Wondering which GPS cat tracker is right for your feline friend? This in-depth guide compares Weenect and Tractive, the two leading cat GPS trackers, on features, accuracy, value and more.
Introduction
Losing a cat is one of the worst feelings for a pet parent. That’s why GPS cat trackers have become so popular in recent years. These handy devices attach to your cat’s collar and allow you to monitor their location from your smartphone.
But with so many models on the market, how do you know which GPS cat tracker is the best? In this guide, we’ll compare two top options – the Weenect 2 and Tractive GPS Cat Tracker. We’ll break down how they work, key features, accuracy, battery life, cost and more to help you decide.
How Cat GPS Trackers Work
Both the Weenect 2 and Tractive GPS Cat Tracker use cellular and satellite signals to pinpoint your cat’s location.
A small tracking device attaches to your cat’s collar and transmits location data over cell towers and GPS satellites back to your smartphone app.
These trackers update your cat’s location anywhere from every few seconds up to every few hours, depending on the tracker and settings used.
You can view your cat’s location in real-time, set up safe zones to get alerts if they wander too far, and even track daily activity.
Weenect 2 Overview
The Weenect 2 is a lightweight GPS cat tracker made by Weenect, a French company. Here are the key details:
- Uses cellular networks and GPS to track location
- 25g weight, among the smallest GPS trackers
- IP67 waterproof rating
- Battery life around 2-3 days
- Pricing starts at €29.99 plus subscription fees
- Virtual fence, real-time tracking, activity monitoring
The Weenect 2 provides highly accurate real-time GPS tracking without distance limitations. The tracker itself is lightweight and waterproof, making it comfortable for most cats to wear.
It offers useful features through the mobile app like virtual fences, location history, activity tracking, and more. One unique feature is the ability to activate a sound on the collar to call your cat back home.
Tractive GPS Cat Tracker Overview
The Tractive GPS Cat Tracker is another top-rated model made by an Austrian company. Here’s an overview:
- Uses GPS and cellular networks for tracking
- 35g weight, a bit heavier than some models
- Battery lasts 2-5 days
- Pricing starts at $49.99 plus subscription
- Virtual fences, live tracking, activity monitoring
Like the Weenect 2, the Tractive GPS provides accurate real-time tracking with no distance limits. It has a slightly longer battery life but is a bit heavier.
The Tractive mobile app enables you to set up geofences and track your cat’s daily movements and sleep patterns. It also has a remote-activated light and sound to help find your cat in the dark.
Weenect vs Tractive: Feature Comparison
| Feature | Weenect 2 | Tractive GPS Cat Tracker |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 25g | 35g |
| Waterproof Rating | IP67 | IP67 |
| Battery Life | 2-3 days | 2-5 days |
| Tracking Range | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Real-Time Tracking | Yes | Yes |
| Virtual Fences | Yes | Yes |
| Activity Monitoring | Yes | Yes |
| Subscription Required | Yes | Yes |
| Light/Sound Activation | Sound only | Both |
Both Weenect and Tractive offer unlimited range real-time GPS tracking with similar core features like geofences and activity monitoring. The Tractive model has a slight edge for battery life while the Weenect 2 is lighter.
Accuracy and Reliability
In terms of accuracy, Weenect and Tractive perform similarly. Both leverage GPS and cellular networks to provide reliable location tracking worldwide.
However, reviews indicate Tractive may have a slight accuracy advantage, especially in rural areas with spotty cell service. Tractive uses both GPS and LTE-M networks while Weenect relies only on 2G networks.
But both models deliver accurate real-time location tracking worldwide, generally to within a few feet. For most owners, either tracker will provide the precise location needed to find a lost or wandering cat.
Cost Comparison
The upfront cost for the Weenect 2 and Tractive GPS hardware is similar, around $30 to $50. However, there are some key differences when it comes to subscription costs.
Weenect offers more flexibility in subscription options. There are 1-month, 1-year, and 2-year plans available that allow access to all app features. Costs range from €3.75/month to €7.90/month.
Tractive requires a Basic or Premium monthly subscription for full functionality. Plans cost $4.17-$13/month for Basic or $5.83-$16.25/month for Premium. Multi-year discounts are available.
So while the hardware itself costs about the same, Weenect provides cheaper subscription options overall, especially if you commit to a 1 or 2 year plan.
The Verdict
For most pet parents, the Tractive GPS Cat Tracker is the best overall choice due to slightly better accuracy and battery life. But the Weenect 2 is nearly as good and offers cheaper subscription plans.
Both provide unlimited range, real-time GPS tracking with useful in-app features like customizable geofences and activity monitoring. Either model will give you peace of mind by allowing you to monitor your cat’s location and safety.
Other Top GPS Cat Trackers
Beyond Weenect and Tractive, here are a few other top-rated GPS cat trackers to consider:
- Jiobit – Ultra-lightweight at just 0.6oz and 7-day battery life.
- Whistle Go Explore – Combination tracker and health monitor.
- Pod 3 – Good for multi-pet tracking.
- Pawtrack – Impressive 2-year free subscription.
Key Takeaways
- Weenect 2 and Tractive GPS offer unlimited range real-time cat tracking worldwide through smartphone apps.
- Both enable useful features like virtual fences, activity monitoring, remote light/sound activation.
- Tractive rated slightly more accurate, especially in rural areas.
- Weenect 2 tracker lighter at 25g vs. 35g for Tractive.
- Weenect offers cheaper subscription options with 1, 2 year plans.
- For most owners, Tractive GPS Cat Tracker the best overall choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate are cat GPS trackers?
Most cat GPS trackers today can pinpoint your cat’s location to within several feet, in ideal conditions. Accuracy depends on satellite and cell signal strength.
Do they work indoors or outdoors?
They work best outdoors with a clear view of the sky. Indoor use is limited but some trackers use Bluetooth or WiFi for general indoor location.
What is the range of cat GPS trackers?
Most cat GPS trackers today have unlimited range thanks to cellular network connectivity. As long as there is cell service, it will work.
How long does the battery last?
Battery life ranges from 2-5 days on average. More frequent location updates will drain the battery faster.
Are subscriptions required?
Most cat GPS trackers require an ongoing subscription to access the cellular networks. Plans cost $4-$16 per month on average.
What weight can cat trackers handle?
Look for trackers rated for your cat’s size, usually over 4-8lbs. The lighter the tracker, the better for small cats.
Can it track my cat’s activity?
Many GPS cat trackers today also function like a fitness tracker, monitoring sleep, activity, calories and more. Check the product features.
Will it work abroad?
Some trackers only work in certain countries. Choose a model that provides worldwide tracking if traveling overseas with your cat.
