Amber Alert Review: Is This the Best GPS Tracker for Kids?

Why use a GPS tracker for kids?

As parents, we always try to keep our kids safe when they’re out and about. But sometimes, human error gets in the way. Your child can get lost on the way to school or become separated from you in a crowded public place. 

Unfortunately, there are more sinister cases where kids get kidnapped or lured away by other adults. 

Luckily, we now have child GPS tracking devices to help ease some of these parental concerns. These small and (usually) wearable devices allow you to see where your child is — typically by connecting to a map on your smartphone. 

But since there are so many child GPS trackers on the market, deciding which one to buy can be difficult. In this review, we’ll be looking specifically at the Amber Alert GPS tracking device. It’s won several awards already, but we wanted to see if it really lives up to the hype. 

We’ll dive into the features of this device, how it works, how much it costs and what customers had to say. Hopefully by the end, you’ll have all the information you need to determine if this is the right child tracking device for you!

Best price from their online store: Amber Alert

What is the Amber Alert GPS?

The Amber Alert GPS (or Active Halo GPS Device) is a tracking device for people to locate loved ones (like a child or elderly family member). Here’s a look at some of its main functions:

• GPS-track your child: Through the paired mobile app or browser (location updates every 5 mins).
• 2-way calling: Speak to your child at any time (they can call you too).
• Safety zone + other alerts: Get notified when your child is outside the safety zone, like when they’ve left or entered school. 
• SOS alerts: Your child can press this to notify you they are in trouble.

This tracking device also alerts you when your child comes within 500 feet of a registered sex offender’s residence. 

Designed to be easy to use and wear, the palm-sized Amber Alert GPS tracker can be placed in your child’s backpack, clipped onto their clothing, or worn on a lanyard. 

Where to Buy the Amber Alert GPS Tracker

We recommend purchasing the Amber Alert GPS device directly from their online store: Amber Alert

Best price from their online store: Amber Alert

How to set up the Amber Alert GPS

After you’ve charged the Amber Alert GPS, just follow these easy setup steps to start using it: 

1. Log in to your account: Head to the Amber Alert GPS website and log on using the username and password provided with your purchase. 
2. Set up your alerts and tracking preference: This includes SOS alerts, email/SMS alerts, users, and more.
3. Place the tracker with your child and start tracking on the main maps page. 

How was Amber Alert created?

Amber Alert GPS began with a mission to help protect children after its founder, Russ Thornton, had lost his son at an amusement park for a lengthy period. 

Since 2007, they’ve been a leading provider of communication and location tracking products for active families. 

Through the years, they’ve learned how to make their devices both easy to use for parents and children. But the devices are also advanced enough to maximize the GPS and communication technologies to ensure optimum child safety. 

What are Amber Alerts?

Amber Alerts are emergency messages sent out when a law enforcement agency knows an abducted child is in danger. They are used to urge local communities to assist in the search and recovery of an abducted child. 

They are also broadcast through radio, TV, road signs, mobile phones, and other internet devices. 

The name Amber Alert was created as a legacy to 9-year-old Amber Hagerman, who was kidnapped and killed in Arlington, Texas. 

Amber Alerts are currently used in the US by all 50 states and 33 other countries worldwide. (1)

Best price from their online store: Amber Alert

What makes the Amber Alert GPS different from other GPS trackers for kids?

The unique thing about the Amber Alert GPS is how well the core feature of tracking is executed. And the fact that it has a lot of added child-safety features.  

The first thing that stood out for us was the unlimited location updates. This means that there is no limit on how often you can check on the location and well-being of your child.

You can also sign up for unlimited text and email alerts to yourself — or even other family members and friends. So, if you are busy at work or not able to access your phone, you can enjoy peace of mind that someone you trust is able to track and monitor your child. 

The 2-way communication feature is also a key differentiating factor. Your child can contact you in an emergency with just one push of a button. And you can also speak to your child if something is wrong to help calm them or direct them to safety.  

Furthermore, you will be alerted if your child is near the residence of anyone who is on the National Sex Offenders Registry. 

Who can benefit from the Amber Alert GPS?

This tracking device is aimed at parents of children aged between 5 and 10 years old. 

However, it can also be useful for keeping track of slightly older children who don’t have a mobile phone. Or those who are at risk of being lost or abducted. It can even work to help track elderly relatives. 

In our research, we found that this device has also been used to track children during custody battles. 

Best price from their online store: Amber Alert

How do the Amber Alert safety features work?

The Amber Alert GPS provides some of the most advanced safety alerts available, including:

• SOS calls — The child presses a button to alert or call an emergency contact.
• SafeZones — You can be informed when your child enters or leaves preset safe locations like school. 
• Speed — Set a speed limit and be notified if the device has exceeded it (e.g. when your child is in a moving vehicle). 
• Predator neighborhood alert — You will be notified when your child is 500 ft from the home of a registered child sex offender. 
• Breadcrumbing — Get locations sent to you periodically at preset intervals.
• Low Battery — Be notified when it’s time to recharge the device.
• Device ON/OFF — Get notified when the device is turned on or off.
• Device Inactivity — Receive an alert when the device hasn’t been active for a certain period. 

When a safety alert is issued, you or a designated carer will be notified via email or text message. 

How does the Amber Alert tracking capability work?

The Amber Alert GPS tracking works by sending carers location updates every five minutes or more frequently if needed. You can view these updates on the map on your private online dashboard or on the companion app. 

How does the call process work?

The Amber Alert GPS has 2-way call capabilities. This means the device can receive calls anytime, and the user can call out to one preset phone number by pressing a button. It can be used for both SOS and non-emergency calls. 

You can also listen in to your child’s surroundings without them needing to pick up or even press a button. 

What is the accuracy of the Amber Alert GPS?

This device provides 90% accuracy within 15 meters (49 feet). 

How much does the Amber Alert GPS cost?

The Amber Alert GPS costs $135 plus a one-off $19.99 activation fee. This includes shipping and handling costs. In terms of value for money and the price of other tracking devices on the market, we found this to be very reasonable. 

Best price from their online store: Amber Alert

Is the Amber Alert device a subscription service?

In addition to the initial cost of the device, you also need to select a subscription service. 

There are two subscription packages to choose from:

1. Standard subscription: $15 per month. This provides unlimited texts and email notifications and 30 voice minutes per month. 
2. Premium subscription: $25 per month. This includes all the standard package features plus 24/7 access to the Safety Monitoring Centre.

Amber Alert GPS reviews

The Amber Alert GPS scored an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 40 reviews on Trustpilot. 

Generally, parents had good things to say about Amber Alert GPS. Especially the peace of mind it brought them when they couldn’t physically be with their child. 

Other positive comments included:

• Great location accuracy — even for those that took it camping.
• Communication allowed parents and children to easily contact each other.
• Easy to set up.
• Affordable.
• Predator alert was a good add-on for many parents.
• A desirable alternative to a mobile phone for younger children.
• Long battery life.
• Useful during custody disputes to track your child when he or she is with the other parent.

There were some criticisms of the Amber Alert GPS, and it was mainly about customer service. Although the vast majority said that their staff was very responsive and helpful, a few had some issues with long wait times for resolving issues.

Another user also mentioned that a wristband case with a child-resistant clasp would be useful for kids with special needs.

Here’s a look at some of the positive reviews from Trustpilot:

Is the Amber Alert GPS the best GPS tracker for kids?

The Amber Alert GPS is a great tracking device for parents who want to know their child’s location at any time for peace of mind. 

From what we could see from verified customer reviews, the location accuracy is good. And the SafeZone alerts were especially useful for situations where parents want to know that their child has arrived safely at places like school. 

Aside from its main tracking function, many were also pleased with its add-on features. Most notably, the two-way calling feature made communicating much easier. And the predator alert (which notifies you when your child is near the residence of a registered child sex offender) was also a particular bonus for many. 

We found the Amber Alert GPS to be excellent value for money compared to other tracking devices for kids on the market. The service does not lock you into a contract, so you can stop your subscription service at any time. 

While it does require a charging cradle, we found the battery life to be better than most, often exceeding the 40 hours stated. 

The only exception where the Amber Alert GPS may not be suited for you is if you have an older child who is tech-savvy and already owns a mobile phone. In this case, you can use the phone for tracking and speaking with your child.

But overall, the Amber Alert GPS serves its function well as a tracker for young kids. It’s relatively affordable and worth the investment for the peace of mind that it gives you. Plus, the added features and ease of use make it one of the best choices on the market. 

Amber Alert FAQs

Can you access safety wearable history?

Yes. You can view a 90-day activity history via your dashboard. This is also downloadable. 

Can anyone track your Amber Alert GPS?

No, only designated individuals will receive alerts. You can determine who can see your account and their access level via your online portal. 

How far does the Amber Alert GPS locate?

The Amber Alert GPS system is designed to locate each wearable device anywhere in the United States within the expansive AT&T service area. (2) If the device enters an area without GSM coverage, the GPS feature cannot report. 

How big is the Amber GPS Alert System?

The device is H: 2.9”, L: 1.6”, W 0.8”. 

How do you charge the Amber GPS Alert System?

The device comes with a charging cradle which you plug into the wall to charge. 

What is the battery life of the Amber Alert GPS?

The battery lasts around 40 hours. 

What is the Amber Alert GPS returns policy?

If you purchase your device from the Amber Alerts online store you can return your device within 7 days of the “trial return period” for a full refund. To be eligible for a refund, the device must be in substantially new condition. Refunds will not be issued for devices that have been damaged. 

It’s also worth noting that refunds are for the purchase price of the device only. No refunds are issued for activation fees, subscription payments, or original shipping fees.  

Is the Amber Alert device waterproof?

Although not fully immersible, the device has an IPX6 waterproof enclosure that protects it from rainfall and splashing. 

Is the Amber Alert suitable for kids with special needs?

Yes the Amber Alert is durable, simple to use, and easy to wear — making it suitable for children with special needs. It also does not allow for internet access or texting which can protect your child from cyberbullying or seeing inappropriate content. 

Does the Amber Alert GPS work abroad?

This device is set to work nationally and internationally, although you will be charged additional fees for use abroad. 

What is the Amber Alert Warranty?

The device comes with a 12-month limited warranty. 

Does the Amber Alert GPS come with technical support?

Yes, you can reach Amber Alert on 888-334-3958 or via email at support@amberalertgps.com. 

Why is it called Amber Alert?

Amber stands for America’s Missing: Broadcast Emergency Response. This acronym was created as a legacy to 9-year-old Amber Hagerman who was kidnapped and killed in Arlington, Texas.