This article reviews the top-rated monthly fee-free GPS trackers for vehicles. We compared standalone trackers and app-based options across brands like LandAirSea, Optimus, and Trak4 for key features like accuracy, battery life, ease of use and more. Whether you want basic location tracking or advanced alerts and reports, we’ve got you covered.
Read on for our picks of the best GPS trackers for cars that don’t require a monthly subscription. We’ll also provide pro tips on installing these covert devices and using the companion app to monitor driving habits.
Vyncs – GPS Tracker for Vehicles, [No Monthly Fee]
Vyncs is a GPS tracker for vehicles that operates on a 4G LTE network. It offers a range of features without requiring a monthly fee. The device provides real-time tracking, trip history, driving alerts, geofencing, fuel economy monitoring, and OBD fault codes. It is developed in the USA and can be used for family cars and commercial fleets.
The Vyncs device collects data every second while driving and transfers it to servers every three minutes. It also wakes up every hour when the car’s engine is off to provide updates. The device records all vehicle trips, including start and stop addresses, and offers real speed limits on the map.
Users can set up geofences to know when their vehicles enter or exit a particular area. Unlike other products that only provide a circular fence, Vyncs offers a more powerful, any-shape geofence. Users can also get tamper alerts if the device has been removed and plugged back into the car’s OBD-II port.
The device also monitors driver behavior, providing insights into rapid acceleration, harsh braking events, speeding, and idling. It calculates a Vyncs Driver Score based on the safety of each trip taken over time.
In addition to tracking, Vyncs also offers vehicle health monitoring. It collects all generic vehicle trouble code data accessible through the OBD-II port, allowing users to identify potential issues before they become serious problems.
Vyncs also integrates with smartwatches, home assistants like Alexa, and other third-party applications. For businesses and fleets, Vyncs offers additional features such as a fleet dashboard, street address on the trip table, downloadable data in Excel-friendly format, fuel cost tracking, custom maintenance tasks, and more.
Despite its many features, some users have raised concerns about the accuracy and timeliness of the location and driving characteristics provided by Vyncs. However, the product is easy to install and offers a low-cost service plan.
Bouncie – GPS Car Tracker [4G LTE]
The Bouncie GPS Car Tracker is a compact yet powerful device designed to provide real-time tracking of vehicles. It operates on a 4G LTE network and offers a range of features, including vehicle location tracking, accident notification, route history, speed monitoring, and GeoFence. The device is engineered to meet the highest automotive electronics standards, ensuring reliable performance.
The Bouncie tracker is easy to install and comes with no activation fees. Users can cancel the service anytime, making it a flexible option for families and fleet owners. The device uses Google’s mapping technology for precise location tracking and includes free roadside assistance. Data retention is unlimited, allowing users to access historical data whenever needed.
One of the standout features of the Bouncie tracker is its onboard event processing and internal cellular communication capabilities. These allow the device to detect and report driving and location events quickly and reliably. The device updates the vehicle’s location every 15 seconds while driving and marks the location on the map when the car is parked.
The Bouncie app provides a user-friendly interface to view locations, addresses, and routes. It also allows users to set up Geo-Zones, sending a notification when vehicles arrive or leave a specified area. The device requires a $9 monthly service fee and offers a 15-second trip auto-refresh feature.
Customer reviews highlight the accuracy of the device and its usefulness in monitoring driving habits, particularly for teen drivers. Some users have suggested improvements, such as adding a vehicle alarm notification feature. Despite this, the overall consensus among users is that the Bouncie GPS Car Tracker offers excellent value for its price and functionality.
Please note that this product is designed for use in the US and may require an adapter or converter for use in other countries.
LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker – Waterproof Magnet Mount.
The LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker is a highly rated, versatile tracking device with full global coverage. It utilizes 4G LTE and satellite technology to track vehicles, assets, fleets, and individuals. The tracker is waterproof and has a magnet mount, making it suitable for various environments and applications.
This compact device is designed with a built-in super-strength magnet, allowing easy installation on bikes, boats, cars, or motorcycles. It’s also portable enough to fit in small pockets or be discreetly hidden in a backpack or purse. The tracker has special features such as alert notifications, geo-fencing, location history, motion activation, and real-time tracking.
The LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker has a rechargeable battery that can last up to two weeks, thanks to its motion activation feature. For added discretion, the device’s LED lights can be disabled via an app, preventing it from revealing its location through flashing lights.
The product includes the 54 GPS tracker, charging accessories (micro USB cord), and an on/off pin. The device is compatible with MAC, PC, iPhone, and Android devices, and it uses web-based software or the SilverCloud App for real-time tracking and mapping.
The LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker is manufactured by LandAirSea Systems, a company known for pioneering the manufacturing and development of historical and real-time GPS tracking surveillance technology. The product was first available on March 27, 2017, and the manufacturer did not discontinue it.
As of July 21, 2023, the product is priced at $27.69 on Amazon.com. It has received a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 20,775, ranking #679 in Electronics and #3 in GPS Trackers.
No Monthly Fee GPS Tracker
The No Monthly Fee GPS Tracker by Family1st is a compact and reliable tracking device that offers real-time 4G LTE GPS tracking with updates every five seconds. This lightweight tracker is suitable for tracking vehicles, personal belongings, and even people, making it ideal for families with elderly members, teenagers, or young children.
The device includes a one-year subscription, eliminating the need for monthly fees. It provides access to real-time alerts, geofencing, location history, and customizable reports. The tracker boasts a long battery life of up to two weeks and a lifetime warranty.
The Family1st GPS Tracker is user-friendly and easy to set up. It offers multiple geofence options, data privacy, and driver behavior reports. It is compatible with both iOS and Android devices. The tracker’s location can be viewed via the Family1st Pro App, with updates every 60 seconds.
Despite its many advantages, some users have reported issues with the device’s battery life and instructions. However, the product has received mostly positive reviews, with customers praising its accuracy, ease of use, and the peace of mind it provides.
This product is sold by a small business brand, aligning with Amazon’s commitment to empowering small businesses. It is important to note that products with electrical plugs are designed for use in the US, and international users may require an adapter or converter.
In conclusion, the No Monthly Fee GPS Tracker by Family1st is a versatile and cost-effective solution for anyone looking to keep track of their vehicles, assets, or loved ones.
Family1st GPS Tracker for Vehicles
The Family1st GPS Tracker is a compact and lightweight device for real-time tracking of vehicles, assets, and individuals. It’s the smallest GPS tracker available on Amazon and is ideal for cars, trucks, and loved ones. The tracker operates on a 4G LTE network and provides updates every five seconds through a desktop web access or the Family1st GPS smartphone app.
The portable device can be discreetly placed in a backpack or car without emitting any light or noise. It offers real-time alerts and reports, allowing users to set up geofence zones and receive notifications when the tracker enters or exits these zones. Alerts include SOS signals, low battery warnings, and movement notifications, which can be received via SMS or email.
Thanks to its cutting-edge technology, the Family1st GPS Tracker boasts a long battery life, lasting up to two weeks. It requires a subscription for tracking on mobile and desktop, with plans starting as low as $15.95 per month when paid annually or $21.95 monthly. There are no contracts to sign, and cancellation is hassle-free.
The tracker is easy to set up and use. After selecting a suitable subscription plan, users must download the Family1st Pro App on their iOS or Android devices. The device comes with an inbuilt AT&T SIM, eliminating the need for a separate purchase.
The Family1st GPS Tracker is sold by Family1st, a brand based out of the San Francisco Bay area with locations on three continents. The brand prides itself on providing high-end, cutting-edge technology to its customers. The tracker is rated 3.9 out of 5 stars on Amazon and is priced at $19.95.
Spytec GPS GL300 Real-Time GPS Tracker
The Spytec GPS GL300 is a real-time GPS tracker designed for tracking vehicles, assets, and individuals. It comes with a weatherproof magnetic case, making it suitable for various conditions. The device offers accurate location tracking, allowing users to monitor their belongings in real time and see their exact location on the map.
The GPS tracker is compact and discreet, making it easy to hide and track items without noticing. It’s perfect for tracking cars, bikes, or luggage when traveling. The device has a long battery life, lasting several days on a single charge, reducing the need for frequent recharging.
Setting up the Spytec GPS GL300 is straightforward. Users must download the app and connect the device to their phone. The app is user-friendly and allows customization of settings to suit individual needs. However, a subscription fee is required to use the device, which may be a drawback for some users on a tight budget.
While the device offers great location tracking, it has limited features compared to other GPS trackers. For instance, it lacks additional features such as geofencing or alerts. Additionally, the device can sometimes be slow to update its location, especially in areas with poor network coverage. It also requires a data connection to work, which could be a disadvantage in areas with poor network coverage or those without data access.
Despite these limitations, the Spytec GPS GL300 is recommended for anyone needing a reliable and discreet GPS tracker. Its accurate location tracking, ease of use, long battery life, and compact design make it a great option.
GPS Tracker for Vehicles No Monthly Fee
The Brickhouse Security GPS Tracker for Vehicles is a portable, lightweight device with a one-year subscription plan to offer real-time surveillance. This tracker is designed to monitor the location of vehicles, assets, or loved ones, providing coverage across North America, including Canada, Mexico, and the United States, thanks to its operation on super-fast 4G networks.
The device allows users to access real-time and historical reports of speed, geofencing violations, and detailed travel reports from anywhere via any web browser. The compact design of the tracker, measuring 3 x 1.58 x 1 inch and weighing 9.1 ounces, makes it easy to hide in a vehicle.
The tracker comes with three affordable subscription plans starting at $17.99 monthly, with monthly, quarterly, or annual options. No contracts allow users to cancel anytime for a hassle-free experience. The package includes a Spark Nano 7.0 wall charger, a user’s guide, and a pre-installed SIM card.
The product has received positive customer reviews, rating 4.3 out of 5 stars. Users have praised the tracker for its accuracy, ease of use, and customer service. However, some users have noted that the device does not provide exact addresses and needs to be recharged every 4-5 days.
Brickhouse Security, the GPS tracker manufacturer, has been a trusted name in security and surveillance solutions since 2005 and specializes in GPS tracking. The company prides itself on being a licensed security company that is small enough to offer personal service but large enough to be an industry leader.
SinoTrack 4G GPS Tracker for Vehicles, ST-901L LTE Mini GPS Tracker Waterproof Locator Real
The SinoTrack ST-901L is a 4G GPS tracker designed for vehicles. It’s a compact, waterproof device provides real-time location tracking for cars, motorcycles, trucks, and taxis. The tracker operates on the 4G network and includes built-in WCDMA, GSM, and GPS antennas. It also features an ACC function to detect ignition.
One of the key features of this device is its ability to cut the engine remotely. If the vehicle is stolen, the owner can send an SMS command from their phone to stop the vehicle. This feature works when the car is running below 20 km/h and will stop within 10-20 seconds of receiving the command.
The SinoTrack GPS tracker supports lifetime tracking through an online platform. Users must purchase a separate SIM card for the device and can access real-time tracking at no additional cost. The device also has a built-in backup battery for continuous operation.
The tracker can store up to two years of tracking history, allowing users to view and play back their daily tracking history. This can be particularly useful for deciding where the car has been.
The device is easy to install and has a user manual and battery. It measures 3.54 x 2.04 x 0.66 inches and is compatible with smartphones. It also has a waterproof design, making it suitable for outdoor use.
The SinoTrack ST-901L 4G GPS tracker is a versatile and reliable device for keeping track of vehicles. It offers a range of features, including real-time tracking, remote engine cut-off, and historical data storage, all without any monthly fees.
Amcrest GPS GL300 GPS Tracker for Vehicles (4G LTE)
The Amcrest GPS GL300 GPS Tracker for Vehicles (4G LTE) is a compact, portable, and highly accurate real-time tracking device. It is designed to be versatile and suitable for tracking vehicles, children, pets, and other assets. The tracker has 4G LTE and GSM 900/1800 MHz cellular coverage, GPS, and GLONASS for location tracking.
The device is powered by a Li-Polymer 2600 mAh battery, which offers varying battery life depending on usage and frequency of notifications. The manufacturer claims that the battery can last up to 10-14+ days on a full charge with 60s updates, 7-8 days with 30s updates, 4-5 days with 15s updates, and 2-3 days with 5s updates. However, users have reported that the actual battery life may be less than advertised, mainly if the frequency of notifications is high.
The tracker features IPX5 water resistance, and an IP67 waterproof magnetic case is available separately. A preinstalled SIM card requires activation and a service plan, with options ranging from $19.99 for 60-second updates to $34.99 for 5-second updates. No annual contract is required for the service plan.
The Amcrest GPS tracker also offers a shareable link of the location that you can share with others, valid for several days. It supports both Apple and Android apps and a web-based interface. Notifications and alerts can be received via email, SMS, and push notifications.
Despite its many advantages, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. The tracker uses a mini-USB plug/cable for charging, which is less common than Micro-USB or USB-C. Some users have reported accuracy issues, with the tracker showing an offset either to the left or right of the road. This could potentially be related to the frequency of the plan chosen. The custom PDF/CSV export feature is also somewhat limited, showing start and end time, distance, duration, and from/to address without providing individual GPS position or coordinate reports.
Overall, the Amcrest GPS GL300 GPS Tracker for Vehicles (4G LTE) is a reliable and effective tracking solution, offering peace of mind and comfort in knowing the exact location of your loved ones or assets. Considering this product, it is recommended to consider the caveats regarding battery life and charging cable type.
TKSTAR 4G GPS Tracker for Vehicles Hidden 10000mAh Car Tracker
The TKSTAR 4G GPS Tracker for Vehicles is a robust and reliable tracking device designed to provide real-time and accurate positioning of vehicles. It comes with a large 10000mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery, which offers up to 80 days of standby time and about 1-2 weeks of working time. The tracker updates the location every 15 seconds on its dedicated app and website, with an accuracy of up to 16 ft/5 m.
One of the unique features of this tracker is its ability to work for SMS tracking. Even in-network failure areas, users can still obtain the tracker’s location by calling or sending a text message. The device also supports the setting up one or more geofences, with adjustable radii ranging from 320ft to 16000ft. If the vehicle moves out of the set range, the tracker sends an alarm via the app or a message to the authorized number.
The TKSTAR 4G GPS Tracker also comes with multiple alarm functions, including moving alarm, shock alarm, overspeed alarm, and low power alarm. These features can be monitored live on your phone for added peace of mind. The tracker is versatile and can be used for tracking the location of lost or stolen cars, motorcycles, trucks, boats, fleets, and other assets.
However, the tracker requires a SIM card to function correctly. Users must purchase a SIM card with a 4G/2G network and insert it into the tracker. If used with a Speedtalk SIM card, the monthly fee is only $5.
Despite its many features, some users have reported issues with the tracker going offline after a few minutes of idle time and becoming unresponsive to text or app commands. Others have praised the device’s performance even in freezing temperatures and its excellent customer service and tech support. Overall, the TKSTAR 4G GPS Tracker offers a comprehensive solution for vehicle tracking needs.