This blog was updated on August 30, 2024, with newly tested product information.
In today’s fast-paced world, it's important to have a reliable portable GPS tracker, these devices, typically small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, are designed to provide accurate location. The Family1st Portable GPS Tracker is a top choice because of its small size and impressive two-week battery life. This device shows what to look for in a high-quality tracker, combining functionality with affordability.
Check out our list of the 10 best portable GPS trackers in the United States to find the right one for you. Our latest reviews will help you understand the features and benefits of each device, so you can make an informed choice.
Our Top Picks: Best Portable GPS Trackers In United States
| Ratings | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Best For | Overall Portable Tracker | Baby-Sized GPS Tracker | Lightweight Design | Budget Portable Tracker | Portable with No Contract Options | Long Battery Life in a Portable Form | Easy-to-Carry Design | Durable and Portable Tracking | Palm-Sized GPS tracker | Scorch-Sized GPS Tracker |
| Cost | $29.95 | $18.88 | $129.99 | $17.95 | $29.99 | $65 | $24.99 | $28.80 | $69.95 | $29.95 |
|
Monthly Subscription |
$19.95 | $9.95 | $14.99 | $19.95 | $25 | $32 | $12.95 | $6.99 | NA | $19.95 |
| Highlight Feature | Lowest monthly subscription | International SIM card included | Discreet and portable design | Customizable report frequency | No contract or hidden fees | Geo zones for added security | Intuitive user interface | Waterproof and durable | 4G Network Connectivity | Waterproof and powerful magnet |
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Why Choose Portable GPS Trackers?
There are many benefits of a portable GPS tracker. Let us illustrate them one by one to you.
Track Anything or Anyone
A portable GPS tracker lets you track anything or anyone, including vehicles, bikes, pets, children, and any valuable items.
Improved Safety
Safety is undoubtedly the most important aspect of a GPS device. You can use the portable GPS tracker to ensure the safety of your loved ones.
For example,
- If you are a parent, your anxiety levels can rise when your kids are out in the world, exploring. Whether your child is at school or visiting a friend, real-time location updates from a portable GPS tracker can provide peace of mind.
- If you have a new teenage driver at home, your responsibilities increase significantly. You need to ensure they are safe and following good driving practices. A GPS tracker with driving behavior reports and alerts for incidents like speeding or hard-braking can help you train your teenager.
- As people age, they may not like admitting they need help but still want to maintain their independence. A portable GPS device with a medical or SOS alert is perfect for ensuring elderly family members can enjoy their freedom while staying reachable when needed.
- The portable GPS tracker can also be used to keep track of your pet when it decides to explore on its own.
Hidden Tracking
Portable GPS trackers are pocket-sized, allowing you to hide them easily in your car, bike, kids' school bag, or even in pockets. Since everyone is aware of GPS trackers nowadays, hiding them is crucial. Thieves often remove trackers before proceeding with their theft.
If you’re looking for great alternatives to hidden GPS trackers, check out our list of 10 Best Hidden GPS Trackers in 2024 [Revised].
Your Adventure Partner
If you love hiking, sailing, or other adventurous activities, a portable GPS tracker is a reliable way to assure your family of your safety while you embark on your adventures.
Theft Recovery
One of the key benefits of a Portable GPS tracker is theft recovery. Losing your vehicle is a distressing experience, but with a GPS tracker installed, you can track and retrieve your stolen vehicle with relative ease.
10 Best Portable GPS Trackers in The United States
Family1st : Overall Portable Tracker
The Family1st Portable GPS Tracker is a mini device for tracking vehicles, kids, seniors, pets, and more. It is 2.8 x 1.8 x 1.1 inches and weighs just 3.6 ounces, making it easy to carry and attach to almost anything. With real-time location updates, you can track what matters most, wherever they are.
Long Battery Life
The Family1st Portable GPS Tracker has a powerful 2400 mAh Li-Polymer battery that lasts up to two weeks on a single two-hour charge. This long-lasting battery means less frequent charging, giving you peace of mind. You'll get a notification when the battery is low, and recharging is easy with the included USB cable.
Budget-Friendly
The Family1st Portable GPS Tracker is budget-friendly and offers the best value on the market. Unlike other trackers with hidden fees or high subscription costs, Family1st keeps it affordable with low device prices and the lowest monthly subscription rates guaranteed.
- Budget-friendly price ($28.95)
- Affordable monthly subscription ($19.95)
- Long battery life (2 weeks active)
- Reliable indoor and outdoor tracking
- Lightweight and portable design
- Lifetime warranty
- Limited to 4G network coverage
- May require more frequent charging with heavy use
- 6-month sleep mode may not suit all needs
- No international support beyond listed areas
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Budget-Friendly Device | Affordable cost with low monthly subscription |
| Lowest Monthly Subscription | Monthly fee of $19.95 |
| Lightning Fast Updates | Real-time tracking with quick updates |
| Reliable and Accurate Readings | High accuracy in location tracking |
| 24/7 Friendly Tech Support Team | Around-the-clock support for any issues |
| Coverage | Available in the USA, Canada, and Mexico |
Technical Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 2.8 x 1.8 x 1.1 inches |
| Weight | 3.60 oz |
| Battery Life | 2 weeks active; 6 months in sleep mode |
| Connectivity | 4G cellular network |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Price | $29.95 device cost |
Tracki: Baby-Sized GPS Tracker
The Tracki GPS Tracker is a mini device that is 1.75 x 1.5 x 0.55 inches in size and has an international SIM card and innovative GPS-GSM technology. It provides reliable location updates both indoors and outdoors, no matter where you are. This portable tracker is easy to hide and perfect for discreet tracking.
Easy to Set Up
The Tracki GPS Tracker is quick and easy to set up, taking about five minutes. Once installed, it starts providing real-time location updates immediately.
Lifetime Guarantee
With the Tracki GPS Tracker’s lifetime guarantee, you’re covered for any defects or issues with the device, and a replacement is guaranteed if needed.
Track Almost Anything
The Tracki GPS Tracker is perfect for tracking almost anything, from vehicles to personal belongings.
- Worldwide coverage
- Small and discreet design
- Easy to set up (5 minutes)
- Lifetime guarantee on the device
- Versatile tracking (multiple uses)
- Shorter battery life (2-3 days)
- Higher monthly subscription cost ($23.95)
- Limited to 3G connectivity
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Worldwide Coverage | Works with international SIM card |
| 5 Years of Historical Data | Keeps extensive historical location records |
| Option for Extra Bigger Battery | Option to extend battery life with a larger battery |
| Indoor and Outdoor Tracking | Effective in both indoor and outdoor environments |
Technical Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 1.75 x 1.5 x 0.55 inches |
| Weight | 1.26 oz |
| Battery Life | 2-3 days active |
| Connectivity | 3G GPS Tracker |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Price and Subscription | $18.88 device cost + $9.95 monthly subscription |
Jiobit Real-time GPS Tracker: Lightweight Design
The Jiobit Real-time GPS Tracker is a portable and lightweight device, perfect for keeping track of your loved ones. Having just 1.96 x 1.45 x 0.47 inches in size and weighing only 1.76 ounces, it easily attaches to a child's backpack or a pet's collar. Using a combination of cellular, GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth technologies, Jiobit provides accurate and reliable location data indoors and outdoors.
Small Size
The Jiobit tracker is a portable GPS device as small as a cookie, making it perfect for discreet use. Its portable size ensures it won't interfere with your child's playtime or activities. Once attached, your child can continue exploring and having adventures without disruptions while you enjoy knowing their location.
Discreet Tracking
The Jiobit Real-time GPS Tracker's standout feature is its ability to monitor location discreetly. You can easily tuck it into your child's bag. This ensures you always know where they are, helping to reduce stress and provide peace of mind.
Geofencing
The Jiobit’s basic plan allows you to create up to two geofences, or virtual boundaries, to help keep your kids and pets within designated safe zones. If they cross these boundaries, you’ll receive an instant alert, providing an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
- Portable and durable design
- Discreet tracking for kids and pets
- Real-time tracking and updates
- Custom geofences and smart alerts
- SOS mode and 911 emergency dispatch
- Higher initial cost ($89.99)
- Limited battery life (7 days)
- Monthly subscription cost ($8.99)
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Real-time Tracking | Provides continuous location updates |
| Custom Geofences and Smart Alerts | Set virtual boundaries and receive alerts |
| SOS Mode and 911 Emergency Dispatch | Immediate emergency assistance feature |
| Add Trusted Contacts | Option to add contacts who can receive updates |
Technical Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 1.96 x 1.45 x 0.47 inches |
| Weight | 1.76 oz |
| Battery Life | 7 days with constant tracking |
| Connectivity | 4G GPS Tracker |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Price and Subscription | $129.99 device cost + $14.99 monthly subscription |
Optimus 2.0: Budget Portable Tracker
The Optimus 2.0 GPS tracker is another secure option for monitoring the safety of your valuable items or loved ones. It is portable device which has mini size —just 1 x 1.5 x 3 inches—offers discreet, accurate, and real-time tracking.
Powerful and Discrete Tracking
The Optimus 2.0 GPS Tracker's portable size makes it easily hidden, perfect for discreet tracking. Despite its small size, this tracker delivers powerful performance, providing accurate, real-time tracking even in remote areas. It's an ideal choice for reliable monitoring without drawing attention.
Customizable Report Frequency
The Optimus 2.0 GPS Tracker offers customizable frequency reports, allowing you to choose the tracking plan that best fits your needs. This flexibility helps you save money and extend battery life by selecting how often you receive updates. With Optimus 2.0, you get reliable tracking tailored to your preferences.
Best Client Service
The Optimus 2.0 GPS Tracker offers excellent customer service. If you have any issues, email their support team, and you'll receive a response within an hour to help resolve it.
- Portable and discrete design
- Customizable report frequency
- Cost-effective
- Excellent customer service
- Limited to 2-week battery life in active mode
- Monthly subscription cost ($19.95)
- Limited advanced features compared to higher-end models
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost-effective | Affordable price and subscription plan |
| Excellent Motion Sensor | Reliable detection of movement |
| 2-Week Battery Life on Standby Mode | Long battery life when not actively tracking |
| Low Subscription Plan, No Hidden Fee | Transparent pricing without extra charges |
Technical Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 1 x 1.5 x 3 inches |
| Weight | 3.3 oz |
| Battery Life | 2 weeks active battery life |
| Connectivity | 4G GPS Tracker |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Price and Subscription | $17.95 device cost + $19.95 monthly subscription |
Prime Tracking: Portable with No Contract Options
The Prime Tracking Personal Mini GPS Tracker, measuring 1.57 x 1.05 x 3.07 inches, is a reliable option for tracking loved ones or any item. Its portable design makes it versatile for personal and business use, offering dependable tracking for peace of mind.
No Hidden Cost
The Prime Tracking Personal Mini GPS Tracker ensures complete cost transparency with no hidden fees. Enjoy peace of mind knowing your loved ones or valuables are safe without worrying about extra expenses.
SOS Button
The Prime Tracking Personal Mini GPS Tracker includes an SOS button for emergencies. With a simple press, it sends an alert with the exact location to designated contacts, ensuring quick assistance when needed.
Discreet Tracking
The Prime Tracking Personal GPS Tracker provides reliable and discreet tracking, helping you monitor your loved ones or valuables with confidence and peace of mind.
- Decent battery life (2 weeks)
- Affordable price ($29.99)
- No contract or hidden fees
- Coverage in the US, Mexico, and Canada
- Monthly subscription cost ($25)
- Higher monthly fee compared to some models
- Limited advanced features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Decent Battery Life | Up to 2 weeks of active battery life |
| Affordable Price | Competitive pricing at $29.99 |
| No Contract | No long-term commitments |
| No Hidden Fees | Transparent pricing with no extra costs |
| Coverage in US, Mexico, and Canada | Wide geographic coverage |
Technical Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 1.57 x 1.05 x 3.07 inches |
| Weight | 2.4 oz |
| Battery Life | 2 weeks active battery life |
| Connectivity | 4G GPS Tracker |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Price and Subscription | $29.99 device cost + $25 monthly subscription |
Americaloc GL300w: Long Battery Life in a Portable Form
The Americaloc GL300w GPS Tracker is a mini device measuring 2.7 x 1.5 x 0.92 inches with a long battery life, perfect for tracking vehicles, family, assets, and pets. It operates across the US, Canada, and Mexico. Contact the company for use beyond these regions, and they will provide an international SIM card at no extra cost.
Geo Zones
The Americaloc GL300w GPS Tracker features geo zones, allowing you to set virtual boundaries around specific locations. If the tracker moves outside these areas, you'll receive an instant alert, enabling quick action to ensure safety and security.
No Contract
The Americaloc GL300w GPS Tracker offers flexible subscription plans with no contracts. You can easily subscribe or unsubscribe at any time without any penalties or hidden fees, giving you complete control over your tracking needs.
30-Day Refund Guarantee
Suppose you buy an Americaloc GPS tracker and you find any fault or broken GPS tracker you can replace it with or ask for a refund from the company.
- Portable size and lightweight
- Long battery life (2 weeks)
- No contract obligation
- 30-Day Refund Guarantee
- Higher initial cost ($109.90)
- Higher monthly subscription cost ($25)
- Shorter warranty period (1 year)
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Mini and lightweight for easy portability |
| Long Battery Life | Up to 2 weeks of active battery life |
| Lifetime Guarantee | Lifetime guarantee on the device |
| Geo Zones | Alerts when the device leaves a designated area |
| No Contract | No long-term commitment required |
Technical Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 2.7 x 1.5 x 0.92 inches |
| Weight | 2.4 oz |
| Battery Life | 2 weeks active battery life |
| Connectivity | 4G GPS Tracker |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Price and Subscription | $65 device cost + $32monthly subscription |
Amcrest: Easy-to-Carry Design
The Amcrest 4G LTE GPS Tracker is a portable tracking device, measuring 3 x 1.5 x 1 inches. Its small, easy-to-carry design is perfect for discreet tracking, while 4G LTE connectivity provides accurate location updates. It also features an SOS button for added security, making it ideal for those seeking reliable and secure tracking.
Intuitive User Interface
The Amcrest 4G LTE GPS Tracker allows you to track from anywhere, whether through its mobile app or interactive web interface. Both platforms offer an intuitive user experience, providing all the tracking features you need and easy access to detailed location information.
SOS Button
The Amcrest 4G LTE GPS Tracker includes an SOS button for emergency assistance, allowing you to send an instant alert for help when needed.
Geofence
Geofencing capabilities that allow you to set customizable virtual boundaries. If the tracker moves beyond these zones, you'll receive instant alerts, making it perfect for monitoring adventurous individuals or ensuring safety.
- Accurate and reliable location tracking
- Long battery life (2 weeks)
- SOS button for emergencies
- Geofence feature for safety
- IPX5 water-resistant
- Higher initial cost ($52.99)
- Heavier weight (9.1 oz)
- Higher monthly subscription cost ($19.99)
- Limited warranty period (1 year)
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Accurate and Reliable Location Tracking | Delivers precise location updates |
| IPX5 Water-Resistant | Resistant to water splashes and rain |
| Discreet Tracking | Unobtrusive design |
| SOS Button | Sends live location and alerts in emergencies |
| Intuitive User Interface | Easy-to-use web interface and app |
| Geofence | Alerts when the device crosses set boundaries |
Technical Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 3 x 1.5 x 1 inches |
| Weight | 9.1 oz |
| Battery Life | 2 weeks active battery life |
| Connectivity | 4G GPS Tracker |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Price and Subscription | $24.99 device cost + $12.95 monthly subscription (for 30-second update) |
Trak 4G GPS Tracker: Durable and Portable Tracking
Weatherproof
The Trak 4G GPS Tracker is weatherproof, making it perfect for any adventure in any climate. It delivers reliable location updates in all conditions and is ideal for outdoor, indoor, and in-field tracking.
Great Battery Life
The Trak 4G GPS Tracker has an impressive battery life, lasting up to 80 days on a single charge. You can activate it and enjoy uninterrupted tracking for nearly three months without recharging.
Low Monthly Subscriptions
Save money with the Trak 4G GPS Tracker, which offers an affordable subscription plan at just $6.99 per month. It’s a cost-effective choice for reliable GPS tracking, making it a smart option compared to more expensive alternatives.
- Excellent battery life (up to 80 days)
- Affordable monthly subscription ($6.99)
- Weatherproof and durable design
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor tracking
- Slightly bulky design (5.3 oz, 3.2 x 1.7 x 1.2 inches)
- Limited advanced features
- Shorter warranty period (1 year)
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Low Monthly Subscriptions | Affordable at $6.99 per month |
| Excellent Battery Life | Up to 80 days on a single charge |
| Works Indoors and Outdoors | Versatile for various environments |
| Waterproof | Suitable for all weather conditions |
Technical Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 3.2 x 1.7 x 1.2 inches |
| Weight | 5.3 oz |
| Battery Life | Up to 80 days active battery life |
| Connectivity | 4G GPS Tracker |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Price and Subscription | $48.80 device cost + $6.99 monthly subscription |
Logistimatics: Palm-Sized GPS tracker
The Logistimatics Car Charger GPS Tracker is a portable (70 × 53 × 20mm) and reliable tracking device with live audio monitoring. Its small size allows for discreet placement with a person or valuable item.
4G Network Connectivity
The Car Charger GPS Tracker works on 4G cellular networks, ensuring fast and reliable location updates. It works smoothly on Verizon and AT&T networks in the US.
Customized Alerts
Customize your alerts to prioritize only the events that matter to you.
- Affordable monthly subscription
- Reliable 4G connectivity
- Customizable alerts
- Shorter battery life (1 week or more)
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Nice Battery Life | Up to 1 week or more on a single charge |
| Affordable Tracking Solution | Device cost is $69.95 |
| Low Monthly Subscription Cost | Economical ongoing cost |
| Customized Alerts | Ability to set preferences for notifications |
Technical Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 70 × 53 x 20mm |
| Operating Temperature | -40 to 185 F |
| Battery Life | 1 week or more active battery life |
| Connectivity | 4G GPS Tracker |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Price and Subscription | $69.95 |
LandAirSea: Scorch-Sized GPS Tracker
The LandAirSea GPS tracker is a portable 2.25 x 2.25 x 0.8 inches device that fits easily into pockets, backpacks, purses, luggage, cars, bikes, or on pets. It offers real-time tracking in all weather conditions and is fully waterproof, making it suitable for swimmers, boaters, sailors, and anyone involved in water activities.
Built-in Strong Magnet
LandAirSea GPS tracker has a powerful built-in magnet, allowing secure installation on bikes, motorbikes, or cars without the risk of falling.
Long Battery Life
The LandAirSea GPS tracker offers a battery life of up to 2 weeks on a single charge, minimizing the need for frequent recharging.
Interactive Interface
The LandAirSea GPS tracker is compatible with the user-friendly Silver Cloud app, which works on MAC, PC, iPhone, and Android devices.
- Waterproof and weatherproof
- Long battery life (up to 2 weeks)
- Built-in strong magnet for easy attachment
- Compact and discreet design
- Interactive and user-friendly interface
- Higher monthly subscription fee ($19.95)
- Bulkier compared to some smaller trackers
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Long Battery Life | Up to 2 weeks of active battery life, or 6 months on lower frequency update |
| Waterproof and Weatherproof | Ideal for tracking in extreme weather conditions, including water activities |
| Powerful Built-in Magnet | Secure attachment to vehicles or other surfaces |
| Compact Size | Small enough to fit in pockets, bags, or attach to items discreetly |
Technical Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 2.25 x 2.25 x 0.8 inches |
| Weight | 4.8 oz |
| Battery Life | Up to 2 weeks active battery life |
| Connectivity | 4G GPS Tracker |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Price and Subscription | $29.95 device cost + $19.95 monthly subscription |
How to Choose a Portable GPS Tracker?
Price and Monthly Subscription
While GPS trackers are important in today's world, no one wants to disturb their budget. Therefore, a budget-friendly device, as well as a monthly subscription, should always be your priority.
Real-Time Tracking
The main aim of the GPS tracker is to ensure the safety of your loved ones and protect them in case of an emergency. Therefore, always buy a GPS tracker that supports real-time tracking.
Magnetic Mount
The magnetic mount or a GPS tracker with a magnet is crucial. It will ensure that your GPS tracker does not slip away while you have attached it discreetly.
Better Customer Service
Not everyone is tech-friendly, and therefore, they are likely to face some troubles with their GPS tracker sooner or later. In such a case, polite and helpful customer service can be of great assistance.
Battery Life
Long battery life is essential for reliable tracking. Choose GPS trackers that provide extended battery performance to reduce the need for frequent recharges.
User-Friendly Application
User-friendly applications are important because they make it easy to operate your GPS tracker and effectively monitor its data without any hassle.
Frequently Asked Questions
A portable GPS tracker is a compact device that uses satellite signals to determine and track its location. It can be easily carried or attached to objects, vehicles, or people, and it sends real-time location data to a monitoring system or app, allowing users to track its movements.
Portable GPS trackers can be used for a variety of purposes, including monitoring the location of vehicles, pets, and people. They can also be used for asset tracking, fitness tracking, and more. They provide real-time location data, which can be used to improve safety and security, and to optimize operations.
Portable GPS trackers work by using GPS technology to determine the location of the device. The GPS device communicates with GPS satellites to determine its location, and then transmits that information to a server. The server can then be accessed by the user, who can view the location of the device in real-time.
Portable GPS trackers are generally quite accurate, with most devices having an accuracy of within a few meters. However, the accuracy of the device can be affected by factors such as weather, buildings, and other obstructions that may interfere with the GPS signal.
When choosing a portable GPS tracker, it is important to consider features such as battery life, accuracy, size, and ease of use. Other features that may be important include real-time tracking, geofencing, and alerts.
It is generally not legal to use a portable GPS tracker to track someone without their knowledge or consent. In most cases, it is considered a violation of privacy laws. However, there are some exceptions, such as when tracking a child or a pet, or when there is a court order in place.
Final Note
To conclude, we can say that these were some best available options for you. You can find different portable GPS trackers in the market but searching for you is a challenging task. But with proper checklists and knowledge, you can land upon one.
If you want further guidance or assistance in your search for your ideal GPS, keep visiting GPS tracker 247. If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comment section below.