Best GPS Tracker With Magnet

Published date: Last modified on: Ryan Horban
Best GPS Tracker With Magnet

The 8 Best GPS Trackers With a Magnet (Easy Installation)

Looking for a GPS tracker with a magnet?

Great idea. These types of GPS trackers are way easier to install than hardwired trackers. Installation and synching to the app on your phone will take just a few minutes or even less.

Just find a hidden spot under the car, van, or truck, and slap it on. You’ll be good to go.

We put the top 10 magnetic GPS trackers to the test and ranked them based on usability, affordability, and accuracy.

These were the top performers according to our testing.

Let’s get into our reviews.

1. SpaceHawk Vehicle Tracker—Best With Powerful Surface Magnet

Best GPS Tracker For Car

The SpaceHawk was far and away the best magnetic GPS tracker according to our testing.

We attached it and connected to the app in less than 3 minutes, and once we did, it performed better than any other magnetic tracker.

The location was accurate to within a few feet, updates came every few seconds, and we could share a live link with emergency personnel (thankfully, it was just a test!).

It also comes with:

  • Geo-fencing
  • Multiple types of alerts
  • Compact and discreet design
  • A waterproof casing

Here’s something VERY important to consider...

If you’re tracking a cheating spouse, wreckless employee, or new teen driver, you need a tracking device that actually works.

We know that you want something quick and easy, but is it really worth it? What happens if the tracker shows you the wrong location 500 feet away? Or what if, god forbid, your car or company vehicle gets stolen and the location doesn’t update for 5 minutes?

The thief could be in another state by then.

We see a lot of customers here trying to get the quickest and easiest solution, but when push comes to shove, the tracker doesn’t work. The location is off or the updates don’t come quickly enough.

What’s the point of getting a GPS tracker if it doesn’t work? The SpaceHawk isn’t the cheapest model, but it’s worth it for the peace of mind. It’s the best that money can buy. It’ll work when you need it to.

PRODUCT

KEY FEATURES

 

SPECS

AMAZON RATING

  • Built-in magnet

  • Waterproof & compact

  • Fast location updates

  • Long standby mode

  • Google Maps & alerts

  • Battery Life: Up to 3 weeks

  • Size: 2.25 x 2.25 x 0.8 inches

  • Weight: <1 lb

  • Standby Time: 180 days

  • Includes: SIM card

As of 3/29/2024

4.2 Stars | 22,306 Ratings

PROS

CONS

  • Optional long-term battery up to 10 months.

  • Real-time tracking with 4G LTE coverage.

  • Waterproof case for all-weather tracking.

  • Magnet strength may vary on different surfaces.

  • Requires AT&T or T-Mobile coverage in the USA.

  • Initial setup might require technical assistance.

YouTube Video: A Real Customer Experience With SpaceHawk GPS

2. GL300 By SpyTec – Best GPS Tracker Magnetic Mount On Amazon

GL300 GPS Tracker By SpyTec

  • Compact & Portable:Fits cars,trucks,kids,pets,boats,more - anti-theft or location tracker.

  • Global 4G Coverage:Track across North America & worldwide (superior to AirTag).

  • Weatherproof & Magnetic:Securely attaches to vehicles,withstands any weather.

4/5

The SpyTec GL 300 is one of the top-selling magnetic mount GPS trackers on Amazon, and is our runner up in this list.

It’s almost as accurate as the SpaceHawk, and updates came every 5 seconds (on an expensive monthly plan, though!) during testing. 

It’s also about $10 cheaper to buy than the SpaceHawk, too.

Overall, it’s got all of the features you need in a magnetic GPS tracker, and it’s accurate, fast, and simple to use. There’s a reason that it has 4,000 plus positive reviews.

It’s not as accurate as the SpaceHawk, and the coverage area isn’t as wide (we dropped connection quite a bit), but it’s pretty dang good considering the price.

PRODUCT

KEY FEATURES

 

SPECS

AMAZON RATING

  • 5-second updates

  • Portable & compact

  • Adjustable update frequency

  • 4G worldwide coverage

  • Subscription service

  • Battery Life: Up to 13 days

  • Subscription: Starts at $14.95/month

  • Coverage: North America, worldwide

  • Compatibility: iOS & Android

  • Warranty: Lifetime (with subscription)

As of 3/29/2024

4.2 Stars | 5,217 Ratings

 

PROS

CONS

  • Compact design for versatile use (cars, kids, trucks).

  • Global 4G coverage for comprehensive tracking.

  • Historical location data review with 'Time Machine' feature.

  • Requires monthly subscription for data transmission.

  • Additional cost for waterproof magnetic case.

  • Limited to areas with 4G coverage.

Patrick Yandell

Positive Review

Amazon.com Review: March 9, 2024

The one thing I don’t like is that they don’t tell you about the monthly subscription of $35 per device before buying it. So I am only planning on using it if loved ones leave or if I leave for a vacation or something.

John Locke

Negative Review

Amazon.com Review - March 14, 2024

 

Tried to set up? kept saying no to my passwords.? Then I get "contact customer service" with no link to customer service. It's obvious they don't care after they sell it... Buyers beware: spend the money and buy a good one.

Below Is A Real SpyTec Customer Testimonial Via Amazon.com

SpyTec GL300 Amazon Review

3.Optimus 3.0 Mini GPS Tracker

Optimus 3.0 GPS Tracker

  • Live Tracking:See location 24/7 with easy-to-use software.

  • Long Battery:Tracks for weeks on a single charge (1-minute updates).

  • Instant Alerts:Get notified by text/email when they leave areas or speed.

4/5

The Optimus 3.0 Mini GPS tracker is a tiny GPS tracker that you can hide anywhere and your spouse, employees, or teens will never find it. 

We recommend this for tracking fleets, though, because it comes with a lot of features on its subscription plan that you might not need.

One cool thing: The waterproof case is so strong that it can handle going through a carwash (perfect for fleets with dirty trucks).

Overall, this is an accurate and affordable tracker that lasts up to a month on a single charge with 1-minute updates. The only downsides are that you need to buy a separate magnetic case and that the subscription is $29.95/month!

If you need a tiny tracker for fleets that can handle any conditions, this is a great choice. If not, stick to one of the first two options.

PRODUCT

KEY FEATURES

 

SPECS

AMAZON RATING

  • Real-time tracking

  • Flexible subscription discounts

  • Custom instant alerts

  • App for iOS/Android

  • USA and Canada coverage

  • Subscription: From $19.95/month

  • Battery Life: Up to 2 weeks

  • Update Frequency: As fast as 10s

  • Inclusions: SIM and Data Plan

  • Certification: FCC Certified

As of 3/29/2024

4.4 Stars | 1,020 Ratings

PROS

CONS

  • Accurate real-time tracking with powerful magnets.

  • Long battery life up to 1 month.

  • Instant custom alerts and updates via app.

  • Subscription required for functionality.

  • Monthly costs can add up over time.

  • Battery life varies with update frequency.

Carlton

Positive Review

Amazon.com Review: August 1, 2023

I have had other GPS trackers in the past. This one is so easy to get up and running and works really well. So far, so good!

Joe Velasquez

Negative Review

Amazon.com Review - October 7, 2023

I dislike paying for reviews. This product does not have the 5-star reviews listed on Amazon. I purchased this tracker to have peace of mind while my daughter is driving. This tracker is a failure all around. It does not give consistent alerts; the location and speed of the vehicle are reported incorrectly. This product is definitely a waste of money, and the seller should stop paying for reviews. I would recommend that if your looking for a tracker, stay clear of the Optimus 3.0 tracker. I will be returning it immediately.

Check out what real users of the Optimus GPS app say by viewing the reviews on the Google Play Store.

4. Tracki GPS Tracking System – Affordable GPS Tracker For Vehicle Monitoring

Tracki

  • Global Real-Time:See anything anywhere with 4G + 3 bands (worldwide SIM included).

  • Tiny & Tough:Discreet 1.8oz device with strong magnet and waterproof case.

  • Long Battery Life:Up to 60 days,with options for even longer (sold separately).

4/5

Tracki is the most popular name in vehicle monitoring these days, and they are the #1 selling Amazon GPS tracker.

If you’re looking for the best “bang for your buck” magnetic vehicle tracker, this is it. If we had to guess, we’d say that 80% of our customers end up buying Tracki.

That doesn’t mean it’s the best, though. It’s kind of like the McDonald’s of vehicle tracking: we all know it’s not good for us, but we go there anyway.

Let’s cover some of the good stuff first.

Tracki is a lightweight and tiny GPS tracker for vehicles and assets that lasts up to 10 months in battery saver mode. And it’s dirt cheap to buy and get connected. It’s about $10 for the device, which is basically free.

So, it gets the job done, so to speak.

Now for the downsides...

It’s cheap for a reason. This is not the type of GPS tracker you want when your car, truck, bike, or big boy toy gets stolen. And it’s definitely not the type of tracker you want when you need to make sure your teen driver is safe.

Updates are slow, and the location isn’t very accurate (and that’s being generous).

You buy cheap, you get cheap. That’s all we’ll say.

If you just want to see if your husband really is at work when he says he is, then it’s fine. Grab it and save a few bucks. But if you’re serious about tracking a spouse, employee, or teen, or if you want to keep your assets safe, we don’t recommend it. It won’t work when you need it to. There are thousands of negative reviews complaining about how they couldn’t find their stolen car or track anything when they needed it the most.

PRODUCT

KEY FEATURES

 

SPECS

AMAZON RATING

  • Unlimited distance tracking

  • 4G LTE + 3 Bands

  • Smallest & lightest

  • Up to 5-years history

  • Live customer support 24/7

  • Size: 1.8x1.6x0.7in

  • Weight: 1.26 oz

  • Battery Life: 2-5 days, 60 days saver

  • Subscription: From $9.95/month

  • Warranty: Lifetime

As of 3/29/2024

4.1 Stars | 45,071 Ratings

PROS

CONS

  • Advanced tracking with up to 5 years of history.

  • Extremely compact and lightweight for discreet use.

  • Global coverage with low-cost plans from $9.95/month.

  • Monthly subscription required for tracking.

  • Battery life of 5 days requires frequent charging.

  • Initial cost plus subscription can add up.

Ollie L

Positive Review

Amazon.com Review: April 1, 2024

I use this to track my bicycle. I really appreciate the geofence function. Customer service is top-notch too; Tracki customer service was very helpful in responding to my queries quickly. I would highly recommend this product and company.

Trenecia Logan

Negative Review

Amazon.com Review: April 1, 2024

The product would actually be okay if it worked. It keeps getting stuck and stays stuck for hours, like 4,5 hours or longer, which makes it useless!!

See what American AF Dumpsters had to say about Tracki in their YouTube review

5.Spark Nano 7 By Brickhouse Security: The Best Personal GPS Tracker & Device To Locate Cars

Spark Nano 7 By Brickhouse Security

  • Track Anywhere:Seamless 4G coverage across North America,Mexico,and Canada.

  • Hidden & Discreet:Magnetic mini device easily attaches to any vehicle for theft protection.

  • Weatherproof & Durable:Works great in cars,trucks,motorcycles,and more.

4.5/5

The Spark Nano 7 by Brickhouse Security is a great mini tracker that’s perfect for tracking just one car or motorcycle.

Brickhouse is one of the best names in the game, and they’ve got great customer support and technology.

We loved how easy the app was to use and the fact that we got 30 days of location history. If you’re tracking a teen driver or suspect your spouse is cheating, it’ll be great to see where they’ve been over the last month.

The magnetic tracker is strong, durable, and waterproof, so you won’t have to worry about it falling off or getting destroyed in inclement weather.

It’s nothing special, and the subscription is a bit expensive considering it doesn’t have any standout features. But if you’re looking for a proven name in the industry, it’s not a bad choice.

PRODUCT

KEY FEATURES

 

SPECS

AMAZON RATING

  • Full NA 4G LTE coverage

  • 60-second updates

  • Built-in panic button

  • Versatile monitoring

  • User-friendly app

  • Coverage: U.S., Mexico, Canada

  • Battery Life: 7 days average

  • Accuracy: 8.2 feet

  • Use Cases: Assets, loved ones

  • Support: Lifetime technical

As of 3/29/2024

4.5 Stars | 437Ratings

PROS

CONS

  • Waterproof case ensures durability in all conditions.

  • Real-time monitoring with comprehensive tracking features.

  • Flexible subscription plans starting at $17.99/month.

  • Battery life limited to 6 days with 1-minute updates.

  • Monthly subscription required, starting at $29.95.

  • Heavier than some other models at 3.3 oz.

Devin

Positive Review

Amazon.com Review: March 28, 2024

So far I am satisfied not only with the product and its easy to follow instructions but also the customer service that was provided and super helpful.
My rep Mervin was quick to answer all of my questions and assisted me with other inquiries that I had as well and they were handled within a matter of minutes. The device is activated and working and I check it everyday and it seems to be working flawlessly.

Nak

Negative Review

Amazon.com Review: March 28, 2024

0 stars. Open the Amazon box, and there's a card on the outside of the product box that says "Activate now.". I went to the website with my phone, tablet, and desktop. I got through step 1, putting in my name, email, and phone number. Go to step 2 to put in the product IMEI # and... nothing. It just sat there. I opened up the product box and read the directions. I get the app on my phone, which, by the way, has less than 4 stars. Now I see why. I got through step 1, and that was it. I get on the chat box with someone online. She said to use Chrome or Firefox. Did that, so... returned. I'm not going to mess around.

6. Family1st LTE: Best Pocket-Sized GPS Tracker

Family1st Portable GPS Tracker

  • Live Tracking:See location every 5 seconds with no delays (4G LTE).

  • 2-Week Battery:Stay connected without frequent recharging.

  • Hidden & Portable:No lights,no noise,fit in backpacks & cars.

4/5

Family1st is a small GPS tracking device that’s perfect for tracking children, spouses, and elderly family members because it provides granular details about car speed, location, and movement.

You can set up geo-fences (safe zones) and receive multiple types of alerts whenever a car or individual leaves those locations.

But it takes things a step further too. It has speed notifications and even speed bands that change color according to how fast someone is driving. It even has trip replays so you can see how the driver was behaving during the day.

Unfortunately, the company that supports the real-time tracking for vehicle surveillance does not provide phone support, and the technical support team is very slow to respond to inquiries (often 24-48 hours). Family 1st GPS costs $28.95, and the device offers a 6-month battery life when in standby mode. Please be advised this is not a tracker with no monthly fee as it is advertised in some places on their website. It requires a data plan. Those go up to $39.95 per month.

PROS

CONS

  • Affordable data plans as low as $15.95/month.

  • Up to 2 weeks of battery life on standby.

  • Compact and easy to hide, measuring 2.8" x 1.8" x 1.1".

  • Subscription required, adding ongoing costs.

  • Slow email tech support response, taking 24-48 hours.

  • Active battery life limited to 7-10 days.Active battery life limited to 7-10 days.

Matt Blan

Positive Review

Amazon.com Review: February 21, 2024

I bought the product to keep track of my vehicle as it is a loaner. I only had to recharge the device about once every 3 months. I have had to get ahold of customer service for several different reasons unrelated to the product. They provided me with the best customer service that I have ever had. I would recommend their products and service to anyone!!! Thank you again Family 1st

LisaR

Negative Review

Amazon.com Review: March 10, 2024

I worked for about 4 to 5 days before quitting. I charged it overnight, but the device still would not turn on. Was completely dead. Ended up returning. I would not recommend it. You can't put it anywhere hidden without it losing signal.

7. Amcrest GL300GPS For Cars

Amcrest GL300W GPS Tracker

  • Track Anything:Cars,teens,pets,or valuables (USA,Canada,Mexico only).

  • Long Battery Life:Up to 14 days on a single charge (varies with update speed).

  • Smart Alerts:Get notified when they enter or leave areas,overspeed,or stop.

4.5/5

Amcrest hidden GPS tracker is small, portable, and ideal for someone looking for a durable solution to monitor a car, kids, or mobile assets.

It has some of the best alert features that we tested, including speed notifications, harsh braking notifications, and proximity alerts.

During testing, the battery lasted several weeks, and the customer support was quick to solve issues for us.

Overall, it was pretty solid considering the price. Just nothing special.

PRODUCT

KEY FEATURES

 

SPECS

AMAZON RATING

  • Compact 4G GPS tracker

  • Real-time tracking

  • Custom geo-fencing

  • Extended battery life

  • Lifetime support

  • Update Frequency: 30s to 1s

  • Subscription: Starts at $19.99/month

  • Battery Life: 10-14+ days

  • Coverage: USA, Canada, Mexico

  • Includes: Weatherproof case

As of 3/29/2024

4.3 Stars | 1965 Ratings

PROS

CONS

  • Rapid 4G LTE tracking updates as fast as 5 seconds.

  • Long battery life, lasting 10-14+ days on 60-second updates.

  • Accessible via desktop and smartphone app for convenience.

  • Heavy for its size, may affect placement flexibility.

  • Limited battery life with frequent location updates.

  • Some users may find the setup process challenging.

Kathy D

Positive Review

Amazon.com Review: October 11, 2023

Other than a better way to keep it charged, it works well. I wish it had the option to remove the battery and just plug it into the car's power somewhere all the time. Keeping a Li-Ion battery plugged in all the time ruins it eventually.

Jake

Negative Review

Amazon.com Review: January 13, 2024

Does not give accurate readings. You’ll just see scribbles on a map that literally don’t make any sense and are impossible

8. LandAirSea 4G GPS Tracker: Best For Real-Time Vehicle Surveillance

LandAirSea 54

  • Unbeatable Battery Life:Lasts longer than any competitor,ensuring reliable tracking.

  • Super Strong Magnet:Discreet attachment to vehicles with the strongest magnet available.

  • Track Multiple Devices:Manage all trackers with one account (subscriptions required).

4/5

The LandAirSea 4G GPS tracker is our favorite tracker for covert surveillance on a person. It’s not really the best magnetic GPS tracker, but if you want to stick something in someone’s pocket, attach it to their shirt (for elderly or special needs family members), or hide it in their backpack, this is the perfect tracker.

It’s got fast alerts and accurate real-time location updates. It can fit right in a pocket, on a shirt, in a backpack, under a seat, or anywhere you think you can hide it.

This means it is easy to monitor your child as they walk to school, teen drivers as they travel, or employees who work in the field. 

Bonus: LandAirSea also has the best customer support, so it’s even better for tracking children and the elderly. If anything ever happens, there’s a support team waiting to help you find them.

PRODUCT

KEY FEATURES

 

SPECS

AMAZON RATING

  • Highly rated on Amazon

  • User-friendly SilverCloud app

  • Compact design

  • Power Save Mode

  • Versatile vehicle/asset tracking

  • Dimensions: 2.275" Diameter, 0.945" Height

  • Battery Life: 6 months (Power Save)

  • Battery Type: Rechargeable Li-On, 1500mAh

  • Operating Temp: -40° to 60°C

  • Subscription: From $19.95/month

As of 3/29/2024

4.2 Stars | 22,306 Ratings

PROS

CONS

  • Offers real-time tracking with 4G LTE and satellite.

  • Up to 6 months battery life in "Low Power Mode".

  • Durable, waterproof design with built-in magnet mount.

  • Initial cost of $29.95, plus ongoing subscription fees.

  • Battery life varies significantly based on update settings.

  • Requires monthly subscription, starting at $19.95.

Read A Real Customer Experience With LandAirSea GPS Was Gathered From Amazon.com Below On 9/15/23

LandAirSea GPS 54 Amazon Review

Steven P

Positive Review

Amazon.com Review: March 27, 2024

I have an RV rental business, and I have these in all of my rentals. I would not feel comfortable operating and renting without these. There are lots of accessories for the diversity of the applications. I love this thing and will forever be a customer. I run with 8 of these units and love every bit of it. Even the variety of plans and pricing. They thought of everything. Thank you!!! LANDAIRSEA

Lavonda Feaster

Negative Review

Amazon.com Review:March 28, 2024

I tried to pay for package with both my credit cards, but it would not go true They say it has to be in US dollars I ordered from all around the world and never had any issues but this don't make sense

GPS Tracker With Magnet

Detecting a Magnetic GPS Tracking Device on Your Car

So you think there is a GPS tracking device on your car, now what? 

The first thing you need to do is scan your car thoroughly. Make sure to give it a thorough lookover and check the most common hiding spots.

Some of the most common hiding spots are:

  • Under the Car: Many GPS trackers attach here using a magnetic mount.
  • OBDII Port: This is a common spot for trackers that’s right under your steering wheel.
  • Beneath The Seats or Trunk: Grab a flashlight and look under the seats and in the trunk.

Additional Areas to Inspect:

  • The glove box
  • The center console compartment
  • Inside the dashboard (consider a professional inspection)
  • On your car’s bumper

If you can’t find one manually, you can get what’s called a GPS detector. These devices will go haywire if they sense a GPS detector. They’re kind of like a metal detector.

Always remember that unauthorized tracking infringes on privacy rights and is illegal. If you suspect someone is tracking you, contact the authorities.

However, law enforcement can use them legally under certain circumstances. The best course of action? Stay vigilant and inspect your vehicle regularly. If you value your privacy, it’s worth taking a few minutes to check these spots. Here is an article that goes into where to hide a GPS tracker on a car in much more detail.

Where To Hide A GPS Tracker On A Car

Legal and Ethical Considerations of Using a GPS Tracker with Magnet

If you’re considering tracking your teen driver, child, spouse, or employees, it’s important to use GPS trackers responsibly and within legal boundaries. Different regions have varying laws about tracking vehicles or people without consent. So, always check local laws before using such a device. Remember, using a GPS tracker to monitor someone without their knowledge or consent can be illegal and unethical.

As a rule of thumb, if you own the vehicle, it should be fine to track it. Again, it depends.

You should be able to use magnetic GPS trackers for your vehicles or company fleet, but just make sure to brush up on the law first. 

For example, if you’re an employer tracking company vehicles, ensure your employees are aware and consent to being tracked. This can be done with a simple GPS tracking policy. Transparency is key to maintaining trust and ethical integrity. Also, if you’re using these trackers for personal reasons, consider the implications on personal relationships and privacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do All GPS Trackers Have Magnets?

No, only some offer this feature. GPS asset trackers such as SpaceHawk and LandAirSea GPS 54 come equipped with a built-in magnetic mount. Others such as Tracki and SpyTec GL300 can be securely placed inside a magnetic, waterproof case. How do they work? With the help of satellites, these devices can determine your car’s location and update this data every 3 seconds. This information is swiftly sent to a remote server, refined, and then displayed on mapping platforms like Google Earth. The best part? This entire process, from locating to displaying, happens almost instantly. So, with a magnetic GPS tracker on your car, you can keep tabs on its location anytime, anywhere!

Is It Legal To Use A GPS Tracking Device?

Yes, GPS tracking devices, including those with magnets, are 100% legal to purchase and use. However, how you use them determines their legality. For instance, using a GPS tracker on a vehicle or asset you own is typically legal. This includes tracking company vehicles in a business setting. But it’s crucial to inform employees about the trackers in their vehicles. Remember, consent plays a big role in legal usage.

On the other hand, using these devices to track someone without their consent can be illegal. This is especially true in personal contexts, like tracking a spouse’s car. Such actions can invade privacy and lead to legal consequences. Always check local laws to understand the specifics of legal GPS tracking. While owning and using a GPS tracker is legal, always ensure your usage complies with legal and ethical standards.

For more information on GPS tracking laws, please visit LinkedIn.com

Will A Magnetic GPS Tracker Fall Off My Car?

No! Magnetic trackers are engineered with powerful neodymium magnets so they can securely attach to your car. If you place a hidden magnetic GPS tracking device under your vehicle, it will not fall off.

Do Magnets Interfere With GPS?

GPS technology uses radio waves from satellites orbiting the earth to function, and therefore, your asset GPS tracker will not be affected by magnets. However, certain situations or conditions can cause interference on a microGPS. Some of these include tall buildings that create urban canyon environments, parking underground, or driving in a parking structure that is surrounded by concrete where the fleet GPS tracker can’t get a line of sight to the sky. In these scenarios, the structures may block the radio waves and negatively impact the signal strength.

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