According to the source review from PCMag, the Fi Mini builds on the technology of the Fi Series 3+ but in a smaller, lighter package designed for smaller cats and dogs. The review highlights its long battery life, generally swift escape notifications, and polished mobile app, positioning it as a top choice for pet owners seeking a discreet yet feature-rich GPS tracker.
- Lightweight design suitable for small and medium pets
- Battery lasts over four weeks with moderate use
- Includes cellular subscription for continuous tracking
Product angle
The Fi Mini has been evaluated by PCMag and is praised for adapting the core GPS and data tracking technology of the Fi Series 3+ into a smaller, lighter unit more suited for smaller animals. It weighs just over half an ounce and clips onto collars easily without irritating the pet. The app offers detailed activity and sleep data alongside reliable location alerts, providing owners peace of mind. Although escape notifications are sometimes briefly delayed, in Lost Mode, location updates are fast and dependable.
Durability is another key feature, with the Mini rated IP68 for water and dust resistance, making it more resilient under various conditions compared to previous Fi models. The battery life also extends significantly, lasting up to six weeks depending on usage patterns and connectivity. The well-polished app interface and thoughtful device design earned the device an Editors’ Choice distinction among GPS trackers for small pets.
Best for / avoid if
The Fi Mini is best suited for owners of small to medium-sized cats and dogs who want a lightweight, discreet tracking device that won’t bother their pets. Its minimal size and weight make it comfortable for pets even as small as those typically suited for cat collars. The device suits active owners who value battery longevity and reliable location tracking without adding bulk to their pet’s collar.
Potential buyers who need extremely rugged devices for large, strong dogs or those seeking a tracker with an included collar locking system might prefer other Fi models like the Series 3+. Owners in areas with poor cellular coverage or those looking to avoid ongoing subscription fees may also find the Fi Mini less suitable due to its dependence on cellular service for full tracking functionality.
Pricing and alternatives to check
The Fi Mini retails around $189, including a 12-month Verizon cellular subscription priced at an effective $15.75 per month. A six-month subscription option is also available for $99. Adding a $39 Fi Base can extend battery life up to three months, although the Mini itself cannot recharge via the Base device. Overall, the pricing positions the Mini as a mid-range pet tracker with ongoing subscription costs.
Alternatives recommended by the review for prospective buyers include the Fi Series 3+ for larger dogs or those requiring more rugged hardware, and more budget-friendly options such as the Tractive Dog 6 with a starting price near $55. Other contenders are the PetPace 3.0 and Halo Collar 4, each offering different feature sets or price points. Buyers should also consider general-purpose tracking tags like Apple AirTag or Samsung Galaxy SmartTag if pet-specific tracking features are less critical.