Fi Series 3 GPS Dog Tracker
- Battery lasts for months
- Military-grade durability tested
- Real-time escape alerts
- Waterproof and chew-proof
- (Cheap) subscription needed
Quick Take on the Fi Series 3 GPS dog tracker:
Specifications (All-New Fi Series 3 — device + collar included for free)
Collar specifications
- Charging base with USB cable.
- Long battery life with up to 3 months from one charge.
- Unlimited GPS + LTE-M coverage. Track in most areas and on hikes.
- Let them swim with IP68 and IP66k water resistance.
- 400lbs+ resistance. Handles the worst chewers and pullers.
- Light, low-profile and comfortably designed for small to large dogs.
Fi mobile app
- 24/7 access to your dog with Instant Escape Alerts and Live GPS tracking.
- Keep them active and healthy with daily step goals and sleep tracking.
- Connect your Veterinarian information to share your dog’s health over time.
- Share your walks, celebrate milestones with the Fi community.
- Unlimited software updates on iOS and Android.
Fi Series 3 GPS Dog Tracker Review: Peace of Mind for Active Dog Parents
As a fellow dog parent with two adventurous Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, finding a reliable GPS tracker has been essential for our hiking adventures.
After extensively testing the Fi Series 3 with Buzz and Olly during our forest excursions, I can confidently say this device has transformed our outdoor experiences. My younger Cavalier Buzz particularly put this tracker through its paces with his energetic bursts through the forest, while it’s proven equally suitable for my senior companion Olly.
Design and Build Quality
The Fi Series 3 stands out in the crowded pet tech market with its thoughtful design and robust construction.
The sleek, low-profile form factor integrates seamlessly into daily life, and at first glance, you might mistake it for a regular collar. What’s particularly impressive is how they’ve managed to pack such sophisticated technology into a device that doesn’t overwhelm smaller breeds like my Cavaliers.
- The 400lbs+ pull resistance isn’t just a number – I’ve witnessed Buzz suddenly sprint after woodland creatures without any damage to the device.
- The IP68 and IP66k water resistance ratings have proven their worth during unexpected stream crossings and rainy day adventures.
- The materials used feel premium to the touch, with high-grade components that show no signs of wear even after months of daily use.
- The integration of the GPS unit into the collar is masterful, with no protruding elements that could catch on branches during our forest explorations.
- The attention to detail extends to the buckle mechanism, which clicks satisfyingly into place and hasn’t shown any signs of loosening over time.
Comfort and Fit
In my experience with both Buzz and Olly, the collar’s ergonomic design truly shines in long-term wear scenarios. The included collar material strikes an ideal balance between durability and flexibility, conforming to their neck shapes without causing any discomfort or fur matting.
This has been particularly important for Olly, who at 12 years old needs extra consideration for his comfort. The weight distribution is exceptional – neither dog showed any signs of awareness or irritation from wearing the device, even during our longest hiking sessions.
The adjustability range is comprehensive, allowing for precise fitting that accommodates both Buzz’s slightly larger neck and Olly’s slimmer build. The device maintains its position without rotating around their necks, which I’ve found crucial during active play sessions. The edges are smoothly finished, preventing any chafing or irritation points that could develop during extended wear.
I’ve noticed that even after our most vigorous adventures, there’s no sign of rubbing or discomfort when I check their neck area. The design also accounts for natural neck movement during sleep, ensuring they remain comfortable during rest periods.
GPS Performance and Coverage
The GPS and LTE-M coverage capabilities of the Fi Series 3 have consistently impressed me during our various outdoor adventures. In dense forest environments where other devices might struggle, this tracker maintains reliable connectivity. The real-time tracking accuracy has been particularly noteworthy – during instances when Buzz has decided to chase after woodland creatures, I’ve been able to pinpoint his location within meters, providing crucial peace of mind.
The LTE-M network coverage extends well beyond traditional cellular networks, which has proven invaluable during our more remote hiking expeditions. The system’s ability to switch seamlessly between GPS and LTE-M ensures continuous tracking regardless of the environment. Response times for location updates are impressively quick, typically refreshing within seconds when in active tracking mode.
The escape alerts have proven their worth multiple times, particularly with Buzz’s adventurous spirit, sending notifications before he could venture too far from our hiking path. The geofencing feature allows me to set custom safe zones around our frequent walking routes, providing an additional layer of security.
Battery Life and Charging
The Fi Series 3’s battery performance has consistently exceeded my expectations during real-world use. While the advertised 3-month battery life might seem optimistic, I’ve found it achievable under normal usage patterns. I typically see around 2 months between charges – still impressive considering the device’s capabilities.
The charging system itself deserves special mention; the included base station is thoughtfully designed with strong magnets that guide the collar into the correct position every time. I’ve developed a routine of charging overnight every couple of months, and the rapid charging capability means it’s usually ready within 2-3 hours.
The app’s battery monitoring is particularly useful, providing clear notifications when power is running low and detailed information about battery consumption patterns. I’ve noticed that battery drain increases during periods of frequent GPS usage, such as when tracking Buzz during his more adventurous moments, but even then, the battery life remains more than adequate. The charging contacts have remained corrosion-free despite exposure to wet conditions, and the base station’s LED indicators provide clear charging status information.
App Experience and Features
The Fi app ecosystem goes far beyond basic GPS tracking, offering a comprehensive suite of features that enhance the overall experience.
The interface is intuitive, with critical functions like live tracking easily accessible with minimal taps. The social aspects have been unexpectedly engaging – sharing our hiking achievements and connecting with other Fi users has created a sense of community.
The milestone tracking has been particularly motivating; watching Buzz and Olly rack up their walking distances has encouraged us to explore new trails and extend our usual routes.
The veterinary information integration is a standout feature, especially for monitoring Olly’s activity levels given his age. The ability to add multiple family members as authorized users has proven invaluable, allowing our dog sitter to monitor both dogs during our occasional absences. The activity tracking provides detailed insights into their exercise patterns, helping me ensure both dogs maintain appropriate activity levels for their respective ages. The historical data tracking has been useful for identifying patterns in their behavior and adjusting our routines accordingly.
Care and Maintenance
Maintaining the Fi Series 3 has become a straightforward part of our routine, though it does require attention to certain details for optimal performance. After particularly muddy adventures – which are frequent with my two forest explorers – I’ve developed a specific cleaning routine.
A gentle wipe with a damp cloth effectively removes dirt without compromising the device’s water resistance. It’s crucial to pay special attention to the charging contacts, keeping them free from debris to ensure reliable charging. I’ve found it beneficial to remove the collar at least once a week for a thorough inspection of both the device and the dogs’ neck areas. The durability of the materials means that regular cleaning hasn’t caused any degradation in appearance or functionality.
One important maintenance tip I’ve discovered is to occasionally clean the charging base contacts with a dry cloth to maintain optimal charging efficiency. The collar material has proven remarkably resistant to odor absorption, but I still recommend allowing it to dry completely after wet adventures before recharging.
Value for Money vs Peace of Mind
The subscription model of the Fi Series 3 initially gave me pause, but after experiencing its benefits firsthand, I understand the value proposition.
The tiered pricing structure, ranging from $3.20 to $4.40 per week, offers flexibility to match different budgetary needs. When I consider the peace of mind it provides during our forest adventures, particularly those heart-stopping moments when Buzz decides to chase after wildlife, the cost seems minimal.
Fi Series 3 Pricing Breakdown
| Plan Duration | Weekly Cost | Monthly Cost | Total Cost | Billing Frequency | Savings vs Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rolling | $4.40 | $19.07* | $228.80/yr | Monthly | – |
| 6 Months | $3.80 | $16.47* | $98.80 | Semi-annually | $15.60 per 6mo |
| 1 Year | $3.60 | $15.60* | $187.20 | Annually | $41.60 per year |
| 2 Years | $3.20 | $13.87* | $332.80 | Bi-annually | $124.80 per 2yr |
*Savings compared to monthly plan
The included lifetime warranty and 30-day Free trial period demonstrate Fi’s confidence in their product.
Breaking down the cost per day, even at the highest monthly rate, we’re talking about the price of a coffee for continuous monitoring and protection of our beloved pets.
The longer subscription plans offer better value, and I opted for the 2-year plan as the most cost-effective option. The ongoing software updates and continuous improvement of features justify the subscription model, ensuring the device remains current and effective.
Verdict
The Fi Series 3 has proven to be an indispensable tool for my adventures with Buzz and Olly. After months of testing across various conditions, from sunny forest walks to rainy day escapades, it consistently delivers on its promises. The combination of robust construction, reliable tracking, and impressive battery life creates a compelling package that justifies its subscription cost. For active dog parents, especially those with adventurous pups like my Buzz or seniors like Olly who need extra monitoring, this device offers invaluable peace of mind.
Score: 9/10 – The Fi Series 3 loses just point for requiring a $ subscription, but the comprehensive feature set, reliable performance, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for any dog parent. The peace of mind alone is worth the subscription cost, particularly during those moments when your curious pup decides to explore a bit too far from the trail.
