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GlobalTrack Systems

GPS Hardware

Hardwired vs. Portable GPS Trackers: Which Solution Fits Your Needs?

Hardwired trackers take power from the vehicle and are hidden permanently. Portable trackers run on their own battery and can be moved. Hardwired suits vehicles you track every day; portable suits assets without power or short-term needs.

Last reviewed

Three GPS trackers: a compact battery unit, a hardwired box and an OBD-II plug-in device

Side-by-side comparison

HardwiredPortable (battery)
InstallationWired to vehicle power, usually by an installerNo wiring; place, mount or attach
PowerContinuous from the vehicleInternal battery; needs charging or replacing
Update frequencyFrequent, live trackingConfigurable; less frequent extends battery
Tamper resistanceHigh when hiddenLower; can be found and removed
Extra dataIgnition, engine hours, immobiliserLocation, movement, sometimes temperature
Move between assetsNoYes

Choose hardwired if

  • You track vehicles every working day
  • You need driver behaviour or engine data
  • Tamper resistance matters

Choose portable if

  • The asset has no power
  • You need a quick, temporary solution
  • You want to move the tracker between items

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