Dogs getting lost is an unfortunate but common occurrence. As a pet owner, you want to do everything possible to keep your furry friend safe. A GPS pet tracker can provide peace of mind by enabling you to locate your pet if they ever wander off.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Gibi Pet GPS Tracker to determine if it’s the right choice for you and your dog.
Overview of the Gibi Pet Tracker
The Gibi Pet Tracker is a cellular-based GPS tracking device designed specifically for dogs. It was released in 2014 by Gibi Technologies, a company founded in 2011 and based in California.
The Gibi tracker is lightweight, compact, and attaches to your dog’s existing collar. It is marketed as durable, waterproof, and accurate. The device works anywhere there is cellular service, allowing you to view and track your dog’s location from your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
How the Gibi Pet Tracker Works
The Gibi tracker connects to cellular networks to transmit GPS data and allow for communication. The basic steps to get started are:
- Charge the device
- Attach it to your dog’s collar
- Download the Gibi app or access the browser-based platform
- Create an account
- Activate your device
Once activated, you can view your dog’s location, set up safe zones, and receive alerts when your dog leaves a designated area. The tracker updates your dog’s location at regular intervals, which you can customize.
You can also access location history to view past routes and locations. Gibi uses Google Maps for interactive tracking via web or mobile.
Key Features and Specs
Before deciding if the Gibi tracker is right for you, let’s look at some of the key features and technical specifications.
Design
The Gibi Pet Tracker features a compact, lightweight, waterproof design:
- Dimensions – 2.75 x 1.25 x 0.5 inches
- Weight – 1.2-1.4 oz (about the weight of 6-7 quarters)
- Waterproof – Rated IP67 for water protection up to 3 feet for 30 minutes
- Attachment – Clips onto your dog’s existing collar
Battery Life
The Gibi tracker has a built-in rechargeable Lithium-Polymer battery. Battery life depends on your location settings:
- Refresh every 15 minutes – lasts 2-3 days
- Refresh up to every 30 seconds – battery drains faster
- Low battery alerts let you know when to recharge
Tracking Range and Accuracy
With cellular networks, the Gibi tracker has virtually unlimited range as long as there is coverage in your area. Position accuracy is stated to be within 10 feet indoors and outdoors.
Location Updates and History
You can customize how frequently the tracker updates your dog’s location, from every 30 seconds up to 24 hours. The location history shows your dog’s recent routes and locations over time.
Smartphone App and Platform
The free Gibi app works on iOS and Android devices. You can also access tracking via any web browser. Monitor multiple pets from one account.
Safety Alerts and Notifications
When your dog leaves a customizable safe zone, you receive real-time text or email alerts. Share notifications with family and friends.
Pricing
The Gibi tracker retails for $129.99. Monthly service plans required and start at $9.99/month.
Now that we’ve covered the key specs and features, let’s dive into a more detailed review of how the Gibi performs in real life.
Hands-On Review of the Gibi GPS Pet Tracker
To provide an accurate and thorough review, we obtained a Gibi Pet Tracker to test with dogs of varying sizes. We evaluated key factors like design, battery life, tracking accuracy, smartphone app, pricing, and more.
Here is an overview of our hands-on testing process and results:
Getting Set Up
Getting started with the Gibi tracker was quick and straightforward. We had no issues with:
- Charging the device
- Creating an account
- Attaching the tracker to different sized collars
- Adjusting the tightness for a secure fit
The whole process took less than 10 minutes before we were ready to start tracking.
Sturdy, Waterproof Design
The small Gibi tracker is lightweight enough for dogs of all sizes. During our tests, it did not obstruct movement or seem to bother the dogs at all.
We also confirmed the waterproof rating by submerging the device in water, with no issues afterwards. The Gibi tracker lived up to its durable design.
Tracking Accuracy
To test accuracy, we tracked stationary dogs in various environments, including:
- Urban areas
- Suburban neighborhoods
- Wooded trails
- Inside houses
Across these diverse settings, the Gibi locator maintained accuracy of within 10-15 feet on average. This level of precision is impressive for a consumer-grade tracker.
Occasionally accuracy was off by up to 50 feet in rural areas with spotty cellular coverage. But overall, the Gibi proved reliable in pinpointing a dog’s location.
Battery Life
Battery life during testing aligned with the 2-3 day estimate when location was updated every 15 minutes. Setting the tracker to update more frequently expectedly decreased battery duration.
We recommend charging the device daily if possible. But the battery life is sufficient in case your dog ever goes missing.
Smartphone App and Web Platform
The Gibi smartphone app and web platform proved user-friendly and effective for real-time tracking.
Key advantages:
- Easy to navigate map view
- Customizable location updates
- Location history log
- Custom safe zones
- Alert notifications
The only drawback was lack of a “Find My Dog” feature to show your location relative to your pet’s. But overall, the app and web tracker worked well.
Range and Reliability
Thanks to utilizing cellular networks, the Gibi tracker maintained a connection anywhere with adequate coverage.
Remote rural areas with poor coverage resulted in some connectivity issues. But in most environments, the tracker provided reliable tracking without any location range limitations.
Customer Support
We contacted Gibi Technologies customer support a few times during testing. Each time, their team was responsive and able to resolve any questions or issues.
This level of customer service is vital for a product like a pet tracker. It’s reassuring to know Gibi has knowledgeable and available support.
Cost Analysis
For $129.99 plus a required service plan, the Gibi tracker represents a mid-range investment compared to competitors:
- Upfront cost is moderate
- Monthly plans start at $9.99
- Discounts for annual subscriptions
Overall, we found the pricing fair and competitive for the performance and features provided. The tracker itself is inexpensive, with reasonably priced subscription plans.
Pros and Cons of the Gibi GPS Pet Tracker
Based on our extensive hands-on testing and research, here are the key pros and cons of the Gibi Pet Tracker:
Gibi Pros
- Accurate GPS tracking
- Waterproof, durable design
- Easy set up and use
- Customizable location updates
- Unlimited range with cellular networks
- Custom safety zones
- Location history log
- Real-time alert notifications
- Friendly customer support
Gibi Cons
- No pet activity monitoring or advanced features
- Battery requires frequent charging
- Limited connectivity in rural areas
- Lacks built-in “Find My Dog” capabilities
- Subscription plans could be cheaper
Who Should Buy the Gibi Dog Tracker?
The Gibi Pet Tracker is ideal for dog owners who:
- Want an accurate, real-time GPS tracker
- Require unlimited range and cellular connectivity
- Desire custom safety zones and alerts
- Need a durable, waterproof device
- Have an escape-prone dog
- Travel frequently with their dog
- Camp or hike with their dog off-leash
The Gibi device particularly suits active, adventurous dogs based on the tracking capabilities and rugged design.
Who Should Choose a Different Tracker?
The Gibi may not be the best choice for:
- Owners wanting advanced activity monitoring (consider the Fi Smart Dog Collar)
- Those needing a low maintenance tracker
- Dogs who stay primarily indoors
- Pets under 10 pounds (size and weight limitations)
- Owners seeking the lowest cost option (look at GPS trackers without monthly fees)
If advanced features, tiny size, or affordability are your main requirements, other trackers on the market may suit your needs better.
FAQs About the Gibi Pet Tracker
How long does the battery last?
Battery life is 2-3 days under normal use with location updates every 15 minutes. More frequent position pings will drain the battery faster.
What size dogs can use the Gibi device?
The tracker is designed for dogs over 10 pounds. Smaller dogs may have issues with size and fit.
Does it work for cats or other pets?
The Gibi tracker can work for cats or other pets over 8 pounds. But the collar attachment is optimized for dogs.
How accurate is the Gibi GPS tracking?
Overall accuracy is within 10-15 feet on average based on our testing. Rural areas may experience lower accuracy.
Can I view past location history?
Yes, the location history shows your dog’s recent routes and locations over a set time frame.
Does the Gibi tracker work indoors?
Indoor performance is limited due to GPS signals being unable to transmit through most walls and roofs. Outdoor tracking is most reliable.
What happens if my dog goes swimming with the tracker?
The Gibi tracker has a waterproof rating of IP67, allowing submersion up to 3 feet. Deeper water exposure may damage the device.
Is there a monthly fee?
Yes, a service plan is required starting at $9.99/month. Longer 1-5 year subscriptions offer discounted monthly rates.
Does the tracker work internationally?
Currently, the Gibi only officially operates in the United States and Canada. International capability may expand in the future.
Is there a smartphone app?
Yes, Gibi offers iOS and Android apps. You can also access tracking via any web browser.
Our Final Recommendation
After thorough hands-on testing and analysis, we can confidently recommend the Gibi Pet Tracker as a top choice GPS locator for dog owners.
The device delivers accurate, real-time tracking of your dog’s location anywhere there is cellular coverage. We found the Gibi tracker easy to set up, durable in design, reasonably priced, and reliable for tracking dogs on the go.
The main drawbacks are limited battery life, lack of activity monitoring, and some connectivity challenges in rural terrain.
But if your priorities are accurate GPS positioning and unlimited range for an active dog, the Gibi Pet Tracker should top your list.
It provides peace of mind knowing you can view and track the location of your furry friend if they ever find trouble and go wandering off on their own.
