Choosing your first GPS tracker: a 5-minute buyer's guide

Shopping for your first tracker can feel like wading through spec sheets. It doesn't have to. Here's what actually matters.

Hardwired vs. plug-in

• Hardwired devices are hidden and tamper-resistant — best for theft protection and anything valuable.
• Plug-in (OBD) devices are quick to fit and move between vehicles — fine for basic tracking on a car.

For a bike or a vehicle you're serious about protecting, choose a hidden, hardwired unit.

Features worth paying for

1. Live tracking with a fast update rate.
2. Movement and ignition alerts.
3. Geofencing.
4. Trip and idle reports if you run a fleet.

What you can skip

Fancy dashboards you'll never open, and ultra-high refresh rates that mostly drain the battery. Match the device to how you'll actually use it.

The subscription question

Every live tracker needs a SIM and a subscription to send its location. Ask for the total first-year cost — device plus subscription — so there are no surprises. Trackon keeps this simple with one clear annual plan.