“Lost pet” is the nightmare scenario, and tracker marketing makes choosing harder than it should be. The honest breakdown:
Bluetooth trackers: close-range recovery
Range: roughly 50–100 m, extended if other people's phones run the same network. Cost: one-time purchase, no subscription. Best for: indoor cats, escapes from home, “I heard the collar bell but can't find him under the deck” situations.
The AeroTag Pro covers this layer — lightweight, waterproof, with live proximity radar on your phone.
GPS trackers: true real-time location
Range: anywhere with cellular coverage, with live maps and geofence alerts. Cost: device plus a monthly SIM subscription. Best for: dogs who bolt, hikes, rural homes, escape-artist cats.
The AeroTrack GPS Collar adds live tracking, safe-zone alerts and activity stats in one collar.
Which one?
| Situation | Pick |
|---|---|
| Indoor cat, occasional window escapes | Bluetooth |
| Dog who pulls on trails | GPS |
| Rural property with open land | GPS |
| Budget-conscious, urban apartment | Bluetooth |
| Maximum safety | Both |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do GPS trackers need a subscription?
Yes — the device borrows the cellular network to send location data. Expect $5–10/month.
How accurate is Bluetooth tracking?
It gives proximity and direction within its range — think 'hot and cold', not a pin on a map.
Are tracker collars heavy for small cats?
Modern units are under 40 g. The AeroTrack is designed for cats and small dogs with a quick-release safety buckle.