We’ve had to wait a long time for it, but Apple has finally unveiled the AirTag. How does this bluetooth tracker compare to the competition? It’s AirTag vs Tile vs SmartTag.
AirTag vs Tile vs Galaxy SmartTag
Do you often lose your belongings, such as your keys or bag? Then you can hang a bluetooth tracker on these objects. This small device ensures that you can always find the location via an app. If the object is close, the tracker can play a sound.
Apple is not the first with such a product. Tile is currently the market leader when it comes to bluetooth trackers, but the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag has also been available in the Netherlands since the beginning of this year.
Similar devices
Basically, the three bluetooth tracker are very similar. They only work in specific ecosystems. For example, you can only use the AirTag with an iPhone or iPad and the SmartTag with a Samsung smartphone. The Tile is more versatile and works on most Android and iOS devices.
The devices also have some unique features. For example, the Samsung SmartTag has a button that can be used to control the smart home. For example for switching on the lights. You can personalize the Apple AirTag with an inscription, even with emoji.
The battery of the Samsung SmartTag, Apple AirTag and Tile each last for about a year. You must then replace it.
Design: the missing hole
The Apple AirTag is clearly the smallest of the three trackers. The smallest portable Bluetooth tracker from Tile, the Tile Mate, is 35 by 35 millimeters and 5 millimeters thick. The Samsung Galaxy SmartTag is slightly larger at 39 by 39 millimeters and a thickness of 10 millimeters. With its round shape, the Apple AirTag is only 31.9 millimeters in diameter and 8 millimeters thick.
The AirTag is therefore the smallest, but that comparison is not entirely fair. The Tile and SmartTag are designed to have a hole in them. As a result, these devices can be attached directly to a key ring. The Apple AirTag must first be placed in a key ring.
That’s not the only design difference. Both Samsung and Apple offer one shape for their bluetooth trackers, which you can customize via accessories such as a key fob. Tile offers different shapes for different purposes. For example, a Tile card is available to slide in your wallet, so that you do not have a bump. There are even small Tile stickers available that you can stick to devices.
Prices
In terms of prices, the devices do not differ much. The Samsung SmartTag is the cheapest at 29.99 euros. A Tile Pro is for sale for 34.99 euros and the AirTag costs 35 euros.
The AirTag must therefore be expanded with a key ring to place it on a key ring. The official leather keychain from Apple costs 39 euros. There are also cheaper accessories for sale from other parties.
AirTag vs Tile vs SmartTag: our conclusion
For iOS users, there are two choices: Tile and AirTag. Tile is currently a bit more versatile than the AirTag. You can easily attach this to anything through the hole and the different shapes make the bluetooth trackers suitable for different purposes.
AirTag has the great advantage that it is part of the Apple ecosystem with the Find My app. You can therefore be sure that your privacy is well protected at Apple.
More Apple Announcements
The AirTag was unveiled at an Apple event full of other announcements. Read all the news in our Apple April event roundup. Of course you can also watch the keynote.