Tile Pro (2024) Review: Is It Worth the Investment?

The Tile Pro has long been a favorite in the Bluetooth tracker market, and with the 2024 edition, it continues to impress with its extended range and new SOS functionality. However, with the rise of competitors like the Apple AirTag and Samsung Galaxy SmartTag, is the Tile Pro still the best choice for you? Let’s dive into the details and see how it stacks up.

Pros and Cons of the Tile Pro

Pros:

• Replaceable battery
• Best range of all Tile devices
• Loud and clear sound

Cons:

• Battery only lasts a year
• Same price as an AirTag
• Bluetooth-only tracking

Key Features

Replaceable Battery

One of the standout features of the Tile Pro is its replaceable battery, which adds significant longevity to the device. Unlike other trackers that need to be replaced entirely once the battery dies, the Tile Pro can be easily refreshed with a new battery, making it a more sustainable option.

SOS Functionality

A new feature for the 2024 model is the SOS function, which is powered by the Life360 app. With a simple triple-press of the Tile Pro’s button, you can send an emergency alert to pre-designated contacts. This feature is particularly useful for those who carry their Tile Pro with them on the go.

Extended Range

The Tile Pro boasts an impressive Bluetooth range of up to 150 meters, making it one of the best in the Tile lineup. This extended range increases your chances of locating lost items, though it’s worth noting that the sound emitted by the Tile Pro may not travel as far as the Bluetooth signal itself.

Design and Build

The Tile Pro is designed with both functionality and style in mind. It features a metal frame and a plastic casing, with a replaceable battery tucked neatly inside. The dual-color look, available in black and grey or white and silver, gives it a sleek appearance. However, it lacks the more playful color options of the Tile Mate, such as pink, green, or blue.

The device also includes a loop for attaching it to keyrings or lanyards, making it convenient to carry around. On the back, you’ll find a QR code that can be scanned by anyone who finds your lost item, leading them to a webpage with your contact details.

Performance and Range

When it comes to performance, the Tile Pro shines with its extended Bluetooth range. In testing, it was able to maintain a connection up to 40 meters with a clear line of sight. However, beyond this distance, the sound emitted by the Tile Pro’s speaker becomes difficult to hear, which could make locating the item more challenging.

While the 150-meter range is impressive, it’s important to remember that Tile trackers are Bluetooth-only. This means they rely on being within range of your phone or another device in the Tile network to function. Unlike the Apple AirTag, which uses Ultra-wideband technology, or some GPS trackers, the Tile Pro won’t give you precise location data if it’s out of Bluetooth range.

Software and App Integration

The Tile Pro can be used with either the Tile app or the Life360 app. If you want to take advantage of the new SOS feature, you’ll need to use the Life360 app. This feature allows you to send an emergency alert to pre-selected contacts when you triple-press the Tile Pro’s button.

The setup process is straightforward: simply press the button on the Tile Pro to put it into pairing mode, then follow the prompts in the app. The device will play a sound to confirm that it’s connected, giving you a preview of its loud and clear speaker.

For users in the UK, USA, and Australia, Tile also offers a subscription service that reimburses you for lost items if you’re unable to recover them using the Tile network. Standard subscribers can claim up to £75/$100/AUS$150, while Premium Protect subscribers can claim up to ten times that amount.

Tile Pro vs. Competitors

At its current price point, the Tile Pro is in direct competition with the Apple AirTag and Samsung Galaxy SmartTag. While the Tile Pro offers a longer Bluetooth range and a replaceable battery, it lacks some of the more advanced features of its competitors. For instance, the AirTag uses Ultra-wideband technology, which provides more precise location tracking. Similarly, the Galaxy SmartTag integrates seamlessly with Samsung’s SmartThings ecosystem.

That said, if you’re already invested in the Tile ecosystem or don’t need ultra-precise tracking, the Tile Pro is still a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

The Tile Pro (2024) is an excellent option for those who want a reliable Bluetooth tracker with a long range and a replaceable battery. Its new SOS functionality adds an extra layer of security, making it a good choice for personal safety as well.

However, if you’re new to the world of Bluetooth trackers or are looking for more advanced features, you may want to consider alternatives like the Apple AirTag or the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag, both of which offer additional functionality beyond Bluetooth tracking.

Where to Buy

You can purchase the Tile Pro (2024) from Amazon.

FAQs

Does the Tile Pro work with both iPhone and Android?

Yes, the Tile Pro is compatible with both iPhone and Android devices. You just need to install the Tile or Life360 app to get started.

What is the new SOS functionality?

The SOS feature allows you to send an emergency alert to pre-defined contacts by triple-pressing the Tile Pro’s button. However, this feature requires the Life360 app and is limited by Bluetooth range.

How long does the Tile Pro's battery last?

The Tile Pro’s battery lasts for about one year, after which it can be easily replaced.