Quick Answer: For iPhone users, the new AirTag (2nd generation, released January 2026) is the clear winner — it now tracks from 50% farther away, supports Apple Watch, and costs the same $29. Tile remains the better choice if you use Android or need a tracker that works across multiple platforms.
If you’ve ever lost your keys, wallet, or luggage, a Bluetooth tracker can save you real time and stress. Two names dominate this space: Apple AirTag and Tile. But with Apple releasing the second-generation AirTag in January 2026, the comparison has changed significantly.
This guide covers everything you need to decide — specs, real-world tracking performance, pricing, and who each tracker is actually best for.
AirTag vs Tile: At a Glance
| Factor | AirTag (2nd Gen, 2026) | Tile |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility | iPhone only | iOS and Android |
| Models available | 1 | 4 (Mate, Pro, Slim, Sticker) |
| UWB chip | 2nd-gen (U2) | None |
| Precision Finding range | Up to ~60m (200ft) | Not available |
| Apple Watch support | Yes (Series 9 / Ultra 2+) | No |
| Find network size | ~1 billion Apple devices | Millions of Tile app users |
| Speaker | 50% louder than Gen 1 | Standard |
| Water resistance | IP67 | Varies by model |
| Subscription | None | Optional Tile Premium |
| Price | $29 (1-pack) / $99 (4-pack) | $24.99–$39.99 per tracker |
What’s New: AirTag 2nd Generation (2026)
The short version: Apple released the second-generation AirTag on January 26, 2026. The design is identical to the original, but the internals are meaningfully upgraded.
Here’s what changed:
- 2nd-gen Ultra Wideband (U2) chip — Precision Finding now works from up to 50% farther away than the original AirTag (roughly 60m vs 40m in ideal conditions)
- Apple Watch support — For the first time, you can use Precision Finding directly on Apple Watch Series 9, Ultra 2, or newer — without needing your iPhone
- 50% louder speaker — Easier to hear when buried under couch cushions; also harder to tamper with as an anti-stalking measure
- Improved Bluetooth range — Better long-range detection by other devices on the Find My network
- Same price — Still $29 for a single AirTag, $99 for a four-pack
- Requires iOS 26.2.1 — Update your iPhone before setting up the new AirTag
What didn’t change: same round design, same CR2032 battery (~1 year life), no GPS chip, still needs accessories to attach to items.
Should you upgrade from Gen 1? Only if you have an Apple Watch Series 9 or newer — that’s the most meaningful new feature for existing AirTag owners. Otherwise, Gen 1 still works fine.
If you’re buying the new AirTag, you’ll need an accessory to attach it to your items. See our guide to the best AirTag holders and accessories for top picks at every price point.
Compatibility: iPhone vs Everyone
AirTag works exclusively with Apple devices. It pairs with your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, and is managed entirely through the Find My app. If you don’t own an Apple device, AirTag is simply not an option.
Tile works across platforms. iOS, Android, Windows — Tile’s app covers them all. Many laptops and headphones even have Tile built-in. If your household mixes iPhones and Android phones, Tile is the only tracker that works for everyone.
Bottom line: iPhone-only household → AirTag. Mixed devices or Android → Tile, no question.
Tracking Performance: Range, Precision, and Networks
This is where the two trackers differ most significantly — and where the AirTag 2 pulls furthest ahead.
Precision Finding (AirTag only)
AirTag uses Apple’s Ultra Wideband chip to provide real-time directional guidance when you’re close to a lost item. The 2nd-gen AirTag extends Precision Finding to approximately 60 meters (200 feet) in open conditions. On-screen arrows, distance readouts, and haptic feedback guide you directly to the AirTag — even through walls in many cases. Tile has no equivalent feature.
Find Networks Compared
| AirTag | Tile | |
|---|---|---|
| Network size | ~1 billion Apple devices | Millions of Tile app users |
| How it works | Any nearby iPhone/iPad anonymously relays location | Only devices with Tile app installed |
| Urban reliability | Excellent | Good |
| Rural reliability | Very good | Limited |
In real-world use, a lost AirTag in a busy airport or city street will almost certainly be detected by a passing iPhone. A lost Tile depends on whether someone nearby has the Tile app installed — a much smaller pool of users.
Want to know exactly how AirTag location accuracy works in practice? Read our in-depth article on how accurate AirTags really are.
Design and Models
AirTag
One model. A 1.26-inch white disc, 8mm thick, weighing 11.8g (slightly up from Gen 1’s 11g). No built-in attachment — you need a separate case, loop, or keyring. Apple sells official accessories from $13; third-party options start around $8.
Tile Models
| Model | Price | Best For | Battery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tile Mate | $24.99 | Keys, bags | Replaceable CR1632, ~1 yr |
| Tile Pro | $34.99 | Longer range, louder alert | Replaceable CR2032, ~1 yr |
| Tile Slim | $29.99 | Wallets, laptops | Non-replaceable, 3 yr |
| Tile Sticker | $39.99 | Sticking to anything | Non-replaceable, 3 yr |
Looking for a wallet that fits an AirTag? Check out our picks for the best AirTag wallets — including slim options that work just like the Tile Slim.
Battery Life and Water Resistance
Battery
- AirTag (Gen 2): CR2032, approximately 1 year. User-replaceable. Shows low battery warning in Find My (no percentage display).
- Tile Mate/Pro: Replaceable batteries, ~1 year
- Tile Slim/Sticker: Non-replaceable, rated 3 years
For tips on extending battery life, see our guide on how long AirTag battery actually lasts and when to replace it.
Water Resistance
- AirTag: IP67 — survives 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. Fully dust-tight.
- Tile Mate/Pro: Water-resistant (no official IP rating disclosed)
- Tile Slim/Sticker: Waterproof (no official IP rating)
Wondering if AirTag can handle rain, pools, or beach trips? Read our full breakdown: can AirTags get wet?
Setup and Apps
AirTag Setup
- Bring AirTag near your iPhone
- Tap “Connect” on the popup notification
- Name your AirTag
Done in under 60 seconds. No app download needed — everything is built into Find My.
Tile Setup
- Download the Tile app (iOS or Android)
- Create a Tile account
- Bluetooth-pair your tracker
- Name it
A bit more involved, but Tile provides in-app video walkthroughs. Works on iOS and Android.
Apps
Both apps offer map views, sound alerts, lost mode, and range alerts. AirTag’s Find My is more tightly integrated with iOS (Siri support, Precision Finding on iPhone and Apple Watch). Tile’s app works across platforms and handles multiple trackers cleanly.
Pricing and Subscriptions
| Product | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|
| AirTag (1-pack) | $29 | View on Amazon → |
| AirTag (4-pack) | $99 | View on Amazon → |
| Tile Mate | $24.99 | View on Amazon → |
| Tile Pro | $34.99 | View on Amazon → |
| Tile Slim | $29.99 | View on Amazon → |
| Tile Sticker | $39.99 | View on Amazon → |
AirTag has no subscription. All features included out of the box.
Tile Premium ($2.99/month or $29.99/year) adds: smart alerts when you leave items behind, 30-day location history, annual free battery replacement (Mate and Pro only), and unlimited family sharing. Basic tracking is free.
AirTag vs Tile: Which Should You Buy?
✓ Choose AirTag (2nd Gen) if:
- You use an iPhone (11 or later)
- You want the most accurate close-range tracking
- You have Apple Watch Series 9 / Ultra 2 or newer
- You want no subscription costs
- You’re okay buying a separate attachment accessory
✓ Choose Tile if:
- You use Android or a mix of platforms
- You want built-in attachment (no extra accessories)
- You want a slim wallet tracker (Tile Slim)
- You want a 3-year battery life option
- You need cross-platform family sharing
For iPhone users, the new AirTag is the best item tracker available in 2026. The Gen 2 upgrade is meaningful — longer Precision Finding range, Apple Watch support, and a louder speaker make it noticeably better, at the same price.
For Android users or mixed-device households, Tile is still the only serious option. It’s not as technically advanced, but it gets the job done reliably across platforms.
Not sure either is right for you? See our roundup of the best Bluetooth trackers and best AirTag alternatives for more options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does AirTag 2 work with older iPhones?
Yes, but with limitations. iPhone 11 through 14 (U1 chip) get standard Precision Finding. iPhone 15 and later (U2 chip) get the extended 50%-farther Precision Finding. The iPhone 16e and Apple Watch SE have no UWB chip and cannot use Precision Finding at all.
Is the new AirTag (Gen 2) worth upgrading from Gen 1?
For most people, no — unless you have an Apple Watch Series 9 or newer. The Apple Watch Precision Finding feature is the biggest practical upgrade. Longer range and louder speaker are real improvements, but not dramatic enough to justify replacing working Gen 1 AirTags.
Can I use AirTag with Android?
No. AirTag only works with Apple devices. Android users cannot track, manage, or set up an AirTag. Tile is the better choice for Android.
Is Tile or AirTag more accurate?
AirTag is significantly more accurate for close-range finding, thanks to Precision Finding (UWB technology). For remote tracking when truly lost, AirTag also wins due to the much larger Find My network of ~1 billion devices vs Tile’s smaller app-based network.
Does AirTag require a subscription?
No. AirTag has no subscription or recurring fees — all features are included. Tile’s basic tracking is also free, but Tile Premium ($2.99/month) adds extras like location history and smart alerts.
What’s the Precision Finding range of AirTag 2?
The new AirTag’s Precision Finding works up to approximately 60 meters (200 feet) in open conditions — 50% farther than the original AirTag. Tile has no equivalent close-range directional feature.
Can AirTag be used to track pets?
Apple states AirTag is designed for objects, not people or pets. It works for many pet owners in practice, but dedicated pet trackers offer real-time GPS tracking with subscription plans that AirTag cannot match. See our guide on using AirTag to track your dog for what to expect.
How do I tell AirTag Gen 1 from Gen 2?
The Gen 2 text on the back is in all capital letters and includes “IP67” waterproofing text. Gen 1 has lowercase text and no IP rating printed on the back.
Last updated: February 2026. Prices verified against Amazon.com and manufacturer websites. Amazon links are affiliate links.
