The Ridge Tracker Card and Apple’s AirTag represent two of the most widely used tracking tools for keeping tabs on your belongings. However, these devices come in noticeably different designs – for valid reasons – and even with its drawbacks, the Ridge Tracker Card can sometimes surpass the AirTag.
Why The Sleek Design?
The Ridge Tracker Card is designed to fit comfortably in wallets, resembling an ID card, while the AirTag features a small disc shape, similar in size to a U.S. quarter or 50 cent Euro coin. However, AirTags are bulkier, making them less convenient for wallet storage, for instance. The Tracker Card’s design caters to slimmer spaces, but this advantage comes at the cost of lacking Apple’s Ultra-wideband (UWB) technology.
UWB allows you to visually track a device within approximately 10-20 meters (more distance in the AirTag 2), but without it, you must depend on Bluetooth and Apple’s Find My network. In many instances, the shortcomings of the Ridge Tracker Card are overshadowed by its compact design – particularly if it increases the likelihood of usage compared to having no tracker.
The Clear Choice
Ridge Tracker Cards are perfect for wallets and slim purses due to their credit card-like shape. AirTags do not fit well in card compartments, and your wallet is presumably one of your more important belongings. You can still activate a sound from the Ridge Tracker Card using Find My, so even if you can’t visually pinpoint it when you misplace your wallet at home, the audio cues will assist you in locating it.
Other excellent applications include letters and significant documents you may have mailed or dispatched via courier. You can achieve more accurate tracking for those items, and in instances where they are returning to you (such as legal or financial papers), you’ll find extra comfort in knowing exactly where they are.
While Active
Athletic equipment like belt packs and vests might also be a suitable setting for a Ridge Tracker Card instead of an AirTag. Its lighter weight and slim profile make for reduced bouncing; over extended runs or cycling trips, even minor annoyances can accumulate. Being IP67 certified means the Ridge Tracker Card can withstand submersion in water for up to 30 minutes in shallow conditions, making it usable for swimming or kayaking gear as well.
Books, records, and notebooks are other scenarios where choosing a Ridge Tracker Card may be preferable to an AirTag. But don’t underestimate Apple; here are 8 inventive uses for AirTags.