Blog: Air Tag vs GPS for Your Pets: What’s The Difference?

As a dedicated pet parent, keeping track of your beloved companion is a top priority. With the rise of tracking devices on the market, it’s becoming easier than ever to ensure your pet’s safety. Two leading technologies in pet tracking are Air Tags and GPS devices for pets. You may be wondering what sets them apart and which one is right for your pet. In this article, we’ll explore their key differences, benefits, and how they perform in different situations.

GPS Devices for Pets

What is a GPS Pet Tracker?

A GPS pet tracker uses Global Positioning System (GPS) technology to track your pet’s location in real time. These devices are typically attached to your pet’s collar and rely on satellite signals to pinpoint your pet’s location, allowing you to monitor their movements accurately.

How GPS Trackers Work for Pets

GPS pet trackers communicate with satellites to triangulate your pet’s position. This data is then transmitted to your smartphone or computer, providing real-time location updates. Some tracking devices such as the PetLinkGPS also include features like geofencing, which lets you set virtual boundaries. If your pet crosses these boundaries, you’ll receive an alert, offering peace of mind that your pet hasn’t strayed too far.

Pros of GPS Devices for Pets

• Real-time tracking over long distances: GPS trackers offer a wide location coverage and high accuracy, making them ideal for pets that roam large areas or if your pet is ever lost.
• Designed specifically for pets: Built to withstand the active lifestyle of pets, these devices are durable and often waterproof. 
• Additional safety features: The PetLinkGPS device includes activity monitoring, geofencing, and even health tracking, making it a comprehensive safety tool for your pet.

Air Tags for Pets

What is an Air Tag?

An Air Tag is a small, lightweight tracking device from Apple, originally designed for locating personal items like keys or wallets. Many pet owners now use them to track their pets. Air Tags rely on Bluetooth and Apple’s extensive device network to help locate lost items—or pets—nearby.

How Air Tags Work for Pets

Air Tags send out a Bluetooth signal that nearby Apple devices can detect. These devices relay the Air Tag’s location to your iPhone, showing you where your pet is. While Air Tags aren’t specifically made for pets, they can be attached to a collar and give a location fixing, especially in urban areas with many Apple devices nearby.

Pros of Air Tags for Pets

• Lightweight and compact: Air Tags are small and unobtrusive, making them comfortable for pets of all sizes.
• Easy integration with iOS devices: If you’re an Apple user, setting up and using an Air Tag is seamless.
• Affordable: Air Tags are more budget-friendly compared to many GPS trackers and don’t require a subscription.
• Battery: The battery life on an Air Tag is extensive, lasting for months. 

GPS Devices vs. Air Tags

Technology and Functionality

The main difference between GPS trackers and Air Tags lies in their technology. GPS trackers use satellite signals for real-time tracking over large distances, making them ideal for pets that spend time outdoors. In contrast, Air Tags use Bluetooth and are more suitable for short-range tracking. While Air Tags can provide a general idea of your pet’s location, they lack the accuracy and range of GPS devices.

Cost

GPS pet trackers typically have higher upfront costs and typically require a subscription for real-time tracking. However, this investment comes with advanced features and greater reliability over long distances. Air Tags, while less expensive and free of subscription fees, offer fewer features and are less effective for tracking pets over large areas.

Ease of Use

Both GPS trackers and Air Tags are user-friendly but serve different needs. GPS devices often come with dedicated apps that offer detailed tracking, health monitoring, and customizable settings like geofencing. They may take more time to learn due to these additional features. Air Tags, as part of the Apple ecosystem, are incredibly easy to set up and use for basic tracking.

Suitability for Different Pets

The best tracking device for your pet depends on their lifestyle and environment. GPS trackers are ideal for larger, more active pets, especially those in rural areas. They provide real-time tracking and peace of mind for adventurous pets. Air Tags, on the other hand, are better suited for indoor pets or those in urban areas, where the Apple device network can easily detect them.

Battery Life

The battery life of an Air Tag lasts significantly longer than a GPS unit. An AirTag battery can last over 6 months while a GPS tracker will need recharging weekly, depending on the amount of live tracking being used.

Use Cases & Scenarios

When to Choose an Air TagAir Tags are a great option for smaller pets or those who stay mostly indoors. They’re also ideal for pets in urban environments where the Apple network can help pinpoint their location. For example, if you have a cat that occasionally slips out but doesn’t wander far, an Air Tag may be sufficient for quickly locating them.

When to Choose a GPS Device

GPS trackers are best for adventurous pets, like dogs that explore large areas or pets in rural settings. If you have a dog that loves running around your property or going on hikes, a GPS tracker is invaluable. The real-time tracking and extensive range ensure you can always find your pet, even in remote areas. A GPS device may also be able to monitor your pet’s activity, as well as setting up geofence areas so you can keep tabs on your pet if away from home.

Choosing between an Air Tag and a GPS pet tracker depends on your pet’s lifestyle and your needs. For comprehensive tracking and safety features, especially for outdoor or adventurous pets, a GPS tracker is the best choice. It can offer real-time updates, geofencing, and activity monitoring. However, if your pet stays close to home and you’re looking for a simple, cost-effective solution, an Air Tag could be the way to go. Either option is a smart step in keeping your pet safe.

FAQs – Answered by PetLink

Will a GPS pet tracker still work if there’s no cell service?
Mostly no for live updates. The device can “see” GPS satellites to know where it is, but most pet GPS collars use a cellular network to send that location to your phone. In dead zones you may see delayed or no updates until the collar regains coverage (some units cache and upload later). If you hike off-grid often, look for trackers with multi-network roaming, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth fallback at home, or satellite messaging—each with different costs and trade-offs.

Is using an AirTag on a pet actually recommended—and what about anti-stalking alerts?
AirTags are designed for locating items, not pets. They can help in dense, Apple device-heavy areas, but Apple’s unwanted-tracking protections may notify nearby iPhone users that an AirTag is “moving with them,” which can reveal or prompt removal of the tag. In rural and remote areas – sometimes where you need reliable tracking the most – an AirTag could fail to give you a location. If you do use one, treat it as a convenience add-on—not a primary safety tracking device—especially for pets that roam far.

What’s safe for cats or very small dogs—will the device be too heavy?
Prioritize the lightest possible attachment and a low-profile collar / holder. For cats, always use a breakaway collar so it releases if snagged. Aim for a setup that sits flat on the cat’s neck (no dangling key-fob styles), test fit indoors first, and check for any rubbing. If a GPS collar feels bulky on a toy breed or cat, an AirTag in a slim holder may be more comfortable for urban/indoor use, while an ultra-light GPS model is better for outdoor roamers.

Do I still need a microchip if I have a tracker?
Yes. A microchip is a permanent ID scanned by vets/shelters; it doesn’t provide live location but speeds reunions if a collar comes off or GPS batteries die. Trackers put you in control to help you find your pet instantly; microchips help others return your pet to you once they are found. Remember to always keep your chip registration and contact details up to date – otherwise when your pet is found the vet or shelter may not be able to get in touch with you. (NOTE: microchips do not prove ownership)

What happens if the battery dies on the GPS—or if the device is removed?
Location updates stop immediately. Most trackers send low-battery alerts to conserve battery, so build a charging routine (e.g., during dinner or overnight) and keep a spare coin cell for AirTag-style devices. Assume collars can be lost or removed: pair any GPS tracker with visible ID collar tags and a registered microchip as your fail-safe. As best-practice, always keep your GPS device battery fully charged – if your pet goes missing you will want the maximum battery life for the best chance of locating them.