You know that a GPS tracking system is a smart choice for your business. But now you have a question: which type of tracker should you choose? The two most common options are a plug and play GPS tracker and a hardwired tracker.

This is an important decision, and there is no single “best” answer for everyone. This simple guide will explain the difference between them. We will help you choose the right option for your company’s vehicles, your budget, and your security needs.

What is a Plug-and-Play (OBD) GPS Tracker?

Think of a plug and play GPS tracker like a phone charger for your car. It is the easiest and fastest way to start tracking your vehicles.

How it Works: This tracker plugs directly into a special port in your vehicle called the OBD-II port. Almost every car and truck made since 1996 has one. You can usually find it under the steering wheel. Installation takes less than 10 seconds, and you don’t need any tools.

Pros:

• Super Easy Installation: Anyone can install it in seconds. No need to hire a mechanic.
• You Can Move It: It’s easy to unplug the tracker and move it to a different vehicle. This is great if your drivers switch cars often.
• Reads Basic Car Data: Some OBD tracker models can also read simple information from the car’s computer, like engine error codes.

Cons:

• Easy to Unplug: Because it’s easy to install, it’s also easy for a driver to remove it.
• Fewer Advanced Features: It usually can’t do complex things, like remotely turn off the engine in case of theft.

What is a Hardwired GPS Tracker?

A hardwired GPS tracker is the best choice when security and advanced features are your top priority. It is installed professionally for a permanent, hidden solution.

How it Works: This tracker is installed secretly inside the vehicle’s dashboard. A technician connects it directly to the car’s power wires. Because it’s hidden, the driver won’t see it.

Pros:

• Hidden and Secure: It is almost impossible for a driver to find or tamper with it. This is excellent for anti-theft.
• Very Reliable Power: It gets power directly from the vehicle’s battery, so you know it’s always on.
• Unlocks Advanced Features: A hardwired GPS tracker is the only way to use powerful features like turning off the engine remotely, connecting to door sensors, or using a driver ID system.

Cons:

• Needs Professional Installation: You will need to pay a technician to install it, which adds a small cost and takes some time.
• Not Easy to Move: The tracker is meant to stay in one vehicle for its life.

Side-by-Side: Which is Best for Your Company Vehicles?

Here is a simple chart to help you decide.

Feature	Plug-and-Play (OBD) Tracker	Hardwired Tracker
Installation	Seconds, Do-It-Yourself	Professional Needed
Security	Low (Can be unplugged)	High (Hidden and secure)
Portability	High (Easy to move)	Low (Stays in one vehicle)
Advanced Features	Basic	Yes (Engine shut-off, etc.)
Best For	Flexibility, Easy Start	Anti-Theft, High Security

An Example of a Great Plug-and-Play Tracker

At Jimi IoT, we offer a popular plug and play GPS tracker that is both easy to use and powerful. It plugs right into the OBD port and starts working immediately. It has a smart system that keeps it connected to the 4G network, but if the signal is weak, it can switch to 2G so you never lose connection. It can also tell you about unsafe driving like speeding or harsh braking and can even listen to audio inside the car if you need it.

For fleets that need the highest security, we also offer a full range of hardwired GPS tracker options.

Conclusion

So, which one is right for you? The answer is simple:

• If your main goal is simplicity and flexibility, a plug and play GPS tracker is a fantastic choice.
• If your main goal is high security and anti-theft, a hardwired GPS tracker is the best solution.

The smartest choice is the one that fits your business needs.

Still have questions? Every fleet is different. Talk to a Jimi IoT expert today. We’ll listen to your needs and help you find the perfect tracking solution for your business.