Thinking about installing a GPS tracker on your car but overwhelmed by all the options? With so many GPS tracker myths floating around, it can be hard to separate fact from fiction. Many devices claim to offer superior performance, but do they really deliver? In this article, JimiIoT will shed light on the most common GPS tracker myths to help you make an informed decision.

1. “Our GPS Accuracy Is Within 5 Meters”

Most trackers today use civilian-grade GPS, not military-grade. Even under optimal conditions (open space, clear skies), GPS and Beidou systems typically offer an accuracy of about 10 meters. If a tracker is using LBS (location-based services or cell towers), the accuracy drops to between 100 and 1,000 meters. Environmental factors like tall buildings, signal interference, and weather conditions can greatly impact performance. Claims of “5-meter accuracy” are usually only achievable in ideal conditions—and even then, the accuracy may vary at different times.

2. “Our Wi-Fi Positioning Is Extremely Precise”

Multi-mode trackers that support GPS, LBS, and Wi-Fi often tout Wi-Fi positioning as an advanced, indoor-capable solution. But how does it really work? Wi-Fi positioning uses nearby router signals to determine approximate locations by resolving their registered IP addresses. In densely packed urban areas, this can be hit or miss. The tracker might pick up any available Wi-Fi signal, not necessarily the closest or most relevant one. It helps, but don’t rely solely on it.

3. “More Functions Means Better Tracker”

A multifunctional tracker might sound great, but more isn’t always better. Simple trackers with fewer features often perform more reliably. Also, many features require external accessories to function. If your device doesn’t support those accessories or isn’t configured correctly, those features won’t work. Don’t be misled by exaggerated claims.

4. “Our Batteries Support Ultra-Long Standby”

Battery life depends on capacity and quality. Bigger doesn’t always mean better. Some batteries, like polymer pack batteries, suffer from high self-discharge rates, which means they lose power even when not in use. A high-capacity battery with poor chemistry won’t last long. Always check battery specifications and ask about discharge rates.

5. “Smaller Size Equals Better Performance”

It’s true that compact trackers offer better concealment and are more portable. However, the GPS and GSM antennas inside require space. Making a tracker too small can compromise signal reception and stability. A tiny device with no proper antennas can give you poor and erratic results. Smaller devices require excellent engineering to work well.

6. “This Small Wireless Tracker Can Last 5 Years”

To last five years, a wireless tracker must have a battery capacity of at least 10,000mAh. Many so-called “long-life” trackers have far less. Also, claimed standby times can be misleading. A tracker updating once per day uses much less power than one reporting in real time. If it only wakes up in sleep mode, sure, it might last five years—but it won’t be tracking continuously.

7. “No SIM Card Needed, No Data Costs”

This is one of the most deceptive claims. GPS trackers require a SIM card to send location data to a server via a mobile network. Without a SIM, the device can receive satellite data but can’t transmit anything. Typically, the SIM card is bundled with the tracker and offered free for the first year. After that, usage charges apply. Don’t fall for “free forever” promises—they often expire after your return window closes.

8. “We Use GPS Technology” (But Actually Don’t)

Some low-cost trackers use only LBS, not GPS, and are misrepresented as GPS devices. LBS location depends on nearby cell towers and is far less accurate (often with a range of 50-2,000 meters). True GPS relies on satellite signals and delivers around 10 meters of accuracy. Look out for suspiciously low prices and vague specifications.

9. “Lifetime Free Platform Access”

Many companies claim free lifetime access to their tracking platform. But whose platform is it? If the platform belongs to a third-party reseller or dealer, that access can disappear when you switch providers. Only if the platform is owned and maintained by the manufacturer can you potentially rely on long-term free access. Most resellers pay annual fees to the platform provider—and those costs usually get passed down eventually.

Why It Matters

Choosing a reliable GPS tracker from a professional manufacturer like JimiIoT can save you from falling victim to misleading claims. JimiIoT has over a decade of experience in the IoT industry and offers a wide range of trackers, including GPRS+GPS devices, 3G WCDMA trackers, 4G LTE models, and plug-and-play OBD vehicle trackers. Whether for vehicles, individuals, pets, or assets, JimiIoT provides solutions tailored to your needs. We also support OEM and ODM customization.

Need expert advice? Reach out to JimiIoT and get the device that truly matches your expectations.