The Fi Collar and FitBark dog activity trackers both track data about your pup, but there are some notable differences that you should consider before making a purchase.
We’ll compare the Fi Collar VS FitBark, take a closer look at their features, and list their advantages and drawbacks to help you make an informed decision!
Products at a Glance
| Features | Fi Dog Collar | FitBark 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | $122 Collar + activation fee 4 subscription options starting at $3.20/week | $69.95 (no subscription) |
| Sizes | X-Small to X-Large | Fits all collars, small and compact – 10 grams (0.35 ounces) |
| Battery Life | Up to 3 months on 1 charge, rechargeable | Up to 6 months on 1 charge, rechargeable |
| Location Tracking | Monthly plans include real-time tracking | No |
| Activity Tracking | Yes | Yes |
| Safety Zones | Included – Geo-fencing | No |
| Multiple Pets | As long as each pet has its own collar and subscription, you can track multiple pets | As long as each pet has its own collar and subscription, you can track multiple pets |
Fi Collar VS FitBark Compared
Purpose
If you’re looking for a way to keep track of your pet’s location alongside their health, then the Fi Collar is a good option.
That said, if you’re only interested in monitoring your pet’s health and activity levels, the FitBark 2 is a better choice.
Design
The Fi Collar has a rugged, chew-proof design with a GPS module on the part that goes around your pet’s neck.
This ensures that the module always has a clear view of the sky for optimal signal coverage.
In contrast, the FitBark 2 is designed in the shape of a small bone and can be carried by dogs of all sizes, making it discreet and less likely to be damaged by curious pups.
Location and Activity Tracking
Besides activity tracking, the Fi Collar offers 24/7 GPS tracking on the new LTE-M network, allowing you to keep tabs on your dog’s whereabouts.
Fi also features geo-fencing.
This feature allows you to establish safe places and receive real-time alerts if your pet goes beyond the designated boundary.
The FitBark 2 doesn’t offer any tracking features, but it does allow you to monitor your pet’s health and activity levels via an app on your smartphone or tablet.
Battery Life
The Fi collar has a battery life of up to 3 months on 1 charge, while the FitBark 2 lasts 6 months.
Communication Range
Fi Collar uses GPS tracking to communicate with your Fi base as soon as it’s out of range of your Bluetooth signal, Fi base, or Fi app.
You will never have to worry about losing track of your dog.
FitBark 2, on the other hand, uses a low-energy Bluetooth signal to communicate with your smartphone, but it has a shorter range (30 ft) and isn’t as accurate as Fi.
If you are only looking for an activity tracker and not a GPS locator, FitBark 2 may be a better option for you.
Pricing
Fi is a GPS dog tracker that costs $122 upfront for the collar (all sizes) and activation.
The Fi comes with the following 4 subscription options:
- Month-to-Month at $4.40/wk
- 6 months at $3.90/wk
- 1 year at $3.70/wk
- 2 years at $3.20/wk
You can cancel fi collar subscription at any time.
The Fi trackers use cell towers and the Iridium satellite network to provide worldwide coverage so that you can track your dog anywhere in the world.
FitBark is a cheaper alternative to Fi, costing only $69.95 and requires no subscription.
Watch this video for a real-life review of whether the Fi collar is worth it:
Read our related article where we compare FitBark vs Tractive. See how FitBark measures up to the Tractive tracker!
Why Monitor Your Dog’s Activity Levels?
Dogs are active creatures that need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy.
Here are 5 reasons to keep an eye on your dog’s activity level:
1. can help prevent obesity
Obesity is a significant health problem in dogs and can lead to many other problems, including joint damage, breathing difficulties, and diabetes.
Keeping track of your dog’s activity level ensures they get enough exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
2. levels can be a good indicator of overall health
If your dog suddenly becomes less active, it could be a sign that something is wrong.
A sudden decrease in activity could indicate pain, illness, or another medical problem.
Read More: Tractive VS Findster. Tractive and Findster are GPS dog trackers – and we put them to the test!
3. help you choose the right type of exercise for your dog
Some dogs need more strenuous exercise than others, and some may have medical conditions that limit the type of exercise they can do safely.
Knowing your dog’s activity level can ensure they get the right amount and type of exercise for their needs.
4. It’s a Good Way to Bond
Taking the time to track your dog’s daily activity levels allows you to spend quality time with them while also helping to keep them healthy.
5. May Help With Behavioral Issues
If your dog is exhibiting unwanted behaviors, such as excessive barking or chewing, monitoring their activity level can help determine whether they are acting out due to boredom or lack of exercise.
Increasing their activity level may help resolve the behavior problem.
Read our related article, FitBark VS FitBark 2. The FitBark just got better – here’s what’s new and improved with the FitBark 2.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a pet tracker that will help you keep tabs on your dog’s location, Fi is an excellent option to consider.
However, if you are more interested in monitoring your dog’s health and activity levels, FitBark 2 may be a better choice for you.
Other Interesting Reads
