This blog was updated on August 26, 2024, with newly tested product information.
Think about a police officer trying to keep track of a suspect in a crowded city. That’s tough without the right tools, right? This is where GPS trackers come in—they’re essential for helping cops stay on top of things. In 2024, the best GPS trackers are small, powerful, and reliable, making them must-haves for law enforcement. These devices help officers track stolen cars, coordinate with their teams, and catch criminals faster. So, why do cops choose these five GPS trackers over others? Let’s take a closer look at what makes them the top picks.
Final Verdict: Best GPS Trackers For Law Enforcement in 2024
Family1st GPS Tracker stands out for its affordability and great value. It offers a long battery life of up to 14 days and works reliably across the U.S., Canada, and more. Family1st is the best choice for law enforcement because of its dependable features and low cost.
Our Top Picks: Best GPS Trackers for Law Enforcement
| Ratings | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Best For | Multi-Use | High-Tech | Versatile | Coordination | Discreet Tracking |
| Cost | $29.95 | $99 | $17.97 | $28.80 | $29.95 |
| Subscription Fee | $19.95/month | $7.99/month | $19.95/month | $6.99/month | $19.95/month |
| Battery Life | 14+ days (1 update/min) | 2-3 days (1-5 updates/min) / 3 months (1 update/day) | 2 weeks | 2 weeks (1-min updates) / 18 months (1 update/day) | 1 week (3-min updates) / 18 months (1 update/day) |
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How Cops Use GPS Tracking
- To surveil, track, and apprehend/recover suspects and stolen assets.
- Coordinate with other teams and their counterparts from other departments.
- With real-time location tracking, cops no longer need to be physically present to tail their suspects.
- Increase performance and reduce costs.
- GPS tracking information works as admissible evidence.
- Avoid the use of police assets for personal use.
- Find the fastest route to the site of emergency or crime.
- Track paroled inmates to ensure they do not violate the terms of their parole.
- Along with the above features, law enforcement also benefits from GPS trackers in saving time and money. The data from these trackers help them optimize their fuel and maintenance costs.
GPS Trackers in Patrol Cars and Air Units
A GPS tracker in patrol cars and air units allows effective civil protection. GPS trailing and tagging can identify the precise location of each automobile in the fleet. It also facilitates the administrators and law enforcers to help coordinate their operations. These GPS devices also monitor other officers to ensure adherence to their designated zones.
Law Enforcement Bodies That Use GPS Tracking Solutions
In the United States, with its vast network of over 17,985 police agencies, several major organizations stand out for their use of GPS tracking solutions. These agencies leverage the technology to improve their operations and effectiveness:
- ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives): The ATF uses GPS tracking to keep tabs on investigative equipment and ensure smooth operation during high-stakes investigations.
- BLM (Bureau of Land Management): With a focus on managing and protecting public lands, the BLM uses GPS trackers to monitor land usage and oversee federal lands efficiently.
- Department of Energy: This department relies on GPS technology to track and secure sensitive materials, as well as to manage critical energy infrastructure.
- FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency): In times of crisis, FEMA uses GPS tracking to coordinate disaster response and manage resources effectively.
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: GPS trackers help the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service keep track of wildlife and protect natural habitats, supporting their conservation efforts.
- U.S. Marshals Service: The U.S. Marshals use GPS solutions to locate and apprehend fugitives, as well as to streamline their operational logistics.
These agencies represent a small but significant portion of the many law enforcement bodies utilizing GPS technology to enhance their missions and operations.
Features Cops Look for in a GPS Tracker
The police cannot use just any tracker; they need tracking devices and solutions that suit their requirements:
- Small in size: So that it can be concealed anywhere easily.
- Long battery life: To enable cops in continuous tracking.
- Built-in magnets or a magnetic case: For easy attachment to various surfaces.
- Sturdy, weatherproof, waterproof, and tamperproof: To ensure all evidence collected is safe.
- Wide coverage: Must offer coverage all over the country and neighboring countries to ensure continuous tracking.
- Cost-effective: As law enforcement is funded by taxpayers, they need a tracking solution that offers the most utility at a reasonable price.
5 Best Law Enforcement GPS Trackers
Family1st Portable GPS Tracker: Multi-Use
The Family1st portable GPS tracker is popular favored by law enforcement, because it’s reliable and affordable. It works across the USA, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, with a battery that lasts over two weeks and provides updates every minute. The tracker includes a 4G SIM, Wi-Fi for indoor use, and can connect with Alexa. It features geofencing to keep track of people within set areas and an SOS button for emergency alerts. It costs $29.95, with a monthly subscription starting at $19.95.
The Family1st Portable GPS Tracker is a budget-friendly option for law enforcement. It costs $29.95 to buy and $19.95 per month to use. It works with Alexa and has features like geofencing and SOS alerts, which help police track people, manage parolees, and keep witnesses safe. Its wide coverage and reliable performance make it a useful tool for police work.
- Affordable price at $29.95
- Low monthly subscription starting at $19.95
- Extensive coverage in multiple regions
- Long battery life (over two weeks)
- Integrated with Alexa
- Geofencing and SOS button features
- Monthly subscription required
- Limited to 4G LTE coverage areas
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Track Assets, Vehicles, Family, Pets | Yes |
| Coverage | USA, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands |
| Cost | $29.95 |
| Monthly Subscription | $19.95 |
| Alexa Integration | Yes |
Tech Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 2.8” x 1.8” x 1.1” |
| Weight | 3.60 Oz |
| Connectivity | 4G LTE |
| Compatibility | USA, Mexico, Canada |
| Battery | 2400 mAh Li-Polymer |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
Invoxia Cellular GPS Tracker: High-Tech
The Invoxia Cellular GPS Tracker is preferred by Police for its advanced features and compact size. It has built-in magnets for easy attachment and long battery life so that it won’t run out of power during extended operations. Priced at $99 with a one-year subscription included, it’s a cost-effective choice for tracking suspects.
The Invoxia Cellular GPS Tracker is cool because it has all these advanced features, and it is small and affordable. It works globally, notifies you about any motion, and the battery lasts a long time. This makes it super useful for police. Plus, it comes with a one-year subscription, which adds even more value to it. It's great to know that you're getting the most out of your money.
- Compact design with built-in magnets
- Global coverage in over 190 countries
- Motion alerts for added security
- One-year subscription included
- Long battery life
- Higher initial cost compared to some other trackers
- Limited battery life with frequent updates
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Small Size | Yes |
| Motion Alerts | Yes |
| Coverage in 190+ Countries | Yes |
| Custom Contacts Alert | Yes |
Battery & Specs
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 1.75″ x 1.6″ x 0.6″ |
| Weight | 1.26 Oz |
| Battery | 3,500 mAh |
| Battery Type | Internal and Rechargeable |
| Battery Life (Active Mode) | 2-3 days (with 1-5 updates per minute) |
| Battery Life (Sleep Mode) | 3 months (with one update per day) |
Optimus 2.0 GPS Tracker: Versatile
The Optimus 2.0 GPS tracker is a popular choice for vehicle tracking, especially with law enforcement. It is waterproof and has a magnetic solid case, so it works well in any weather. The battery lasts up to two weeks, making it great for long stakeouts. It's easy to set up in just a few minutes and can be used to track cars, people, or items. You can see its location in real-time on Google Maps, and it also lets you check the roads or routes someone often uses. It costs $17.97, with a $19.95 monthly subscription.
The Optimus 2.0 GPS Tracker is a durable and easy-to-use tracking device suitable for Law Enforcement use. Its waterproof design and long battery life make it reliable. It allows real-time tracking and viewing of detailed routes, making it a versatile tool for various tracking needs.
- Waterproof with twin magnetic cases
- Two weeks of battery life
- Real-time tracking on Google Maps
- Special routing feature for tracking frequent routes
- No contract or hidden fees
- Monthly subscription required
- Higher initial cost compared to some trackers
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| No Contract or Hidden Fees | Yes |
| Hide and Track | Yes |
| Powerful and Discrete Tracking | Yes |
| Consistent Updates | Yes |
Tech Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 1” x 1.5” x 3” |
| Weight | 3.3 Oz |
| Connectivity | 4G Cellular |
| Battery | Lithium Polymer (2-week battery) |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Coverage | USA and Canada |
Trak-4 GPS Tracker: Coordination
The Trak-4 GPS tracker stands out for its real-time information-sharing feature, allowing cops to easily coordinate by sharing location data. Its compact design fits discreetly in vehicles, assets, or backpacks. The device can send daily reports for up to 18 months with a single charge, making it ideal for long-term tracking. It also offers a web and mobile app compatible with Android and iOS, providing alerts for low battery, geo zone activity, and other customizable incidents. Known for reliable customer service, the Trak-4 is priced at $28.80 with a $6.99 monthly subscription.
The Trak-4 GPS Tracker is a long-lasting device that shares information effectively. It is popular for tracking in different situations due to its easy-to-use app and helpful customer service, making it a reliable solution for short or long-term tracking needs for Law Enforcement.
- Real-time location sharing
- Compact and weatherproof design
- Long battery life (up to 18 months with daily updates)
- Dedicated app for alerts and notifications
- Affordable monthly subscription
- Monthly subscription required
- Limited to 2-week battery life with frequent updates
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location Sharing | Yes |
| Small and Compact Design | Yes |
| Weatherproof Device | Yes |
Battery & Specs
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 2.5” x 1.75” x 1.25” |
| Weight | 3 Oz |
| Battery | 4600 mAh |
| Battery Type | Internal and Rechargeable |
| Battery Life (Active Mode) | 2 weeks (with one-minute updates) |
| Battery Life (Sleep Mode) | 18 months (with one update per day) |
LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker: Discreet Tracking
The LandAirSea 54 is a small, waterproof GPS tracker with a built-in magnet and SIM card, perfect for tracking cars, people, boats, bikes, and more. It has LED lights that can be turned off for secret tracking, which is useful for police work. The device offers real-time updates and alerts for speed, geofences, and battery levels, and it allows location sharing. It also keeps tracking records for up to 18 months, making it helpful for long-term monitoring. The tracker costs $29.95, with subscriptions starting at $19.95 per month for updates every 3 minutes.
The LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker is small, reliable, and easy to mount with its strong magnet. It is waterproof and can handle any weather. It has useful alert systems and can store historical data, making it a good choice for Law Enforcement use. Plus, it is affordable and offers flexible subscription plans, adding to its value.
- Ultra-compact and discreet design
- Reliable 4G LTE tracking
- Strong magnetic mount
- Waterproof and weatherproof
- Historical data storage for 18 months
- Subscription cost varies based on update frequency
- Limited to 1-year warranty
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Ultra-compact Design | Yes |
| Reliable Tracking | Yes |
| Strong Magnetic Mount | Yes |
| Waterproof & Weatherproof | Yes |
| Historical Data Storage | 18 months |
Tech Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 2.25” x 2.25” x 0.8” |
| Weight | 4.8 Oz |
| Connectivity | 4G LTE |
| Compatibility | Full Global Coverage |
| Battery | Lithium-ion |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Frequently Asked Questions
Law enforcement agencies use GPS trackers to assist in criminal investigations, monitor the location of suspects, and track stolen vehicles.
The benefits of using GPS trackers in law enforcement include increased efficiency in investigations, improved officer safety, and the ability to quickly recover stolen property.
These GPS trackers are specifically designed for law enforcement use and have features such as long battery life, small size, and real-time tracking capabilities.
These GPS trackers are available to the general public and can be purchased by anyone.
There are some legal concerns with using GPS trackers in law enforcement, such as privacy concerns and the need for a warrant in certain situations.
In most cases, GPS trackers cannot be used to track individuals without their knowledge or consent, as this may be a violation of privacy laws.
When choosing a GPS tracker for personal use, it's important to consider factors such as battery life, size and portability, accuracy, and real-time tracking capabilities.
Summary: Best Law Enforcement GPS Trackers
| Product Name | Best For |
|---|---|
| Family1st Portable GPS Tracker | Multi-Use |
| Invoxia Cellular GPS Tracker | High-Tech |
| Optimus 2.0 GPS Tracker | Versatile |
| Trak-4 GPS Tracker | Coordination |
| LandAirSea54 | Discreet Tracking |
Takeaway
Cops have a crucial role in sustaining a liveable society. Because of the sensitive nature of their jobs, they are required to act responsibly. GPS tracking solutions help them carry out their duties efficiently. Moreover, these trackers also offer verification of their integrity. That is why it is important for law enforcement to choose their GPS trackers wisely. Our list only includes a few of the trackers available in the market that meet the job requirement. If you are a cop or have used any of the above trackers, let us know your experience in the comments section.