Original SafeWise safety & security research featured in:
Tack GPS Tracker Review
For over 11 years, SafeWise experts have conducted independent research and testing to create unbiased, human reviews. Learn how we test and review.
This budget-friendly GPS tracker is an affordable and versatile option for anyone needing to keep track of their kids, pets, vehicles, or other valuables. Priced between $60 and $80 (depending on if you want the global version), the Tack GPS Tracker provides reliable location tracking with additional features (like its indoor elevation finder) that make it a competitive choice in the market.
Tack GPS was selected as the best budget pick in our first-ever Kids Safety Awards.
Compare Tack GPS pricing and plans
Amazon.com price as of publish date. Read full disclaimer. Info current as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
The Tack GPS tracker is available in two models:
- Standard Tack Tracker: $59.00, works in over 30 countries.
- Global version: $79.00, operates in over 185 countries.
Tack advertises its plans based on monthly costs, but there is no month-to-month plan available. The website says you can choose from quarterly, one-year, or two-year subscriptions, but when I went to the cart, there was no way to pick the quarterly plan. After speaking to Tack GPS, I learned that you can purchase the quarterly plan directly in the companion app.
All Tack GPS plans provide unlimited cellular data and varying lengths of location history, depending on the selected tier—standard or premium. The biggest difference between the plans is the intervals at which you get location updates.
The premium plan includes standard updates every 10 minutes, with the standard plan only giving an update once every hour. Emergency update intervals are either every one or two minutes. Tack also has an Active Mode with updates every five or 10 minutes. Depending on your needs, that could be too long for some families.
Another factor to consider is where you plan to use the tracker. If you're using it in the US, the standard Tack GPS device should meet your needs, but if you're traveling abroad, the global version works in 185 countries. The standard version is still travel-worthy, working in 30 countries.
Tack GPS specs
Image: miniseries
-
Lightweight: 1 oz / 30 grams
-
Compact: 17mm / 0.65 inch thickness
-
Durable: Weather and dust proof with hard exterior case
- Hybrid location technology: GPS, Wi-Fi, and IoT mobile network
- Tri-axis accelerometer
- 30-day battery life
- Location sharing with trusted contacts
- OurSphere mobile app
- One-click SOS alert button
Tack GPS kids tracker features
Advanced indoor tracking: Utilizes Wi-Fi and IoT connectivity in addition to GPS to provide accurate location tracking even in areas with poor cell signals. This makes it suitable for indoor use, including multi-story buildings—a rarity in tracker tech.
Image: Tack GPS
Long battery life: The device boasts a 30-day battery life, thanks to its low-power consumption IoT network.
Compact and durable design: Weighing only one ounce and featuring a weatherproof exterior, the Tack GPS is both lightweight and tough.
Seamless mobile app monitoring: The mobile app allows you to monitor up to 99 devices on a single dashboard. It supports geofencing, safe zones, and location sharing with trusted individuals.
One-click alert: A single press of the SOS button can trigger an instant notification to designated contacts, ensuring quick responses in emergencies.
Multiple tracking modes: Users can switch between power-saving, standard, active, and emergency modes to optimize battery life and tracking accuracy.
Tack GPS tracker drawbacks
While the Tack GPS tracker has many strong points, it does have a few notable drawbacks. Firstly, it lacks two-way talk capability, meaning there is no option for voice communication through the device. This could be a significant limitation for those who want to communicate directly with their child in an emergency.
Additionally, the location updates are limited to a minimum interval of either one or two minutes. While this might be sufficient for many situations, it falls short in scenarios where real-time tracking is crucial.
Lastly, the device has limited wearing options. It comes with a wrist lanyard and no watch-like strap or way to wear it around the neck. This might make it less versatile compared to other trackers that come with various accessories for different attachment methods.
Final word: Tack GPS offers advanced location tracking at an affordable price
The Tack GPS tracker is an excellent budget option for anyone needing reliable location tracking for their kids, pets, or belongings. Its affordability, extensive feature set, and impressive battery life make it a standout choice. While it lacks two-way communication and has limited wearing options, its robust performance and cost-effective subscription plans more than compensate for these minor drawbacks.
For those looking for a versatile and economical tracking solution, the Tack GPS tracker is highly recommended.
How we reviewed Tack GPS
For our Tack review, we compared its features and specs to those of other top kids' GPS trackers. We researched and read reviews to discover as much as possible about this GPS tracker option. Learn more about how we rank and review products on the SafeWise methodology page.
Disclaimers
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. Safewise.com utilizes paid Amazon links.
Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon. This content is provided “as is” and is subject to change or removal at any time.