A fast answer to this question: There is no distance limit of gps tracking under good signal on the surface of earth. The range of a GPS tracker depends on several factors, including the type of tracker, its communication method, and environmental conditions.
The Basics of GPS Tracking: How it works
GPS (Global Positioning System) tracking is a technology that uses satellite signals to determine the live time location of a person, vehicle, or asset. Here’s a simple breakdown of how it works:
Step 1: Satellites Send Signals
- The GPS system consists of 24+ satellites orbiting Earth.
- Each satellite transmits signals containing its location and the exact time.
Step 2: GPS Receiver Calculates Position
- A GPS tracker (or receiver) picks up signals from at least 4 satellites.
- Using trilateration, it calculates:
- Latitude & Longitude (exact location)
- Altitude (if supported)
- Speed & Direction (if moving)
Step 3: Data Transmission (For Active Tracking)
- The tracker sends location data to a user via:
- Cellular networks (4G/3G/2G) → For real-time tracking (needs a SIM card or data plan).
- Satellite networks → For remote areas (e.g., Garmin inReach).
- Bluetooth/Wi-Fi → Short-range tracking (e.g., Apple AirTag).
Step 4: User Views Location Data
- The location is displayed on a smartphone app (e.g., Google Maps) or a web dashboard.
- Some trackers store data offline and upload it when connected.
Type of GPS Tracker and Ranges of it
| Type of Tracker | How it works | Range | Best for | Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Real-time GPS Trackers | Sends live location via cellular/satellite | Global(with network) | Vehicles, pets ,people, assets | Requires a sim card or data plan, if there is no cellular signal, the tracker can’t transmit real-time data (but may store logs for later) |
| Data Loggers | Stores location history (no live tracking) | limited by memory | Fleet analysis, hiking | with limited function, memory and scenarios |
| Bluetooth/ Wi-Fi Trackers(eg., Apple Airtag) | Uses nearby phones to report location | 100-400ft | keys, wallets, bags in short-range scenarios | Relies on nearby bluetooth/wi-fi devices to relay location |
| Satellite Trackers | Works without cell signals | Global(even oceans) | Ships, adventurers | Expensive hardware and subscription fees |
| RF(LoRa UHF) | Radio Frequency | 1-10miles(1.6-16km)in open air | Wildlife tracking, farm animals, off-grid asset tracking | Requires a dedicated receiver; affected by terrain |
Factors That Define the Range of a GPS Tracker
- Obstructions: Buildings, mountains, and dense forests can block GPS signals
- Battery Life**: Long-range trackers (cellular/satellite) consume more power
- Government Restrictions**: Some countries restrict GPS tracker usage
- Weather：Bad weather will cause signal transmit slightly delay.
Extending the Range and Reliability of GPS Trackers
Although the transmission range of GPS signals is affected by many factors, GPS manufacturers have developed more technologies to improve this problem, making the GPS error smaller, more accurate and faster.
- 4G+2G global networking: allowing devices to achieve network coverage regardless of whether they are in the city or the suburbs.
- GPS Corning Area Data Uploading: the device will upload a GPS data in order to reflect the details of turning, the uploaded positioning data will be more denser and the playback query is more accurate.
- GPS Blind Area Data Uploading： If your vehicle is driving in an area with no signal, such as tunnel, the connection between the device and the server is interrupted, the track of this section of the road will be lost. However, Autosali GT10 implements the function of blind spot supplementary transmission, which greatly optimizes the playback of the vehicle in the blind spot.
- AGPS Technology: This function has become a necessity and is implemented on the GPS chipset, so new devices launched in recent years all have this function.
Conclusion: The positioning range of GPS tracking devices is global and has no distance limit, but it will be affected by the type of device, environmental factors and technological updates. Therefore, it is important for users to choose the right type of gps tracker according to their needs. If you want to learn more about GPS tracker, please follow us or contact our team directly.
Contact Autosali Team:
whatsapp: +86 18824141626
email: violachueng@auto-sali.com