What is the endurance and battery life of car GPS trackers?

GPS trackers for vehicle fleets are devices that enable real-time tracking of a fleet's location and movements. Companies across various sectors utilize them to enhance fleet management, focusing on safety, efficiency, and compliance. Additionally, individuals use these GPS trackers to safeguard their personal vehicles. 

For these devices to function effectively, they require a dependable power source. This is where range and battery life become crucial. Both factors are vital for ensuring continuous and precise vehicle tracking. In this article, we will delve into the battery life and endurance of car GPS trackers and discuss their significance in the context of fleet tracking. 

GPS tracker for cars: plugged in or standalone?

GPS trackers for cars come in two main types: plugged in and standalone. The choice between these models primarily affects the battery life and how often the device sends location updates. However, other features, like the communication networks they use, their coverage, and whether they can be jammed, do not influence battery performance.

Understanding Plugged GPS Trackers  

A plug-in GPS tracker is a device that connects directly to a vehicle’s power supply. This means it doesn’t require its own battery, as it draws power from the vehicle.  
The benefits of these connected GPS trackers are significant. Firstly, since they are powered by the vehicle, they have unlimited autonomy as long as the vehicle is running. Moreover, they can provide more accurate and reliable real-time tracking because they aren’t constrained by battery life.  

On the downside, plugged-in GPS trackers can be more challenging to install since they need a direct connection to the vehicle’s power supply. Additionally, because they depend on the vehicle’s power, they cannot track the vehicle when it is turned off.  
Plug-in GPS trackers are commonly used in scenarios where continuous real-time tracking is essential, such as monitoring a fleet of commercial vehicles.

Understanding standalone GPS trackers  

A standalone GPS tracker is a device that operates on its own power source, typically a built-in battery. This allows it to function independently of a vehicle's power supply.  
The benefits of autonomous GPS trackers are many. For instance, they are usually simpler to install since they don't need a direct connection to the vehicle’s electrical system. Moreover, because they rely on their own battery, they can continue to track the vehicle even when it is turned off.  

On the downside, standalone GPS trackers have some limitations. The most significant is that their operation time is constrained by battery life. Once the battery runs out, the device needs to be recharged or the battery replaced.  

These trackers are often used in scenarios where easy installation and the ability to monitor a vehicle when it is off are essential, such as in personal vehicle tracking or fleet management where vehicles may not always be in motion.

Comparison between plugged-in and standalone GPS trackers

The choice between plugged-in and standalone GPS trackers really hinges on your individual vehicle tracking requirements. 

• When it comes to autonomy and battery life, plugged-in GPS trackers enjoy unlimited power as long as the vehicle is running, drawing energy directly from it. In contrast, standalone GPS trackers rely on their own batteries, which means they have a finite battery life and require regular recharging or replacement. 
  
• Regarding features and capabilities, both types provide real-time tracking, but plugged-in models tend to deliver more accurate and dependable tracking since they aren't constrained by battery limitations. Standalone models, however, offer greater installation flexibility and can continue tracking a vehicle even when it's turned off.
  
• New version: When deciding between a plug-in GPS tracker and a standalone one for your car, consider your specific needs. If you require continuous real-time tracking and don’t mind the installation process, a plug-in GPS tracker could be ideal. On the other hand, if you want something that’s easy to install and can track the vehicle even when it’s off, a standalone GPS tracker may be the better option.
  

Deciding between a plugged-in GPS tracker and a standalone one really comes down to your individual vehicle tracking requirements. It's a good idea to assess these needs thoroughly before making your choice.

Battery life of standalone vehicle GPS trackers

The battery life of standalone vehicle GPS trackers is an important aspect that affects how long the device can function before needing a recharge. Various factors can impact the battery life of a GPS tracker. 

• Battery quality: The quality of batteries can vary widely. Depending on the manufacturer and model of the GPS tracker, the battery performance may differ. A high-quality battery can result in a longer battery life.
  
• Use of the GPS tracker: The way the GPS tracker is utilized can also impact battery life. For instance, if the tracked vehicle is in motion for 6 hours a day, the battery will deplete faster compared to a scenario where it is only moving for 1 hour a day.
  
• GPS tracker settings: Battery life can also change based on the settings of the GPS tracker. A device set to transmit its location every 60 seconds may only last a few days to a few weeks, while one that sends a few updates each day could function for several months or even years. Adjust the frequency of GPS position updates to achieve optimal battery life suited to your needs.
  

Environmental conditions, like extreme temperatures, can impact battery life and the precision of the positions transmitted.

Average battery life of GPS trackers on the market

The average battery life of GPS trackers available today can vary significantly, ranging from just a few days to several years, influenced by various factors. 

How to optimize battery life

To enhance battery life, there are several strategies you can employ. For instance, adjusting the device settings to reduce the frequency of data transmission or utilizing any available power-saving features can be effective. Many GPS trackers also have a “sleep” mode that activates when the device is stationary, allowing it to send only one location update per day. It's a good idea to inquire about the settings of GPS trackers with companies before making a purchase.

Battery life of GPS trackers for cars

What affects the battery life of a GPS car tracker?

The battery life of a GPS car tracker indicates how long the device can function before requiring a battery replacement. Various factors can influence the lifespan of a GPS tracker battery.

• Battery quality: Similar to autonomy, the quality of the battery plays a crucial role in determining its lifespan. A higher quality battery typically lasts longer.
  
• Charging cycles: Every time a battery is charged and then discharged, it counts as one charging cycle. Batteries have a finite number of these cycles before their capacity starts to diminish.
  
• Environmental conditions: Harsh environmental conditions, such as significant temperature fluctuations or extended exposure to extreme temperatures, can also shorten a battery's life.
  

Average battery life of GPS trackers on the market

The average battery life of GPS trackers available today typically ranges from a couple of years to several years, influenced by various factors.  

Tips for Extending Battery Life

You can also take steps to prolong the battery life of a GPS tracker. For instance, maintaining the battery at a moderate temperature and steering clear of complete charges or discharges can contribute to a longer lifespan.