Vehicle tracking devices have become an integral part of the supply chain. Consumers want to know how close their package is, and businesses want to see if goods reach destinations on time. Tracking devices give business owners a snapshot of driver activity, mitigate theft and reassure them that products arrived at the right location. These devices also make it easier to address issues quickly.
However, these tracking devices cost money, and many of them have monthly fees. This article contains a list of the top vehicle tracking devices that don’t have a monthly subscription. You pay once, enjoy the perks and don’t have to worry about paying again.
And when you finish reading, check out the other articles in our ‘Specialized fleet tracking solutions’ series:
- What is GPS fleet tracking?
- Best vehicle tracking devices with no monthly fee
- Best GPS trackers with audio
- Best dash cam with GPS tracking
- Best GPS trackers with long battery life
Quicklook: Best vehicle tracking device with no monthly fee
- Best for anti-theft protection: TKSTAR 4G GPS Tracker
- Best for easy setup: Vyncs
- Best for 4G LTE technology: 4G GPS Tracker
- Best for size: 2023 Upgrade GPS Tracker
- Best for logging and reports: Trakkit GPS
5 best vehicle tracking devices with no monthly fee
Want to save money on a vehicle tracking device while getting a great experience? These are some of the top picks.
TKSTAR 4G GPS Tracker
The TKSTAR 4G GPS Tracker lets drivers and fleet managers track the vehicle on Google Maps. The historical route feature lets customers see the vehicle’s GPS history. It can attach to a car, motorcycle, truck or boat.
Best for: Anti-theft protection
Special features:
- Real-time tracking
- Geofencing
- 80-day standby time
- Multifunctional
Benefits:
- Anti-theft included
- Waterproof and dustproof
- Long battery life because of solar power
Disadvantages:
- No SIM card included
- Some Amazon reviewers mention difficulty with setup and poor tech support
Pricing: $79.99
| Technical Specifications | |
| Dimensions | 4.4 x 5.1 x 0.9 inches |
| Mounting type | Magnetic |
| Voice command | No |
| Camera | No |
| Storage | Uploads to the cloud |
| Weight | 14.4 ounces |
| Battery life | 168 hours |
| Battery type | Lithium ion battery |
Vyncs
The Vyncs GPS tracker is a U.S.-based product that helps drivers review their vehicle history. The GPS offers real-time tracking and works for families and fleets. Vyncs offers alerts about harsh turns and lets drivers know about nearby speed limits and idling times.
Best for: Easy setup
Special features:
- Roadside assistance if you get Vyncs Premium
- Geofencing
- Track others with Vyncs Groups even when you aren’t in the car
- Accidental/impact detection alerts included
Benefits:
- SIM card included
- Two-minute easy setup
- Gas station finder for better fuel economy
- Uses vehicle as power source
Disadvantages:
- Some reviewers have criticized customer support
- Complicated interface for some users
- Some reviewers report hit or miss tracking
Pricing: $79.99
| Technical Specifications | |
| Dimensions | 2.4 x 1.9 x 0.9 inches |
| Mounting type | OBD-II port |
| Voice command | No |
| Camera | No |
| Storage | Uploads to the cloud |
| Weight | 2.08 ounces |
| Battery life | Unlimited. It connects to the car for power. |
| Battery type | Electric-powered battery |
4G GPS Tracker
The 4G GPS Tracker lets drivers and fleet owners review GPS history from up to 180 days from any device. It uses advanced 4G LTE technology and can operate in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. The battery can last seven to 20+ days on a full charge.
Best for: 4G LTE technology
Special features:
- 4G LTE technology
- Smart alerts
- Historical tracking
Benefits:
- Power saving mode for more out of each charge
- SIM card included
- Works for a wide range of vehicles
- Real-time information about location from iPhone, Android or web app
Disadvantages:
- GPS is limited to the U.S., Canada and Mexico
- Some reviewers report issues with the app and account activation
- Users haven’t always been impressed with customer support
Pricing: $129
| Technical Specifications | |
| Dimensions | 2.91 x 2.72 x 1.38 inches |
| Mounting type | Magnetic |
| Voice command | No |
| Camera | No |
| Storage | Uploads to the cloud |
| Weight | 12 ounces |
| Battery life | 7-20+ days on a full charge |
| Battery type | 10000 mAh battery |
2023 Upgrade GPS Tracker
The 2023 Upgrade GPS Tracker is a tiny GPS that is easy to store in any vehicle. It offers real-time location updates that you can track on your mobile device or the web app. It has a simple interface that requires only a SIM card to get started.
Best for: Size
Special features:
- Historical tracking
- Security features
- Emergency alarm
- Support cell phone remote control
Benefits:
- Long battery
- Small GPS
- Easy to use
Disadvantages:
- No SIM card included
- Some reviewers mentioned not receiving daily alerts
Pricing: $21.99
| Technical Specifications | |
| Dimensions | 1.5 x 1 x 1 inches |
| Mounting type | Magnetic |
| Voice command | No |
| Camera | No |
| Storage | Uploads to the cloud |
| Weight | 1.5 ounces |
| Battery life | Company refers to superb battery life that’s praised by reviewers |
| Battery type | Lithium metal |
Trakkit GPS
The Trakkit has useful logging and reporting features that provide information about each trip. You can sync it to your favorite devices so you can receive real-time location updates even if you are not in the vehicle. Trakkit does not use cell service data to pinpoint a vehicle’s location.
Best for: Logging and reports
Special features:
- Real-time tracking
- Uses free Wi-Fi to communicate
- Mobile alerts
Benefits:
- Advanced reporting features
- Can view multiple Trakkits from one app
- Cell service not required
Disadvantages:
- SIM card not included.
- Not waterproof — you will have to use the company’s magnetic watertight enclosure
Pricing: $128.95
| Technical Specifications | |
| Dimensions | 2.25 x 1.3 x 0.75 inches |
| Mounting type | Magnetic |
| Voice command | No |
| Camera | No |
| Storage | Uploads to the cloud |
| Weight | 1.2 ounces |
| Battery life | 6 days |
| Battery type | Two AAA batteries |
Benefits of vehicle tracking devices
A vehicle tracking device is a staple for many truck fleets. These devices are relatively affordable and provide drivers and companies with several benefits:
- Monitor shipments: You can reach out to customers and inform them about the shipment’s arrival date.
- Protect your vehicle from theft: You can track a stolen vehicle if you install a vehicle tracking device.
- Receive alerts and alarms: These features can increase driver safety.
- Track your entire history: You can see where the vehicle has traveled and look for more efficient routes.
- Reduce insurance costs: Installing one of these devices in your vehicle can lower your premium since you are less risky to the insurer.
- More efficiency: Route planners can determine the best routes to get cargo to customers and save money on gas.
- Save money: More efficient routes and anti-theft protection can have a positive impact on your company’s bottom line.
Track your vehicle for extra protection and savings
Tracking your vehicle can save you money and provide extra protection. While the benefits of vehicle tracking are apparent, most drivers don’t want to get stuck with monthly fees. There are options for people who want affordable solutions and no subscriptions. You can track your vehicle while keeping costs low.
FAQ
Some GPS trackers do not have subscriptions. You can know your vehicle’s location without paying a monthly fee.
Some GPS trackers are affordable and do not have monthly fees. Getting one of these products for your vehicle can make it more affordable.
Some tracking systems do not rely on Wi-Fi or call services to monitor your vehicle’s location.
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