7 Best GPS Tracker SOS Panic Button Devices – For Emergency Situations
Are you an international truck driver traveling in unsafe locations? Maybe your kids often wander after school and you want to make sure they aren’t getting into any trouble. Or maybe you have a senior loved one showing signs of dementia who wanders out of their home or care facility? These are all difficult situations, but there is good news! Home automation, video surveillance, and GPS tracking are the latest tools that can solve personal safety issues for family, friends, and employees. And the best part? These personal safety devices have never been easier to use or more affordable.
Outside the home or facility, your IoT devices or security cameras won’t protect those you care about. Personal, portable GPS trackers like the seven in this list will provide that last layer of security to ensure peace of mind. Seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or dementia have a higher risk of getting lost or experiencing a fall, so the ability to quickly find them is crucial. Children who get bullied or wander outside safe zones also need fast ways to call for help.
Panic buttons on a GPS tracker provide essential, life-saving positioning data first responders and family members need to get that help. Read on to discover why these seven security devices made the list of our best GPS panic button devices!
Disclaimer for Readers: Before diving into our list, we’d like you to know a few important points. Firstly, the GPS trackers we’ve highlighted aren’t ranked. We’ve simply curated them for your convenience, giving you a starting point to conduct your own in-depth research. What might be the best fit for someone else may not be ideal for your unique needs.
Another crucial thing to note: we don’t carry any of the products listed here. Why is this worth mentioning? It ensures our review remains unbiased. We’re here to provide genuine information, not to promote any particular product.
Our main goal is to help you find the right solution. Trust in our transparency and objective approach. Now, let’s get started with the list!
Evershop – Best Keychain Alarm For Protection
 | Evershop
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It has become common for lone workers and women to carry articles for self-defense when walking back to their homes or cars. Vehicle theft has always been an issue, but mugging and robberies are also rising in all areas. Surprisingly, Alaska has the highest violent crime rate of all 50 states. Of course, GPS panic SOS buttons may alert the authorities, but they’re minutes away at best. Alerting anyone in the immediate vicinity to your emergency with a siren and strobe light may be the fastest way to get help.
These Evershop safety devices have a powerful 130-decibel siren that can grab attention from up to 900 feet away! That’s quite an ear-piercing scream at close range! Compare that to the World Health Organization’s recommendation to limit consistent noise levels to below 70 dBA to prevent hearing loss. Featuring a large and easy-to-use emergency button that will sound for up to 50 minutes, a strobe flashlight will also blink for people to see you at a distance.
What’s cool about the Evershop Alarm Keychain:
- Two ways to set an alarm: panic button and pull the chord
- Light-weight keychain
- Long battery life: 6 months standby
- USB charging
- 4.3 out of 5 stars on Amazon
What’s not so great:
- IP44 waterproofing: wipe with a damp cloth for cleaning
- No GPS tracking
- No two-way calling
Specifications:
- Siren volume: 130dB
- Battery type: rechargeable lithium
- Weight: 1.06oz
- Dimensions: 2.7 x 1.4 x 0.6 inches
PRODUCT | KEY FEATURES | SPECS | AMAZON RATING |
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| As of 3/18/2024 4.3 Stars | 638 Ratings |
PROS | CONS |
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Real Customer Experience Via Amazon Review: “It’s good to have but make sure you have other items to keep you safe in addition to this. The sounds is not as loud as expected.”
Kerstin Positive Review |
Amazon.com Review - June 24, 2022 I bought this for my daughter, who moved to a different city five states away! Giving her a level of safety while alone in the city! |
Brenna Negative Review |
Amazon.com Review -March 9, 2022 Wow！ They are not loud at all! The alarm on your cell phone would probably be louder than these things. It totally malfunctioned, went off by itself, and would not turn off despite me holding down the button. I literally had to shatter it open and rip the wire, and I shocked myself in the process. I’m guessing the bad reviews have been paid to be deleted. I was very disappointed with the product. The alarm would go off at random without even touching or moving it. I would not recommend buying. |
Jiobit – Best Overall GPS Tracker With Panic SOS Button
 | Jiobit
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As a kid, adult, or senior safety measure, the Jiobit mini portable personal tracker is ideal for keeping an eye on your family’s movements. With tight detection radiuses and remote access through mobile apps, this realtime tracking unit can work indoors or out for up to 10 days safely!
Guardians watching over children with special needs or taking care of their aging parents who have Alzheimer’s or dementia must take special care to ensure tracking devices stay with them. A proprietary locking mechanism guarantees the GPS device cannot be removed, save by the caretaker’s unique key. Clipping it onto their shirt, backpack, pants or purse guarantees you’ll be able to find them when they get lost or experience a nasty fall.
Calling for help is easy with just two clicks of the Jiobit logo alert button. The emergency call system will connect with nannies, parents, grandparents, and any other members included in a care team and update everyone with an exact GPS location.
What we like about the Jiobit Personal GPS Tracker:
- Thousands of ratings on Amazon
- Geo-fencing
- 10-second updates
- Panic button alerts
- No cell phone required
- Up to 10 days of battery
- Safety clips
- Low monthly fees
What we didn’t like:
- Small alarm button
- High regular price
Specifications:
- Weight: 0.8 oz
- Dimensions: 1.96 x 1.45 x 0.47 inches
- Battery type: Lithium polymer
- Connectivity: 5G, 4G, 3G, WiFi, Bluetooth
- IPX8: water and shock-resistant
PRODUCT | KEY FEATURES | SPECS | AMAZON RATING |
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| As of 3/15/2024 4.0 Stars | 2452 Ratings |
PROS | CONS |
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Real Customer Experience Via Amazon Review: “I bought two of these for my two cats and so far so good. I do wish I could narrow down the “trusted place” area to just my house and yard, but I understand that isn’t possible with the way this technology works. I also wish they were a little smaller, but my cats don’t seem to care. So far I have gotten notifications when I should have – when they are out of the trusted place and when they are out of the trusted place but with one of us (like on walks or at the vet). And I appreciate the notifications about the batteries needing to be charged. I think the battery life is fine. The monthly subscription isn’t cheap, but these cats are my children.”
J. Beecher Positive Review |
Amazon.com Review - October 15, 2022 I used to worry about my cat (she is a rescue from the streets and loves to be outside). Now I know where she is all the time. This tracker has been awesome. My cat is 6 pounds, and it is small enough for her collar. It is accurate enough that I can go find her in the specific yard where she is. I love knowing where she is all the time. No more panic and worry. Highly recommend. |
Luna Negative Review |
Amazon.com Review -September 15, 2022 I have gone through three devices because all of them were breaking, and the battery life was so bad it wouldn’t even last a day! So I returned them and bought a new one. Well, it kept forcing me to open a new account, and then the company forced me to pay a cancellation fee! They have also been charging me for an extra fourth device for months, when I've only had one. When I asked to cancel, they charged my card for $75! Seriously, an awful company and product, and even worse, customer service! |
SecuLife SOS Wristband For Seniors With Dementia
 | SecuLife GPS locator
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Many personal GPS trackers on this list have some gimmick that marks their design for something specific, so the simplicity of the SecuLife alarm watch is refreshing. This wristband GPS device has 4G LTE connectivity, is designed for seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, and is nothing fancy. A large and easy-to-see panic button on the GPS unit’s face sends a text message, push notification, or email to emergency contacts with an updated position from anywhere in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The complexity of technology is a source of frustration for many elderly parents. That frustration is done away with in this design. Two call buttons above the GPS panic button enable wearers to call preset phone numbers even if not in an emergency, making the SecuLife SOS wristband an ideal GPS-tracking device for keeping in contact with immediate family members and caregivers.
What’s fantastic about the SecuLife GPS locator:
- Geofences
- Location History
- Splash resistant
- 7 days a week live support
- International tracking
- Emailed user manual
- Real-time tracking
- Lifetime warranty
What we didn’t like:
- Supports only two pre-programmed numbers
- Standard clasp design; no special key for removal
- Few ratings on Amazon
Specifications:
- Weight: 1.2 oz
- Dimensions: 2.04 x 1.65 x 0.59 inches
- IP67 water resistance
PRODUCT | KEY FEATURES | SPECS | AMAZON RATING |
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| As of 3/18/2024 3.9 Stars | 20 Ratings |
PROS | CONS |
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Real Customer Experience Via Amazon Review: “Our family brought this watch for our father who is 85 years old and has trouble keeping his balance. He one day fell and was not able to reach someone for hours.”
Izreal3345 Positive Review |
Amazon.com Review - August 19, 2023 This is a very well-built unit, very sturdy and compact, and very easy to set up. It comes with a case that’s magnetic for easy mounting. You can download the app to control it, and a very nice feature is that it has geofencing, a great option to have an awesome GPS system, and great value. |
David Conatser Negative Review |
Amazon.com Review -January 12, 2024 Do not purchase this unless you are so far behind that you can only use 2G, because despite the fact that it says 4G, it will connect even though there is no longer 2G. I can't go lower than 1 star. |
Alphahom – Best Security Alarm For Women’s Safety
 | Alphahom’s GPS
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Of the products listed here, only Alphahom’s GPS panic device is specifically designed for women by resembling a tube of lipstick! It’s perfect for hitting the clubs, driving for rideshare services, or investigative reporting. Due to its discreet design and defaulted mute mode, no one would suspect a thing just by looking at your keychain.
This keychain GPS device pairs with a smartphone, meaning it doesn’t require a separate monthly subscription. While many other gadgets on this list will cause you to adjust your monthly budget, the Alphahom simply piggybacks off your phone’s cellular service.
This self-defense personal GPS tracker connects with a “protector” application to connect the user with an emergency contact’s phone. With a simple twist of the cap, the GPS tracker provides a trace of every movement. Pulling on the cap will activate the tracker’s SOS function to update protectors of an emergency immediately.
What’s to like about the Alphahom Personal GPS SOS device:
- Easy setup
- One-year standby battery
- Bluetooth directional
- GPS locator 30-day money-back guarantee
- Few hundred high ratings on Amazon
- Privacy-centric; does not store location data
- Critical alerts sound the alarm even if the protector’s phone is on silent
What’s not so great:
- Critical alerts are only available on iOS, not Android
- Apple Maps, by default
- Needs to stay within 100ft of a paired smartphone
- Extra setting to enable alarm; muted by default
Specifications:
- Weight: 0.44 oz
- Battery type: Lithium-ion
- Dimensions: 0.59 x 0.59 x 2.64 inches
PRODUCT | KEY FEATURES | SPECS | AMAZON RATING |
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| As of 3/18/2024 3.6 Stars | 429 Ratings |
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Real Customer Experience Via Amazon Review: “I love that it only charges once a year, it can go right on my keychain and it’s very easy to use all of my family members can track me in real time if I choose so.”
Chris Positive Review |
Amazon.com Review - August 4, 2020 My wife and I are expecting our first child, and as a small business owner, you could say I'm "always on the go." Needless to say, as she gets fathered along, I've been very concerned, not only for her general safety but also for what would happen if her water broke and I wasn't with her. I got this because I wanted to have some peace of mind knowing that if she ever needs me, she'll be able to get ahold of me right away and I'll know exactly where she's at. Overall, she likes how small it is, and in our tests, it works like a charm. It's exactly what we needed to go about our days, knowing that when the time comes, we'll be ready. Thanks, Care Go. |
LiL Negative Review |
Amazon.com Review -June 30, 2022 I had previous devices that worked fine. Unfortunately, the last one was dipped in tea! This replacement would not be compatible with Android or iPhone. I do work in IT too. Maybe just faulty. |
POM Safe Smart Protector – Best For Fake Phone Calls
 | POM Safe Smart Protector
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Sometimes, undesirable conversations are unavoidable. When confronted by aggressive cat-callers, drunks, or an awkward date, unexpected phone calls can be a lifesaver. Did you know there’s a way to get a call exactly when needed?
Discreetly activate fake phone calls whenever you need them with the POM Safe Smart Protector! It’s a tiny GPS-tracking self-defense keychain with an emergency button capable of notifying law enforcement or POM’s emergency response unit of your exact position. When encountering a frightening situation, click the button to connect with these first responders quickly!
Give this personal GPS tracker to loved ones as a gift or to lone workers as a fleet-tracking safety device! Your field reporters, delivery drivers, and service workers deserve that extra peace of mind from being able to call for help quickly.
What’s great about the POM Emergency Call system:
- 10-day battery life
- Responsive alert systems
- Large emergency button 2-way speaker
- Low monthly fee
What’s not-so-awesome:
- A subscription is required to activate POM response team
- 30ft Bluetooth range to a paired phone
Specifications:
- Weight: 4 oz
- Dimensions: 1.7 x 5 x 1.7 inches
- Battery type: Li-polymer
PRODUCT | KEY FEATURES | SPECS | AMAZON RATING |
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| As of 3/18/2024 4.7 Stars | 2,631 Ratings |
PROS | CONS |
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Real Customer Experience Via Amazon Review: “No one wants to ever have to use this, but just having it on me makes me feel safer. I chose this model because the push button is covered which prevents it from accidentally spraying. The cap can easily be pushed up with your thumb and then you can spray it, all in one motion.”
ZacsDad Positive Review |
Amazon.com Review - January 3, 2024 I purchased four of these for the four very important women in my life. Just a little bit of security knowing they have something if, lord forbid, they ever need to use it. In testing them, they are very loud and very easy to use. Note: It says to charge with a computer as normal chargers could damage them. Pay attention to that little detail, just in case! |
ALISTAIR ATHERTON Negative Review |
Amazon.com Review -November 15, 2023 The volume is poor and not fit for the purpose of attracting attention. I will search for another, so, sadly, this purchase has been a waste of money. |
Garmin InReach Mini – Best Global Tracker With 2-WayMessaging
 | Garmin InReach Mini
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From a name trusted to provide accurate positioning, the Garmin InReach has intense GPS alert systems. No other tracking systems on this list can provide updates from services such as Lockheed Martin Flight Services or the Adverse Condition Alerting Service to protect pilots from flying in severe weather conditions!
Of the GPS tracking devices in this list, only the Garmin InReach has a display to show your position, weather stats, and text messages! This real time GPS tracker’s SOS buttons will automatically connect you with emergency response teams available in over 140 countries.
What’s to love about this personal GPS tracking device’s best features:
- Digital display
- Downloadable maps
- 24/7 search and rescue with a subscription
- Global GPS tracking system
- Thousands of Amazon rankings with 4.7 stars
- 90-hour battery life at 10-minute updates
- 24 days in power-saving mode
- Money back guarantee
What’s not awesome:
- High initial cost
- Maps displayed on paired phones or tablets
Specifications:
- Weight: 3.5 oz
- Dimensions: 2.04 x 1.03 x 3.9 inches
- Battery type: Li-ion Water/dust resistance: IPX7
- Display: 128 x 128 pixels
- Display size: 0.9 x 0.9 inches
PRODUCT | KEY FEATURES | SPECS | AMAZON RATING |
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| As of 3/18/2024 4.5 Stars | 234 Ratings |
PROS | CONS |
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Real Customer Experience Via Amazon Review: “Very good to stay in touch with people who are in remote locations in the far north of Canada on extended, unsupported river trips.”
KM Positive Review |
Amazon.com Review - September 22, 2023 This device, though a little pricy, is worth every penny. I'm able to check weather, send and receive texts, and, if necessary, use it for navigation. In addition, there is an SOS button for emergencies. It will send out my position and call for appropriate rescue. The battery lasts for days. Use my cell phone along with the app to send the messages. If the cell battery goes down, it can be used as a stand-alone device. The device only weighs about three ounces and is small. It can easily fit in a pocket. I mostly use it when I go offshore fishing and lose cell service. |
Carl Negative Review |
Amazon.com Review -August 28, 2022 I specifically paid a little extra to receive the added items. Sadly, the power stick failed. Amazon customer service gave me a $10 credit. It has been my experience that when Amazon creates bundled products, the added items are of very poor quality. I won't try again. There is a reason all the extra stuff they add is so inexpensive. Too bad. |
ZOLEO – Best Satellite GPS Tracker With SOS Alerting
 | ZOLEO
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Are you an outdoor adventurer in need of a GPS satellite communicator with awesome coverage? Then check out this personal GPS with SOS. The ZOLEO GPS tracker SOS button and emergency services caller promise no gaps in your global cellular coverage, perfect for world travelers and adventurists. Hikers, bikers, rafters, boaters, and drivers can rest easy knowing help is just a click away.
It doesn’t have a built-in display like the Garmin InReach, but its GPS tracking capabilities are no less! Shock-, water- and dust-resistant, this rugged machine can go wherever the adventurer does with super strong global coverage. Text messages are relayed to your smartphone to start a conversation with first responders to let them know if you’ve fallen, broken a leg, or lost your way.
What’s amazing about the ZOLEO Communicator:
- Flip-top cover to SOS button prevents false alerts
- Accurate to within 8.2 feet
- 200+ hour battery
- Works when outside of cellular coverage using the Iridium satellite network
- Quick check-in button to update office, friends, and family
What’s not-so-hot:
- Phone required to receive and send text messages
- High initial cost
Specifications:
- Weight: 5.3 oz
- Dimensions: 3.58 x 2.6 x 1.06 inches
- Protection: IP68
- Battery type: Li-ion
- Operating Temperature: -4° to 131° F
PRODUCT | KEY FEATURES | SPECS | AMAZON RATING |
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| As of 3/18/2024 4.5 Stars | 2,479 Ratings |
PROS | CONS |
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Real Customer Experience Via Amazon Review: “Go out in the ozarks hiking off grid. I’ve had the other name-brand models and this is by far the best hands down. Feels like I never lost cell service. Conducted successful SOS test and received a response from global dispatch within 2 min.”
Fohne Positive Review |
Amazon.com Review - November 9, 2023 I live in the mountains, with an hour of isolated roads. During the winter, we had periods of no power, no phone, and no water. I needed an emergency communication device. This works perfectly. |
SJ Negative Review |
Amazon.com Review -September 28, 2023 The item out of the box refused to charge using any means. Wall plug, USB plug in, etc., nothing worked. Tech support is nonexistent online; there is no means of even speaking to someone other than texting. Extreme disappointment... Sending the item back for a replacement. The website shows that they are having issues with the site processing activation. Not a bell ringer for an emergency device system? Hopefully, the replacement will work. |
Related Article: Best OBD Vehicle Tracker Devices For Fleet Management
What You Should Look For In A GPS Tracker SOS System
Dedicated Cellular
Connectivity GPS tracking devices with built-in SIM cards offer the tightest detection possible. Often, they’ll still work with your iPhone or Android to help pinpoint your exact location, but if your phone gets damaged or loses battery, a GPS tracker’s SOS emergency call or text feature can mean the difference between life and death. Alphahom’s device is fantastic but requires a smartphone to send out emergency notifications, so something like the POM keychain might be better for those not used to carrying around a cell phone.
Large SOS Buttons Who would want to fiddle around to find tiny GPS panic buttons? Whether the tracker’s SOS is meant for an elderly person or as a kid’s GPS device, a GPS tracker panic button should be a prominent button that’s easy to find in an emergency. While the Jiobit is excellent for ensuring a stronghold with its proprietary locking mechanism, the SecuLife’s big SOS panic button can easily be seen by those with poor eyesight.
Vehicle Tracking
Could a GPS vehicle tracker provide the data you’re looking for? An OBD vehicle tracker can solve significant problems experienced by managers dealing with lone workers like supply chain drivers or plumbers. Trends of excessive idling and route mapping help dispatchers improve time spent on the road and reduce fuel consumption. Some OBD 2 tracking systems can also integrate with a GPS tracker SOS button to get help to drivers or locate a stolen vehicle.
Versatility
What would work best for your situation? Are there multiple environments where a tracker would be beneficial? Watching over dementia patients in a care facility isn’t so different from ensuring kids remain in class during school hours, but throw driving a car into the mix; now, you need constant updates to locate the tracker accurately. Devices that activate only when the user presses a button won’t cut it. In this instance, the Jiobit will excel with a 10-second update interval to provide the most accurate positioning.
GPS Tracker SOS FAQs
What Is A Panic Button GPS Tracker?
Realtime location tracker SOS buttons provide a user with peace of mind. If they get lost or into trouble, a tracker’s SOS alert systems will immediately notify first responders, friends, and family of their position. They come in many forms, such as watches, keychains, and pendants, built into vehicles or under counters at gas stations or banks.
How Does A Personal GPS Tracker With SOS Work?
Personal GPS trackers with SOS panic buttons are designed to send out emergency alerts to law enforcement, a family member, or a friend if the person wearing the personal GPS bracelet or non-removable watch is in need of help. Emergency panic buttons can help if a senior is lost, stranded after an auto mechanical failure, or something much more serious. Often, a cellular connection is required for the real time tracking device to work. This connection can be either through dedicated SIM cards built into tracking devices or a Bluetooth signal paired with activated smartphones. The GPS locator will also gather position data from positioning satellites to include in emergency notifications.
What Are The Benefits Of Emergency SOS Buttons
- Send an alert if the senior is to wander far from their living quarters
- Emergency calling with a simple one-touch panic SOS button
- GPS cellular data that can pinpoint location in real time
- Quickly locate a missing senior with the help of a live safety app
Does A Panic Button Call The Police?
Many tracking devices do call the police or emergency response teams. However, they often send an emergency call or text to phone numbers or emails of friends, coworkers, family members, or caregivers entered into a list of approved contacts. Constant false alerts sent to emergency responders may cost the user a hefty chunk of data fees, so it’s best to start with the people you know.
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Contents
- 7 Best GPS Tracker SOS Panic Button Devices – For Emergency Situations
- Evershop – Best Keychain Alarm For Protection
- Jiobit – Best Overall GPS Tracker With Panic SOS Button
- SecuLife SOS Wristband For Seniors With Dementia
- Alphahom – Best Security Alarm For Women’s Safety
- POM Safe Smart Protector – Best For Fake Phone Calls
- Garmin InReach Mini – Best Global Tracker With 2-WayMessaging
- ZOLEO – Best Satellite GPS Tracker With SOS Alerting
- What You Should Look For In A GPS Tracker SOS System
- GPS Tracker SOS FAQs