AirTag 2 vs. AirTag 1: I compared both Bluetooth trackers, and the winner is not so obvious

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After years of rumors and behind-the-scenes work, Apple released the caller mentation of its fashionable Bluetooth tracker, the AirTag, this week.

The second-generation AirTag offers upgraded show astatine the aforesaid MSRP arsenic the erstwhile generation, astatine $29 for a azygous AirTag and $99 for a 4-pack. The caller AirTag features much precise tracking and a louder speaker, but galore of the changes we'd seen rumored for months didn't materialize. 

Also: The champion Bluetooth trackers of 2026: Our apical picks to support tabs connected your stuff

For example, contrary to rumors, the AirTag 2nd Generation doesn't diagnostic a antithetic signifier oregon a built-in loop to connect to items; you'll inactive request a abstracted accessory to enactment an AirTag connected keys, wallets, bags, etc. That said, the upgrades surely marque the latest mentation rather compelling, but I'll dive a spot deeper into who should bargain which generation.

You should bargain AirTag 2 (2026) if...

Apple/ZDNET

1. You request much precise tracking

Apple says it has expanded the AirTag's Precision Finding range, but what does that mean for users exactly? The caller generation's expanded scope means you tin usage Precision Finding with your caller AirTag astatine a region astir 50% larger than the older model. 

Your iPhone volition beryllium capable to usher you to your AirTag from farther away, truthful if you're looking for a mislaid wallet and an AirTag 1 told you erstwhile you were 18 feet away, the AirTag 2 volition beryllium capable to way it precisely erstwhile you're 27 feet away. 

This is acknowledgment to the newer ultra-wideband (UWB) spot wrong the AirTag, the aforesaid 1 recovered successful newer iPhones. As a newer chip, the improved precision tracking is lone disposable for iPhones 15 oregon later, excluding the 16e.

Also: I extended my AirTag's artillery beingness by 10 years with this elemental accessory - but it has a large caveat

The AirTag 2's Precision Finding is present compatible with Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 oregon newer, truthful you'll besides beryllium capable to way it done your smartwatch without pulling retired your iPhone.

2. A louder talker is much important

The AirTag's talker makes a immense quality erstwhile you're looking for it successful a drawer, a closet, oregon a purse. Even if you conscionable privation to corroborate that your keys oregon wallet are successful your backpack and not successful your car arsenic you're exiting, being capable to perceive your AirTag is important. 

Apple says the caller AirTag's talker is louder than ever, truthful you're much apt to perceive it from crossed the country oregon betwixt sofa cushions. 

You should bargain AirTag 1 (2021) if...

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1. You person an iPhone 16e, 14, oregon older model

Like the archetypal generation, the caller AirTag is compatible with astir iPhones with iOS 14.5 oregon later. While older iPhones tin amusement an AirTag's determination successful the Find My app and ringing it, Precision Finding is disposable connected iPhones with the U1 oregon U2 ultra-wideband chip. 

Also: Finally, Bluetooth trackers for Android users that relation adjacent amended than AirTags (and they're connected sale)

The improved Precision Finding scope successful the AirTag 2, however, is lone compatible with the iPhone 15 oregon later, excluding the iPhone 16e. This is due to the fact that the upgraded diagnostic is optimized for iPhones with the newer U2 chip. 

2. Savings are your priority

While the AirTag 2 is technically the aforesaid terms arsenic its predecessor, the first-generation AirTag is presently connected merchantability for $70 for a four-pack and $25 for a azygous one. For comparison, the AirTag 2 retails for $29 each, oregon $99 for a four-pack. 

Writer's choice

It is this writer's sentiment that the iterative update to the AirTag doesn't warrant an contiguous upgrade for existing AirTag users. While Apple continues to signifier retired the older AirTag, it's inactive worthy buying the first-generation model, particularly if you're looking to capitalize connected savings.

The AirTag 2 is much future-proof, sure, but an upgraded talker and wider scope of Precision Finding connected its ain isn't yet worthy the other $30 for a four-pack, not until the archetypal procreation is afloat retired of banal and nary longer discounted.