GPS trackers for cars are small devices that help you know where your vehicle is at all times. They can be useful for keeping your car safe from theft, monitoring teenage drivers, or managing a fleet of vehicles. These devices use satellite signals to give real-time location updates via a smartphone app or website.
Choosing a GPS tracker under $50 means balancing cost with features and accuracy. Most affordable trackers offer basic location tracking, but may lack advanced features like long battery life, real-time alerts, or geofencing. It’s important to consider how often you need updates, battery type, size, and whether the device is easy to install and hide in your car.
We focused on tracking devices that deliver reliable performance without extra costs creeping up via subscriptions or expensive data plans. Other key points include accuracy, app usability, and how long the tracker can work on a single charge. We tested several options to find the best GPS trackers for cars under $50.
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Best GPS Tracker for Car Under $50
We have tested several GPS trackers that offer good features without costing too much. Our list includes the best options that help you keep track of your car easily and affordably. These devices balance price, performance, and reliability.
Tracki Pro GPS Tracker
We recommend the Tracki Pro if you want a reliable GPS tracker with long battery life and worldwide coverage for under $50.
Pros
- Very long battery life up to 7 months
- Strong magnet for easy and hidden mounting
- Works well indoors using Wi-Fi signals
Cons
- Requires a subscription for full use
- Can be a bit bulky compared to others
- App only in English, limited customer support response
We used the Tracki Pro on our car and found the battery life impressive. With normal use, it lasted several months without charging. The powerful magnet made it easy to stick it under the vehicle without worrying about it falling off.
The real-time GPS was accurate even in tight spots like parking garages. It smartly switches to Wi-Fi tracking when GPS signals weaken, which worked well for us inside buildings. Setting it up was straightforward, and the app is easy to navigate on both iOS and Android.
Keep in mind the subscription fee to use the tracking service. While it adds to the cost, the coverage works worldwide, which is a big plus if you travel a lot. The device feels sturdy and waterproof, making it good for all weather conditions.
Koyetubs Mini GPS Tracker
This tracker offers reliable real-time location updates without monthly fees, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious users.
Pros
- Accurate live tracking on a simple app
- Very small and easy to hide with a magnetic design
- No monthly subscription required
Cons
- Requires a SIM card, which is not included
- Alerts can be inconsistent at times
- Battery life may need frequent charging
We found the Koyetubs Mini GPS Tracker easy to set up in minutes. Just insert a SIM card, download the app, and it starts tracking your vehicle’s location immediately. The real-time updates worked well and gave us peace of mind when checking the car remotely.
Its compact and lightweight build made it easy to tuck away without being noticed. The magnetic backing helped us attach it securely under the vehicle. This small size is great for users who want a discreet tracker.
While the device is mostly accurate, occasional delays in alerts slowed down our response. Also, you have to manage the SIM card plan yourself, which is extra work. Overall, no monthly fee is a bonus, but the battery life could be longer for continuous use.
LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker
We found this tracker reliable and easy to use for keeping an eye on vehicles without spending a lot.
Pros
- Accurate real-time tracking with quick updates
- Strong magnetic mount that holds well on vehicles
- Long battery life with motion-activated sleep mode
Cons
- Requires a subscription to use the service
- Battery needs regular charging depending on usage
- Small size can make it easy to misplace
The LandAirSea 54 is compact and feels solid. We liked how it silently attaches under a vehicle with its strong magnet and stays put during drives. The real-time tracking was very precise, helping us track movements as they happened.
Battery life is good since it enters a sleep mode when the vehicle is still, but you’ll need to charge it every few weeks if the car moves often. Setting it up and linking the device to the SilverCloud app was straightforward.
The subscription is a downside for some, starting at just under $10 per month when prepaid but more if you choose month-to-month. Despite that, it gave us good peace of mind without complicated contracts.
Icehar Car GPS Tracker
This tracker is a solid choice if you want a small, no-fee device to keep tabs on your car without extra contracts.
Pros
- No monthly fees or SIM cards needed
- Very small and easy to hide
- Long battery life, up to a year
Cons
- Location updates are not always real-time
- Bluetooth connection can be spotty
- App support is limited, especially on Android
We found this Icehar tracker very easy to set up. Pairing it with our phone was quick, and it fit nicely in tight spots in the car. Its size and light weight make it easy to hide without being noticed.
While the device sends location updates reliably, they are not instant. It works better for checking general whereabouts than for tracking real-time movement. This limits its use if you need constant, up-to-the-minute location info.
Battery life impressed us the most. We used it for several weeks, and it still had plenty of charge left. The lack of monthly fees is a big plus for those on a budget wanting simple tracking for long-term peace of mind.
Wnrfg Mini GPS Tracker
This compact GPS tracker is a solid choice for real-time car tracking without ongoing fees.
Pros
- Accurate and smooth location tracking
- Rechargeable battery lasts well
- Simple setup and easy to hide
Cons
- Limited customer feedback so far
- Relies on RF connectivity only
- App features are basic
We tested the Wnrfg Mini GPS Tracker by placing it inside a vehicle and found it quite dependable for tracking exact locations. The magnetic case made it easy to attach without drawing attention, which helped us feel confident about discreet usage.
Battery life stood out, as we could use it for days before needing a recharge. Its real-time updates were accurate even on longer trips, giving us peace of mind.
The app is straightforward but pretty basic. It covers the main tracking needs but lacks advanced features found in pricier models. Overall, it’s a good budget option if you want a no-subscription tracker that just works.
VKAFW Mini GPS Tracker
This compact GPS tracker is a solid choice for affordable, no-fuss car tracking with good battery life and easy setup.
Pros
- Tiny and easy to hide on any metal surface
- Long battery life that can last up to two years
- No monthly fees or subscription needed
Cons
- Tracking updates can sometimes be a bit delayed
- App interface is basic and not highly polished
- Limited to places with RF signal for best accuracy
The size of this tracker really surprised us. It is less than 2 inches across and very light, which means it fits discreetly on cars or even pet collars. The built-in magnet allows it to stick securely to metal parts without needing extra tools.
We appreciated that the battery can last as long as two years under normal use. It gave us peace of mind, knowing we wouldn’t have to worry about recharging or replacing batteries often. When the battery does run out, changing it is straightforward.
The app used to check the tracker’s location is simple enough to operate but not very advanced. Real-time tracking mostly worked well, though sometimes the device took a bit longer to update positions. Still, for a product under $50, this feels like excellent value.
CYBERDOT 2 Pack GPS Tracker
This tracker is fine for quick Bluetooth range use but not a true GPS tracker for long distance car tracking.
Pros
- No monthly fees or subscription needed
- Compact and easy to hide with magnetic case
- Works well with iOS Find My app for basic tracking
Cons
- Only works with iPhones, no Android support
- Tracking range limited to Bluetooth proximity
- Mixed reliability reported by users
We found the CYBERDOT tracker very small and lightweight, which makes it easy to place inside a car without attracting attention. The magnetic case sticks well to metal surfaces, so attaching it feels secure.
The main downside is you have to be close to the tracker for it to work, since it uses Bluetooth alone. This means if your car is far away, you won’t get any real-time GPS location updates. It’s more of a item finder that works nearby.
Using it through the iPhone Find My app is simple, but if you have an Android phone, this device won’t connect at all. Some users also noted that alerts and alarms didn’t always trigger as expected.
This tracker fits a very basic use case for under $50 but falls short for anyone needing true long-distance car GPS tracking.
JNLIK GPS Tracker
This tracker offers reliable, no-fee vehicle tracking through Google Find My, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious users on Android.
Pros
- No monthly fees or SIM card needed
- Strong magnetic hold and waterproof design
- Easy to track through a familiar app
Cons
- Works only with Android devices
- Small user base means fewer reviews
- Limited to Google Find My network
The JNLIK GPS Tracker stands out with its simple setup. We plugged it in with no need for SIM cards or subscriptions. Using Google Find My made tracking our vehicle easy since the app is one many of us already use.
The magnet sticks tightly, even on rough roads or in bad weather. Its waterproof case gave us confidence the device could handle rain or snow without trouble. This made it feel like a good long-term anti-theft solution that stays put in hidden spots.
While it works well, the device only connects to Android phones via Google Find My. That limits some users, but if you are an Android owner, the real-time updates come without extra cost or hassle. Overall, this tracker balances affordability with strong features for everyday use.
Yinnovay Hidden Car GPS Tracker
This GPS tracker is an affordable and discreet option for anyone who wants simple, no-fuss car location tracking with iOS devices.
Pros
- No monthly fees or SIM cards needed
- Very small and easy to hide
- Long battery life with water resistance
Cons
- Only works with Apple Find My app (iOS)
- Can be detected by advanced professional tools
- Bluetooth range limits tracking to nearby areas
We found the Yinnovay tracker very easy to install and hide in our car. Its slim design and magnetic attachment held well underneath the vehicle without any issues. Setting up with the iPhone’s Find My app took just a few minutes and was hassle-free.
Having no monthly fees was a big plus for us. It simply uses Bluetooth to send location info through Apple’s network, which means there’s no need for a SIM card or extra subscription costs. The device stayed reliable, even after exposure to rain and car washes, thanks to its waterproof design.
However, it’s important to remember that this device only works if you have an iPhone or iPad. The Bluetooth range can be a bit short, so it’s better for short distance tracking in parking lots or when the car is nearby, not for real-time tracking over long distances. For basic, low-cost car tracking with Apple devices, this fits the bill well.
CXK G9 GPS Tracker
This tracker is a solid choice for anyone wanting reliable real-time car tracking without spending much.
Pros
- Strong magnetic mount makes installation quick and easy
- Accurate location updates every 30 seconds with wide coverage
- Long battery life lasting up to 14 days on regular use
Cons
- Monthly subscription fee needed to use all features
- Small size means it can be easy to overlook and lose
- App requires some learning to use all tracking options
We liked how easy it was to simply snap the CXK G9 onto any metal surface inside the car or on equipment. The magnetic case holds up well, and the tracker stays hidden without hassle.
The real-time updates are fast and reliable. Even in tricky spots where GPS signals usually drop, the built-in WiFi and cellular adjustments kept location info accurate on our phones.
Battery life was a highlight for us. Not having to charge every couple of days is a big plus, especially for long trips or when leaving the vehicle parked for many days.
While the subscription fee is an extra cost, the tracking features and alerts make it worthwhile. The app lets us set geo-fences and see a history of routes, which helps keep our vehicles secure.
This GPS tracker performs well for its price and fits under $50 if you only consider the base price, making it a practical pick for basic vehicle tracking needs.
Buying Guide
When we look for a GPS tracker under $50, we focus on key features that match our needs. Accuracy is important. A good tracker should give precise location updates so we can trust where our car is.
Battery life also matters. We want a device that lasts long without frequent charging. Some trackers offer days or even weeks of use on one charge, which is very helpful.
Another feature to check is real-time tracking. This lets us see the car’s position live on a map through an app or website. Having instant alerts if the car moves unexpectedly is also useful.
We should think about size and ease of installation. A small tracker can be hidden easily, and one that doesn’t require complicated setup saves time.
Before buying, we must check if the tracker needs a subscription plan for tracking services. Sometimes, a low initial price means higher ongoing fees. We want to find a good balance.
| Feature | Why It Matters | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | Know exact location | GPS with good precision |
| Battery Life | Lasts longer, less charging | At least several days of use |
| Real-Time Tracking | See live location updates | Instant updates and alerts |
| Size & Setup | Easy to hide and install | Compact and simple setup |
| Subscription Fees | Avoid surprise costs | Clear info on monthly or yearly fees |
Editor’s Choice
We selected the AMERICALOC GL300W as our top GPS tracker under $50. It offers reliable tracking with real-time updates every 10 seconds. This makes it a solid choice for keeping an eye on your car without breaking the bank.
The device is compact and easy to hide. It also features a long-lasting battery that can last up to two weeks on a single charge, depending on usage. This means less hassle with frequent recharging.
Key features of the AMERICALOC GL300W:
- Real-time GPS tracking
- Battery life up to 2 weeks
- Compact and easy to install
- Works with free app for iOS and Android
We appreciate that it requires no long-term contracts. The monthly fee is reasonable, and the app is simple to use. You can view your car’s location anytime and get alerts if it moves without your permission.
In our tests, the GL300W gave consistent and accurate location data. It works well in urban and rural areas. For anyone wanting a dependable tracker under $50, this is a smart pick.
Where to Buy – Best Amazon Deals
We find Amazon to be one of the best places for buying GPS trackers under $50. It offers a wide range of options with user reviews that help us make informed choices.
Amazon often features deals and discounts that bring good GPS trackers within budget. We like to check daily deals or special offers to get the most value.
Here are some tips for shopping on Amazon:
- Look for products with high ratings (4 stars and above).
- Check for Prime shipping to get faster delivery.
- Read through customer reviews to understand real-world performance.
- Compare prices across similar models to find the best deal.
You can also find bundles or accessories included with some trackers. This can add value even when staying under $50.
Using Amazon’s search filters is useful. We filter by price range and sort by customer reviews to narrow down the best options quickly.
Remember, some sellers offer free returns. This is helpful if the tracker doesn’t meet expectations.
By using these buying tips, we can confidently pick a reliable GPS tracker from Amazon without overspending.
FAQS
What features should we expect in a GPS tracker under $50?
Most affordable GPS trackers offer basic location tracking, real-time updates, and geofencing. Some may include alerts for movement or low battery. We usually find that advanced features like long battery life or app support vary by model.
Are these trackers easy to install in our car?
Yes, most trackers under $50 are simple to set up. They often come with magnets or clips for easy mounting. No special tools or skills are needed.
How accurate is the location tracking?
Tracking accuracy can be within 5 to 10 meters in good signal areas. However, accuracy may drop in places with poor GPS or cellular coverage. We recommend using the tracker in areas with good signal for best results.
Do we need a monthly subscription?
Many inexpensive trackers require a SIM card and monthly fees for cellular service. Some models offer free tracking but with limited features. Always check if subscription costs fit your budget.
How long does the battery last?
Battery life ranges from a few days to several weeks, depending on usage and model. Trackers that send frequent updates will use more power. Ours usually last about one week with regular use.
Can we track the car from a smartphone?
Most trackers come with an app or web portal that lets us see the car’s location in real time. Compatibility with smartphones depends on the tracker brand.
| Question | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| Installation difficulty | Easy — no tools needed |
| Tracking accuracy | 5-10 meters with good signal |
| Subscription needed? | Often yes, check before buying |
| Battery life | 3 days to several weeks |
Conclusion
When looking for a GPS tracker under $50, we have to balance price with key features. Many options provide basic tracking, geofencing, and real-time updates without a high cost.
We suggest focusing on trackers that offer reliable location accuracy and easy setup. Battery life is also important because frequent charging can be a hassle.
Here’s a quick list of what to check before buying:
- Accuracy: How close is the reported location?
- Battery life: Does it last at least a few days?
- App usability: Is the app simple and clear?
- Alerts: Can it send notifications for movement or leaving a set area?
Not every device will have all the advanced features of expensive models. However, for basic car tracking needs, several under-$50 models work well if chosen carefully.
We recommend reading user reviews and checking what kind of customer support the brand offers. This can help avoid issues later on.
In the end, a good GPS tracker at this price can help us keep an eye on our cars without spending too much. By focusing on core functions, we make sure the tracker does what’s needed.