Home / Definitions / Bluetooth Tracker

Bluetooth Tracker

Vangie Beal
Last Updated May 24, 2021 7:36 am

A bluetooth tracker, also referred to as a key finder or smart tracker, is a small, electronic device used to find misplaced or stolen objects, such as keys, a wallet, or a pet. It uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology to wirelessly connect to your mobile device and transmit data to the device that is attached to the misplaced object through the connection.

The tracker can be placed virtually anywhere, such as on a key ring or within a suitcase or wallet. It will connect to a phone through an app and maintain connection as long as the device is within approximately 200 feet.

If the item attached to the tracker is misplaced, simply press the designated “find” button within the corresponding app, and the tracker will make a loud noise if it is within range to help you find the missing item. If the tracker ventures farther than the Bluetooth connection range, the app will display the last location the tracker was within range on a map. So, a Bluetooth tracker is only useful to find items misplaced within a short distance.

Bluetooth tracker features

A bluetooth tracker can be valuable is you’re prone to losing track of household items such as a purse, wallet, or keys. Common features of a tracker include:

  • A single battery inside the tracker that can sometimes be replaced. If it can’t be replaced, the tracking device will last approximately one year before needing to be discarded

  • A connection range of up to approximately 200 feet

  • Notifications when your device becomes out of connection range with the tracker

  • Sharing capabilities for multiple users to use the same tracker;

Bluetooth tracker vs. GPS tracker

A GPS tracker essentially has the same functions as a Bluetooth tracker, but has unlimited range and is able to track the location of an object anywhere GPS signals are available. If you’re wanting to track a car or anything that would normally be outside of a 200-foot range, a GPS tracker would be a better choice.

A Bluetooth tracker is much cheaper than a GPS tracker, as a GPS tracker has an added monthly cost varying on the coverage plan you need. It uses much more power than a Bluetooth tracker but can be recharged every 1-3 days. The Bluetooth tracking device can be as small as a coin while a GPS tracker is bulkier since it offers more capabilities.

Popular Bluetooth Trackers

Some of the highest-rated Bluetooth trackers are:;

  • Tile

  • Honey Key Finder

  • Chipolo

  • Orbit

  • Cube Shadow