Best GPS tracker for phone: 11 top apps & devices to use in 2025

Looking for the best GPS tracker for phones in 2025? Because we depend on our phones for almost everything, misplacing one or losing connection with families (especially kids) can spark instant panic. Thus, reliable GPS location tracker solutions for a targeted phone ease that anxiety, allowing you to locate lost devices, track loved ones’ movements, and even seek help during an emergency.

In this guide, you’ll explore 12 top apps and gadgets, uncover their main features, and compare price, privacy, and simplicity so you can discover the perfect fit for your life. Keep reading!

Types of GPS trackers for phones

Whether you’re trying to keep a loved one safe or track down a lost wallet, a GPS buddy can give you peace of mind. There are typically two types of GPS trackers: a separate physical device or an app that you load.

1. Built-in phone GPS tracking

There are default apps or services built into smartphones that allow location tracking using the device’s GPS.

• Google Maps (Location Sharing) – For Android & iOS
• Apple Find My – iPhones, iPads, AirTags, Macs
• Samsung Find My Mobile – Samsung devices only
• Android Device Manager (Find My Device) – Locate lost Android phones

2. Parental GPS tracking apps

It’s no surprise that parents use parental apps to track and keep their children safe. According to a 2023 study in the Journal of Family Psychology, about half of parents in the U.S. report monitoring their adolescents’ movements via location-tracking apps. These are designed to track children’s or family members’ phones in real time with added safety features.

• FlashGet Kids
• Life360
• GeoZilla
• Find My Kids
• FamiSafe
• iSharing

Additional features: driving safety, geofencing, app blocker, live monitoring.

3. Surveillance GPS trackers

These apps provide GPS tracking plus activity monitoring. Some are marketed to parents or employers.

• mSpy
• FlexiSPY
• Hoverwatch

Note: These may require legal consent depending on your jurisdiction.

4. App-connected Bluetooth/GPS devices

While not directly tracking phones, these are paired to phones and use phone apps for GPS tracking of the object (e.g., keys, bags, etc.).

• Apple AirTag
• Samsung Galaxy SmartTag
• Tile
• Jiobit

11 top GPS tracker apps and devices for phone (iOS & Android)

Life moves fast these days, so being able to check where family members or valuables are can offer a real sense of security. However, the trouble is that a flooded market of gadgets and apps makes it tough to find the choice that suits you best.

To cut through the noise, we’ve collected a list of the top 11 Android/iPhone GPS trackers and devices. So, let’s dive in!

Top picks at a glance:

Benefits of using GPS trackers for phones

GPS trackers for phones provide a wide range of benefits, from enhancing security to improving everyday convenience. Here’s how they can help:

Family & kids safety

The GPS phone tracker is an excellent assistant for monitoring the safety of family members, especially young children or elderly relatives. By using family locator apps like Life360 or FlashGet Kids, you can easily check in on your loved ones’ whereabouts in real-time. Features such as SOS buttons and Geo-fencing add extra protection. You can set virtual boundaries around a specific area (like a school or home) and receive an alert whenever the device enters or exits that area.

Monitor teens’ driving behavior

Many GPS trackers are especially helpful for parents of teenage drivers. By tracking speed, braking habits, and travel routes, parents can ensure that their children are driving safely.

Prevent theft & track lost devices

One of the primary uses of phone GPS trackers is to track lost or stolen phones. Tracking the device’s location in real-time increases your chances of recovering it.

Efficiently track personal items & pets

GPS trackers aren’t just for phones; they can also be used to track personal items like keys, wallets, or even luggage. Devices like Tile and Tracki work across various items and can be placed on anything you want to keep track of. Some GPS trackers are designed for pet safety, such as Jiobit and Whistle Go Explore, providing real-time location data to ensure your pet doesn’t wander too far.

Common concerns with phone GPS tracking

GPS tracking can be a handy way to keep tabs on loved ones and find your own phone, but it also raises some risks when people overlook how the system operates.

• Privacy and data security: Another major concern is data security. Many GPS tracking apps collect sensitive data, including your location history, which can be valuable for hacking. Ensure the app’s privacy policy is transparent, and avoid apps that collect excessive personal data unrelated to the tracking function.

• Unauthorized tracking and stalking: One of the primary concerns with GPS tracking is the potential for unauthorized tracking. Be mindful of who has access to your tracking information and regularly monitor your settings for unusual activity.

• Battery consumption and performance: GPS tracking apps can drain your phone’s battery quickly during real-time tracking. This could impact your phone’s performance and cause inconvenience. Disable the GPS tracker when you don’t need it.

• Legal and ethical considerations: Tracking someone’s phone without their consent may violate privacy laws, depending on your region. When using GPS trackers for children, ensure the device or app is intended for parental use, and respect their privacy boundaries as they grow older.

General safety tips for using a phone GPS tracker

By following a few simple tips, you protect your privacy and stay in charge.

• Run a Quick Settings Check: Set aside a few minutes to scan your phone’s settings and see which apps are allowed to use your location.

• Stick to trusted, well-reviewed apps: Not every piece of software is built with your safety in mind. Focus on GPS tools that carry solid ratings, clear privacy policies, and regular updates.

• Share your location with people you trust: Always think twice before sharing your location information. Share it only with people you truly trust, like a parent or close family member.

How to choose the best GPS tracker for your needs?

Choosing a GPS tracker may seem tricky, but the process is straightforward once you know what to look for.

Check compatibility with your device (iOS/Android)

Before proceeding, ensure the tracker is compatible with your device and the target, as switching between devices can add unnecessary frustration. Not all GPS trackers are compatible with both iPhone and Android devices.

Look at the features and your needs

Think about which functions matter most to you. Is live map sharing essential, or will a light check-in every few minutes do? For example, parents may prioritize geo-fencing and emergency alerts, while travelers may need real-time tracking and battery-saving modes.

Cost and subscription plans

While some apps are free, some offer premium features that come with a subscription fee. Hardware trackers, such as AirTags or Tile, also require a one-time purchase and may offer optional subscriptions for extended features. If you only need basic tracking, a free app may suffice (e.g., Google Maps). However, for advanced features like SOS alerts or extended support, consider upgrading to a premium version.

Check reviews from real users

Before making a decision and purchasing, read user reviews from platforms like Reddit and app store ratings to get an idea of its performance, reliability, and ease of use. Apps with high ratings are more likely to offer a quality experience and in-time support, while negative reviews point out potential issues

Final words

Choosing a GPS tracker for your phone isn’t just about grabbing the newest gadget. It’s about finding a helper that seamlessly integrates into your daily life, syncs with your device without fuss, and keeps an eye on people or items you care about. Whether you opt for an app or a small, standalone box, check the features, match the cost to your budget, and read honest customer reviews.

At the same time, review the privacy rules to see how the company handles your data. Pick smart, use the tool sensibly, and you stay connected, calmer, and a bit safer, day in and day out.

FAQs