We compared two popular item trackers for keys, bags and wallets: the Apple AirTag (2nd generation) and the Life360 Tile.
What we looked at
Phone compatibility, finding features, sound, sharing, battery, and price.
The verdict
If you have an iPhone or Apple Watch and want precision finding, a louder chime and a battery stated to last more than a year, the AirTag is the Apple-ecosystem pick. If you use Android, or a mix of phones, or want to spend about £12 less and get a phone-finder button, an SOS alert and Life360 integration, the Tile is the cross-platform option.
Precision finding, a louder chime and a battery stated to last a year plus, but it costs more and is set up with an iPhone or iPad.
A cheaper tracker for iOS and Android with a phone-finder button and SOS alert, but no battery figure or precision finding listed.
Apple AirTag (2nd Generation) Tracker for Keychain, Wallet and More — Best for iPhone
Intended for: Marketed as an item tracker that works with the Find My app, with a louder speaker, upgraded Ultra Wideband and Bluetooth chips, precision finding on iPhone and Apple Watch, and a replaceable battery, set up with an iPhone or iPad.
What we liked
- Tracks items with the Find My app
- Precision finding with step-by-step directions on iPhone and Apple Watch
- Stated 50% louder speaker with a new chime
- Upgraded Ultra Wideband and Bluetooth chips to find items from further away
- Battery stated to last more than a year and to be replaceable
- Location can be shared temporarily with trusted contacts or over 50 airline partners
Worth knowing
- Costs more than the Tile on these listings
- The listing describes set-up with an iPhone or iPad only
Best for
- iPhone and Apple Watch owners who want precision finding
- Anyone who wants a louder chime and a replaceable battery
- Travellers who want to share a lost-bag location with an airline
Not ideal for
- Android users
- Buyers who want the lower price
Life360 Tile Bluetooth Tracker, Keys Finder and Item Locator, 1-Pack (Black) — Works With Android
Intended for: Marketed as an everything tracker for keys, bags and more, compatible with both iOS and Android, with an SOS alert, a ring-your-Tile finder, a way to make your phone ring from the Tile, and Life360 integration.
What we liked
- Cheaper than the Apple AirTag on these listings
- Both iOS and Android compatible
- Ring a misplaced Tile, or track it down in the free app
- Press the Tile to make your phone ring, even when silenced
- Discreet SOS alert to loved ones
- Can be added to Life360 to see items and people on the same map
Worth knowing
- The listing gives no battery-life figure
- No precision-finding feature is mentioned
Best for
- Android users, or households with a mix of iPhone and Android
- Families already using Life360
- Buyers who want the lower price
Not ideal for
- Anyone who wants precision finding on iPhone or Apple Watch
- Buyers who want a stated battery life
