Different Types of GPS Devices for Vehicle Tracking. Know the best suitable GPS device for your needs.

GPS devices are in the market for a long time, they come in different sizes, shapes, additional functionalities, and prices. In this blog post, we will discuss different types of GPS devices that are used for vehicle tracking. Along with we will share the pros, cons, and best use cases for each type of device to help you to decide the best device for your requirements.

OBD GPS devices are GPS devices that are designed to be plugged into the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) port of a vehicle. The OBD port is typically located underneath the steering wheel and provides access to the vehicle’s computer system.This port is used by mechanics to diagnose and troubleshoot issues with the car’s engine and other systems. OBD-II GPS trackers draw power from the car’s battery and can be used to track the car’s location, speed, fuel usage, and other information.

One of the benefits of OBD-II GPS trackers is that they are easy to install. They don’t require any wiring or installation expertise, and they can be removed quickly and easily. OBD-II GPS trackers are also relatively inexpensive compared to other types of GPS tracking devices.

Pros:

• Easy to install and use
• Real-time location tracking
• Can provide information about vehicle speed, fuel consumption, and engine performance

Cons:

• Limited to vehicles with an OBD port
• May not be as accurate as other types of GPS devices
• Can drain the vehicle’s battery if left plugged in for long periods of time
• Not as discreet as Hardwire GPS trackers, as they need to be plugged into the OBD-II port, which can be visible.

Best Use Case: OBD GPS devices are best suited for fleet management, car rental services, car dealership, and vehicle tracking applications. They are also useful for individual vehicle owners who want to monitor the location of their vehicles in real time.

Hardwired GPS trackers are installed directly into the car’s electrical system, making them a permanent fixture in the vehicle. These devices are typically small and discreet, and they can be installed under the dashboard or behind interior panels.These devices are more difficult to install than OBD-II GPS trackers, but they offer greater accuracy and reliability. Hardwired GPS trackers draw power from the car’s battery, which means they can operate continuously without needing to be recharged.

Pros:

• More accurate than OBD GPS devices
• Can be installed on any vehicle
• Does not require a battery to operate
• The devices are tamper-proof, which means they cannot be easily removed or disabled

Cons:

• More difficult to install compared to OBD GPS devices
• Requires professional installation
• Does not provide information about vehicle performance

Best Use Case: Wired GPS devices are best suited for commercial trucking companies, power sports dealerships, and other automotive dealershipsthat want a more accurate and reliable GPS tracking solution. In our suggestion, it may be not suitable for individuals who want to track their personal vehicles.

Battery-powered GPS devices are GPS devices that are powered by batteries. They are designed to be portable and can be easily carried around.Portable GPS trackers are small, battery-powered devices that can be placed anywhere in a vehicle. They can be placed in a glove compartment, under a seat, or even in a backpack or purse. They are used to track location and movement.

Pros:

• Small and easy to use
• No need for installation or professional setup
• Can be used for a variety of purposes
• Can provide real-time location updates
• Can be used to track personal safety or security

Cons:

• Limited battery life
• May require cellular or Wi-Fi connection
• Limited functionality beyond location tracking
• Can be expensive for high-quality models
• Not recommended for continuous location tracking requirements like Fleet Management

Best Use Case: Battery-powered GPS devices are best suited for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, runners, and cyclists who want to track their location and navigation through remote areas. It’s also used by heavy machinery rental or other asset rental service providers.

Solar Powered GPS trackers come with inbuilt solar panels. It’s getting popularity nowadays considering its low maintenance and easy-to-install process as they operate similarly to battery-powered GPS devices. They are designed to be used in an outdoor environment where access to a power source may be limited. This is the best suitable device for Recreational Vehicles and Trailers.

Are still confused about which is best suitable for your requirement, then contact our telematics experts who can guide you to get the best GPS tracker for you.