Specifications
Weight2.7 oz / 77g
NetworkGlobalstar (not 100% global — some polar and remote coverage gaps)
Two-WayNo — one-way tracking only
Phone RequiredNo (tracking reported to web dashboard and contacts)
SOSYes — basic SOS alert
GPSYes — GPS tracking
MapsVia SPOT shared tracking page
TrackingYes — every 2.5 to 60 minutes (configurable)
SubscriptionRequired — SPOT plans from ~$12/mo
BatteryUp to 10 days on 4x AAA batteries in standard tracking mode
WarrantySPOT 1-year
What Sets It Apart
The primary use case for the SPOT Trace is asset tracking rather than personal communication: mounting to a vehicle undercarriage, boat hull, cargo container, or equipment case and reporting location to an owner who monitors remotely. This is categorically different from carrying a satellite communicator while hiking — the Trace assumes the user and the device are not in the same place, and the goal is knowing where the device is, not communicating with the person carrying it.
AAA battery power rather than a built-in rechargeable battery is a practical advantage for a tracking device that may be mounted in a location without easy access for charging. Alkaline AAA batteries available anywhere are replaced without removing the device from its mounting location, and the 10-day tracking duration on a fresh set covers the typical usage window for most vehicle or boat tracking applications.
A $99 satellite tracker that reports GPS location every 2.5 to 60 minutes — built for vehicles, boats, and valuable gear
Who This Is For
The SPOT Trace is right for: vehicle and boat owners who want GPS tracking for theft prevention or fleet monitoring, parents who want to track a teen's vehicle, anyone who ships valuable equipment and wants location visibility, and pet owners who want GPS tracking for free-roaming animals.
Subscription note: Every satellite communicator requires an active subscription to function. Prices shown are device purchase prices only. Factor in subscription cost when comparing total cost of ownership.
How It Compares
Ranks #17 of 17 devices in this category.
Common Questions
Can the SPOT Trace be used for personal hiking safety?
It provides location tracking that contacts can monitor and a basic SOS alert, which provides more safety than no device. For hiking-specific use, the SPOT Gen4 at a modest premium adds text messaging capability that meaningfully improves communication over the tracking-only Trace.
Does Globalstar have the same coverage as Iridium?
No — Globalstar's satellite constellation provides strong coverage in the continental US, Canada, and most populated regions but has more significant gaps in polar regions and some remote areas than Iridium's complete global coverage. For North American travel, the coverage difference is rarely relevant.
Can I track a vehicle covertly with the SPOT Trace?
The SPOT Trace is marketed for vehicle and asset tracking, and its compact form factor allows mounting in inconspicuous locations. Laws regarding covert tracking vary by jurisdiction; check local regulations before mounting a tracking device on a vehicle not in your possession.
How does the SPOT Trace compare to a regular GPS tracker?
The SPOT Trace uses the Globalstar satellite network, providing coverage in locations without cellular signal. Standard cellular GPS trackers (lower cost) only work within cellular coverage and go dark in remote areas. The satellite network makes the Trace the appropriate choice for remote-area tracking.
