If you are looking for real-time location trackers for your dogs when you go out of the house, there are many products available but let us talk about Fi Collar VS Tractive above others. There are many similarities and differences when compared side-by-side that is why we checked them out so you can choose the best that matches your needs based on the criteria that I will be talking about below.
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Fi Collar and Tractive Dog GPS Tracker Comparison
Main Features
Fi 
Tractive 
- GPS tracking (LTE-M Network). Fi utilizes a group of satellites to amplify the accuracy and speed of its tracking ability. It can impressively track at around 7-foot radius in open skies.
- LTE-M network. This device is the first-ever product to use an LTE-M network to connect with GPS info. This technology consumes low power but reaches very long distances for communication. This network can reach up to 30% farther than other networks like 3G. 4G, 5G. And LTE.
- Escape detection. Fi sends instant notification the instance your dog runs beyond your designated safe zone.
- Battery life of up to 3 months. Smart power management. Fi is integrated with low power WiFi which lets you connect to your WiFi to be able to save battery plus, it also improves its accuracy.
- Fi can also be considered as a smart device because it can automatically connect to your WiFi or Bluetooth like its charging base or your phone; this is also to help maximize its battery life and save energy.
- Comes in 4 sizes
- Dog @ home only (WiFi mode) - up to 3 months
- Walks outside home (WiFi & cellular/GPS) - up to 2 months; refreshes every 2 to 5 minutes
- Active dogs (GPS only; NO WiFi) - up to 3 weeks; also refreshes every 2 to 5 minutes
- Lost Dog Mode - lasts up to 2 days with 1 refresh per minute
- LED light. This device has built-in LED light perfect for dark or low vis environments.
- Live-tracking. Tractive is perfect for tracking your dogs in real-time.
- Location history. Tractive can follow the track of your dog anywhere they go tied with the history of where your dog has been. This can help you see their strolling pattern whenever they go out of your house to roam around the neighborhood.
- Virtual Fence. Customize Virtual Fence or what we call safe zones, and get instant alerts when they get past this mark.
- Interactive map. Tractive features an interactive map that shows all your dogs that have this device. This also lets you choose between street view or satellite view.
- Augmented reality. This is a great feature this Tractive has because this can give you an idea about their whereabouts.
Fi
- GPS tracking (LTE-M Network). Fi utilizes a group of satellites to amplify the accuracy and speed of its tracking ability. It can impressively track at around 7-foot radius in open skies.
- LTE-M network. This device is the first-ever product to use an LTE-M network to connect with GPS info. This technology consumes low power but reaches very long distances for communication. This network can reach up to 30% farther than other networks like 3G. 4G, 5G. And LTE.
- Escape detection. Fi sends instant notification the instance your dog runs beyond your designated safe zone.
- Battery life of up to 3 months. Smart power management. Fi is integrated with low power WiFi which lets you connect to your WiFi to be able to save battery plus, it also improves its accuracy.
- Fi can also be considered as a smart device because it can automatically connect to your WiFi or Bluetooth like its charging base or your phone; this is also to help maximize its battery life and save energy.
- Comes in 4 sizes
- Dog @ home only (WiFi mode) - up to 3 months
- Walks outside home (WiFi & cellular/GPS) - up to 2 months; refreshes every 2 to 5 minutes
- Active dogs (GPS only; NO WiFi) - up to 3 weeks; also refreshes every 2 to 5 minutes
- Lost Dog Mode - lasts up to 2 days with 1 refresh per minute
- LED light. This device has built-in LED light perfect for dark or low vis environments.
Tractive
- Live-tracking. Tractive is perfect for tracking your dogs in real-time.
- Location history. Tractive can follow the track of your dog anywhere they go tied with the history of where your dog has been. This can help you see their strolling pattern whenever they go out of your house to roam around the neighborhood.
- Virtual Fence. Customize Virtual Fence or what we call safe zones, and get instant alerts when they get past this mark.
- Interactive map. Tractive features an interactive map that shows all your dogs that have this device. This also lets you choose between street view or satellite view.
- Augmented reality. This is a great feature this Tractive has because this can give you an idea about their whereabouts.
Design
Fi
Tractive 
The Fi smart tracker is strategically designed for outdoor use. This device is reinforced with an aluminum faceplate and metal armor inside which makes it chew-proof and dirt-proof, one thing to note that you can rely on its durability. It comes with a GPS tracking unit that can be mounted on the part of your pet's neck collar facing up to be able to get the best signal coverage for optimum tracking. Thanks to its IP68 Waterproof Rating, you don’t have to worry when you want to take your dog to the beach and have a splash or swim in the saltwater.
Tractive GPS tracker is a rounded cuboid-shaped device that is very lightweight (weighs just around 30 grams or less) perfect for both dogs and cats of smaller breeds. This device is quite small and only measures just about 2 by 1.6 by 0.6 inches (height x width x depth). It is very easy and convenient to use as it only needs collar clips, which are already provided along with this pet tracker, to attach to whichever type of collar you use for your pets. There are three designs available: the first one is colored white with its logo colored blue; second, a colored pink unit with a white logo adorned with classy Swarovski crystals; lastly is their Hunters Edition in black-on-olive camouflage design. This device does not come in other sizes although it can fit most collars.
Fi
The Fi smart tracker is strategically designed for outdoor use. This device is reinforced with an aluminum faceplate and metal armor inside which makes it chew-proof and dirt-proof, one thing to note that you can rely on its durability. It comes with a GPS tracking unit that can be mounted on the part of your pet's neck collar facing up to be able to get the best signal coverage for optimum tracking. Thanks to its IP68 Waterproof Rating, you don’t have to worry when you want to take your dog to the beach and have a splash or swim in the saltwater.
Tractive
Tractive GPS tracker is a rounded cuboid-shaped device that is very lightweight (weighs just around 30 grams or less) perfect for both dogs and cats of smaller breeds. This device is quite small and only measures just about 2 by 1.6 by 0.6 inches (height x width x depth). It is very easy and convenient to use as it only needs collar clips, which are already provided along with this pet tracker, to attach to whichever type of collar you use for your pets. There are three designs available: the first one is colored white with its logo colored blue; second, a colored pink unit with a white logo adorned with classy Swarovski crystals; lastly is their Hunters Edition in black-on-olive camouflage design. This device does not come in other sizes although it can fit most collars.
Durability
Fi
Tractive
The Fi tracker has an IP68 dirt-proof and waterproof rating which was proven and tested by completely immersing the device 1.5 meters (around 4 feet 11 inches) deep in water for 30 minutes, and also tested its resistance to saltwater. Its aluminum faceplate armor and internal metal armor reinforcement makes it more resistant to bites and unavoidable chewing.
Tractive GPS pet tracker boasts their almost indestructible device which is also 100% waterproof, perfect for pets who love outdoor and water adventures. It can withstand 3-feet deep water immersion for 30 minutes. Its interchangeable battery can last up to 5 days and is easily attachable and detachable, and you can also use a spare battery while it is being charged.
Fi
The Fi tracker has an IP68 dirt-proof and waterproof rating which was proven and tested by completely immersing the device 1.5 meters (around 4 feet 11 inches) deep in water for 30 minutes, and also tested its resistance to saltwater. Its aluminum faceplate armor and internal metal armor reinforcement makes it more resistant to bites and unavoidable chewing.
Tractive
Tractive GPS pet tracker boasts their almost indestructible device which is also 100% waterproof, perfect for pets who love outdoor and water adventures. It can withstand 3-feet deep water immersion for 30 minutes. Its interchangeable battery can last up to 5 days and is easily attachable and detachable, and you can also use a spare battery while it is being charged.
GPS Tracking Features
Fi
Tractive
-
24/7 GPS tracking with the use of the LTE-M network. Fi uses a group of three satellites which enhances its accuracy and tracking speed. So especially in the open sky, the GPS tracking can get as accurate as 7 feet radius. Fi is the first-ever tracking device to use LTE-M network which signal reaches around 30% farther than other networks such as 3G, 4G, 5G, and LTE. This allows dog-owners to monitor the movement of their dogs even when you're not around, especially when they are out with dog walkers and pet-sitters.
- Geo-fencing gives you an option to create safe zones for your wandering pets. This feature sends instant notifications the moment they leave your predetermined perimeter. You have the option to create multiple safe zones which is great when travelling.
- Escape Detection. The Lost Dog Mode automatically switches the device to track and send updates of the real-time location of your dog and also activates the red LED flashing light that makes it easier to spot your dog in low light conditions.
The Tractive GPS tracker features its live tracking mode that updates your pet’s location every 2 to 3 seconds. It has a fully interactive map that gives you the option to switch from a regular map to a hybrid one, to a satellite imaging view and an augmented reality map. With this tracker, you can use this to view not only the current location of your pet but also their previous location, thanks to its location history feature. This device also lets you see the speed and altitude of the unit; therefore, you can check how fast your pet moves and how high the device is above sea level. The virtual fence or geofencing feature allows you to create customized safe zones for your pets around your house or the neighborhood, and you can set the radius at 164 feet at a minimum. The Tractive GPS tracker also has a sharing feature that lets you share your pup’s or cat’s location to your family or friends so they can have the ability to help you in case they get lost, but we are all always hoping the opposite.
Fi
-
24/7 GPS tracking with the use of the LTE-M network. Fi uses a group of three satellites which enhances its accuracy and tracking speed. So especially in the open sky, the GPS tracking can get as accurate as 7 feet radius. Fi is the first-ever tracking device to use LTE-M network which signal reaches around 30% farther than other networks such as 3G, 4G, 5G, and LTE. This allows dog-owners to monitor the movement of their dogs even when you're not around, especially when they are out with dog walkers and pet-sitters.
- Geo-fencing gives you an option to create safe zones for your wandering pets. This feature sends instant notifications the moment they leave your predetermined perimeter. You have the option to create multiple safe zones which is great when travelling.
- Escape Detection. The Lost Dog Mode automatically switches the device to track and send updates of the real-time location of your dog and also activates the red LED flashing light that makes it easier to spot your dog in low light conditions.
Tractive
The Tractive GPS tracker features its live tracking mode that updates your pet’s location every 2 to 3 seconds. It has a fully interactive map that gives you the option to switch from a regular map to a hybrid one, to a satellite imaging view and an augmented reality map. With this tracker, you can use this to view not only the current location of your pet but also their previous location, thanks to its location history feature. This device also lets you see the speed and altitude of the unit; therefore, you can check how fast your pet moves and how high the device is above sea level. The virtual fence or geofencing feature allows you to create customized safe zones for your pets around your house or the neighborhood, and you can set the radius at 164 feet at a minimum. The Tractive GPS tracker also has a sharing feature that lets you share your pup’s or cat’s location to your family or friends so they can have the ability to help you in case they get lost, but we are all always hoping the opposite.
Smartphone App
Fi
Tractive
The Fi tracker phone app, which is available for Android 6.0 and iOS 12.0 users and above, shows your dog’s location on the front page. You can scroll around the page to check other information like the map. Your pet’s photo shows you their coordinates while the first initial is your current coordinates, and if you are together, it will show the two icons beside each other. The app enables you to turn on the Lost Dog Mode and can give you access to its live chat support during their business hours.
The Tractive GPS tracker smartphone app is free and is compatible with iOS 11 Android 7.0 and up, and also on computers and mobile browsers. The GPS can also be activated via the Alexa app. The app shows you detailed information about your pet’s activity status and lets you view and access your pet’s location via the interactive map, and the location history; turn on the live tracking mode and give you updates on current location; view the battery status; lets you share your pet’s location with different users.
Fi
The Fi tracker phone app, which is available for Android 6.0 and iOS 12.0 users and above, shows your dog’s location on the front page. You can scroll around the page to check other information like the map. Your pet’s photo shows you their coordinates while the first initial is your current coordinates, and if you are together, it will show the two icons beside each other. The app enables you to turn on the Lost Dog Mode and can give you access to its live chat support during their business hours.
Tractive
The Tractive GPS tracker smartphone app is free and is compatible with iOS 11 Android 7.0 and up, and also on computers and mobile browsers. The GPS can also be activated via the Alexa app. The app shows you detailed information about your pet’s activity status and lets you view and access your pet’s location via the interactive map, and the location history; turn on the live tracking mode and give you updates on current location; view the battery status; lets you share your pet’s location with different users.
Activity and Fitness Tracker
Fi
Tractive
The Fi tracker device lets you monitor your dog’s step goals whether daily, weekly, or monthly. Fi also allows you to monitor the activity levels of your pet even if you are not with them. This device gives you an option to compare these results with other dogs, and also view records of past activities and daily, weekly, and monthly step count.
Tractive GPS tracker’s activity monitoring feature lets you see how much time your pet spends sleeping and moving or playing around. You can set activity goals so you can make sure your pup or kitty can get the right amount of exercise and rest. This feature also lets you unlock achievements such as earning badges or breaking personal best records and lets you share and compare results and rankings among friends and other users. This feature also allows you to keep an eye on their diet and calories burned.
Fi
The Fi tracker device lets you monitor your dog’s step goals whether daily, weekly, or monthly. Fi also allows you to monitor the activity levels of your pet even if you are not with them. This device gives you an option to compare these results with other dogs, and also view records of past activities and daily, weekly, and monthly step count.
Tractive
Tractive GPS tracker’s activity monitoring feature lets you see how much time your pet spends sleeping and moving or playing around. You can set activity goals so you can make sure your pup or kitty can get the right amount of exercise and rest. This feature also lets you unlock achievements such as earning badges or breaking personal best records and lets you share and compare results and rankings among friends and other users. This feature also allows you to keep an eye on their diet and calories burned.
Pricing and Subscription
Fi
Tractive
Fi device costs $149 (check the up-to-date price here) and you can choose among three subscription options:
- 1 year priced at $100;
- 2 years at $186;
- 3 years at $248
For the Tractive GPS tracker, you are required to have a subscription plan but you can choose between basic and premium, starting at $8.99/month and $83.90/year, respectively. Findster Duo + on the other hand does not require monthly fees but offers Findster Care which you have the choice to opt in, and only costs $3.99 a month for a membership fee and gives you unlimited access to vet professionals who are available 24/7.
Fi
Fi device costs $149 (check the up-to-date price here) and you can choose among three subscription options:
- 1 year priced at $100;
- 2 years at $186;
- 3 years at $248
Tractive
For the Tractive GPS tracker, you are required to have a subscription plan but you can choose between basic and premium, starting at $8.99/month and $83.90/year, respectively. Findster Duo + on the other hand does not require monthly fees but offers Findster Care which you have the choice to opt in, and only costs $3.99 a month for a membership fee and gives you unlimited access to vet professionals who are available 24/7.
Conclusion
Looking at the comparison above, it is safe to say that the clear winner here is the Fi as it has much better features compared with Tractive. I love the fact that the Fi module has four different battery modes which I can utilize depending on my needs. The LTE-M network is also a very interesting feature which is something new but definitely advantageous. Also, dog activity monitoring features seem to be way better for Fi collar.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you found this comparison helpful and decided on buying Fi, I would highly appreciate if you use my referral link for purchasing. I will receive a small commission at no cost to you. It will keep me motivated to buy expensive dog gadgets, properly test them and provide unbiased reviews.
Author
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Mark is a Boston University graduate and former electrical engineer. In 2017, he decided to combine his tech knowledge with his love for dogs. He spent a year familiarizing himself with the latest GPS tracking collars, invisible fences, and other hot pet gadgets before he wrote his first product review. After selling Technobark, Mark remained a writer and consultant but spends more time on his other passion now: raising and training his growing family of dogs.
If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you. 2023-09-27
I’ve used both over a 2 yr time frame. I had the Fi first, then after a year, we stopped using it and got Tractive. I waited to post a review to see how it would work in Canada, and now I can whole heartedly say that Tractive is the superior dog tracker hands down. I think the only advantage Fi has over Tractive is the battery life. Other than that, Tractive is not only much superior, it’s also cheaper in every way.