Are you looking for a mini magnetic GPS tracker? A device that can provide real-time updates? A device that offers voice monitoring features?
The Riloer GF09 GPS tracker is a device that fulfills these criteria. The small footprint of the device and the two strong built-in magnets are its distinguishing features.
It is a portable battery-operated tracker, so it can serve several purposes. For example, you can use it to track your kids, senior parents, pets, vehicles, and other assets.
The tracker, though, comes with a short battery life. You must buy a 2G-supported SIM card. And if required, you can buy the optional TF card.
There are no monthly fees involved for using the tracking platform and app, but you need a data plan for the tracker to work.
Let us review the tracker’s design, features, and performance to understand if it is worth buying.
| Product Overview | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Riloer |
| Model | Riloer GF09 Mini GPS Tracker |
| Dimension (W x H x D) | 1.29 x 0.86 x 0.62 inches |
| Device Weight | 2.46 ounces |
| Type | 2G network |
| Battery | Lithium-ion, 400 mAh |
| Communication Frequency | 850/900/1800 / 1900MHz |
| Network Standard | GSM/ GPRS |
| Charging Input | 5 V |
| Recording Range | 80 sq. m. |
Our Rating
About Riloer
Riloer is a company that specializes in offering tracking and anti-theft devices. They offer portable and hardwired GPS trackers for cars, motorcycles, and trucks.
They also offer mechanical and electronic accessories for individuals and businesses.
The company is based in China. It offers support in the English language. Their tracking platforms are typically free, but you need to pay for compatible SIM and memory cards.
Who is The Riloer GF09 GPS Tracker For?
The GF09 tracker is mini-sized and can be used for different applications. For example, if you want to track your kids at home or school, the tracker comes in handy. You can place the tracker in their backpacks.
If you want to keep an eye on your older parents, you can have them place the tracker in their purses or wallets. The tracker comes with an SOS button which they can use to notify you of emergencies.
The tracker is lightweight, so it can also be used to track pets. You can attach the tracker to your pet’s collar or leash.
The tracker has built-in magnets so that it can be attached to metal surfaces. You can install the tracker on your vehicle or any metal box you want to track.
I recommend you avoid placing the tracker on the car’s underside. As the device is tiny, it can fall off while driving at high speeds or through rough terrains.
5 Important Factors We Tested The Product on
We tested the tracker on different factors like design, battery life, usability, and features. Let us understand how the tracker fares in terms of performance.
1. Design
The small size gps tracker is one of the strongest features that play to its advantage. The device dimensions are 1.29 x 0.86 x 0.62 inches. It weighs about 2.46 ounces. You can easily hold the tracker between two fingers.
The tracker is manufactured using ABS material. ABS plastic has good resistance to physical impacts. It can also withstand chemical corrosion. Thus, the tracker can be used for indoor and outdoor applications.
It comes with two built-in magnets. So, you do not have to buy any magnetic case separately.
The packaging box contains the tracker, a USB cable for charging, and an instruction booklet with SMS commands.
2. Battery
The tracker comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. It has a capacity of 400 mAh.
According to the brand, the battery is supposed to last up to four days when it is in an active state. And in the standby state, the battery should last up to 12 days.
But, these battery life estimates are highly dependent on how frequently you use the tracker. For example, if you use the tracker for multiple hours daily, the battery will drain in a day or two. You will find yourself charging the device every other day.
The short battery life is expected as the device is mini-sized. If battery life is a priority, I suggest you explore other trackers like Spytec GL300 or the portable model by LandAirSea.
3. Usability
You must buy a local SIM card that supports the 2G network. The device will need a minimum of 30 MB of data monthly.
In the case of a new SIM card, give it a few hours for the number to activate. Ensure you remove the PIN code and set the APN for the SIM.
You need to open the tracker lid to expose the SIM card and memory card slot. The memory card is optional.
The black button next to the SIM card slot is the power on button. Press and hold the button for three seconds to turn on the device.
Once the device acquires a signal, you can start tracking. You can send an SMS command to track the device. Or you can log in to the 365GPS website or app. Here you can set alerts and manage other settings.
Usability-wise, the tracking mediums are decent; it gets the job done. The brand should focus on improving the user experience and adding documentation.
4. Features
The tracker comes with an SOS button. It is located on the face of the device. One must press the button for five long seconds to activate the SOS alert. This will send a call to the guardian’s number.
You can listen to sounds around the tracker using the voice monitoring feature. Your kids or parents can reach out for help using the SOS key. It is a good safety mechanism, especially if your loved ones do not have immediate access to a phone.
If you want to know what is happening around the tracker, you can send an SMS command. You will then receive a voice-activated callback.
You can also set geofences and receive alerts when the tracker enters or leaves a predefined safe zone.
5. Performance
To get real-time location details, you can send the SMS command 999 to the tracker’s number. Within a few seconds, you will receive a text message containing the device’s battery percentage and a Google Maps link.
After sending the command, the device typically replies in 10 to 15 seconds. The device could be a few meters off in terms of accuracy. This could be because of the tracking technology used by the tracker.
For example, the GF09 supports GPS, Wi-Fi, and LBS positioning. Wi-Fi is more suited to indoor applications. And LBS is not the most accurate tracking method available.
Also, the tracker uses 2G and not 4G networks, so the results can be a bit off.
The device works best when it has access to good GPS signal strength. I recommend you use the device for applications that do not involve a lot of movement. Or the asset’s activity is limited to safe zones.
What Sets The Riloer GF09 GPS Tracker Apart From Its Competitors?
As mentioned above, I think the tracker’s design is its strongest feature. It is a mini tracker with built-in magnets. You can use it to track people, pets, and assets. If your applications are covert, the device is easy to conceal.
It does not make any noise when recording voices or making a callback. So you can listen without making yourself known.
You also do not have to pay a monthly fee to use the tracking platform. You have to pay for your local SIM data plan. But in comparison, paying for data plans is much cheaper than choosing trackers with monthly subscription plans.
Should You Purchase The Riloer GF09 GPS Tracker?
If you want a mini-sized tracker with voice monitoring capability, the GF09 can be a decent buy. It is also a comparatively budget-friendly option. It is suited for discrete tracking operations.
I recommend exploring other trackers if you need good battery life, consistent performance, and customer support.
Here are some pros and cons to help you decide:
Pros
- It is a portable mini and lightweight tracker.
- It offers voice recording and voice control callback features.
- It has an SOS button for emergencies.
- It includes two built-in magnets; it can be attached to vehicles.
- There are no monthly fees for the tracking platform.
Cons
- You must buy the SIM and TF cards separately.
- The SIM card must support the 2G network.
- Customer support needs to be better.
Price
The cost for the GF09 GPS tracker starts from around $15.
You must buy a local 2G-supported SIM card separately. For the tracker to work, you will need a basic $5 to $10 monthly data plan.
You can optionally use a memory card of up to 32GB. This also has to be bought separately.
FAQ’s
The GF09 tracker can support a TF card of up to 32 GB. This is not included in the package and has to be bought separately along with the SIM card.
You will need a local nano SIM card that is compatible with the 2G GSM network. The tracker will only work in areas where 2G networks are still running.
According to the seller, the battery can last up to 4 days in working time and up to 12 days in standby time. But the battery life depends on usage. The more updates you receive during the day, the quicker the battery will drain.
Summary
The Riloer GF09 GPS tracker is a mini, portable device that can be used for several applications. You can track your children, parents, and pets using the device. You can keep an eye on your vehicle and other valuable assets.
The tracker comes with two built-in magnets, so you can attach it to metal surfaces. It can be placed inside pockets, purses, and backpacks.
It has a 400 mAh battery capacity which can last for a day or ten, depending on usage. It offers features like real-time positioning, geofencing, voice recording, and SOS alerts.
The device is a decent buy for users looking for an affordable mini tracker with voice monitoring capabilities.
Carson Harris is a highly qualified author and expert in GPS tracking technology. With a background in electrical engineering and machine learning, he has established himself as a trusted source of information. Carson’s work experience at Garmin and Panasonic has further enhanced his expertise. He possesses creative skills in website design and AI applications. Known for his clear and concise communication, Carson’s articles on Trax Family’s website provide valuable insights on GPS trackers.