If you have ever misplaced your keys and spend a lot of time trying to find them, you will understand how frustrating it can be. According to a report, over 20 million house/car keys are lost every year in the US. Some people lose their keys so often and spend a ridiculous amount of time looking for them. This can become a severe drain on an individual’s overall productivity and in fact, statistics have shown that average Americans spend about 6 minutes every morning looking for their keys.
Thankfully, there is a solution to this problem – key finders. Key finders are small tracking devices that allow you to locate your keys effortlessly and quickly. This also includes anything they are paired with, from mobile phones and wallets to pets and luggage.
- Features to Consider in Good Key Finders
- Top 10 Best Key Finders 2024
- 1. Tile Mate Key Finder
- 2. Click ‘n Dig Model D2 Key Finder
- 3. KeyRinger XL Key Finder
- 4. Esky Wireless Key Finder
- 5. Tile Pro Key Finder
- 6. Rinex Bluetooth Key Finder
- 7. JTD Wireless RF Key Finder
- 8. Cube Tracker Key Finder
- 9. Chipolo Classic Bluetooth Key Finder
- 10. TrackR Pixel Bluetooth Tracking Key Finder
- Guide to Buying the Best Key Finders
- The Verdict
Features to Consider in Good Key Finders
What is a Key Finder?
A key finder is often referred to as an electronic finder or a key locator and is typically a relatively discreet and small piece of electronic technology that can help to quickly locate and lost items to which it has been attached/associated. Key finders help to minimize the stress caused by misplacing an item while also speeding up the process of locating them. Many key finders will emit a flashing LED light or a beeping alert to help you better find your lost items when you are in a close enough range.
How Does a Key Finder Work?
Most of the modern generation of key finders work based on Bluetooth or wireless technology, so you no longer need to have a base station. They work just like a phone locator and in fact, most have a two-way functionality. They are mostly battery operated and designed specifically to have a long-lasting battery life of up to a year. Most can be paired with a wide variety of valuable and not key alone, so if you misplace your wallet or purse frequently you might consider pairing this device to those items instead. Basically, if you want to retrieve your lost items quickly, then you would benefit immensely from one of the new range of inexpensive key finders on the market. They help to reduce anxiety and stress and they ultimately help to save your time when searching for your lost items.
Do I Need a Key Finder?
Losing your keys can give you the worst feelings and it can also be very expensive. If you happen to pair your house keys on the same ring as your vehicle keys, you might end up with quite a large bill for new locks. The traditional approach of finding your keys can be very time consuming and rarely effective. Moving from one room to another and turning everything upside down. You could even retrace your steps and try to squeeze under the car to see if you dropped them. The more stressed you get while looking for the keys, the more likely you are to walk past them.
Key finders not only help to remove the additional costs but also reduce the stress and the amount of time you spend finding these items under your couch. It will lead you directly to your keys as long as you are in range, all you have to do is follow the map or the sound. You can even enlist the app’s community help when you are outside the key finder’s range. A key finder is not just great for keys, it can also be useful in finding other small items such as a phone or wallet.
Top 10 Best Key Finders 2024
1. Tile Mate Key Finder
Editor’s Rating:
Features
When it comes to key finders, the Tile Mate Key Finder is clearly on a class of its own. It comes with a nice large hole that allows you to attach different kinds of items. This unit emits a pleasant and clearly audible sound once you tap the button in the app to find it. If you have misplaced it, you can also double-tap on this device button to ring your phone. It can remember its last known location when it is out of range which makes finding it easier. Additionally, it can tap into other Tile Mate devices across the world to help find your missing items without compromising your anonymity.
Design
The Tile Mate has an intuitive and simple design that helps it blend easily into the background. The compact size of this device does not hurt in this respect either. It offers users two options to attach it to your valuables either through the built-in hole or the three adhesive tapes. These options make it easy to attach to any item of your choice.
Usability
The Tile Mate Key Finder is quite easy to set up, all you have to do is to search for it in your smartphone’s Bluetooth connectivity app and simply tap on connect. Once you are set up, you can use the app to perform a wide range of functions. The one button on the device itself is also simple to use.
Performance
Like most key finders on the market, it can’t locate any item that is out of range and it is not a GPS-enabled device. However, the Tile Mate Key Finder will work for anyone so far they have a smartphone with Bluetooth tracking capabilities. This model has a louder ring and a longer range than the previous Tile Mate model. It is the ideal device for finding your phone when it is on silent. It is also great for finding your baggage at the airport.
Pros
- Compact and discreet design
- Loud alert emitting up to 88 decibels
- The app is streamlined and easy to use
- Longer range of about 100 feet
Cons
- You need to pay a fee to be part of the Tile Community Find
2. Click ‘n Dig Model D2 Key Finder
Editor’s Rating:
Design
The Click ‘n Dig Model D2 has a sturdy and bell-shaped design. It comes with two key ring attachments, two key receivers, one transmitter, and extra batteries. There are no screws on this unit which makes accessing the battery easier.
Usability
The finder and receivers of the Click ‘n Dig Model D2 are well made and there is no need for the internet, Wi-Fi, or a smartphone. Simply press the button to find the misplaced item. This makes it the perfect key finder for the elderly who may not have r a smartphone but can listen for a beeping sound and push a button. The Click ‘n Dig Model D2 is really simple to set up, and the receiving sounds loud enough to track your keys. When the battery gets low, it will periodically beep to alert you.
Performance
The newer model features an antenna for better reception at louder beep of about 90dB. The transmitter’s radio frequency can penetrate through cushions, walls, and more. This key finder has a 60-feet range which makes it easy to track your items across the walls and those hidden under the pillows.
Pros
- Attractive and sturdy bell shape
- Louder beep of up to 90 decibels
- No screws for easy access to the batteries
- 12-month warranty
Cons
- It can add some bulk to your keys if you have a car clicker plus a finder on your keyring
3. KeyRinger XL Key Finder
Editor’s Rating:
Design
The KeyRinger XL Key Finder comes with 2 receivers which you can attach to any of your everyday items. It also comes in hard plastic cases which make them very durable. The included lithium battery has an extended life.
Usability
The KeyRinger XL Key Finder is a reliable and simple to use device. No programming or setup is required, making it great for the elderly. Once you press the button, it emits a very loud beep which is enough to alert you.
Performance
The XL in the KeyRinger XL Key Finder stands for “extra loud”. It operates at about 300 feet and the battery can last for up to 18 months. The included two Key Ringers can call each other. The sound it emits is soft, but it increases gradually to a near ear-splitting level. It is sensitive and loud enough to operate through heavy cushions. If it is within 300 feet, there is a flashing LED that will alert you. Additionally, the KeyRinger XL Key Finder is very durable and has more range than a Bluetooth key finder model.
Pros
- No setup required
- Work over a 300 feet range
- Pair of interacting key finders
- Include flashing light and loud beeping noise
- Extremely durable
Cons
- It is rather big and clunky
- It may be too loud and can be a challenge to turn the volume down
4. Esky Wireless Key Finder
Editor’s Rating:
Design
The Esky Wireless Key Finder can conveniently work through a Bluetooth charger, so you don’t have to worry about replacing any batteries. Once the battery gets low, this device will send you an alert via the flashing LED light. The LED light also makes the process of finding your missing items easy under low-light condition or during the nighttime. It comes with a remote stand where you can place your transmitter when you are not using it.
Performance
The Esky Wireless Key Finder comes with a four-button transmitter and six color-coded receivers. The receivers create light and sound that will help you find your item easily, so you don’t have to worry about its battery or use your phone to locate your missing items. It has a range of about 100 feet and its radio frequency can penetrate through solid obstacles such as soft furnishings, doors, and walls. The detection range makes it suitable for both bigger commercial buildings and smaller residential apartments. This makes this multiple-item Key Finder perfect for recovering your lost keys, phones, remotes, and other personal items. It could also help you track your pets hiding in the garden or house.
Pros
- Designed for multiple items
- Replaceable batteries
- Six small slim receivers
- Loud alert and 100 feet range
- One charge can last up to 3 months
Cons
- You have to remember the color on your lost items
- The receivers are a bit large
5. Tile Pro Key Finder
Editor’s Rating:
Design
The Tile Pro Key Finder is durable and fairly well made especially when compared to other models. It is waterproof so you won’t need to worry about losing track of your most prized possessions in wet conditions. Thanks to the compact design of this unit, you can attach, put, or stick it in and on almost anything, be it a wallet, phone, camera, tablet, luggage, or even your kid’s toy.
Performance
This key finder has been designed to help you find item far away with a range of about 200 feet. You can also connect this unit to your Google Assistant or Alexa, so you can use a voice command to find your misplaced keys. If your lost item is within a 100 feet range, then your smartphone will play a loud beep until you have found it. If your phone is missing, you can double press on your Tile Pro and it will play a loud tune if the phone is on silent. You can always see when and where you last had the item you are missing if you keep the Tile app running in the background. You don’t have to worry if you are out of range, by being a part of the Tile Community there will always be someone in range to alert you. Its 88 decibels melody is louder than most key finders around, making tracking your missing keys and other items easier.
Pros
- Durable construction
- Waterproof design
- Community find feature
- 200 feet range
Cons
- Non-replaceable battery, so you have to replace the device every year
6. Rinex Bluetooth Key Finder
Editor’s Rating:
Design
The Rinex Bluetooth Key Finder features a phone finder and a shutter button function that lets you use this key finder to take photos remotely using your phone’s camera. The replaceable battery is another selling point of this device and it also comes with a spare battery. The Rinex Bluetooth Key Finder is available in three different color options: White, Orange, and green. This unit will never get in your way since it is less than an inch long and super slim. It is so thin, you can easily slip it into your luggage or wallet as it will not take up valuable space.
Performance
One of the most useful functions of the Rinex Bluetooth Key Finder is its proximity alarm that allows you to receive a notification when your tagged items move out of range or get left behind. This helps you to save an incredible amount of time.
Pros
- Up to 150 feet range
- Proximity and phone finder alarm
- Phone finder feature and shutter button for the camera
Cons
- Short battery life
- Needs reconnecting when the phone restarts
7. JTD Wireless RF Key Finder
Editor’s Rating:
Design
The JTD Wireless RF Key Finder will make a good addition to any apartment or house if you don’t want to waste your time looking for your missing keys and other personal items. The kit comes with four brightly painted receivers and a transmitter with four buttons that are colored according to the receiver’s color. A neat addition to this unit is the LED button on the transmitter remote control that turns the flashlight on. The kit also includes four coin-sized batteries for the remote trackers, so you won’t have to purchase them separately. The JTD Wireless RF Key Finder also includes a stable frequency technique and a long standby time.
Performance
What is interesting about the JTD Wireless RF Key Finder is that it has an operational range that can reach up to 150 feet. This makes it one of the most versatile analog key finders on the market. The remote control is portable so you can carry it with you around the house, in the event the receiver is out of range. With just a push of a button, the start to beep loudly and alert you with a flashlight, making finding your missing items in pitch-black darkness easier. The wireless radio frequency of this unit can penetrate through soft furnishings, walls, and doors. Another great thing about this unit is that each receiver has the unique sound that makes it easy to differentiate even if you press all of them at once.
Pros
- Outstanding detection range of up to 150 feet
- Comprises one radio transmitter and 4 receivers
- Works through soft furnishings, walls, and doors
Cons
- The brightness of the LED flashlight is rather low
8. Cube Tracker Key Finder
Editor’s Rating:
Design
The Cube Tracker Key Finder has an innovative and cool design with effective and simple functionality. It is waterproof unlike most budget key finders around. It is also an excellent choice for taking group photos and selfie, all you have to do is use the button in the key finder as a shutter button for your smartphone’s camera. Just like other key finders, the Cube Tracker can make your phone ring even if it is on silent. This Bluetooth key finder uses a replaceable battery, so you won’t need to buy a new device each time the battery runs out. The battery can last up to one year before it will be completely depleted.
Performance
The range of the Cube Tracker Key Finder is fairly standard at 100 feet, but the main selling point of this device is its separation alarm. Your smartphone will notify you of you walk away from your Cube Tracker. This key finder’s app will show you the last known location of your missing keys on a map. The Bluetooth technology allows you to know how far away you are from your missing items. The Cube Tracker Key Finder makes it convenient to locate the most important valuables in your life.
Pros
- It can conveniently attach to anything
- The cube can also serve as a shutter button for your phone camera
- The battery can last up to a year and comes with a replaceable battery
Cons
- The Cube’s app is somewhat substandard and limited
9. Chipolo Classic Bluetooth Key Finder
Editor’s Rating:
Design
The Chipolo Classic Bluetooth Key Finder has a compact design and is only 5mm thick, making it the ideal size. It is compatible with both IOS and Android and has a range of about 200 feet. This key finder comes in a range of colors to suit your preference. Its uniform color makes it a slick-looking device. It features a simple lanyard hole that allows you to attach it to your keys and other items you would like to track. It emits a loud enough sound that makes it easy to find as long as you are in range.
Usability
The Chipolo Classic Bluetooth Key Finder is easy to use with any smartphone. Once you have paired it through Bluetooth, you can call the device from within the app and it will start emitting a loud ringtone. This makes finding it easy. It can also be used to find your connected smartphone especially if it is on silent.
Performance
This key finder has an easy to replace batteries that can last up to 9 months. This device can help you locate any device within 20 feet range. Just like Tile Mate and TrackR Pixel, the Chipolo Classic Bluetooth Key Finder also has a community search feature, so other users can help you track your missing item.
Pros
- Bluetooth enabled
- The Chipolo app is compatible with most mobile devices
- 200 feet range
- Chipolo community search help to find out of range items
- Easy to install and use
Cons
- Some reviewers report the battery doesn’t last long
10. TrackR Pixel Bluetooth Tracking Key Finder
Editor’s Rating:
Features
The TrackR Pixel Bluetooth Tracking Key Finder features a compact design that makes it look like it belongs in a modern assisted world. This key finder comes in a pack of 8 and each is small enough to fit inside your wallet. The sticky side of this unit is another cool feature of the design and it allows you to attach other items, such as the remote control, so you no longer have to fight with your couch when looking for it.
Design
The TrackR Pixel Bluetooth Tracking Key Finder is a modern-looking device that is easy to attach to most items, thanks to the built-in lanyard hole. It is compact, so you can add a wide range of colored rings around the outside if you want to give it a bit more character. It also helps you to identify it if you will be using it with multiple devices.
Usability
Using this key finder is quite straightforward. Simply activate the tracker from within the app to find it. It will find it for you as long as you are in range. Each tracker can connect anonymously with other owners of these key finders and if your key is within any of these users’ range, it can help you pinpoint its location. There is also a handy feature on this device that allows you to find your items even when it is out of range.
Performance
The TrackR Pixel Bluetooth Tracking Key Finder has a 100 feet range and works on Bluetooth technology. The flashing LED light makes it easier to find your missing items. It allows you to change the battery which isn’t common with most Bluetooth key finders on the market.
Pros
- Easy to use app
- LED lights make detecting items easy
- Loud ringer allows you to hear when something goes wrong
- Replaceable battery
- Small and lightweight
Cons
- The battery is not long lasting
Guide to Buying the Best Key Finders
We have compiled a handy guide to help you choose the best key finder. Read on to find what features matter the most and some tips on how to use them.
Build
Before diving into the technical details, it is important to emphasize the importance of the key finder’s physical structure and design. When shopping for the best key finders, pay attention to the following:
Weight and Small Size – Most people use key finders to replace their key chains, so they want something that is lightweight and compact. Older models of key finders were a bit bulky, and this was quite problematic for a lot of users because it was uncomfortable in their pocket. However, newer models are more compact and discreet, some of them are even as small as a standard key chain. If the device is too large, it may be difficult to carry it around. However, smaller sizes sometimes mean lower active range and shorter battery life.
- Sturdy Materials and Design – It should be built to last and withstand lots of punishment.
- Waterproof – It is always smart to avoid buying a key finder that can be destroyed if it gets wet.
- Ease of Dismantling – The device should be easy to disassemble in order to replace a battery or repair it.
Surprisingly, some key finders on the market are inconvenient in this respect.
Technology
Three basic technologies are typically used in key finders:
Radio Frequency
These types don’t need a phone app to work and usually come with a base unit. They use a radio signal to connect the transmitter with the receiver. The receiver is typically placed on the keyring and the transmitter has a button. So once you push it, the receiver emits a sound to help you locate missing keys. Some models also feature LED lights that flash to make the missing items as obvious as possible. They are mostly affected by external factors and easy to use, although the active range may be limited.
Bluetooth
This type of technology requires an integrated app to work and typically have several additional functions. They use a Bluetooth signal to connect the key finder’s receiver to an app on your mobile phone. For instance, they can tell you the key finders last known position even when it is no more in range. They work as a GPS device and boast a significant active range, however, their effectiveness depends largely on the Bluetooth signal strength. The advantage of this is that you will be able to see your missing items in real-time on a map on the app. The receiver will also make a loud beep to help you find them once you have narrowed their position down.
Audible
These uses neither Bluetooth nor radio signal but instead relies on sounds. Both units work simultaneously as receivers and transmitters. The key finder emits a unique sound once it is activated and when the other unit “hears” it, it emits an answering sound. The drawback with this type of technology is that if the key is out of range there is no way to find it.
Active Range
Cheaper and older models of key finders have a range of about 50 to 70 feet, while newer versions can go as high as 150 feet or even more. The type of key finder depends mostly on the type of space you live in. If your space if not large enough, it is smart to go for a shorter range model. Once you are outside the range, the best ones can alert your mobile phone to let you know you have moved out of range.
Battery Life
Before opting for any key finder, check to see if it is easy to dissemble the device to replace the battery. You can alternatively look for rechargeable ones. Typically, those models with replaceable batteries work for a longer period before you will have to replace them. However, you will have to think about stocking up on the batteries ahead of time. While rechargeable versions have to be recharged often and regularly. So it is important to go for the models that best suits you and your lifestyle.
Indicator Lights
Flashing indicator lights makes finding your missing items a lot easier. So make sure you lookout for this feature when shopping for the best key finder. Also, if you decide to choose a key finder model that comes with an indicator light ensure the LED lights are durable, bright, and long-lasting.
Volume
Apart from indicator lights, there is another way a key finder can alert you – it can emit a loud sound that lets you track it down faster. The volume of key finders differs dramatically. Some models are very loud and annoying while other emit low and easily muffled sounds that are essentially useless unless one stands next to it. Ensure you test the device before buying, so you can evaluate how well you can hear it from a distance.
App Functionality
Some key finders are designed to work in conjunction with your mobile phones through a custom app. The levels of app integration differ from one device to the other, so ensure the key finder’s app is compatible with your mobile phone and its OS version. Go for those with multi-platform apps because you will never know when and if you will replace your mobile phone. They should also have additional features that are beyond simple key finding. For instance, some apps have a two-way functionality which means they can be used to trigger an alarm on your mobile phone. This makes it easy to find them in case you misplace them.
Geofencing
One other important feature you should look for when shopping for the best key finder is geofencing capability. Thus functions to alert you through your smartphone or other linked mobile device that you are leaving your key finder’s active range. If you are the type that goes out without realizing you have left your keys behind, it can serve as a great preventative measure.
Tips When Using a Key Finder
The most important tip is to be fully aware of your key finder’s range. Ensure you know how far away you can be from your items and still get alerts whether you have to be connected permanently and the device app open. You should also keep in mind that the key finder’s quoted distance for locating your items may be affected and impacted by objects like doors and walls which may interfere with signals and make detecting items more challenging.
It is also smart to check the alarm sound function of the key finder and see what the top rate of decibels that your device will emit. The ideal decibel should be around 85 dB. If the key finder comes with an LED flashing light, it will help you in finding your items faster. Finally, it is important to check the battery life of the key finder. Most key finders on the market are good for up to 12 months but it is a good idea to replace them periodically.
The Verdict
There is no such thing as the perfect key finder, so what you should go to depends on your needs. Pay attention to the features we have highlighted and decide which ones will work for you. This will allow you to choose the best variant with no fuss. Key finders are a very useful device that will save you effort and time for a relatively small amount of money. They are also quite easy to use and make an excellent choice for anyone who loses their keys, wallet, as well as other small items frequently.
