Types of GPS Trackers: OBD, Magnetic, Hardwired & More

Ever wondered how some people can track a car, a kid, or even a stolen tool, right from their phone?

It’s not magic. It’s GPS tracking.

But here’s the truth: not all GPS trackers work the same and picking the wrong one can lead to dead batteries, weak signals, or missing location data when it matters most.

Whether you're a fleet manager, a concerned parent, track valuable assets, or just want to protect what matters most. Understanding the types of GPS tracking devices is the first step, because the right GPS tracker makes all the difference.

I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t through real-world experience and years of hands-on testing. In this guide, you’ll learn:

• The most common types of GPS trackers (OBD, hardwired, magnetic, and wearable)
• Who they’re best for and what to avoid
• Side by side comparison and hidden installation tips
• How to pick the right tracker for your car, family, or business 
• By the end, you’ll know exactly which GPS tracker fits your needs and how to use it with confidence.

What Is a GPS Tracker?

A GPS tracker is a small electronic device that shows you where something is  like a car, person, pet, or valuable item.

It works by using the Global Positioning System (GPS) to find the device’s exact location, then sends that data over a network (like 4G, Wi-Fi, or satellite) so you can see live location data from satellites to your phone or computer, anytime, anywhere.

There are two main ways GPS tracking works:

• Real-time tracking: Shows you the exact location as it moves, second by second.
• Passive tracking: Stores the location history and uploads it later.

I’ve used and worked with dozens of GPS trackers in real-world situations and let me tell you, not all GPS trackers are the same.

• Some are made for quick plug-and-play installs.
• Others are better for hidden tracking, or even wearable use.
• What works for a fleet manager won’t always work for a parent or pet owner.

That’s why choosing the right type of tracker matters and that’s exactly what we’ll break down next.

New to GPS tech? 👉 Learn how GPS trackers work in simple terms →

The 4 Main Types of GPS Trackers

All GPS trackers share one goal- location tracking, but the way they’re built, powered, and used can be completely different.

To help you make the right choice, here are the four most trusted GPS tracker types, each designed for a specific kind of use:

1. OBD GPS Trackers 
2. Hardwired GPS Trackers 
3. Magnetic GPS Trackers 
4. Wearable & Portable Trackers 

Each one has its own strengths, let’s explore them one by one.

What is an OBD GPS tracker?

An OBD GPS tracker is a plug-and-play device that connects to your vehicle’s OBD-II port, usually found under the dashboard, near the steering wheel.

Once plugged in, it starts sending live location data, speed, and engine health to your smartphone app.

Features:

• Quick-connect design- Installs in seconds, no tools or wiring needed
• Powered by your vehicle - no charging needed
• Sends live updates using 4G or LTE networks
• Pairs with mobile apps for tracking and alerts
• Some models offer trip history, driving behavior reports, and engine diagnostics

Pros:

• Super easy to install and remove
• Reliable live location visibility
• Often includes driving data and speed alerts
• Perfect for non-tech-savvy users

Cons:

• Can be unplugged easily by someone who knows where to look
• Only works on vehicles with an OBD-II port (1996 or newer)

Best for:

• Parents keeping an eye on teen drivers
• Small business owners managing a fleet
• Rideshare and delivery drivers
• Anyone who wants quick, reliable vehicle tracking without hardwiring

👉Shop OBD plug-in GPS Trackers for Cars and Teen Drivers →

Or Need A Guide? 👉See The Full Comparison On The Best OBD Tracker

What Is a Hardwired GPS Tracker?

A hardwired GPS tracker is a location-tracking device that connects directly to a power source, such as a vehicle battery, fuse box, or any powered equipment like generators, trailers, boats, or heavy machinery.

Because it pulls power directly from the source, it stays on 24/7 and doesn’t rely on built-in batteries. So it is perfect for long-term or remote tracking where manual charging isn’t practical.

Where it connects:

• Battery terminals or ignition switch wire
• Fuse box (using a fuse tap or circuit adapter)
• Some models include relay kill switch wiring for remote engine shutoff

Pros:

• Always powered, no recharging needed
• Completely hidden inside the vehicle
• Optional kill switch feature for theft prevention
• Great for 24/7 tracking and tamper resistance

Cons:

• Requires professional installation or wiring knowledge
• Not ideal for quick swap or temporary use

Best for:

• Fleet managers tracking multiple vehicles
• Business owners protecting high-value equipments
• Car owners in theft-prone areas
• Users who want a hidden GPS tracker

Looking for your Van or Truck?👉 Explore our Hardwired GPS tracker With Kill Switch →

What Is a Magnetic GPS Tracker?

A magnetic GPS tracker is a small, self-powered device that sticks to any metal surface using a built-in magnet or inside the toolbox. It’s made for quick, portable tracking with no wiring, no tools, and no setup needed.

Most models work right out of the box. Just charge it, place it, and start tracking in real time or review location history later.

Common Placement Spots:

• Under the vehicle chassis, inside the glove box, behind bumpers or in wheel wells for a vehicle.
• Attached to metal frames of trailers or containers or in equipment panels for covert asset tracking
• Inside the tool box, luggage or backpack

Key Features

• Strong magnetic base for secure attachment
• Works in Live monitoring or passive mode
• Rechargeable GPS unit with extended standby capability
• Weatherproof or waterproof options for outdoor use

Pros:

• Portable and wireless, zero-setup needed 
• Easy to hide for covert tracking
• Works with cars, trailers, boats, and even backpacks
• Ideal for short-term surveillance or temporary monitoring

Cons:

• Battery life is limited (days to weeks)
• Needs manual recharging or battery swaps
• May lose signal if placed inside heavy metal enclosures

Best for:

• Private investigators, law enforcement, or personal safety
• Concerned parents monitoring teen driving
• Business owners tracking assets or rental equipment
• Anyone needing a hidden GPS tracker for vehicles or valuables

👉Browse magnetic GPS trackers for covert, portable use →

Still Not Sure? 👉Compare the best magnetic GPS trackers for covert vehicle use→

What is a wearable or portable GPS tracker?

A wearable  tracker is a compact GPS unit designed for mobility and recharge cycles that can be worn on the wrist, clipped to clothing, or placed in a backpack, pet collar, or gear bag. It’s made for personal safety, live location sharing, and fast alerts just right from your phone.

These trackers are lightweight, discreet, and built for on-the-go use.

Common Use Placements:

I've recommended these devices in hundreds of safety-focused setups, including:

• Clipped to a child’s backpack
• Attached to a senior’s belt or lanyard
• Worn as a smartwatch
• Attached to pet collars or mobility devices
• Hidden in a toolkit, laptop bag, or musical instrument case
• Worn by delivery staff or lone workers on shift

Key Features:

• Lightweight and easy to carry or wear
• Live location feed accessible through your phone
• Geofencing with instant alerts if someone leaves a safe zone
• Voice monitoring or 2-way calling in some models
• SOS button for emergencies (on select devices)

Pros:

• Great for personal safety and peace of mind
• Can alert you instantly if someone goes off-route
• Some models include call or listen-in features
• Compact and kid-friendly or senior-safe designs

Cons:

• Limited battery life, needs regular recharging
• May be removed by the user (unless hidden in bag)
• Not ideal for vehicle or equipment tracking

Best For:

• Parents tracking kids to and from school
• Caregivers monitoring elderly family members
• Pet owners who want backup GPS in collars
• Workers or delivery staff in remote or high-risk areas
• Asset protection for luggage, tools, or valuables

Expert Tip:

When testing a portable tracker for school trips or elderly care, I always recommend models with live location update, geofencing and SOS buttons.

👉Want  full comparison of the best personal GPS tracker→

Feature Comparison Table: Which GPS Tracker Should You Choose?

Use this quick side-by-side comparison to see how the main types stack up, based on what matters most: installation, battery life, concealment, and use case.

Need help for pricing? 👉Explore the Cost Guide for GPS trackers →

Hidden vs Visible Trackers: Which Is Better for You?

Should you hide your GPS tracker or let people know it’s there? The answer depends on who you're tracking, why you're doing it, and where you live.

Both hidden and visible GPS trackers serve a purpose, but there are legal and ethical boundaries you should know before choosing one.

What’s a Visible Tracker?

A visible GPS tracker is installed in plain sight, like an OBD device sticking out under the dashboard or a wearable on a backpack.
These trackers act as a deterrent. If someone knows they’re being tracked, they’re less likely to do something wrong.

Best For:

• Teens or employees (transparency builds trust)
• Delivery vehicles or company cars
• Elderly care and personal safety

What’s a Hidden Tracker?

A hidden GPS tracker is placed where it’s hard to see, like under the car, inside a seat, or inside a bag. Magnetic car GPS devices are commonly used for this. Hidden trackers work best when you need covert, uninterrupted monitoring.

“Over 1 million cars were stolen in the U.S. in 2023 (FBI and NICB).”

Is It Legal to Use a Hidden GPS Tracker?

When to use hidden trackers legally:

• Tracking your own vehicle (personal or business use)
• Monitoring company-owned assets with employee consent or policy agreement
• Protecting trailers, tools, or high-value gear from theft
• Tracking a teen driver with parental ownership of the vehicle
  

What you can’t do:

• Secretly track someone else's car without their permission
• Use GPS to monitor someone in a way that violates state privacy laws

Legal Tip: In the U.S., GPS tracking laws vary by state. For example, California and Illinois require explicit consent unless the vehicle is registered to you. 

Check local laws or consult a legal expert before using a hidden GPS tracker for personal use.

Source: National Conference of State Legislatures – GPS laws

How to Choose the Right GPS Tracker for Your Needs

Choosing the wrong GPS tracker can cost you time, money and in some cases, the thing you're trying to protect.

Let’s walk through a simple decision framework that helps you pick the right type of tracker for your real-world needs.

Start by asking one simple question first:

What exactly are you trying to track, and why?

1. What Are You Tracking?

• A car you own or manage?
  Consider an OBD or hardwired tracker.
• Something that moves often (bags, gear, trailers)?
  Look into a magnetic or portable tracker.
• A person or pet?
  You’ll want a portable or wearable GPS tracker with safety alerts

Want to track your bike? 👉 See our Best Motorcycle GPS Tracker Buying Guide →

2. Do You Need Real-Time Tracking?

• If yes, pick a device with 4G/LTE support + app connectivity
• If no, a passive tracker that logs trips may be enough

3. How Long Does It Need to Last?

• Hardwired: No charging, perfect for long-term tracking
• Magnetic or wearable: Rechargeable, better for short-term or mobile use
• Check battery life before buying: It matters more than you think

4. Visible or Hidden?

• Need to be discreet(anti-theft)? → Choose a magnetic or hardwired hidden tracker
• Want it seen for accountability? → An OBD or wearable tracker is a better fit

5. Bonus Features That Might Matter

• Geofencing: Set safe zones and get alerts
• Kill switch: Remotely disable the engine
• Voice monitoring: Listen in or call in an emergency
• No monthly fee: Some hardwired or passive trackers offer this option

Expert Advice: Start with the problem you're solving, not just the device. Once you know the goal, choosing the right tracker becomes easy.

 Know your needs? 👉Let’s find your perfect GPS tracker →

Final Thoughts: The Right GPS Tracker Starts with the Right Fit

Not all GPS trackers are created equal, and now you know why.

From plug-and-play OBD units to hardwired setups, portable magnetic options to wearable safety trackers, each type serves a unique purpose. The best GPS tracker for you depends on what you’re protecting, how often you need to track, and how visible (or hidden) the device should be.

Here's the short version:

• Need a quick setup? → Go with an OBD tracker
• Want hidden, 24/7 power? → Choose a hardwired unit
• Need flexibility or short-term tracking? → Try a magnetic tracker
• Tracking kids, elderly, or pets? → Use a wearable GPS tracker

Whether you're guarding your car, managing a fleet, or keeping loved ones safe, choosing the right GPS tracking device makes all the difference.

Ready to take the next step?
👉 Explore our top-rated GPS trackers trusted by thousands of real users →

FAQs: Types of GPS Tracking Devices

What is the difference between OBD and hardwired GPS trackers?

OBD GPS trackers plug into the car’s diagnostic port and are easy to install, but they can be unplugged.

Hardwired trackers are wired directly into the vehicle’s power system, offering better concealment and constant tracking, even when the car is off.

Can a magnetic GPS tracker fall off?

It’s rare but yes, a magnetic tracker can fall off if it’s not placed correctly on a clean, flat metal surface. Test the placement before driving and use models with strong magnets and weather protection.

Which GPS tracker works without monthly fees?

Some hardwired or passive trackers offer no monthly fee options by storing data locally or using prepaid SIMs. These usually don’t support full real-time features, but work well for basic tracking or history logs.

Are wearable GPS trackers safe for kids?

Yes, most wearable GPS trackers are made with child-safe materials and offer emergency features like SOS buttons, geofencing, and app alerts. Just make sure to pick a model with verified certifications and parental controls.

How accurate are GPS trackers?

Most modern GPS trackers are accurate to within 5–15 feet, depending on signal strength, weather, and surrounding obstacles. Urban areas with tall buildings or indoor use can slightly reduce accuracy.