AirTags vs SmartTag: Which Tracker Is Better for You?

In the hectic rhythms of modern life, losing items can be extremely frustrating. To address this, smart trackers have entered the stage. These small, lightweight tools serve as our personal guardians against potential theft and loss of our belongings.

In this blog, we’ll unravel two smart tracker products, Apple’s AirTag and Samsung’s SmartTag, and investigate them in detail. We’ll begin with an introduction on their working mechanism, and then proceed to compare them in aspects like design, settings, accuracy, etc. Whether you are a seasoned digital enthusiast or simply a beginner, this guide will help you make informed purchase decisions. Without further ado, let’s embark on our AirTags vs SmartTag investigation!

Learn about AirTags and SmartTag

AirTag is a small, coin-sized tracking device developed by Apple in 2021, designed to help users locate and keep track of their belongings. It seamlessly integrates with the Find My app ecosystem, leveraging the vast network of Apple devices worldwide to pinpoint the location of lost items with precision. Users can attach AirTags to keys, wallets, or other valuables, and track their location in real-time using their iPhone, iPad, or Mac.

SmartTag, too, is a compact tracking device developed by Samsung in 2021. It connects to Samsung's SmartThings app and utilizes Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology to establish a connection with compatible Galaxy devices, enabling users to track and manage their possessions efficiently. Since its release, SmartTag experienced multiple updates, with the most recent version being the SmartTag 2 introduced in October 2023.

How Do AirTags and SmartTag Work?

As smart trackers, AirTag and SmartTag share similar working mechanisms. Both of them are Bluetooth-enabled tracking devices that help users locate misplaced items. They work by pairing with a smartphone via Bluetooth and using the device's GPS to pinpoint the item's location. When the item is out of Bluetooth range, it can still be located using nearby Apple or Samsung devices that detect the AirTag or SmartTag's Bluetooth signal. Users can then track the item's location through their smartphone's associated app, enabling them to retrieve their belongings with ease.

Differences between AirTags and SmartTag

When comparing Samsung tags vs AirTags, several factors set them apart, ranging from design to functionality and pricing. Let's delve into these disparities between Samsung tags vs AirTags to help you make an informed decision.

Design

To begin with, let’s compare Samsung Smart Tag vs Apple AirTag in terms of design.

AirTags boasts Apple's signature sleek and minimalist design, featuring a small, coin-sized tracker with a smooth, white surface. However, the AirTag cannot be attached to items independently as it lacks a keyring hole. To attach your AirTag to items, you have to use additional accessories. SmartTag, on the other hand, does have holes in them to help with attachment. The latest SmartTag model, the SmartTag2, comes in a small, flat capsule shape with a very large metal-lined ring that occupies almost half of the body, allowing for even more attachment options.

Tracker Settings

Getting started with smart trackers involves a straightforward setup process for both AirTags and SmartTags. With AirTags, users simply need to open the Find My app on their Apple device and bring the AirTag closer to pair it seamlessly. Similarly, SmartTags by Samsung offer a comparable setup procedure through the SmartThings app.

However, AirTags come with explicit warnings in the pairing process, stating that using the device for stalking purposes is a criminal offense in many jurisdictions. In contrast, SmartTags lack such explicit warnings. This signifies Apple’s higher level of commitment to the protection of privacy.

Positioning Accuracy

Accuracy is vital for smart trackers, and this is one area where SmartTag is on par with AirTag: both of them support UWB (Ultra-wide Band) Bluetooth connectivity. However, Apple has a much larger tracking network thanks to the sheer amount of Apple users. Almost wherever you go (save for deserted regions), chances are there will be at least one Apple device in your vicinity. The result is that although the tracking accuracy of AirTag and SmartTag is similar, AirTag has a higher chance of being detected than SmartTag.

But SmartTag has its advantages too. For example, Samsung SmartTag’s alarm is much louder than AirTag’s. This reduces the risk of not hearing the alarm in noisy environments.

Price and Lifespan

Both AirTag and SmartTag are rather affordable even for budget-conscious buyers. The AirTag costs $29 for one and $99 for a 4-pack. On the other hand, the latest SmartTag model, the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2, costs $29.99 for one and $99.99 for a 4-pack. Apparently, their prices are very close.

For the lifespan, smart trackers are powered by button cells that can be either replaceable or non-replaceable. In our current case, both AirTags vs Samsung Tags have replaceable batteries. The difference, however, lies in how long the battery lasts: the AirTag’s battery lasts around 1 year, while SmartTag2’s battery is claimed to last up to 500 days in typical usage conditions. It seems that SmartTag2 is the clear winner as far as battery lifespan is concerned.

Conclusion

In the AirTags vs SmartTag debate, the latest SmartTag 2 presents a compelling contender, boasting enhanced functionality and extended battery life. While SmartTag+ may lag behind AirTags, the SmartTag 2's advancements nearly surpass AirTag's capabilities. However, the pivotal factor remains compatibility. AirTags integrate only with Apple devices, while SmartTags cater solely to Samsung Galaxy users. Ultimately, the choice of Galaxy SmartTag vs AirTag hinges on your device ecosystem.

FAQs

What Is the Difference between SmartTag and AirTag Network?

The primary difference between Samsung Tag vs AirTag Network is their respective size. The SmartTag utilizes Samsung’s SmartThings Find network, while AirTag leverages Apple’s Find My network. While these two networks operate on similar principles, the Find My network is significantly larger than Samsung’s SmartThings Find network, increasing the tracking efficiency.

Does Samsung Have a Version of AirTag?

Yes. Samsung has offered its own smart tracker, the SmartTag. These products are similar to AirTags in both design and functionality, allowing users to retrieve lost items with efficiency.

Can I Use Samsung SmartTag to Track My Luggage?

Yes, you can use Samsung SmartTags to track your luggage. SmartTags are compact tracking devices designed to help users keep track of their belongings. By attaching a SmartTag to your luggage or placing it inside, you can track its location using the SmartThings app on your Samsung Galaxy device.