GPS vs. Microchip: Which is Better for Tracking Pets?

“I don’t need a GPS tracker because I can track my pet with their microchip”.

This statement is the most common objection we hear to using a GPS tracker for pets. The problem is that the statement isn’t actually true.

In this blog, we want to debunk some myths about what microchips can and can’t do. We’ll pit them up against GPS trackers for some like-for-like comparisons and then we’ll finally answer the question, which should you choose to track your pet – a GPS or a microchip?

Understanding the Basics

Fundamentally, microchips and GPS trackers both exist to achieve the same goal; to find your pet if they become lost. But we’ve found that there tends to be some confusion about how each of these devices achieves that goal.

What is a Microchip?

A microchip, or transponder, is a small (think single grain of rice kind of small) method of electronic identification that is implanted in pets before or at the time of adoption.

These little chips are generally planted at the base of the neck, between the shoulder blades (not their ear, as is commonly believed). They are loaded with your pet’s identification number and can be scanned using RFID technology. This identification number is then linked to your contact information on a database.

Microchips (source: AVMA American Vet Med Assoc.) can only be scanned by Vets or animal rescue workers, not just anyone who happens to find your lost pet.

What is a GPS Tracker?

A GPS tracker is a small, attachable device that clips onto your pet’s collar. GPS pet trackers provide live location updates usually through a smartphone app. These are active systems that constantly send signals to update you on exactly where your pet is.

GPS trackers use satellite or cellular networks, as well as Bluetooth and wi-fi, to ensure that the tracker is always in coverage and doesn’t go into blindspots.

GPS trackers can’t be scanned by Vets or animal rescue workers and don’t provide information to anyone other than those with access to the GPS tracker’s application data.

Key Differences Between GPS Trackers and Microchips

Now that we understand what each of these devices does, let’s look at how they differ from one another.

Purpose

GPS: Given their active approach and real-time tracking updates, GPS pet trackers are ideal for quickly locating your furry friends when they wander or become lost. The sooner pets can be tracked, the sooner they can be found.
Microchips: Microchips take a passive approach to finding your pets. They rely on your lost pet being found by or handed over to a vet or animal rescue worker, who can then contact you about your lost pet.

Cost

GPS: Most GPS systems are a one-time purchase, followed by a small monthly or annual subscription fee to pay for their cellular connectivity.
Microchips: Microchips usually involve a one-time implantation fee which is done by your vet. You can generally expect to pay around $25-$60 USD for this service.

Accessibility

GPS: These devices are incredibly accessible. They’re always on and always able to provide you with real-time tracking data for your pet.
Microchips: These devices are only accessible by professionals with access to a purpose-built scanner. Meaning that only vets and animal shelters can retrieve your details and then notify you of your pet’s location.

Battery Life and Maintenance

GPS: A GPS pet tracker does require recharging. However, these devices (namely the AirBolt) can last up to 3 months on a single charge. As for maintenance, there’s none required. Despite being such advanced technology, GPS tracking devices are built to withstand the rigours of being attached to your pet 24/7.
Microchip: These devices have no battery at all. They basically lay dormant until someone passes a scanner over them, activating the microchip which then transmits your pet’s identification number. There’s also no maintenance required for microchips—once they’re in, they’re in for good.

Range of Effectiveness

GPS: GPS trackers will be in range anywhere that there’s satellite or cellular coverage, making them an ideal solution for tracking your pet over long distances.
Microchips: Microchips only work when scanned at close range. There isn’t really any range to speak of as they don’t actively locate or track pets.

So What Should You Choose For Tracking Your Pet?

The simple answer to this question is… both!

As you can see, each method has some very clear advantages. A GPS tracker will allow you to locate your pet right away. And if you’ve ever lost your pet, you’ll know that this is incredibly important and saves a lot of emotional turmoil. On the other hand, a microchip is a great failsafe option, and shouldn’t be overlooked—with or without a GPS tracker.

The combination of these two tracking devices gives you invaluable peace of mind that in the event your pet goes missing, you know that you’ll see them again.