Apple’s AirTag has quickly become the gold standard in the item tracker market, leveraging the company’s massive Find My network to provide precise location tracking. But with a starting price of $29 for a single AirTag, it’s not the most budget-friendly solution for keeping tabs on your keys, wallet, or other frequently misplaced items.
Enter the Momax PinTag. At just $99 for a single tracker, the PinTag costs roughly a third of the price of an AirTag while still packing in many comparable tracking capabilities. As two of the most popular sub-$30 Bluetooth item finders, the PinTag and AirTag are top contenders for budget-conscious shoppers looking to track their valuables.
So how do these two affordable trackers stack up in terms of design, performance, features, and overall value? Keep reading for an in-depth comparison of the Momax PinTag vs Apple AirTag to decide which $99 Bluetooth tracker reigns supreme.
Overview of PinTag vs AirTag
On the surface, the PinTag and AirTag seem quite similar. Both are compact, puck-shaped Bluetooth trackers designed to attach to items like keys, bags, or wallets to help you locate them if lost or misplaced.
Key Similarities
- Compact, lightweight circular design
- User-replaceable CR2032 coin cell battery
- Audible alerts to help locate missing items
- Bluetooth connectivity to pair with smartphones
- Built-in speakers to play tones when tracking
- Various attachment accessories like key rings
- Splash and water resistant construction
Main Differences
- AirTag uses Apple Find My, PinTag uses Bluetooth LE
- AirTag limited to iOS, PinTag works on Android too
- AirTag has UWB and Precision Finding, PinTag lacks it
- AirTag notifies you if you leave items behind, PinTag doesn’t
- AirTag includes proactive anti-stalking alerts, PinTag has none
- PinTag is $12.99, AirTag starts at $29
While the core premise is the same, there are some crucial differences under the hood in terms of the tracking technology, platform compatibility, and extra features that set these two trackers apart. Let’s take a closer look at the design and hardware specs.
Design and Hardware Comparison
From a physical standpoint, the PinTag and AirTag have very similar designs with only minor variations in size and colorways:
Size and Shape
Both trackers share the same compact, puck-like circular shape:
- AirTag: 1.26 in diameter, 0.31 in thick (32 mm x 8 mm)
- PinTag: 1.3 in diameter, 0.28 in thick (33 mm x 7 mm)
The AirTag is imperceptibly thicker while the PinTag is a hair wider. But they are essentially the same tiny size, easily tucking into a bag or attaching to a keychain.
Colors
One notable difference is the color options:
- AirTag comes only in white
- PinTag is available in both black and white
So the PinTag provides an alternative hue if you don’t want the bright white of the AirTag.
Attachment and Accessories
Neither tracker has a built-in key ring hole, so you’ll need an accessory or adhesive to attach them to items:
- AirTag works with a wide ecosystem of accessories like loops, keychains, and holders from both Apple and third parties. A basic polyurethane loop costs $12.95. There are also MagSafe wallets with AirTag holders.
- PinTag includes a simple keychain in the box to get started. It’s also compatible with many existing AirTag accessories and adhesives.
So the AirTag offers more native accessories, but the PinTag can piggyback on many of the same add-ons for easy attachment to bags, keys, and more.
Water Resistance
If you plan to use your tracker outdoors, the AirTag has a key durability advantage:
- AirTag is fully IP67 water and dust resistant, able to withstand submersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes
- PinTag does not provide an official IP rating. It likely has basic splash resistance but cannot be submerged.
For maximum protection from the elements, the AirTag is the clear choice.
Speakers and Sound
To help alert you to their location, both trackers have built-in speakers that can play tones:
- AirTag speaker sounds can be customized and heard up to 0.5 ft away
- PinTag has a louder speaker but the tones are not customizable
Some reviewers noted the PinTag sounds are easier to hear. But the AirTag gives you more control over the tones.
Sensors
The AirTag packs in some extra sensors the PinTag lacks:
- AirTag contains an accelerometer, gyroscope, and U1 chip for Ultra Wideband
- PinTag has a standard accelerometer only
These added sensors allow the AirTag to more precisely detect motion and relative position for proactive alerts and Precision Finding with compatible iPhones.
Batteries
Luckily, both trackers use the same standard CR2032 replaceable coin cell battery:
- AirTag battery lasts about 1 year
- PinTag battery is rated for up to 15 months
So expect to swap batteries roughly annually to keep your tracker powered up and pinging.
Tracking and Finding Technology
While the exterior hardware is quite similar, the PinTag and AirTag use very different underlying wireless tech to communicate their locations.
Supported Networks
The biggest difference is the tracking network each device leverages:
- AirTag taps into Apple’s Find My mesh network consisting of nearly 1 billion iOS devices globally
- PinTag relies on standard Bluetooth Low Energy connectivity directly to your smartphone
With Find My, your AirTag’s location is anonymously crowdsourced from any compatible iPhone, iPad, or Mac that detects it. So even if your AirTag is hundreds of miles away, you can still see its precise location.
The PinTag only works when in Bluetooth range (~100 feet) of your personal smartphone. If your item is further away than that, the PinTag effectively becomes untraceable.
Tracking Range and Accuracy
This reliance on different networks leads to a huge disparity in tracking range and precision between the AirTag and PinTag:
- AirTag range is virtually unlimited since any iOS device in the Find My network can relay its location. It also supports Ultra Wideband for highly accurate tracking within inches using an iPhone 11 or later.
- PinTag range maxes out around 100 feet – the limit of Bluetooth LE. Accuracy is limited to a general proximity rather than exact pinpoint.
Notifications and Alerts
The AirTag also provides some valuable proactive notifications to prevent you from leaving items behind in the first place:
- AirTag will alert you with a notification if you venture too far from the item, reminding you to grab your keys or bag before it’s too late. It can also notify you if an unknown AirTag is detected moving with you.
- PinTag does not provide any proactive alerts. You must manually open the app to check your PinTag’s last known location.
For a more automated tracking experience, the AirTag’s extra notifications can help ensure nothing gets left behind.
Anti-Stalking Measures
Given the potential for Bluetooth trackers to be misused for stalking, the AirTag includes some important safety features the PinTag currently lacks:
- AirTag will proactively alert iPhone users if an unknown AirTag is detected traveling with them persistently. It also emits a tone after 3 days of being separated from its owner.
- PinTag does not appear to contain any specific anti-stalking safeguards at this time.
While still not foolproof, the AirTag’s anti-stalking notifications at least attempt to combat nefarious tracking usage. The PinTag may add similar features in the future.
Compatible Devices
Perhaps the biggest downside of the AirTag is its highly restrictive iOS compatibility compared to the PinTag:
- AirTag only works with an iPhone or iPad running iOS/iPadOS 14.5 or later.
- PinTag is compatible with both iOS 10+ and Android 5+ devices.
If you have an Android smartphone or older model iPhone, the PinTag is one of the only viable sub-$30 tracker options. But Apple users with reasonably current hardware can enjoy the AirTag’s exclusive iOS integration.
Features and Functionality
If you have an Android smartphone or older model iPhone, the PinTag is one of the only viable sub-$30 tracker options. But Apple users with reasonably current hardware can enjoy the AirTag’s exclusive iOS integration.
Main Use Cases
Both trackers excel at keeping tabs on easy-to-misplace items like:
- Keys
- Wallets
- Purses and bags
- Luggage
- Tablet and laptop cases
- Bikes and scooters
- TV remotes
- Water bottles
- Umbrellas
- Jackets
As long as the item remains within Bluetooth range, the PinTag and AirTag can help you quickly locate your missing essentials.
Integration with iOS/Android
As an Apple product, the AirTag benefits from ultra seamless setup and integration with iOS:
- AirTag automatically pops up on nearby iPhones for one-tap pairing
- Shows up instantly in the Find My app with no extra software needed
- Supports Precision Finding to guide you to the AirTag with AR overlays
The PinTag requires manually downloading the third-party app and following on-screen instructions to add the tag. It’s not difficult but lacks the polish of AirTag.
Additional Features
The AirTag’s deep integration with iOS allows for some useful extras the PinTag does not match:
- Precision Finding uses camera, ARKit, and UWB to guide you to the AirTag with audio, haptic, and visual feedback
- Location history shows the physical path of the AirTag over time
- Lost Mode provides info on how to contact you if someone finds it
- Remotely deactivate or wipe an AirTag
With the PinTag you can essentially just see the tag’s current or last known location. The AirTag goes above and beyond with bonus features for more context and control.
Limitations
Despite their many benefits, both trackers have some notable limitations to consider:
AirTag:
- Only compatible with iOS devices
- Significantly more expensive than PinTag
- Requires extra accessory for keychain attachment
- More obtrusive than some ultra compact trackers
PinTag:
- Lacks native Find My integration of AirTag
- No proactive separation alerts
- Currently no anti-stalking features
- Uses older Bluetooth 4.2 vs AirTag’s Bluetooth 5.0
Depending on your specific needs and budget, these factors could sway you to one tracker or the other.
Pricing and Value Comparison
Speaking of budget, let’s breakdown the upfront and long-term costs of the PinTag and AirTag.
Upfront Costs
The retail price is easily the biggest difference between these two trackers:
- PinTag costs just $12.99 for a single tracker
- AirTag starts at $29 for one or $99 for a 4 pack
At less than half the price of a single AirTag, the PinTag provides considerably more bang for your buck.
Accessories and Add-Ons
The PinTag has another advantage in terms of included accessories:
- PinTag comes with a keychain holder in the box
- AirTag loop costs an extra $12.95
However, the AirTag offers a much wider array of fun colors and designs for its tag holders that may be worth the added cost.
Long-Term Value
Both trackers provide strong long-term value with no monthly fees and reasonable battery life:
- PinTag and AirTag batteries last about a year
- CR2032 battery replacements cost around $1
Unless you frequently lose your items beyond Bluetooth range, either tracker can pay for itself by helping you avoid replacing misplaced essentials. But the PinTag’s lower upfront cost may be easier to swallow on a tight budget.
PinTag vs AirTag: Which Should You Buy?
With all of those key considerations in mind, which of these affordable item trackers should you ultimately choose? The answer depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Best for iPhone Users
If you have a compatible iPhone running iOS 14.5 or later, the AirTag is the clear choice. Its native Find My integration, seamless setup, and Precision Finding deliver an unrivaled tracking experience exclusive to the Apple ecosystem.
Best for Android Users
On the flip side, Android owners only have one option between these two trackers – the PinTag. Its Bluetooth connectivity works cross-platform, providing basic but effective tracking through the third-party app. The AirTag is a non-starter without an iOS device.
Best on a Budget
For the most budget-friendly Bluetooth tracker, the PinTag easily takes the crown. At just $12.99 including a keychain accessory, it’s one of the most affordable legitimate AirTag alternatives on the market. You sacrifice some range, accuracy, and features. But the core tracking functionality is there.
Best Overall
If you want the absolute best Bluetooth item tracking experience and have a compatible iPhone, the AirTag is unquestionably the top pick. With near limitless range, hyper-precise locating, proactive alerts and unrivaled iOS integration, it’s simply in a different league than the PinTag. The $29 price tag is well worth it for the peace of mind and convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the PinTag or AirTag prevent theft?
Neither tracker is explicitly designed as an anti-theft device. A thief could easily remove, disable or discard the tracker. They are primarily useful for locating misplaced items rather than stolen ones.
Do I need to pay a monthly subscription fee?
No, both the PinTag and AirTag are completely free to use after the initial purchase. There are No monthly service fees or subscription costs required.
No monthly service fees or subscription costs required.
Can I use a PinTag or AirTag to track my kids or pets?
While some users do attach AirTags and PinTags to pet collars or kid’s backpacks, it’s not recommended due to safety concerns. Bluetooth range is limited and precision is not high enough to reliably monitor kids or pets. A dedicated GPS tracker like the Jiobit is better suited for those use cases.
How long do AirTag and PinTag batteries last?
According to the manufacturer claims, both the PinTag and AirTag have a battery life of roughly one year. Of course, the actual duration depends on usage and environmental factors. You can easily swap the standard CR2032 battery yourself when it dies.
Is the PinTag waterproof? Can it get wet?
Unlike the fully IP67 rated AirTag, the PinTag does not advertise any official water resistance. It may be able to withstand light splashes or rain. But it’s not designed for full submersion. Avoid extended exposure to moisture to prevent damage.
Key Takeaways
If you’re still debating between the PinTag and AirTag, here are the key points to remember:
- The AirTag offers unbeatable integration with iPhone, vast Find My range, and precise tracking. But it costs significantly more at $29.
- The PinTag delivers the core Bluetooth tracking functionality for just $12.99 in a more universal design. But it lacks the polish and extra features of AirTag.
- iPhone users who want the best possible experience should spring for the AirTag. The expansive range and Precision Finding are game-changers.
- Android users on a budget will appreciate the PinTag’s affordable price tag and wider compatibility. You still get reliable short-range tracking.
- If you have multiple items to keep track of, the PinTag offers much better value. You can get 3-4 PinTags for the price of one AirTag.
Ultimately, both trackers provide an invaluable safety net whenever your essentials go missing. By helping you quickly recover your misplaced keys, wallet, or bag, the PinTag and AirTag can save you time, stress, and money in the long run.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to sub-$30 Bluetooth trackers, the Momax PinTag and Apple AirTag sit at opposite ends of the spectrum. The AirTag is a premium, polished product deeply woven into the Apple ecosystem. The PinTag is a barebones, budget-focused alternative compatible with iOS and Android.
As we’ve seen in this in-depth comparison, the AirTag outperforms on nearly every front, from its vast Find My range to its seamless iOS integration and proactive notifications. If you have a compatible iPhone and can stomach the steeper cost, the AirTag is a no-brainer.
But for the masses looking for a cheap and cheerful tracker that gets the basics right, the PinTag is a very compelling option at just $12.99. Considering you can buy 3-4 PinTags for the price of one AirTag, it’s by far the better value for tagging multiple items or sticking to a strict budget.
Whichever tracker you choose, you’ll gain invaluable peace of mind knowing your most prized possessions are always within reach. Whether you’re prone to misplacing your keys or just want an extra layer of security for your bag or bike, the PinTag and AirTag have you covered.
