The best alternatives to Apple's AirTag item tracker

Apple introduced AirTag in April 2021.

As Apple's AirTag continues to make waves in the world of item tracking, many users are curious about viable alternatives. While the AirTag undoubtedly offers seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem, there are several reasons why you might want to consider a different tracking device.

Let's dive into how the AirTag works, why some Apple users might prefer alternatives, and the best tracking devices on the market.

How AirTag works

AirTag is a small, coin-shaped device that allows users to track items using Apple's Find My network. It operates on Bluetooth technology and can communicate with nearby Apple devices, even those that don't belong to the AirTag's owner, to relay its location back to the owner's device.

If the AirTag is within Bluetooth range, users can play a sound from the device to help locate it. If it's out of range, the Find My app will show its last known location.

Why consider an alternative?

Even if you primarily use the Apple ecosystem, there are several reasons you might consider an AirTag alternative. First, in terms of affordability, Apple's AirTag isn't the most budget-friendly tracker on the market.

In addition, while the AirTag boasts a reasonable battery life, some alternatives offer longer-lasting options. Some other trackers may also offer features that the AirTag doesn't, such as geofencing or more customization options.

Moreover, for households or businesses that utilize both Android and Apple devices, a more universal tracker might be preferable.

Best for extended bluetooth range — Tile Pro

With a Bluetooth range of up to 400 feet, Tile Pro offers a wider search radius compared to many of its competitors. It works effectively with both Android and iOS devices through its dedicated app, ensuring that users have easy access to their tagged items.

Aside from being water-resistant, Tile Pro comes with a replaceable CR2032 battery that lasts up to a year. The loud ring makes it easier to locate items, and users can also leverage the Community Find feature, where other Tile users can help locate a lost item.

A single Tile Pro costs $34.99 and is available from Amazon and Best Buy.

Best for extended battery life — Chipolo ONE

This tracker provides a 200-foot range and seamlessly integrates with both Android and iOS devices. The dedicated app offers an intuitive interface for tracking multiple items. The Chipolo ONE stands out with its two-year battery life, which is longer than many trackers in the same price range.

It's also water-resistant, has a loud ring to aid in finding items, and the selfie feature (using the Chipolo as a camera remote) is a unique addition.

A single Chipolo ONE costs $25.00 from Chipolo directly or from Amazon, but is currently available from Poshmark for $16.00.

Best for affordability — eufy SmartTrack Link

If you're an iOS user looking for an affordable alternative, the eufy Security SmartTrack Link is a prime candidate. At a budget-friendly MSRP of $19.99, this tracker is designed for seamless integration with Apple's Find My network, just like AirTag.

Made by Anker, a reputable brand in the smartphone accessories space, the SmartTrack Link features a loud alarm that's reportedly louder than the AirTag's. It offers water resistance and free left-behind alerts, allowing you to share tagged items with family and friends.

Although the SmartTrack Link uses the Find My network, Android users can also make use of this tracker via eufy's official app.

You can buy a single eufy SmartTrack Link for $19.99 from B&H, or directly from eufy.

Best for durability and all-weather conditions — Cube Pro

With a 200-foot Bluetooth range, the Cube Pro provides a reliable tracking mechanism. It's compatible with both Android and iOS devices, and the dedicated app allows users to track multiple Cube devices at once.

The Cube Pro stands out for its waterproof capability, ensuring the tracker remains functional even when exposed to moisture. It comes with a replaceable battery and a loud ring sound, allowing users to hear their tagged items in noisy environments. Users can also utilize the Cube's Crowd Find feature, which lets other Cube users assist in locating lost items.

You can buy a single Cube Pro for $29.95 from Amazon, or from Cube directly.