Choosing the right vehicle tracking system is one of the most important decisions South African vehicle owners can make for their security and peace of mind. With car theft and hijacking statistics remaining concerning, a quality tracking device isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity. But with several major players in the market, how do you choose between Tracker, Netstar, and Cartrack?
Each company offers unique features, pricing structures, and service benefits. This comprehensive comparison breaks down everything you need to know about these three tracking giants to help you make an informed decision for 2025 and beyond.
Overview of Each Tracker Provider
Tracker SA
Tracker has been a household name in South African vehicle security for over 25 years. As one of the pioneers in the industry, they've developed strong relationships with South African insurance companies and police services. Their collaboration with the SAPS has led to the recovery of over 90,000 vehicles since inception.
Tracker offers a range of products from basic recovery devices to advanced telematics solutions. Their Retrieve, Protect, and Skytrax product lines cater to different needs and budgets, with monthly subscriptions starting from R99.
Netstar
Netstar, a subsidiary of Altron, has been operating since 1996 and has established itself as a technology leader in the tracking industry. They serve both individual consumers and large corporate fleets with sophisticated tracking solutions.
What sets Netstar apart is their focus on advanced technology, including AI-powered predictive analytics and integration with other smart devices. Their product range includes STARtag, Plus, Platinum, and Fleet Premium options with prices starting from R89 per month.
Cartrack
Cartrack has revolutionized the tracking industry with their innovative approach to fleet management and stolen vehicle recovery. Founded in 2004, they've grown rapidly by focusing on cutting-edge technology and customer-centric solutions.
Cartrack is particularly known for their advanced fleet management solutions and unique offerings like their in-vehicle camera systems. Their product lineup includes Quick, Quick Plus, Quick Exec, and Exec Plus packages starting from R99 per month.
Features Comparison Table
| Feature | Tracker | Netstar | Cartrack |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stolen vehicle recovery | |||
| Real-time tracking | Premium plans only | ||
| Mobile app | Premium plans only | ||
| 24/7 control room | |||
| Driver behaviour monitoring | Premium plans only | ||
| Geo-fencing | Premium plans only | ||
| Jamming detection | |||
| Crash detection | Premium plans only | Premium plans only | |
| Vehicle health reports | Premium plans only | ||
| Fuel monitoring | Premium plans only | ||
| Insurance integration | Limited |
Pricing Breakdown (Monthly & Once-Off)
Tracker Pricing
- Retrieve+: R99/month (basic recovery)
- Protect: R179/month (added tracking features)
- Skytrax: R289/month (premium features)
- Installation: R500-R1500 once-off (depending on vehicle)
Netstar Pricing
- STARtag: R89/month (basic recovery)
- Plus: R149/month (added tracking features)
- Platinum: R249/month (premium features)
- Fleet Premium: R299/month (business solutions)
- Installation: R600-R1800 once-off (depending on vehicle)
Cartrack Pricing
- Quick: R99/month (basic recovery)
- Quick Plus: R149/month (added tracking features)
- Quick Exec: R199/month (premium features)
- Exec Plus: R299/month (business solutions)
- Installation: R500-R1600 once-off (depending on vehicle)
Note: Prices are subject to change and may vary based on special offers, vehicle type, and installation complexity.
Pros & Cons of Each
Tracker
Pros
- Longest established company with proven track record
- Strong relationships with SAPS and insurance companies
- Nationwide recovery network
- Lifetime warranty on devices
- Excellent basic recovery service at competitive price
Cons
- Advanced features only available on premium plans
- Mobile app functionality lags behind competitors
- Less focus on fleet management solutions
- Fewer technological innovations recently
Netstar
Pros
- Advanced technology with AI-powered analytics
- Excellent mobile app and user interface
- Strong focus on both consumer and business solutions
- Good value across pricing tiers
- Regular feature updates and improvements
Cons
- Less brand recognition than Tracker
- Premium features can become expensive
- Some users report occasional app connectivity issues
- Installation partners vary in quality
Cartrack
Pros
- Most advanced fleet management features
- Innovative offerings like in-vehicle cameras
- Excellent real-time tracking capabilities
- Comprehensive driver behavior monitoring
- Strong focus on technology and innovation
Cons
- Higher price point for premium features
- Less integration with insurance companies
- Younger company with shorter track record
- Recovery network not as extensive as Tracker's
Which Tracker Is Best for You?
The best tracking solution depends entirely on your specific needs, budget, and vehicle type:
Choose Tracker if: Your primary concern is basic stolen vehicle recovery at an affordable price, you value the company's long track record and police integration, and you don't need advanced telematics features.
Choose Netstar if: You want a balance between recovery capabilities and modern features like real-time tracking and driver behavior monitoring, you appreciate technological innovation, and you need good value across different price points.
Choose Cartrack if: You need advanced fleet management features, driver behavior monitoring is a priority, you value cutting-edge technology, and you're willing to pay a premium for the most comprehensive feature set.
For most individual vehicle owners in South Africa, Netstar offers the best balance of recovery capabilities, modern features, and pricing. Business owners and fleet managers will likely find Cartrack's advanced features more valuable, while budget-conscious consumers who primarily want basic recovery protection may prefer Tracker's entry-level options.
FAQs
Tracker boasts the highest official recovery rate, largely due to their long-standing relationship with SAPS and extensive recovery network. However, all three companies have strong recovery capabilities, and the difference in recovery rates is minimal for most urban areas.
Yes, all three companies offer device transfer services, though fees apply. Typically, you'll pay a service fee (R300-R800) for technicians to remove the device from your current vehicle and install it in the new one, provided the device is compatible with the new vehicle.
Most companies offer both contract and month-to-month options. Contract plans (usually 24-36 months) typically have lower monthly fees but lock you in for the contract period. Month-to-month plans offer flexibility but may have slightly higher monthly costs.
Most tracking devices use GSM technology that requires local SIM cards, so they typically don't work outside South Africa. Some premium plans offer limited cross-border tracking in neighboring countries, but functionality may be limited. Check with the provider if this is important to you.
All quality tracking devices have backup batteries that activate when the main vehicle battery is disconnected or tampered with. These backup batteries typically provide 24-48 hours of operation and immediately send an alert to the control room when activated.