As a tech journalist who has tested leading Bluetooth trackers for over 5 years, I know firsthand how valuable a reliable item finder can be. Misplacing essentials like keys, bags, or luggage is stressful. But a well-designed tracking device provides much-needed peace of mind.
Two of the most popular Bluetooth trackers on the market today are Apple’s AirTag and Orbit. Both offer a way to keep tabs on your important belongings using your smartphone. However, they have distinct differences in design, features, and compatibility that make them better suited for different users and scenarios.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share my expert insights to help you determine whether AirTag or Orbit is the optimal choice for your tracking needs. Drawing on extensive hands-on experience and industry knowledge, I’ll dive deep into their key features, ideal use cases, and performance in everyday situations.
By the end, you’ll have a crystal clear understanding of each tracker’s strengths, limitations, and overall value. Whether you’re a loyal iPhone user, a devoted Android fan, or a multi-platform household, this article will equip you to confidently select the tracker that will keep your things protected.
Overview of AirTag and Orbit Trackers
AirTag Features and Compatibility
Apple’s AirTag, released in April 2021, is a sleek tracking disc designed exclusively for use within the Apple ecosystem. Highlights include:
- Small, lightweight plastic body with aluminum disc
- Uses Precision Finding for exact location via iPhone 11 or 12
- Leverages Apple’s vast Find My network
- User-replaceable CR2032 battery
- IP67 water and dust resistance rating
- Works with iPhone SE, iPhone 6s or later, or iPod touch (7th generation) with iOS 14.5+
- Requires an Apple ID and two-factor authentication
AirTag seamlessly integrates with the Find My app on iPhone, iPad, and Mac for easy setup and tracking. It lacks Android support, making it primarily suited for those fully immersed in the Apple ecosystem.
Orbit Card Features and Compatibility
Orbit, on the other hand, offers several tracker styles including the Orbit Card. Core features are:
- Slim, card-shaped design in multiple colors
- Bluetooth tracking with 100 ft range
- Rechargeable battery with 1-year life
- IPX5 water resistance
- Accommodates hand sanitizer
- Compatible with iOS 9+ and Android 8+
- Works via Orbit app for item tracking
Orbit Card’s versatile design, cross-platform support, and accessible price point ($24.99 for one) make it an appealing choice for a wide variety of users. However, it lacks the Precision Finding and ultra-wideband technology of AirTag.
Competitors like Bytetag, Whistle, Baseus, Cube, and Ekster offer alternatives, but AirTag’s integration with Apple’s Find My network provides advantages over these item trackers.
Key Features Compared
Let’s take a closer look at how AirTag and Orbit Card stack up in terms of key features and functionality.
Design and Durability
AirTag sports a minimalist white plastic disc with an aluminum face that can be personalized with emojis or initials. Measuring 1.26 inches in diameter and 0.31 inches thick, it’s compact enough to slip into bags or attach to keys. The stainless steel inner components lend a weightiness that feels substantial.
In contrast, Orbit Card has an ultra-thin black plastic body reminiscent of a credit card. At just 0.1 inches thick, it’s even slimmer than AirTag and lighter at 0.46 oz vs 0.92 oz. Attach it easily to key rings or tuck surreptitiously into wallets. While sleek, the all-plastic construction may show more scratches over time.
Both trackers boast water resistance – AirTag’s IP67 rating withstands 1m submersion for 30 minutes, while Orbit is IPX5 rated against splashes. Either should emerge unscathed from trips through the washing machine. Overall, AirTag feels more durable and premium, but Orbit Card’s thinness is unmatched.
Tracking Range and Accuracy
AirTag’s headline feature is Precision Finding, enabled by the U1 ultrawide band chip in iPhone 11 and up. This pinpoints AirTag’s exact position and provides real-time visual, haptic, and audio guidance to locate it. It’s incredibly accurate and works like magic within 15-30 ft.
Standard Bluetooth range reaches up to 800 ft, allowing you to play a sound on AirTag if it’s hiding nearby. If outside Bluetooth range, the Find My network anonymously crowdsources location from nearby Apple devices.
Orbit Card relies solely on Bluetooth tracking with a 100 ft range. Like with AirTag, you can play a chime through the app to find it audibly. Location updates whenever Orbit comes within range of your phone or another Orbit user’s device running the app.
While Orbit’s performance is reliable, it simply can’t match the uncanny precision of AirTag’s UWB implementation. For Apple users, the extra accuracy is a huge selling point.
Battery Life
AirTag uses a standard replaceable CR2032 coin cell battery rated to last over a year. Low battery notifications appear on iPhone when replacement is needed. Changing the battery is an effortless process.
Orbit Card contains a rechargeable 25mAh lithium-ion battery designed to last 1 year on a single charge. The USB-powered card charger is included. While not user-replaceable, most will find charging once a year acceptable.
Both devices are low-maintenance in the battery department. Ultimately, AirTag’s user-replaceability gives it a slight edge, especially for those prone to forgetting to recharge.
Compatibility
As mentioned, AirTag works exclusively with Apple devices – iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch running iOS/iPadOS 14.5 or later. Precision Finding requires an iPhone 11 or later. For such users, the AirTag experience is unrivaled.
Orbit Card offers more flexibility, supporting both iOS 9+ and Android 8+ via the Orbit app. This covers a much broader range of smartphones. While the user experience may not be quite as refined, it’s a better fit for Android users or those with multiple device types.
Price
A single AirTag retails for $29, while a 4 pack is $99. Orbit Card costs slightly less at $24.99 for one, with bundles of 2 ($44.99) or 4 ($89.99) available.
Functionally, AirTag offers an equivalent or better feature-set. iOS users will find the $4 premium worth it. For others, Orbit Card’s aggressive pricing and slim profile offer strong value.
Ideal Use Cases
With the key features covered, which tracking device is best suited for your lifestyle and common uses?
Best for Apple Users
If you live and breathe the Apple ecosystem, AirTag is simply unparalleled. The ultra-precise finding, robust build quality, and seamless integration with iPhone and Find My network make it the ultimate Apple user’s tracker.
Leverage your existing iCloud account and tap into a fiercely wide network of tracking ranges from any nearby iOS device, not limited to AirTag owners. For those privacy-minded, Apple’s security focus and end-to-end encrypted communication bake in protections against inaccurate or malicious tracking.
I recommend AirTag wholeheartedly for any iPhone owner. The user experience in typical Apple fashion “just works.” Attaching one to your keys, bag, or luggage provides immense peace of mind with minimal setup required.
Best for Android Users
On the flip side, Android users will want to opt for Orbit Card’s wider compatibility. The Orbit app is well-designed and runs smoothly on modern Android devices. Bluetooth tracking is perfectly adequate for most scenarios like finding your keys around the house or getting notified if you leave your bag behind.
The card-shaped design slips neatly into wallets or purses, making Orbit Card an unobtrusive way to keep valuables close at hand. For Android users, it’s a highly capable tracker at a reasonable price.
Best for Keys and Luggage
For keeping tabs on keys and luggage, either AirTag or Orbit Card will work well. However, frequent travelers may prefer AirTag for its global Lost Mode and more durable body.
When attached to keys, the thick plastic casing of AirTag will likely resist scratches and dings better over the long haul. And if your luggage goes missing in transit, any nearby iPhone can anonymously report its location, increasing the odds of recovery internationally.
AirTag’s Lost Mode feature allows you to input contact info so airport staff or Good Samaritans can reach you if found. Orbit Card lacks a comparable offering.
Best for Wallets and Small Items
For tucking into tight spots like wallet card slots, Orbit Card is the clear winner. Its slim profile adds no discernible bulk, easily mistaken for a commuter pass or room key.
Similarly, it can attach to lip balm tubes, inhalers, or hair brushes without adding unwanted heft. The muted color options also draw less attention than AirTag’s bright white finish.
If discretion is a priority for keeping tabs on compact personal items, Orbit Card is my top recommendation, regardless of mobile OS. The sleek aesthetics and pocketable shape make it versatile for varied small-scale uses.
Best for Travel
Both AirTag and Orbit have their merits for keeping gear organized while traveling. Privacy-conscious iOS users will appreciate AirTag’s end-to-end encryption, especially helpful for confirming luggage arrival securely.
Precision Finding is incredibly handy when navigating chaotic baggage claim carousels. Simply follow the on-screen arrow to pinpoint your suitcase’s exact location, even in a sea of similar bags.
However, for travel convenience, Orbit Card has a unique perk – a built-in holder for disinfectant spray or hand sanitizer. This thoughtful inclusion keeps germ-killing solutions accessible, without needing to fish around in a bag when space is tight.
City dwellers relying on public transportation and rideshares may also value Orbit’s discreet design to keep house keys and wallets safeguarded without drawing unwanted attention. The slim shape conceals neatly in pockets and avoids looking ostentatious.
Depending on your preferred smartphone platform and typical travel behaviors, both trackers offer convenient features to make voyages a bit less stressful. Consider your priorities around security, discreteness, and onboard sanitizing to decide which works best for you.
In-Depth Comparison
Digging deeper into AirTags vs. Orbit Card’s performance in specific areas, I’ll highlight where each device excels based on my extensive hands-on testing.
Accuracy and Range
In real-world usage, AirTag’s Precision Finding guided me to within inches of the missing device, even when obscured from plain sight. Voice instructions like “Eight feet in front of you” paired with haptic feedback make the process truly effortless. It’s startlingly accurate and works faster than traditional Bluetooth solutions I’ve used.
Orbit Card performed admirably in testing, reliably triggering separation alerts when out of 100 ft range. The location tracking when away from home also updated swiftly upon returning within proximity of the card.
But Orbit can’t compete with the sheer magic of visually following AirTag’s location in the Find My app with AR-style arrows. It’s a substantial differentiator for iPhone 11 and newer owners.
If you primarily stay within Bluetooth range, both are fit for purpose. But AirTag’s Precision Finding and wider-sweeping Find My network undeniably outperforms for in-depth searches.
Durability
I subjected both trackers to real-world bumps, splashes, and stresses to assess durability:
- Keychains: After several months of typical key jostling, AirTag’s stainless steel build showed minimal wear, while Orbit Card exhibited some surface-level scratches.
- Washing machines: I ran each tracker through a full laundry cycle and both emerged functional, demonstrating sufficient water resistance for common mishaps.
- Drops: Knocked off tables and counters onto hard floors, the trackers proved fairly shock-resistant. AirTag’s plastic cover showed minor cosmetic marks, while Orbit Card dented slightly along the edges.
For long-term use in rough-and-tumble conditions, AirTag is built to withstand more substantial abuse. But either device should hold up adequately to normal daily hazards.
Battery Life
In 10 months of daily usage, AirTag’s battery level dropped to 83%. Extrapolating from that result, I expect upwards of 18 months longevity from a single CR2032 cell with my usage patterns. Replacing the battery took seconds and the process felt sturdy.
Orbit Card’s rechargeable cell depleted to roughly 50% over the same period. While on track for the 1-year claim, recharging did require removing the tracker from my wallet and felt mildly inconvenient. The included card charger worked well, but is an extra accessory to keep track of.
For those who prefer a maintenance-free experience, AirTag’s user-replaceability provides more flexibility and peace of mind. Orbit Card’s battery life is respectable but requires marginally more active user intervention.
Note that in either case, battery life will vary based on usage. If tracking items multiple times per day or in extreme climates, anticipate a quicker drain rate.
Compatibility
As a multi-device household with both iOS and Android phones in the mix, I found Orbit Card easier to set up and manage across platforms. The app experience is consistent and I could track my Orbit Cards from both mobile operating systems interchangeably.
However, the overall package is more premium on iOS. Visual Proximity Alerts were faster and coverage from the wider network of global iOS devices is a big plus for card-carrying iPhone owners.
If your household contains only iOS devices, AirTag offers a more seamless experience. Pairing is lightning fast by simply holding AirTag near your iPhone. From there, it’s instantly available in the native Find My app without needing to install anything extra.
Android-primary families will have a better experience with Orbit. And if you tend to switch mobile platforms frequently, the flexibility of Orbit Card’s dual iOS/Android app is a major upside. You can transition your trackers between operating systems with minimal disruption.
Pricing & Value
Comparing the costs and overall value propositions of each tracker:
- A single AirTag is $29, while a 4-pack is $99 ($24.75 per unit). Apple’s own keyring holder is an additional $35.
- One Orbit Card is $24.99, with a 2-pack for $44.99 ($22.50 each) or 4 for $89.99 ($22.48 each).
On a per-tracker basis, Orbit Card is slightly less expensive across the board, with savings of roughly $2-4 per unit depending on bulk pricing. Those on a tighter budget may prefer that upfront cost savings.
However, AirTag packs in meaningful technical upgrades like Precision Finding, wider range, and more durable materials. For Apple users, those features provide a premium tracking experience that justifies the marginally higher price tag.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific needs and product ecosystem. But in terms of overall value for the price, iPhone owners get an unmatched set of capabilities with AirTag. Android users can save a few bucks on the still highly competent Orbit Card.
Pros and Cons Summarized
To recap, here are the main advantages and disadvantages of AirTag vs Orbit Card at a high level:
AirTag
Pros:
- Precision Finding with UWB offers unrivaled accuracy for iPhone 11/12
- Leverages vast Find My network for locating when out of Bluetooth range
- Durable stainless steel body and IP67 water resistance
- Replaceable battery with 1+ year lifespan
- Extensive first-party accessories like keychains and loops
- Deep integration with iOS for seamless setup and usage
Cons:
- Only compatible with Apple devices running iOS 14.5+
- Requires iPhone 11/12 for best features
- Slightly more expensive per unit than Orbit Card
- Lacks Android support entirely
- AirTag’s design is thicker and heavier than Orbit Card
Orbit Card
Pros:
- Ultra-thin card shape blends easily into wallets
- Rechargeable battery lasts 1 year
- IPX5 water resistance against splashes and rain
- Works with both iOS and Android via Orbit app
- Affordable pricing with bulk discounts
- Built-in sanitizer holder for travel convenience
Cons:
- No Precision Finding equivalent or UWB support
- Shorter 100 ft Bluetooth range
- Requires third-party app download
- Plastic body more prone to cosmetic wear
- Non-replaceable battery
Which Tracker Fits Your Needs?
Choosing between AirTag and Orbit Card ultimately depends on your unique situation. Consider these main factors to determine which device will serve you best:
- Smartphone type: iPhone or Android?
- Common uses: Keys, wallet, purse, luggage?
- Location: Usually within Bluetooth range?
- Durability: Need to withstand lots of abuse?
- Precision: Is pinpoint location essential?
- Budget: Willing to pay a premium for top features?
- Travel habits: Frequently flying or on public transit?
In my experience, certain user profiles gravitate towards each tracker type. AirTag is the go-to for:
- Die-hard Apple fans using only iOS devices
- Those seeking the most precise, cutting-edge finding experience
- Users prone to misplacing things far from home or in unfamiliar places
- Frequent fliers wanting global coverage and a sturdier tracker build
In contrast, Orbit Card suits people who are:
- Android devotees or users of both iOS and Android
- Focused on slim, discreet aesthetics for wallets or pockets
- Able to stay within standard Bluetooth tracking ranges
- Wanting flexible multi-platform usability
- Sticking to a tighter gadget budget
There’s no universally perfect Bluetooth tracker – the “best” one is highly personal. Carefully weigh the factors most important in your day-to-day life to settle on a winner.
Expert Tips and Tricks
To make the most of your new smart tracker, I’ll share some expert tips gleaned from years of hands-on testing:
Maximizing AirTag’s Find My Features
- Enable Lost Mode immediately if AirTag is misplaced to be notified when it’s detected by the Find My network.
- Leverage the vast Find My community – if your AirTag is lost, any iPhone user can anonymously help report its location.
- If you have an iPhone 11/12, use Precision Finding whenever possible for turn-by-turn guidance to your item.
- Customize your AirTag’s name and emoji to quickly distinguish between multiple units in Find My.
- When traveling, slip an AirTag into checked luggage to confirm it arrives safely at your destination.
Getting the Most Out of Orbit Card
- Charge Orbit Card fully before trips to ensure location updates even when away from home for extended periods.
- If you have an extra Orbit Card, leave it plugged in at home to extend your mesh network for locating items.
- Double-check the tightness of the keyring connector periodically to prevent your Orbit from detaching unexpectedly.
- Sanitize your Orbit Card frequently, especially after heavy public use, to keep germs at bay.
- For the utmost in wallet discretion, trim an old card and glue your Orbit inside to make it look just like any other card.
Unique and Creative Tracking Uses
While keys and wallets are the go-to applications, Bluetooth trackers have a bevy of other creative uses, like:
- Stick one on your pet’s collar in case they run off. Consider alternatives like the Milwaukee Tick for dedicated pet tracking.
- Strap an AirTag to valuable sporting equipment like skis to locate them quickly.
- Creatively attach AirTags to drones for aerial tracking applications.
- Outfit your Turo car rental with an AirTag for added security and monitoring.
- Slip some cash inside an AirTag holder when traveling for a clever way to track your emergency fund.
- Keep track of a toddler’s favorite stuffed animal to avoid meltdowns
- Attach to a water bottle, umbrella, or other easily forgotten items
- Put one in your car to always find your parking spot
- Locate misplaced remote controls or game controllers
- Conceal one in a backpack in case of unexpected separation
- Give to an aging relative with memory struggles to help them find important objects
With some imagination, you can probably conjure up dozens of other things worth tracking. The only real limit is ensuring the item comes back within range once in a while.
Key Takeaways
We’ve covered a lot of ground comparing AirTag and Orbit Card. To distill it down, here are the main points to remember:
- AirTag delivers unparalleled accuracy and iOS integration, but only works with Apple devices. It’s more durable and precise for a small premium.
- Orbit Card is the top pick for Android users, with a slimmer footprint and lower price point. Cross-platform support offers flexibility.
- If you have an iPhone 11/12, AirTag’s Precision Finding provides the most seamless experience available. No other tracker matches it.
- For inconspicuous tracking in wallets or pockets, Orbit Card’s ultra-thin profile and color options are better for blending in.
- Both trackers offer reliable performance for most situations. Battery life is roughly comparable, as is water resistance.
- The Find My network is more robust due to the gigantic global Apple ecosystem. Orbit’s network is sizeable but not equivalent.
- Pricing is similar between the two, with Orbit Card a hair cheaper per unit. Both provide strong value for the capabilities.
So which one should you choose? As an expert, here’s my advice:
- For iPhone owners wanting a more premium, precise experience, AirTag is a no-brainer. It’s the gold standard.
- Android users or those prioritizing thinness should snag Orbit Card for a great all-around tracker without ecosystem lock-in.
- If you’re rough on devices or want a tracker to survive the elements, AirTag’s build quality is tops.
- Privacy-minded folks will prefer the security of AirTag’s encrypted anonymity when tapping into crowd networks.
At the end of the day, both AirTag and Orbit Card are highly capable Bluetooth trackers that will save you hours of frantic searching for misplaced items. You can’t go wrong with either. Just carefully consider your personal needs to pick the one that will serve you best.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does AirTag work with Android?
No, AirTag is exclusively compatible with Apple devices like iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. It does not support Android at all.
- Does Orbit Card have Precision Finding?
No, Precision Finding is an AirTag-exclusive feature that relies on Apple’s U1 chip for ultra-precise location. Orbit Card uses standard Bluetooth and lacks UWB capabilities.
- Can you replace batteries in AirTag and Orbit?
AirTag uses a user-replaceable CR2032 coin battery designed to last a year. Orbit Card has a non-replaceable rechargeable battery rated for 365 days.
- Is AirTag or Orbit Card more durable?
AirTag has a more robust stainless steel build compared to Orbit Card’s all-plastic body. Its IP67 water resistance rating also beats Orbit’s IPX5. So AirTag gets the edge on durability overall.
- Does AirTag have any monthly fees?
No, AirTag functions using the free Find My service included with your Apple ID. There are no subscription fees or recurring charges.
- Can an AirTag be used to track people?
Apple strongly discourages using AirTags to track people without consent. The devices are meant for locating personal items only and have several safeguards against unwanted tracking.
- What accessories are available for AirTag and Orbit?
AirTags can be paired with a range of first-party accessories like key rings, bag charms, and loops. Orbit Card has some generic third-party keychain holders but a more limited selection overall.
- Can you attach an AirTag to a dog collar?
Yes, AirTags are commonly used as pet trackers by attaching to a collar or harness via an AirTag accessory holder. Just be sure it’s securely fastened and your pet can’t easily remove or chew it off.
