When choosing between a GPS and Bluetooth asset tracker, consider the required range and purpose. GPS trackers are suitable for long-distance, real-time tracking, while Bluetooth trackers are better for short-range, item-finding within a limited area. GPS uses satellite and cellular networks for broad coverage, while Bluetooth relies on proximity to a smartphone or other BLE device.
GPS
Trackers:
Range:
Offers
global coverage via satellite and cellular networks.
Real-time
tracking:
Provides
constant location updates, ideal for monitoring assets in motion or across vast
distances.
Power
Consumption:
GPS consumes
more power, potentially requiring more frequent charging or larger batteries.
Cost:
May have
higher initial and ongoing costs due to hardware and potentially cellular data
usage.
Examples:
Vehicles,
pets, valuable assets needing continuous monitoring.
Bluetooth
Trackers:
Range:
Limited to a
few meters or up to a few hundred feet, depending on the technology and
environment.
Proximity-based:
Requires
close proximity to a paired smartphone or other Bluetooth device for tracking.
Battery
Life:
Generally
consumes less power, offering longer battery life.
Cost:
Typically
more affordable than GPS trackers, especially for basic functionality.
Examples:
Keys,
wallets, luggage, or other items that need to be located within a limited area.
Hybrid
Trackers:
Some
trackers combine GPS and Bluetooth technologies to offer both long-range and
short-range tracking capabilities.
For example,
a tracker might use GPS for initial location and then switch to Bluetooth when
within a closer range.
In
summary:
Choose
GPS: if you need to
track assets over long distances and require real-time updates.
Choose
Bluetooth: if you
need to locate items within a limited area and prioritize low power consumption
and cost.
Consider
hybrid options: if
you need both long-range and short-range tracking capabilities.