracker for a few months now, and we're impressed with its performance. The device is small and lightweight, making it easy to attach to almost anything. It comes with several attachments, including a strong magnet, dog collar waterproof silicone cover, belt clip, key-chain, and lanyard.
The unlimited distance real-time tracking with 4G LTE + extra triband coverage is a standout feature. The device works everywhere with any network, new or old, for the best coverage. It also comes with an embedded built-in SIM card included and works worldwide. We appreciate the option to track vehicles, cars, trucks, children, dogs, elderly, motorcycles, ATV, boat, equipment, tools, assets, and valuables.
The rechargeable battery life is up to 5 days, depending on how much the device moves. If real-time tracking is not needed, the battery can last up to 30-75 days by tracking 1-3 times per day (using battery save mode). There's also an optional accessory (not included) that comes with a 6 times longer life 3,500mAh battery + magnetic waterproof box, which extends battery life to 3-4 weeks at 1 min update and up to 10 months tracking once a day.
The device works with GPS satellites when outdoors as the primary tracking technology and when indoors Wi-Fi as a secondary backup tracking. Tracki listens to nearby Wi-Fi routers MAC ID, matching IDs to Wi-Fi database for accurate location when GPS is not available. We appreciate the real-time alerts when the tracker crosses a Geo-fence zone we set. We also receive SOS, low battery, speeding, start moving alerts via App notification, SMS, or email.
Overall, the Tracki GPS Tracker is an excellent investment for anyone who needs to keep track of their valuable assets. The lifetime warranty, including lost or damaged devices, is a nice touch. The device is easy to set up and comes included with highly rated smartphone apps compatible with Android, iOS, and all internet browsers. The monthly fee of $19.95 is required, or as low as $9.95 for long-term prepaid plans.
Easy-Take GPS Tracker
We do not recommend purchasing the Easy-Take GPS Tracker due to its unreliable performance and poor customer service.
Pros
- Magnetic and compact design
- Real-time location tracking
- Global coverage
Cons
- Unreliable performance
- Poor customer service
- SIM card not included
The Easy-Take GPS Tracker boasts a magnetic and compact design, making it easy to attach to your vehicle or other assets. It also offers real-time location tracking and full global coverage, allowing you to keep tabs on your belongings from anywhere in the world.
However, we found the performance of this GPS tracker to be unreliable, with frequent connectivity issues and inaccurate location tracking. Additionally, the customer service provided by Easy-Take was poor, making it difficult to resolve any issues that arose.
Overall, we do not recommend the Easy-Take GPS Tracker due to its unreliable performance and poor customer service. There are better options available on the market that offer more reliable and accurate tracking.
Optimus GPS Tracker
If you're looking for a reliable GPS tracker that's affordable and easy to use, then the Optimus GPS Tracker is a great option.
Pros
- Accurate and real-time GPS tracking
- Long battery life
- Customizable position updates up to every 10 seconds
- Email and text message alerts for movement, speeding, leaving or entering areas, and low battery
- FCC and PTCRB certified
- View tracker on Google Maps with live traffic and street view
- iPhone and Android app
- Special routing feature for investigators
- Reports for distance, time moving, and parked places
- 30-day returns and lifetime warranty while the subscription is active
Cons
- No magnetic case included
- Service coverage limited to cellphone coverage in the USA and Canada
- GPS signal won't work if the tracker is totally enclosed in metal containers or inside buildings
We've used the Optimus GPS Tracker to keep track of our vehicles and assets, and we've been impressed with its accuracy and ease of use. The device is small and portable, making it easy to place anywhere. The battery life is long, lasting up to a month on default every 1 minute position report setting.
One of the best features of the Optimus GPS Tracker is the customizable position updates up to every 10 seconds at no extra cost. This allows you to track your vehicles and assets in real-time and get alerts for movement, speeding, leaving or entering areas, and low battery. The device is also FCC and PTCRB certified, ensuring its quality and reliability.
The Optimus GPS Tracker is easy to use, with an iPhone and Android app that allows you to view the tracker on Google Maps with live traffic and street view. There's also a special routing feature for investigators, as well as reports for distance, time moving, and parked places.
The only downside to the Optimus GPS Tracker is that there's no magnetic case included, so you'll need to purchase one separately if you want to attach the device to a metal surface. Additionally, the service coverage is limited to cellphone coverage in the USA and Canada, so if you need to track your vehicles and assets outside of these areas, you'll need to find another solution.
Overall, the Optimus GPS Tracker is a great option for those looking for an affordable and reliable GPS tracker for their vehicles and assets. With its long battery life, real-time tracking, and customizable position updates, it's a device that we highly recommend.
BrickHouse 140-Day GPS Tracker
If you are in need of a reliable GPS tracker device for your vehicle, the BrickHouse 140-Day GPS Tracker is a great option to consider. With its extended battery life, 4G coverage, and tough, durable design, this tracker can be used for long-term vehicle and asset tracking.
Pros
- The built-in battery lasts 15 days on standby, and with the extended battery included, you'll receive an additional 140 days of battery life.
- The 4G coverage allows for full coverage across all of North America, even when crossing state and international borders.
- The "slap-and-track" design makes it easy to attach to any vehicle without any installation hassle.
Cons
- The subscription-based service can add up if you opt for the higher-tier plans.
- The device is not suitable for real-time tracking, as it only updates every 5 minutes.
- The user interface can be confusing to navigate at first.
We have found the BrickHouse 140-Day GPS Tracker to be a reliable and durable option for vehicle tracking. The magnetic and waterproof design ensures that the device stays firmly attached to your vehicle, even in adverse weather conditions.
The extended battery life is a major plus, as it eliminates the need for frequent recharging. The 4G coverage is also a great feature, as it allows for full coverage across North America.
One downside is that the subscription-based service can add up if you opt for the higher-tier plans. Additionally, the device only updates every 5 minutes, so it may not be suitable for real-time tracking. However, we found that the device is accurate and reliable overall.
Overall, if you are in need of a long-term vehicle and asset tracker, the BrickHouse 140-Day GPS Tracker is a solid option to consider.
Family1st 4G LTE Mini & Quiet GPS Tracker
We highly recommend the Family1st 4G LTE Mini & Quiet GPS Tracker for anyone who wants to keep track of their vehicles, assets, or loved ones. With its compact and discreet design, real-time tracking, and long battery life, this GPS tracker is a reliable and user-friendly solution for all your tracking needs.
Pros
- Real-time tracking with up to 5-second updates
- Wireless, compact, and discreet design
- Long battery life of up to two weeks
Cons
- Subscription needed for unlimited real-time tracking
- The box is not 100% waterproof
- Magnets could be stronger
The Family1st GPS tracker is easy to set up and use. You can monitor activity, manage alerts, and generate custom reports with ease. The accurate tracking is available across North America, and you can create an account and share alerts with friends, family, and coworkers. With geofence zones and real-time alerts, you'll always know what's going on. Control alerts and generate custom reports via SMS or email. You can review location history for up to one year.
The GPS tracker is wireless, compact, and discreet, making it perfect for monitoring vehicles, assets, or belongings. You can place it anywhere and monitor discreetly with no light or noise. The cutting-edge technology and easy setup make this one of the most user-friendly GPS trackers available. With a battery life of up to two weeks and unlimited support, you'll stay connected for longer.
The all-weather, airtight magnetic case protects against water and weather damage, making it the perfect choice for use in extreme conditions. The weatherproof, magnetic case can be affixed to any metallic surface, giving you the protection you need. However, the box is not 100% waterproof, and the magnets could be stronger.
In conclusion, the Family1st 4G LTE Mini & Quiet GPS Tracker is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to keep track of their vehicles, assets, or loved ones. With its real-time tracking, wireless, compact, and discreet design, and long battery life, it's a reliable and user-friendly solution for all your tracking needs.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best GPS device, there are a few things to consider to ensure that you get the most out of your purchase. Here are some features to look at:
Screen Size and Resolution
The screen size and resolution are important factors to consider when choosing a GPS device. A larger screen size will be easier to read, but it may also be more cumbersome to carry around. A higher resolution will provide a clearer and sharper image, making it easier to read maps and directions.
Battery Life
Battery life is an important feature to consider, especially if you plan on using your GPS device for extended periods of time. Look for a device with a long battery life, so you won't have to worry about it dying while you're on the road.
Maps and Navigation
The quality and accuracy of the maps and navigation features are crucial when choosing a GPS device. Look for a device that includes up-to-date maps and a reliable navigation system.
Connectivity
Connectivity is another important feature to consider. Some GPS devices offer Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to connect your smartphone and use it as a hands-free device. Others offer Wi-Fi connectivity, which allows you to download maps and updates without having to connect to a computer.
Price
Price is always a consideration when making a purchase. GPS devices can range in price from under $50 to over $500. Consider your budget and what features are most important to you when choosing a GPS device.
By considering these features, you can choose the best GPS device to fit your needs and budget.