AirTags vs Geotab 2026: Cost, Coverage, and Fleet Fit

Quick Summary

Geotab is a full telematics platform: real-time GPS, vehicle diagnostics, compliance, and deep integrations with fleet systems. It’s powerful, but it’s designed for powered vehicles and usually requires a hardware install.

AirTags are simple, low-cost trackers that excel at non-powered assets like trailers, tools, and equipment. They’re easy to deploy and don’t require a monthly cellular plan.

If you need driver safety, ELD, or continuous updates, Geotab wins. If you just need to know where equipment is and recover stolen assets, AirTags are often a better value.

Installation and Operations

Geotab

• Requires a GO device installed in each vehicle
• Best performance with vehicle power
• Strong data reporting and integrations

AirTags

• Peel-and-stick deployment in minutes
• No install or wiring
• Works wherever Apple Find My signals are available

Cost Reality

Geotab pricing varies by reseller and plan, and typically includes software plus hardware. AirTags are a one-time hardware purchase with no cellular subscription.

Bottom line: Geotab is a major fleet investment. AirTags are a scalable add-on for everything else you want to track.

When AirTags Win

• You want to track trailers, tools, or jobsite equipment
• You want fast deployment with no installs
• You need theft recovery and location visibility, not driver compliance

When Geotab Wins

• You need real-time vehicle data and driver behavior analytics
• You require ELD or regulatory compliance
• You want deep integrations with fleet management systems

2025–2026 Tracker Updates (Why This Matters)

• Newer Bluetooth trackers have improved precision finding and louder alerts
• Android’s Find Hub is rolling out UWB precision finding for compatible tags, but device support is still limited
• LTE-M/NB-IoT shipping labels are emerging for long-haul logistics use cases

These shifts make hybrid tracking strategies more practical: telematics for vehicles, Bluetooth for assets, and cellular for high-value shipments.

Final Take

Geotab is the right choice for powered vehicles and fleet compliance. AirTags are the right choice for unpowered assets and cost-effective tracking at scale. Most fleets do best when they use both.