Smart key finders are tools that utilize multiple technical means to locate lost keys quickly. They usually employ Bluetooth, radio frequency (RF), or GPS technology and real-time tracking and audible alerts to make finding lost keys or other objects a simple process, providing customers peace of mind.
Here, we’ll look at what factors to consider while stocking key finders for your business.
Table of Contents
Key finders market share
Types of key finders
Factors to consider when choosing a suitable key finder
Summary
Key finders market share
According to Google Planner, the term “key finder” averages 135,000 monthly searches, reflecting the growing popularity of these gadgets. New technologies that are constantly reducing in size are helping to facilitate the rise of this technology, helping users save time and reduce frustration in the event that they misplace important personal items. Regions currently showing a high demand for key finders include North America, Europe, and even some areas of Asia-Pacific, such as China.
Types of key finders
1. Bluetooth key finders
Bluetooth key finders are small devices that use Bluetooth technology to link the position of an item with a smartphone or tablet. They are usually small and cheap, and so are suitable for daily use. Bluetooth key finders work best up to 100 meters and usually cost between US $20-50. Alerts in the form of alarms or notifications can be adjusted via the connected handset.
2. Radio frequency (RF) key finders
RF key finders use radio frequencies to trace lost items. They comprise a handheld transmitter and a receiver fitted onto the keys or valuables. These gadgets will produce a loud bleep or light upon activation by the transmitter. RF key finders also operate up to around 100 feet and cost between US $15-40.
3. GPS key finders
GPS key finders draw on satellites’ global positioning systems to locate keys accurately. This added range makes them best suited to finding objects over long distances, and thus, are great for outdoor tracking. GPS key finders cost between US $50-150. Some GPS key finders also provide geofencing, sending the user a notification if the attached object leaves an established perimeter.
4. Crowd GPS key finders
Crowd GPS key finders comprise Bluetooth and a network of connected users. The device uses nearby smartphones to maintain anonymous information updates about the item’s location once it goes beyond the allotted range of one user. This makes them more powerful compared to regular Bluetooth limits and covers longer distances. Their average cost ranges from US $30-80.
Some crowd-GPS key finder apps also have community-based alert systems whereby a user is alerted if another user has lost their asset.
Factors to consider when choosing a suitable key finder
1. Price
The price of key trackers is largely dependent on which type of technology they use and their range: Bluetooth key finders tend to be the cheapest, ranging between US $20-50; radio frequency key finders cost US $15-40; crowd GPS key finders cost around US $30-80; and GPS key finders are relatively costly because of their more sophisticated tracking capacity, ranging between US $50-150. The key finder you select should best reflect your budget and your customers’ requirements.
2. Type
Each type of key finder comes with unique characteristics and capabilities. Bluetooth and RF key finders can track up to 100 feet, making them perfect for daily life. GPS key finders work great for long-distance and outdoor tracking. Finally, crowd GPS key finders use community-driven tracking to increase tracking ranges far beyond conventional Bluetooth distances.
3. Range
A key finder’s ability to locate lost items is mostly limited by how far its track range extends. Consider scenarios where the key finder will be used and how far it would need to track items.
4. Size
The size of a key finder and the type of objects that it will be used with will play a major role in how convenient they are to use. Bluetooth and RF key finders are lightweight and small enough for regular day-to-day usage with minimal extra weight. GPS key finders can be larger as they incorporate additional technological components. Crowd GPS key finders occupy a middle-ground, balancing weight and performance.
5. Battery life
A key finder with a longer battery life is essential for continued long-term usage and ease of use. Bluetooth and RF key finders can last up to six months to one year, thus guaranteeing long-term operation. The battery life of GPS key finders might be much less – usually days or weeks – depending on how frequently it is used.
6. Alert options
Key finders’ alert options are a key component in how quickly and efficiently the user will be able to track down their lost valuables. Most key finders will provide customized alert systems that involve sound and messaging notifications via the linked device(s).
Summary
Choosing suitable key finders for your business will depend on balancing factors such as cost, size, distance, type, battery power, and type of alerts.
No matter what type of key finders you require, you’ll find every variety on Alibaba.com.
