When it comes to keeping your pet safe, tracking devices like the Apple AirTag and Petcube GPS Tracker might seem like similar solutions. After all, they both track what you need to find, right? So, why not just put an AirTag on your cat or dog’s collar?
However, these devices have very different features and capabilities when it comes to tracking animals. So, let’s break down their pros and cons so you can decide which one suits your needs.
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Content:
- Apple AirTag vs. Petcube GPS Tracker
- How Long Does an AirTag Last
- Is AirTag Waterproof
- Does AirTag Require a Subscription
- What the Experts Say
- Conclusion
Apple AirTag vs. Petcube GPS Tracker
The Apple AirTag wasn’t designed for pets; it’s meant to track things like your keys or wallet. It relies on Bluetooth and Apple’s Find My network, which works great in urban areas with lots of iPhones nearby. But if your pet wanders into a remote area, you’re out of luck.
The Petcube GPS Tracker, on the other hand, was made specifically for pets, it even has a glow-in-the-dark feature for night time. It uses GPS, so it can track your pet in real-time no matter where they go. It also has extra features like geofencing (to alert you if your pet leaves a safe area), activity tracking, and even health monitoring.
Feature Comparison
| Feature/Detail | Apple AirTag | Petcube GPS Tracker |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Track lost items; can be used for pets | Specifically designed for tracking pets |
| Tracking Technology | Bluetooth and Find My network | GPS (Global Positioning System) |
| Real-time Tracking | No | Yes |
| Range | Bluetooth (up to 50 meters or about 160 foot) | Unlimited via GPS |
| Device Compatibility | iOS devices only | iOS and Android |
| Battery Life | Up to 1 year (replaceable CR2032) | Rechargeable; lasts several days per charge |
| Subscription | No | Yes, starting at $5/month |
| Geofencing | No | Yes |
| Activity Tracking | No | Yes |
| Health Monitoring | No | Yes, includes vet chat |
| Water Resistance | IP67 rated (water-resistant) | Water-resistant |
| Size | 31.9 mm (diameter) x 6.2 mm (height) | 60 mm x 25 mm x 20 mm (L x W x H) |
| Weight | 11 grams | 29 grams |
How Long Does an AirTag Last
Apple AirTags have a replaceable battery that lasts up to a year under normal use. While this is convenient, it doesn’t provide real-time tracking. If your dog gets lost, the AirTag’s location updates depend on the presence of nearby iPhones, which can cause delays in locating your pet.
The Petcube GPS Tracker, with its rechargeable battery, lasts several days per charge and provides continuous location updates. This is especially helpful for active pets who wander beyond Bluetooth range.
Is AirTag Waterproof
The AirTag is water-resistant with an IP67 rating, meaning it can withstand being submerged in water up to 1 meter (3.3 feet) deep for 30 minutes. While this is okay for occasional splashes, it may not hold up to a very active dog who loves swimming or rough play. In other words, for the average Labrador parent, this won’t last long.
The Petcube GPS Tracker is also water-resistant, although its exact rating isn’t specified. Its durable design and glow-in-the-dark silicon case make it a better option for outdoor pets who need reliable tracking in various conditions.
Does AirTag Require a Subscription
No, the Apple AirTag does not require a subscription, making it a cost-effective option if you need something to keep track of where your pet is in a pinch. However, its features are limited. THe biggest issue is that it simply can’t track very far.
Put it this way, if I had adopted a feral kitten or pup that tended to hide in the house and make it difficult for me to find me, I might consider an AirTag on their collar. But if I were genuinely concerned about losing them outside, I would rather get a reliable pet GPS tracker.
Of course, the Petcube GPS Tracker requires a subscription starting at $5/month. This fee includes real-time GPS tracking, activity monitoring, customizable geofencing, and 24/7 access to online vet consultations. All of this means a lot more peace of mind.
What the Experts Say
One Reddit user explains the limitations of AirTags for pets: “AirTags are not designed for animal collars, but they are often used this way. Personally, I don’t have a problem with people using AirTags this way, but it’s important that you understand how AirTags work. AirTags work by notifying a nearby Apple device of its location (via Bluetooth). If the dog is not within Bluetooth range of an Apple device, you won’t be notified of its location.”
Dr. George Gallagher, who conducted a study on AirTags for monitoring animals, notes: “Results of this study indicate the use of the AirTag™ devices for monitoring animals is limited… live tracking when the devices… provided a range of .1ha - 5.4ha (0.25 - 13.34 acres) from the true location, depending on the number of iPhones available in the area to provide location information. The fewer the number of iPhones located within the area, the less accurate the location information.”
Conclusion
While the Apple AirTag may work in a pinch for tracking pets in populated areas, it’s far from ideal. In short, its reliance on nearby iPhones and lack of real-time tracking make it difficult, or nearly impossible to track animals who may be roaming far away, escaping, or in more remote areas.
On the other hand, the Petcube GPS Tracker, even though it needs a subscription, offers a suite of features specifically designed for pet safety, including GPS tracking, geofencing, and health monitoring. The long and the short of it is that if you want to really keep an eye on your pets whereabouts, you need a reliable, actual pet tracker.