Are you on the lookout for mini GPS trackers? One that can blend easily into their surroundings? One that provides features like voice monitoring?
If yes, the D3 mini GPS tracker from SpyCent could be a possible option. It is one of the smallest trackers I have reviewed. It comes with a 400 mAh battery capacity that can last 2 to 4 days, depending on usage.
It offers features like real-time tracking, audio monitoring, fence entry and exit, and SOS alerts. You can use the 365 GPS tracking platform or the app to track and manage the device.
The tracker performance, though, is decent at best. Assembly and usability can be challenging for some users.
So, you have had your eye on the mini SpyCent GPS tracker, but is it worth your money? Let us find out.
| Product Overview | |
|---|---|
| Brand | SpyCent |
| Model | SpyCent D3 Mini GPS Tracker |
| Dimension (W x H x D) | 39 x 25 x 12 mm |
| Network | 2G |
| Battery | 400 mAh |
| Working Voltage | 3.7 - 4.2V |
| Working Temperature | -20°C - +70°C |
| History | 3 months |
| Coverage | Worldwide |
| SIM Card | Nano SIM card (not included) |
| Price | $79.00 |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Our Rating
About SpyCent
SpyCent is a company that deals with surveillance equipment. The business was established in 1998.
Their product catalog includes categories like cameras, GSM bugs listening, GPS trackers, and accessories.
Under GPS trackers, you can find several portable, hardwired, and OBD trackers. They have specialized trackers for kids, pets, and cars.
Who is The SpyCent GPS Tracker For?
The D3 mini is a portable GPS tracker. It can be used for several applications like tracking your kids, elderly parents, pets, assets, and cars.
The tracker is mini-sized and lightweight, so it can easily be carried around by people or attached to pet collars. You can also place the tracker inside backpacks or even wallets.
You can use the device to track your cars but ensure it is not covered by metals from all sides. The GPS side of the device should always be facing upwards.
5 Important Factors We Tested The Product on
Now we know what the D3 mini tracker can be used for. Next, let us explore the tracker’s design, battery, and features to understand how it performs.
1. Design
The USP of the D3 mini tracker is its small size. Its dimensions with the default 400 mAh battery are 39 x 25 x 12 mm. The tracker uses a ceramic antenna as it occupies much less space on the board.
The tracker is so small that it can fit on your fingertips.
The outer shell of the tracker is made using polycarbonate. The material is a type of biocompatible plastic. But the device is not waterproof, so you must be careful where you place the tracker on vehicles.
2. Battery
The default battery that comes with the D3 mini tracker has a capacity of 400 mAh. According to SpyCent, the battery is supposed to last two days when active and four days in standby mode.
The battery life, though, largely depends on the update frequency. For example, you can get updates every 10 seconds to 120 minutes. The shorter the time interval, the quicker the battery will drain.
The USB charging port is located on the top of the device. You will receive an 80 cm USB cable with your purchase.
If you want to avoid charging the device every other day, consider buying the D7 mini tracker model that has a 1000 mAh battery capacity.
3. Usability
You must first buy a compatible SIM card to work with the tracker. If the card has a PIN, ensure it is removed. Set up the APN so you can send commands to the SIM card from your primary phone.
You can use the online tracking platform or the mobile app 365GPS. The login credentials are the IMEI code of the tracker and the default password. Ensure you insert the SIM card and power on the device before you log in.
Next, you provide the guardian’s name, phone number and assign a representative icon to the tracker. From here on, you can start customizing alerts and settings.
The setup process is comparatively challenging because you first must handle the SIM card settings.
Both the website and the app functionality are decent at best. The app froze a couple of times during testing, and the results are not always accurate.
Overall, the setup process requires some time initially. The tracking platform and app need improvement.
4. Features
The tracker comes with a built-in voice activation feature. The tracker goes into sleep mode when there is no sound around. This is done to save battery and disk space. When the tracker catches any sound around, it becomes active.
You can set up fences around desired areas on the map. When the tracker enters or leaves the location, you will be notified.
In case of an emergency, you can press the SOS button on the tracker. You can set up to three numbers who will be notified of the situation.
The app has a playback feature wherein you can access historical data for up to 3 months.
The device comes with a power-saving mode that you can control through the app. For example, you can set the device to turn on/off GPS, and data upload in a specified time range.
5. Performance
The D3 mini tracker has potential with its application diversity and features. But in terms of performance, it needs to catch up.
When the device works, it works well, but when the app freezes or you go through an area with weak reception, the results are far from accurate.
The device may work well for short distances and periods if you use it for real-time tracking. I would say the tracker is more suited to applications where the asset is in a confined area, and you are fine with hourly updates.
I would not use the tracker for car tracking. You can use it to track your kids or pets at home or any asset you do not move enough.
What Sets The SpyCent GPS Tracker Apart From Its Competitors?
The D3 mini GPS tracker has audio monitoring capability. You can make a normal call to the SIM card number used for the tracker. This will let you hear the sounds around the device.
The tracker does not have any flashing lights. It is concealed in a black packet-like covering. It does not make any noise. The tracker easily blends into its surroundings. So, you can use the voice monitoring feature without giving yourself away.
Another distinguishing feature is that it is a no-monthly fee tracker. You do have to pay for SIM card data plans, but the cost is significantly lower than the monthly subscription fees of other trackers.
Should You Purchase The SpyCent GPS Tracker?
If you want a mini GPS tracker, consider buying the D3 model from SpyCent. It comes with voice monitoring features that let you listen to audio around the tracker.
You do not have to pay monthly subscription costs to use the tracking platform or the app.
The tracker performance, though, is inconsistent. The setup process can be challenging for some users.
Read through the pros and cons listed below before buying the D3 mini tracker:
Pros
- The mini tracker is small and lightweight.
- The device is ideal for discreet applications.
- The tracker is voice-activated; it wakes up to sounds around it.
- You can call the SIM card number to listen to the voices around it.
- It has no monthly subscription charges.
Cons
- You need to buy a SIM card separately.
- It is a 2G GPS tracker requiring a 2G-supported SIM card.
- The device performance is inconsistent.
Price
The SoyCent D3 mini GPS tracker is priced at $79.00.
You do not need a monthly subscription to use the tracking platform or the app. But you need to buy a SIM card with a data plan.
The charges for the data plan can differ depending on the carrier and your location. A basic plan of around $10 should work for the tracker.
FAQ’s
You will need a SIM card that supports the 2G network. The card will also need access to the internet. A basic $5 to $10 data plan should be enough.
If the tracker is active and on the move, with an update frequency of 10 minutes, the battery can last 3 to 5 days. The battery can last up to 10 days on standby. Please note 1000 mAh battery will increase the dimension of the tracker to 55 x 22 x 15 mm.
No. The D3 GPS tracker does not make any noise, nor does it have any blinking lights on. Thus, the tracker is suited for discreet applications.
Summary
If you want to buy one of the smallest GPS devices on the market, explore the D3 SpyCent GPS tracker. The device provides worldwide coverage and is supported by the 2G network.
You must buy a compatible SIM card with a data plan for the tracker to work.
It offers features like fence entry and exit alerts, voice monitoring, SOS, power saving mode, and historical playback.
It comes with a standard battery capacity of 400 mAh. You can upgrade to 1000 mAh for a longer battery life.
Overall, the performance of the GPS tracker is decent at best. I recommend using the tracker for applications or assets that do not involve a lot of movement.
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.