Top 5 Cheap GPS Trackers: Review & Buying Guide

Ever worry about where your valuable things are? Maybe you want to keep an eye on your car or even your pet. In today’s world, knowing the location of something important offers great peace of mind. But when you start looking for a GPS tracking device, you quickly see prices can jump really high. Finding a good, cheap GPS tracking device feels like searching for a needle in a haystack.

Many budget trackers promise the world but deliver poor battery life or inaccurate locations. You want reliable tracking without emptying your wallet. This is a common struggle for everyone from small business owners to everyday families. You need dependability without the hefty price tag, and sorting through confusing features is exhausting.

This post cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what features matter most when buying an affordable tracker. You will learn how to spot the best deals and avoid the costly pitfalls. Keep reading to discover powerful, budget-friendly GPS tracking solutions that truly work for you.

Top Cheap Gps Tracking Device Recommendations

SaleBestseller No. 1

LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker - Made in the USA from Domestic & Imported Parts. Long Battery, Magnetic, Waterproof, Global Tracking. Subscription Required

Premium GPS Tracker — The LandAirSea 54 GPS tracker provides accurate global location, real-time alerts, and geofencing. Easily attaches to vehicles, ATVs, golf carts, or other critical assets.
Track Movements in Real-Time — Track and map (with Google Maps) in real-time on web-based software or our SilverCloud App. Location updates as fast as every 3 seconds with historical playback for up to 1 year.
Powerful & Discreet — The motion-activated GPS tracker will sleep when not in motion for extended periods, preserving the battery life. The ultra-compact design and internal magnet create the ultimate discreet tracker.
Lifetime Warranty — This GPS tracker is built to last. LandAirSea, a USA-based company and pioneer in GPS tracking offers a unconditional lifetime warranty that covers any manufacturing defects in the device encountered during normal use.
Subscription Required — Affordable subscription plans are required for each device. When prepaid, fees start as low as $9.95 a month for 2-year plans. Monthly plans start at $19.95. No contracts, cancel anytime for a hassle-free experience.

Bestseller No. 2

Tracki GPS Tracker for Vehicles – Real-Time 4G LTE Assets & Car Tracking Device with App, Magnetic Mount, Compact Design, Worldwide Coverage – iOS & Android (Subscription Required)

Advanced 4G LTE Mini GPS Tracker - Powerful GPS tracker for vehicles, cars, kids, pets & assets. Real-time unlimited distance tracking with 4G LTE + 3G + 2G bands for full USA & worldwide coverage. International SIM card included. Subscription required per device.
Compact & Hidden Design - Tracki is one of the smallest and lightest mini GPS trackers (1.8×1.6×0.7 in, 1.26 oz). Includes strong magnet, belt clip, lanyard & waterproof cover for hidden tracking devices for cars. Perfect car tracker device hidden for vehicles, trailers & luggage.
Extended Battery & Upgrade Option - Rechargeable battery lasts up to 5 days in real-time mode or 60 days in battery-saver mode. Optional 3500 mAh magnetic box extends life up to 10 months — far longer than typical vehicle trackers. Use as a car GPS tracker or asset GPS tracker.
Smart Multi-Band Technology - Combined 4G + 3G + 2G connection ensures the best coverage, even in remote areas where other 4G-only devices lose signal. Compatible with AT&T & T-Mobile in the USA. Provides accurate alerts for speed, motion & geofence zones.
USA-Based Tech & Lifetime Warranty - Developed by a USA-based GPS tracking company trusted by major logistics and telecom partners worldwide. Includes 24/7 live support and a lifetime warranty for lost or damaged units. Perfect rastreador GPS para carros & GPS para carros escondidos.

SaleBestseller No. 3

GPS Tracker Device for Car and Vehicles: Mini Hidden Magnetic no Subscription Trackers for Tracking Kids Elderly Vehicle pet - Real Time Location Track Devices no Monthly Fee for Android and iPhone

Real-Time Location Tracking with No Monthly Fees: Keep track of what matters most without any hidden costs. This GPS locator uses the SeekTag app to show your item's real-time location on your phone. There are no subscriptions and no SIM card required, making it a cost-effective tracking solution for your auto, motorcycle, truck, or trailer. You can track over a long distance with peace of mind.
Universal Compatibility for Both iOS and Android: Whether you use an iPhone or an Android phone, this smart tracker works seamlessly for everyone. Simply download the free SeekTag application, pair the device via wireless Bluetooth connection, and you're ready to start tracking. It's the perfect personal equipment for families with mixed phone types.
Compact, Durable Design with Multiple Attachments: Despite its powerful tracking capabilities, this device is remarkably small, tiny, and portable. The included magnetic mount securely attaches to metal surfaces, while the keychain allows for easy attachment to dog collars, kid backpacks, or luggage. With an IP65 rating, it's protected against dust and water splashes, ready for any adventure.
Versatile Tracking for Your Valuables, Pets, and People: This isn't just for cars. Use it as a pet tracker to monitor your dogs & cats` location, a child locator for your children's safety, or an item finder for your bags and valuables. Its long range and tiny size make it an incredibly versatile tool for protecting your people and possessions from being lost.
Reliable and Discreet for Long-Term Use: Engineered for reliability, this locator is designed for long-term use. Its efficient power management ensures a long battery life up to 360 days, providing extended tracking without frequent replacement battery. The small and undetectable design allows for discreet placement on your auto or other personal items, offering a reliable security solution.

SaleBestseller No. 4

Konohan 5 Packs Portable GPS Tracking Mobile Tracking Anti Loss Smart Device Key Finder Locator GPS Finders Tracker Device for Pets Dog Cat Wallet Keychain Luggage, Alarm Reminder(Classic)

Quickly Find Items: the key finder locators can be hung on your phones, keys, bags, umbrellas, pets, cats, wallets, purses, luggage and other important items, convenient for you to find them quickly and easily, bringing a lot of convenience to your life; The tracking range is about 15 meters. Note: The package contains a paper instruction manual, please refer to the instruction manual when you use it.
Long Battery Life: adopting battery CR2032 power supply, the standby time of item finders is estimated to be more than 6 months, featuring low power consumption, easy to replace the battery after running out of power
Convenient to Use: download the APP from the user's manual and it will work, the GPS trackers are easy for your operation, and you just need to press the button for a few seconds, then the receiver will sound beeps, after that you can use your cellphone to search and connect to the device, if you lost your phone, you can double press the button, then your phone would alarm
Timely Reminders: when you install these GPS trackers for dogs behind your phones, keys and other things that are easy to lose, they will sound or flash if your keys leave you beyond a certain range, informing you to find the lost items in time, besides they and your phone will alarm together when disconnecting, and this function could be turned off in setting
Practical Presents: when you're scrambling to find your things, this GPS tracking tag is the nice thing you need; No matter whether you use it yourself or send it to your family, elderly parents, and forgetful friends, it will definitely make them feel warm and valued

Bestseller No. 5

Mini GPS Tracker for Vehicles: Tracker Device for Vehicles No Subscription No Monthly Fee Car Tracker Device Hidden Magnetic Real-Time Tracking for Cars Kids Dogs (GF10-07)

Real-Time GPS Tracking: Enjoy precise positioning and real-time location updates directly on your smartphone via our user-friendly app. Stay informed about your device’s exact whereabouts, ensuring peace of mind no matter where you are.
Effortless Setup: Simply insert a valid SIM card (not included), place the gps trackers in your vehicle, and commence real-time monitoring with APP. Choose from update intervals of 30 seconds, 1, 5, or 10 minutes for seamless tracking that fits your needs.
Compact & Portable Design: Measuring only 1.6 x 1.6 x 0.53 inches and weighing just 0.5 ounces, this mini GPS tracker easily slips into pockets, backpacks, or attaches to keychains. Its global GSM compatibility ensures reliable performance across borders, making it ideal for international travel or personal use.
Advanced Anti-Theft Features: Protect your valuables with cutting-edge safety features including vibration alerts, sound monitoring, and electronic fence notifications. This GPS tracker is designed to keep your belongings secure, whether it's your vehicle, equipment, or cherished items.
Strong Magnetic Attachment: With a powerful built-in magnet, installation is a breeze—simply attach the tracker anywhere without the need for additional tools. This versatile vehicle tracker is perfect for various scenarios, including logistics monitoring, fleet management, motorcycle security, and pet tracking.

Bestseller No. 6

ZFSJTAG GPS Tracker for Vehicles, 1PCS Real Time Tracker Device for Vehicles Work with Find My (iOS Only), MINI Magnetic Car Tracker Device Hidden, No Monthly Fee, Waterproof

✅✅【No Subscription Required】This mini car tracker does not require a SIM card, subscription, or monthly fee. Download the Find My application to track your cars, trucks, motorcycles, keys, wallets, suitcases, bicycles, and more. (iOS system only). Easy to use and portable.
✅✅【Real Time Tracking & Precise Positioning】This gps tracker for vehicles allows you to easily connect your vehicle through the "Find My" application (iOS only). No matter where your car is located, you can track and update its precise positioning information in real-time from anywhere in the world.
✅✅【Magnetic Shell & Waterproof 】The vehicle tracker is equipped with a super strong magnetic and waterproof shell, which can be firmly fixed to the bottom of the vehicle or any steel metal surface, and can also be used on rainy days. The encrypted 'lookup' network ensures that location data is not stored on trackers, protecting privacy and security. This car GPS tracker is powered by a CR2032 battery (installed) with a battery life of over 1 year and is easy to replace.
✅✅【GPS Tracker with Alarm】When you want to quickly find a car parked in the parking lot, you can control the alarm sound of the built-in speaker of the vehicle tracker by clicking on the play sound in the mobile application to help you find the car parked in the parking lot.
✅✅【Legacy Reminder】The car gps tracker can also be removed from the magnetic shell to track personal items such as keys, backpacks, wallets, etc. If your personal belongings are hung on the mini gps tracker and the car tracking device is disconnected from your phone's Bluetooth, you will receive an instant notification. When you accidentally leave your bag in the gym or office, the 'legacy reminder' will promptly remind you to retrieve your items.

SaleBestseller No. 7

Mini GPS Tracker for Vehicles, Hidden Tracking Device for Vehicles, Car Tracker No Subscription Work with Find My (iOS Only), Vehicle Tracker with Audio for Kids, Dogs, Key, Luggage, Bag (2)

【Real-time GPS tracker】Our small GPS tracker allows global tracking and location, it can record the location of your things at any time, and find your lost items by making a sound.
【No Subscription】The GPS tracker for vehicles no subscription required or monthly fees. You can use it for a long time with just a one - time purchase.The tracker device also suitable for tracking pets, and can even be used for tracking vehicles, the elderly and children.
【Battery durable】The GPS trackers for cars is battery-powered with a low-power design and a standby time of more than 1 year. Once the battery runs out, it can be replaced.
【Portable & hidden】The tracking device for cars is compact and lightweight, so you can take it with you anywhere.lt can be easily attached to various valuable items such as keys, wallets, backpacks, luggage, etc. lt's well hidden and not easily found by others.
【iOS Only】This GPS tracking device is for iOS only and works with Apple Find My without the need to download an additional app, making it easy and convenient to use.

Bestseller No. 8

Tracki Pro GPS Tracker for Vehicles – Magnetic Waterproof 4G LTE Car Tracker, Long-Life Battery Up to 7 Months, Unlimited Distance, Smart Alerts, Hidden Tracking Device (Subscription Required)

Compact, Undetectable Vehicle Tracker – Tracki Pro is a small GPS tracker with a strong magnet, hiding easily under your car or any metal surface. Includes Screw Mount and Double-Sided Tape. Ideal as an undetectable car tracker device.
Real-Time GPS & Advanced Alerts – Monitor your vehicle anywhere with real-time GPS tracker updates. Get alerts for speed, movement, fence crossing, and battery via Email, SMS, or app. Works with Android, iOS, and browsers.
Long Battery Life & Durable Design – Up to 7 months per charge, 200 days in battery save mode. Waterproof and rugged, perfect for long-term use as a tracking device for cars hidden.
Worldwide Coverage – Supports GPS, Glonass, BDS, LTE CAT4 & CAT1, plus Wi-Fi for indoor tracking. Vehicle tracker functionality works in 180+ countries.
Complete Setup & Accessories – Lifetime warranty, easy out-of-the-box setup. Includes mounts, straps, and harness slots. Great as a rastreador GPS para carros or car tracker device hidden.

The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding the Best Cheap GPS Tracking Device

You want to keep tabs on something important without spending a lot of money. A cheap GPS tracking device can help! These small gadgets use satellites to tell you exactly where something is. This guide helps you pick the right one for your needs.

Key Features to Look For

Even cheap trackers have important features. Look closely at these:

Real-Time Tracking: This is the most important feature. It means you see the tracker’s location update almost instantly on your phone or computer.
Battery Life: How long does the battery last? Some last a few days; others last weeks. Longer life means less charging hassle.
Geofencing: This lets you set a safe zone (like your yard). The device sends you an alert if the tracker leaves that area.
Water Resistance: If you track a pet or an outdoor item, make sure the device can handle rain or splashes. Look for an IP rating (like IP65).
App Quality: Does the tracking app work well? Check reviews. A bad app makes a good tracker useless.

Important Materials and Durability

The outside casing matters for how long the tracker lasts.

Durability Factors

Plastic Casing: Most cheap trackers use durable ABS plastic. This keeps them light and resists minor bumps.
Magnets (if applicable): If you attach the tracker magnetically to a car, ensure the magnets are strong. Weak magnets mean you lose your tracker!
Internal Components: While you cannot see inside, good brands use reliable GPS chips. Cheap components break down faster.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Not all cheap trackers are equal. Some things make a huge difference in performance.

Quality Boosters:

GSM Frequency Support: Make sure the tracker supports the 2G or 4G networks used in your area. Older 2G networks are disappearing in some places.
Accuracy: Good trackers usually offer accuracy within 10–30 feet. If the location jumps around wildly, the quality is low.

Quality Reducers:

Reliance on Wi-Fi/Cell Towers: The best trackers use GPS satellites. If a cheap tracker relies too much on Wi-Fi hotspots for location, it won’t work well in the middle of nowhere.
Hidden Subscription Fees: Some trackers are cheap to buy but require expensive monthly service fees to actually work. Always check the total cost.

User Experience and Common Use Cases

How you plan to use the tracker changes what you should buy.

Simple Use Cases:

Tracking Vehicles: You need a strong magnetic mount and long battery life (since you might not access it daily). Real-time updates are crucial if the car is stolen.
Tracking Pets: Look for a lightweight design that clips easily onto a collar. Water resistance is a must. Battery life needs to be decent, as daily charging is annoying.
Tracking Valuables (Bags/Equipment): A small, discreet device works best here. You might only need to check its location once a week.

Good user experience means the setup is easy. You should be able to activate the device and see its location within minutes of turning it on. If the instructions are confusing, the experience will be frustrating.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cheap GPS Trackers

Q: Do cheap GPS trackers require a monthly fee?

A: Yes, most do. They need a SIM card and cellular data to send the location data to your phone. Check the required monthly or annual service plan before you buy.

Q: How accurate is a cheap GPS tracker?

A: Generally, they are accurate within 10 to 50 feet when they have a clear view of the sky. Accuracy drops significantly indoors.

Q: Can I track the device using just an app?

A: Almost always, yes. Most modern cheap trackers connect to a dedicated smartphone app (for iPhone or Android) where you view the map.

Q: Will a cheap tracker work internationally?

A: Only if the specific model supports the cellular bands used in the country you travel to, and if your service plan covers roaming. Many cheap models only work in the country where they are sold.

Q: How long do the batteries usually last?

A: This varies widely. A device set to update every minute might last one day. A device set to update every few hours can last 1–4 weeks.

Q: Are these trackers easy to hide?

A: Many are small, about the size of a matchbox or smaller. However, very small trackers often have very short battery lives.

Q: What happens if the tracker goes into a tunnel or garage?

A: The tracker loses its satellite signal. It will show the last known location until it reconnects. It cannot update its position underground.

Q: Do I need to buy a separate SIM card?

A: Usually, no. Most cheap trackers come with a pre-installed, activated SIM card. You just pay the service fee to the tracker company.

Q: Can someone else see my tracking information?

A: Only if you share your login details for the tracking app. The data is encrypted and private to your account.

Q: Are cheap trackers reliable for tracking stolen cars?

A: They can be a good first step, but dedicated, hardwired trackers are more reliable for long-term recovery. Cheap trackers rely on battery life and might be easily found and disabled.

Melody Smith

Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.