Hardwired vs OBD vs Battery GPS Trackers: Which Type Suits Your Vehicle?

Once you decide to track a vehicle, the next question is which type of GPS tracker to buy. Most trackers fall into three groups: hardwired, OBD plug-in and battery-powered. They all report location over the 4G network, but they differ in how they are installed, how well they can be hidden and how long they keep working.

Here's how to choose between them. You can compare every option in our range of GPS trackers.

Hardwired GPS trackers

A hardwired tracker connects directly to the vehicle's electrical system, usually a constant 12V or 24V supply and an earth. Our Two-Wire 4G GPS Tracker is named for exactly that: two wires, and it's powered permanently.

Best for: cars, utes, vans, trucks and motorbikes that are driven regularly.

• Pros: never needs charging, can be hidden behind trim, and usually suits insurers who prefer a permanently installed device.
• Cons: takes a little longer to install, and some owners prefer an auto electrician to fit it.

OBD plug-in GPS trackers

An OBD tracker plugs into the on-board diagnostics port found under the dashboard of most vehicles built in the last two decades. Setup takes seconds, and you can move it between vehicles. Our OBD 4G GPS Tracker is a good example.

Best for: drivers who want the fastest possible setup, and businesses that rotate trackers between vehicles.

• Pros: no wiring, no tools and easy to move.
• Cons: the OBD port is a known location, so it is easier for a thief to find and unplug. An OBD extension cable can help hide it.

Battery-powered GPS trackers

Battery trackers have no connection to the vehicle at all. Because they can be placed almost anywhere, they suit assets with no power supply of their own. The GPSBob Long Life range includes standard and rechargeable versions with large batteries designed for long periods between charges.

Best for: trailers, caravans, boats, plant, machinery and stored vehicles.

• Pros: no installation, very flexible placement, and they keep working when the vehicle's battery is disconnected.
• Cons: battery life depends on how often the tracker reports, so it needs to be recharged or checked periodically.

What about immobilisation?

If you want to stop a stolen vehicle being restarted, as well as find it, look at an immobilisation GPS tracker. These are hardwired trackers with an extra circuit that can disable the vehicle remotely. They are more involved to install, so many owners use an auto electrician.

Quick comparison

• Easiest install: OBD.
• Hardest to find: hardwired or battery, depending on placement.
• No charging, ever: hardwired and OBD.
• Works with no vehicle power: battery.
• Stops the engine: immobilisation.

Which one should you choose?

For most everyday vehicles, a hardwired tracker is the best all-round choice. Choose OBD if you value a quick setup above concealment, and battery-powered for anything that doesn't have its own reliable power. All GPSBob trackers include a built-in multi-network 4G SIM, and our prepaid bundles include up to five years of tracking with no monthly fees during the included period.

Still unsure? Ask the TechMonkey team and tell us what you're tracking.