Are you trying to find gps beacons among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!
We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling gps beacons on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 15 hours of research and did 21 gps beacons tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!
An overview of our top picks
Table of contents
The best gps beacons you can buy today
- No Subscription Required Enjoy peace of mind with no ongoing fees, knowing you're always ready for rescue with reliable, subscription-free coverage.
- 406 MHz Distress and Homing Dignals Providing powerful alerts to rescuers, ensuring your location is quickly identified for a fast and accurate response.
- LED Strobe and Infrared Strobe Ensures maximum visibility in low-light and nighttime conditions, making it easier for rescuers to find you in any environment.
- Global Coverage / Cospas-Sarsat / MEOSAR Offers global coverage, ensuring rescue capabilities via Cospas-Sarsat and MEOSAR satellite systems.
- GPS and Galileo GNSS Featuring GPS and Galileo GNSS, this device ensures precise location tracking, providing accurate position data to support efficient and timely rescue operations.
- Once activated, an SOS distress signal with GPS position is sent direct to Search and Rescue forces worldwide using the 406 MHz Emergency Distress Signal with 121.5 MHz Homing Signal (No Subscription Required)
- Small, rugged, lightweight personal locator beacon that is buoyant and includes attachment clips including a belt clip, oral inflation tube clip, straps and lanyards for increased wearability for hikers, boaters, campers, climbers, RVing and all your outdoor adventures
- Send pre-canned non-emergency self test and GPS test messages to multiple contacts via text message (SMS) and email with a customized message using the optional 406Link testing subscription
- Global Coverage using the 3 satellite constellations of COSPAS-SARSAT, which sends your distress message directly to Search and Rescue agencies worldwide without the need for a rescue monitoring center
- A bright LED Strobe light as well as an Infrared Strobe light ensures multiple visual signals to rescuers
- Compact, lightweight satellite communicator enables two-way messaging and interactive SOS globally (Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices.).Special Feature:Bluetooth.Water Resistant: Yes
- Navigate back to where you started by using TracBack routing
- Share your location with loved ones back home at any time (active satellite subscription required) by using your MapShare page or with your coordinates embedded in your messages
- Get accurate heading information using the digital compass — even when you’re not moving
- Sync with the Garmin Explore app and website on your compatible smartphone for trip planning and topographical mapping, and create waypoints, courses, activities and collections you can sync to your device
- Pair with Garmin devices, such as wearables and handhelds, and use them to send and receive messages and trigger an SOS (active satellite subscription required)
- Battery life: up to 14 days in 10-minute tracking mode
- Global satellite messaging: Stay connected beyond cell coverage, use ZOLEO with your smartphone to transmit text messages and e-mails over the Iridium satellite network, cellular or Wi-Fi using the lowest-cost network available (service plan required)
- Emergency SOS: Send an SOS alert with your GPS location to 24/7 emergency monitoring center if something goes wrong, or access Medical Assist for non-emergency help
- Dedicated SMS number: An assigned ZOLEO SMS number and email enables contacts to reach out directly when you're off the grid
- Check-in: Send unlimited check-ins via the ZOLEO device or app, included in your plan
- Location sharing: Include GPS coordinates in a message or check-in, or share waypoints at regular intervals (optional add-on)
- Rugged with long battery life: IP68-rated for superior durability; over 200 hours of battery life
- Affordable monthly service: Airtime monthly plans from just $20; unlimited SOS, check-in, and Wi-Fi messages included
- Plus: Supports weather forecasts, easy device sharing, and long messages (900 characters)
- RLS (Return Link Service) confirms that Search and Rescue has received the emergency distress signal, alerting the beacon owner.
- Digital display with infrared strobe for clear visibility and enhanced signal detection in emergency situations.
- No subscription required, 5-year battery life, and 28+ hours of operational life for reliable performance in emergencies.
- GPS, Galileo GNSS, and MEOSAR compatibility provide global coverage for reliable and accurate positioning in any emergency situation.
- Built-in buoyancy, compact and lightweight design, with a multifunction clip system for easy attachment and portability during outdoor adventures.
- This Personal Locator Beacon is pre programmed for registration with the US country code. Whilst it will function anywhere around the world, the initial point of contact during an emergency situation would be the US Search and Rescue authorities with whom the PLB would be registered.
- If you require registration outside of the US, please purchase our alternative listing for 'McMurdo Fast Find 220 PLB - Programmed for Rest of World '. We include at no charge a reprogramming service on this alternative listing to ensure the device can be registered in the country of your choice.
- Registering your Personal Locator Beacon is required by law in most countries. Registering is very important because should your beacon ever be activated, it is how Search and Rescue Teams will know who you are, and contacts provided may be able to supply information about your specific travel plans. In the absence of this information, it may take longer for a search-and-rescue operation to begin.
- PLBs have been proven, tried and tested in some of the world's most remote locations and treacherous conditions. Even in extreme conditions and situations, the FastFind 220 activates easily. Just deploy the antenna, pull the anti-tamper seal and press the ON button.
- This PLB should only be used in situations of grave and imminent danger to life. False alerts endanger lives and cause expensive disruption to Search and Rescue services. Deliberate misuse of the device could result in a penalty.
- RLS (Return Link Service) confirms that Search and Rescue has received the emergency distress signal, alerting the beacon owner.
- No subscription required, 5-year battery life, and 24+ hours of operational life for reliable performance in emergencies.
- GPS, Galileo GNSS, and MEOSAR compatibility provide global coverage for reliable and accurate positioning in any emergency situation.
- Built-in buoyancy, small and lightweight design, with both strobe and infrared strobe lights for enhanced visibility in emergencies.
- Includes a multifunction clip system for versatile attachment options, ensuring easy carry and quick access during emergencies.
- MEANT FOR ADVENTURE: Spot Gen4 provides critical, life-saving line of communication when you travel beyond cell towers; Let family know you're ok or push the SOS button to send your GPS to emergency responders if you need help
- NO CELL PHONE OR SERVICE-NO PROBLEM: With the Tracking feature Gen4 can transmit location updates when you are moving and when you stop; Keep one in your child's backpack for the walk home
- GLOBALSTAR SATELLITE & SPOT products use GPS to determine location and transmit GPS coordinates to others; SPOT users can notify friends, family or emergency rescue their exact GPS coordinates
- WHAT'S IN THE BOX: SPOT Gen4 device, Strap and Carabiner, USB Cable, Batteries and quick start guide; Subscription required; Two service plans available
- PURCHASE, ACTIVATE, EXPLORE: Grab a Spot Gen4; Activate by selecting your service plan; Get out there and explore the world with peace of mind
- AIS (Automatic Identification System) sends a distress alert on VHF frequencies, received by vessels with AIS receivers or plotters within a 5-mile radius (conditions apply).
- RLS (Return Link Service) confirms that Search and Rescue has received the emergency distress signal, alerting the beacon owner.
- NFC technology allows easy access to beacon data via mobile, showing battery life, tests, activation time, and detailed GNSS test info, including map and accuracy.
- 406 MHz COSPAS-SARSAT distress signal (MEOSAR compatible) and 121.5 MHz local homing signal for enhanced emergency location and rescue.
- Small, lightweight design with global coverage, no subscription required, strobe & infrared strobe lights, and a multifunction clip system for easy attachment.
- Designed to integrate with common inflatable PFDs, featuring simple attachment, 5-year battery life, and 24+ hours of operational life for reliable emergency performance.
- ResQLink View Personal Locator Beacon
- C-Strobe H2O Rescue Light
- Res-Q Whistle
- RapidDitch Drybag
- Signal Mirror
- 7 Year Battery Life | 7 year warranty
- 24+ hour operational life
- Free to use, no subscription charges
- High brightness strobe light >1 candela
- 66 channel GPS receiver / Unique mounting clip
- 【Built-in Power】: It has an internal battery, allowing it to function as a regular buzzer controlled by a remote or as a loud alarm that sounds off at over 110 dB if the main battery is removed.
- 【High Volume Alert】: The noise level is extremely high, reaching up to 110 dB.
- 【Automatic LED Activation】: Its LED light turns on by itself in low light, thanks to a sensor.
- 【Flexible Disarm Methods】: You can turn off the buzzer either by using its switch or by disconnecting the drone's battery.
- 【Wide Compatibility & Betaflight Ready】: It works with FPV drones and RC airplanes and is compatible with Betaflight software for easy use.
- Small, rugged, lightweight satellite communicator enables two-way text messaging using the 100% global Iridium network (satellite subscription required)
- Trigger an interactive SOS to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center (satellite subscription required)
- Access downloadable maps, U.S. NOAA charts, color aerial imagery and more by using the free Garmin Earthmate app and compatible devices
- Optional inReach weather forecast service provides detailed updates directly to your inReach Mini or paired device; basic and premium weather packages available
- Send and receive inReach messages through compatible Garmin devices, including connected wearables and handhelds
- NOTICE: Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communications devices. It is the responsibility of the user to know and follow all applicable laws in the jurisdictions where the device is intended to be used.
- Customer Service Support Line: The Silent Beacon 2.0 comes with our exclusive customer service line for technical issues. Call +1(888)-652-1172 or email support01@silentbeacon.com with your questions or issues during Eastern Standard Time business hours from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Calls Any Phone Number Including 911: Our panic button is the only device on the market that allows you to choose which phone number you want called during an emergency.
- Send Alerts & Your GPS Location: Send your GPS location in real-time via text, email, and push notifications to people who can help you in an emergency.
- Extendeed Rechargeable Battery: Fully rechargeable and allows you to monitor battery life for added peace of mind, battery life is 42 days.
- Multiple Alert Modes: Along with our Emergency Alert Mode we also have a Silent Mode, Check-In Alert, Low Battery Alert and Footstep Tracking Alert.
- Alert Other Beacons: Any of your Emergency Contacts can have their Beacon alerted if you are in an emergency just in case. you do not hear your phone ring.
- Water Resistant IPX4: Our device is certified for water resistance with an Ingress Protection Rating of X4. The Microphone, USB port and Speaker are also Waterproof.
- 100% Private: We only send out your location when you press the Alert Button. Your location is private and not stored or seen by us at any other time.
- Fi Fastener Flex is compatible with Fi Series 2 Smart Dog Collar Beacon GPS Dog Tracker. Due to variations in size, this is not compatible with Fi Series 3 beacon.
- This is smaller and 25% more flexible compared to our original version, making it a breeze to insert and remove the Fi Series 2 GPS Tracker Device.
- This ingenious accessory fits collars of up to 1.25 inches in width, accommodating a wide range of collar sizes.
- Crafted with solid loops, the Fi Fastener Flex guarantees a secure fit, and its rubber-like flexibility ensures your Fi Series 2 GPS Beacon stays in place. Fi Series 2 Beacon NOT included.
- Choose from classic colors - Black, Gray, White, and Orange - to match your dog's collar and showcase their unique style.
- Fi Fastener is compatible with Fi Series 2 Smart Dog Collar Beacon GPS Dog Tracker. Due to variations in size, this is not compatible with Fi Series 3 beacon.
- Just pop the beacon GPS dog tracker in and out of the Fi Fastener.
- A split loop at both ends provides easy insertion of any collar up to 1.25 inches wide.
- Fi Fastener is waterproof and made from a special blend of tough TPU (Flexible) Plastic to protect and secure your Fi Series 2 GPS Tracker.
- Available in black, white, and high-visibility orange.
- RLS (Return Link Service) confirms that Search and Rescue has received the distress signal, notifying the beacon owner that assistance is on the way.
- 406 MHz COSPAS-SARSAT distress signal (MEOSAR compatible), GPS, Galileo, GLONASS GNSS, & 121.5 MHz local homing signal for precise emergency location.
- NFC technology enables easy access to beacon data via mobile, showing battery life, tests, activation time, GNSS details, map, & accuracy information.
- Small and lightweight beacon with strobe and infrared strobe for improved visibility in emergencies, ensuring fast identification and a smooth rescue.
- 10-year battery life & no subscription required, this beacon offers reliable performance and convenience, ensuring long-lasting use during emergencies
- Small, rugged, lightweight satellite communicator enables 2 way text messaging using the 100 percentage global Iridium network (satellite subscription required).Special Feature:Bluetooth.
- Trigger an interactive SOS to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center (satellite subscription required). Display size-0.9 x 0.9 inch
- Access downloadable maps, U.S. NOAA charts, color aerial imagery and more by using the free Garmin Earthmate app and compatible devices
- Optional inReach weather forecast service provides detailed updates directly to your inReach Mini or paired device, basic and premium weather packages available
- Send and receive inReach messages through compatible Garmin devices, including connected wearables and handhelds. Display resolution: 128 x 128 pixels
- NOTICE: Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communications devices. It is the responsibility of the user to know and follow all applicable laws in the jurisdictions where the device is intended to be used
- Don't have cell coverage or battery dies on your smartphone when you are out hiking, backpacking, or hunting? The Bushnell BackTrack Mini GPS will help you get back to your basecamp or trailhead.
- The Bushnell Backtrack Mini uses GPS technology to capture your trip or waypoint so you can guide back to your starting position. Battery lasts up to 35 hours. Rugged and waterproof to handle anything you put the Bushnell BackTrack Mini GPS through
- Want to store or share your trip or waypoints? The Bushnell BackTrack Mini GPS has Bluetooth to view and sync trips and waypoints to the Bushnell Connect app on your smartphone
- The easy to read display and large glove-friendly buttons make the BackTrack Mini a must-have for hitting the trail. BackTrack Mini gives you elevation gain and decline as well as barometric pressure. It also gives you the day's sunrise and sunset as well as moonrise and moonset
- No expensive batteries required with the BackTrack Mini. Simply charge it with any Micro USB and you're ready to go.
- ⌚【 4G Multifunctional Digital Watch 】 In addition to the GPS positioning and SOS function, this smart watch also supports calling, power comsumption battery management,weather forecast, remote photography,remote power off,camera,album,flashlight,theme switch,gravity sensor,video play, recording,SMS browse,blindpot Supplementary transmission,wechat,alipay,video chat, QQ etc. This watch is such fully functional just like a mobile phone!
- 📣【IP67 Waterproof GPS Phone Watch】: HUIJIE Kids Watch is IP67 water-resistant, you can wear it when wash your hands or play with water. High sensitive color screen make it easy to operate and give you clear insights to the display.
- 📲【 Video Call & Voice Chat 】kids smart watch is the best cell phone alternative for kids. 4g smart watch phone with 2-way video calling feature, face to face video talk with your child anytime anywhere. The smartwatch not only voice chat but also send pictures. Video and voice chat interactions make communication more interesting and talkative. This is a great design for parents and children.
- 📡【 Kids Safety Tracker 】 4G Wifi GPS LBS real time positioning, More precise positioning than 2G net watch. It's also can check location history through the day. Know where your children are anytime. In addition, there is a SOS button, if your children are in emergency situation, they can press SOS button for 3 seconds and circularly call 3 SOS numbers you set for help until someone answers it.
- 💎【 High Quality & Assurance 】The kids smartwatch is made from high quality material, anti-fall and durable. The hand strap is made from soft Silicone, it is very comfortable to wear it and it does not scratch the hand. Perfect gift for boys and girls. If you have any problems about our smart watches, Please feel free to contact us first. We will reply for you within 24 hours.
How to choose a good gps beacons
Does the idea of finding a fantastic gps beacons make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!
Your presence here indicates that you are interested in gps beacons. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top gps beacons products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?
First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top gps beacons on the market right now!
The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:
Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top gps beacons brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.
Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top gps beacons based on those.
Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.
Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.
Customer ratings: Would it be accurate to suggest that the gps beacons were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.
Customer Reviews: Like ratings, provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.
Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good gps beacons, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.
Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your gps beacons.
Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting gps beacons for months and years to come.
Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.
Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.
These are the standards by which we selected our gps beacons. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.
Why should you believe us?
There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what gps beacons should you purchase in 2022?
This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on gps beacons.
