Keys have long been the root of misplacement conundrums, with heart-stopping visions of the jingly bundles taking a ride through the sewers via the holey grates above and the ever-common “Honey, where are my keys?” puzzler. It’s a problem that has plagued us practically since the dawn of the automobile. The little metal buggers tend to be pocket-phobic, always managing to slip out to areas unseen.
But, hey, this is the 21st century. We have technology. In this case, they’re called key finders, and they use Bluetooth to locate your lost keys. But keys aren’t the only thing these devices can find; they’re also great for tracking down lost wallets, purses, phones, pets, and luggage.
Once they’re attached to your keys (or whatever else), you can use your phone to track the finder via the compatible app for that brand. If the tracker is close by, but you still can’t find it, the finders can emit a sound to alert you to their exact location. Save yourself the embarrassment, though, and double-check your pockets again before sounding the alarm.
One concern with key finders is that they’re just another thing to add to your key ring. In reality, this really isn’t a problem. They’re designed to be small and inconspicuous, not to add bulk. We think the benefits these little things provide are way worth the addition.
So if you often find yourself searching for your keys, wallet, or Chihuahua, consider getting one or a couple of these key finders. They’ll come in handy when you most need them.
Apple AirTag
Like most things Apple makes, the AirTag works really well, but only for iOS devices. It’s well known for a seamless setup process and is simple to use in the Find My app. If the tracker goes beyond Bluetooth range, the AirTag utilizes the billions of iPhones in the world to track down your tracker via the Find My network. The AirTag also features Precision Finding via Ultra Wideband technology to locate the finder with more precision, but that only works with newer iPhones. However, to make this usable with your keys, you’ll have to buy a key ring separately. Luckily, there are a ton of different kinds. Unluckily, they just add an extra cost that you wouldn’t need to spend on other key finders.
Samsung Galaxy SmartTag
Samsung’s answer to the AirTag comes in the form of the cheaper SmartTag—but, like with Apple, it is only compatible with a certain device: in this case, the Galaxy smartphone. That said, it functions in the same style as the AirTag, but with a few added bonuses. The SmartTag uses its Galaxy Find network and traces its last-known location, and the connectivity range of just under 400 feet is impressive. A unique feature is the ability to control other Samsung smart home devices with just the press of a button, and it even has a built-in hole for easy installation onto your key ring. No need for expensive accessories.
Tile Mate
Tile has been one of the leaders in key finders all along, and two of its products made it onto this list. The cheaper of the two—the Mate—is a fantastic middle-ground finder. Compatible with both iOS and Android devices via a third-party app, it’s an affordable way to track your lost keys. The battery is not replaceable in the newest Mate, but it’s built to last three years—you’ll then have to replace the tracker itself. With a respectable Bluetooth range of 250 feet and a handy QR code on the back that can be scanned if found, it’s a great option that won’t break the bank.
Tile Pro
The Pro is Tile’s top key finder and offers a much better range than the Mate. It’s also taken the shape of a rectangle, which supposedly hangs better on keys, purses, and backpacks. We think it looks good, but the shape seems to be personal preference. The heavy hitter here is its range—Tile claims that it’ll stay connected via Bluetooth up to 400 feet away. That’s remarkable. It’s a bit more expensive than other key finders, but the range is a great argument for purchase.
Chipolo ONE Spot
The Chipolo ONE Spot is basically a cheaper AirTag alternative and uses the Find My network to help track your keys down. While the iOS-exclusive connectivity is limiting, the benefits of being on the Find My network are huge, and the ONE Spot is located in the same way as the AirTag. The selling point here is the 120-decibel alarm to help you locate missing keys even faster. Another bonus here over the AirTag? The built-in hole makes it easy to throw on your keys without adding a separate key ring.
Esky Item Locator
The Esky Item Locator isn’t a conventional key finder—it’s more for use around the house. It utilizes radio frequencies over Bluetooth and is simple to use. The kit comes with four different receivers, which can be installed on keys, remotes, glasses, or other household items. When the respective color-coded button is pressed on the remote, the receiver emits an audible beep. Follow the beep and you’ll find your item. Simple as that.
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