In April 2021, Apple unveiled the AirTag. Though tiny and inconspicuous, the AirTag is a powerful and adept tracking device that keeps an eye on your most essential and valuable items. Starting at £35, the AirTag boasts a proprietary chip for GPS-free tracking and a Precision Mode for pinpoint accuracy in locating misplaced items. But you'll need a case to keep that precious tracker safe.
Below, we explore what an Apple AirTag is and how the technology works. We've also rounded up a selection of the best AirTag cases and holders, each of which allows you to connect up an AirTag to a range of personal belongings, from car keys and wallets to backpacks and even pets.
What is an Apple AirTag?
An Apple AirTag is a tracking device that can communicate its location with the Apple Find My app. In doing so, an AirTag can help a user keep track of their items, and locate them when they are lost or stolen.
As a standalone device weighing only 11g and with a diameter of only 32mm, the AirTag can slip into a wallet or bag with ease. For more versatility, there is a range of official and third-party cases and holders available. These can anchor the AirTag to key rings, bags or even pets.
The Apple AirTag is rated IP67, meaning that it’s sealed against dust ingress and is waterproof to a maximum depth of 1 meter for up to 30 minutes.
Related: The best Apple iPhones | The best Apple Watch cases
How does an Apple AirTag work?
An Apple AirTag doesn't use GPS to track its location. Instead, it uses Apple’s U1 chip, a proprietary ultra-wideband technology that creates a network based on peer-to-peer communication between all Apple devices.
Apple has also included NFC Precision Finding in the AirTag. As the name suggests, this allows for precise tracking of the AirTag as the user nears its location. This allows for instructions to pop up on-screen, such as "10ft to your left". Note that Precision Mode is only available on iPhone models after the 11.
The AirTag also has a built-in speaker, and this can be activated to help locate an item. A CR2032 battery powers the AirTag, and Apple claims that one cell will keep the tracker running for approximately one year. Replacement batteries are both readily available and affordable.
Apple AirTag Sets
Rrp: $193.23
Related: The best iPads for every budget | The best mini tablets
The best Apple AirTag holders and cases:
All prices are correct at the time of writing. Prices, stock and deals are subject to change without notice.
Note: These listings are for the holders and cases only. The Apple AirTag is sold separately.
Best texture
This AirTag case is a third-party option from Caseology, a brand known for its protective smartphone cases. The Vault Case is constructed from plastic to provide a robust and hardy home for the tracker and has a hole for the provided carabineer, which is a versatile connection method. Switching the carabineer for a keyring may provide a more permanent and secure attachment.
Pros
- Tough but textured for easy handling
- Snug fit to keep your tag safe
Cons
- Included carabiner has a weak spring
Best for a wallet
NomadThe Card for AirTag case is a discreet and secure method of keeping tabs on your cards, ID and cash. The case matches the dimensions of a credit card and slips into the slots in a wallet or purse. It's straightforward, and it works.
Pros
- Slim enough to fit in most wallets and purses
- Still shows front if you opted to get it engraved
Cons
- Quite thick, at over 10 cards thick
Best from Apple
AppleIf you're fond of the Apple craftsmanship and want to remain loyal, then they offer their own cases. The Apple AirTag FineWoven Key Ring allows you to keep the signature apple craftsmanship going, down to the keyring. The loop is made from durable micro-twill, and the AirTag sits snugly inside the pouch. However, the price is quite steep for what it is, so you're paying a premium for the name we're afraid.
Pros
- Durable micro-twill has a suede-feel finish
- Signature Apple quality
Cons
- Paying a premium
Best leather
Serving as a high-quality alternative to the official Apple cases, the Nomad Leather AirTag Keychain also provides a less conspicuous carry method for an AirTag, given that the AirTag is out of sight. The case attaches to keys and belongings via a black stainless steel key ring. If you wanted a smaller option, they also have a leather loop if you're not so worried about some of the AirTag being on show. Available in Rustic Brown and Black.
Pros
- High-quality leather materials
- Fully encloses the AirTag for maximum security
Cons
- Hides any engravings you may have gotten
Best budget strap
Belkin is bucking the trend slightly by releasing an AirTag case that connects to anchor points via a secure string-like strap. This lends much more flexibility and versatility to the case. The AirTag case itself is made from hard plastic with raised edges, keeping the tracker out of harm's way. Available in Black and White.
Pros
- Strap offers more versatility in where you mount it
- A wide range of colours to choose from
Cons
- AirTag is still susceptible to damage from the sides
Best budget keyring
This option is from the same range as the Belkin AirTag Case with Strap, with a keyring that replaces the secure strap. This allows users to take advantage of the small and discreet size for tracking keys and for the tracker to attach to a pet collar. Available in Black, Pink, Blue and White.
Pros
- Cheap but still rugged option
- A wide variety of colours
Cons
- Exposed sides leave the AirTag open for scratching
Best for pets
Elevation LabFor those who want to keep track of their furry friends, the TagVault is the most secure way to do so on this list. Requiring screwing into place, you can be sure this will be going nowhere despite your dog's shakes after a dip in a puddle. Though your AirTag is tough, it's not waterproof, without this case that is. This means your pooch will be safe to swim in the sea thanks to the IP68 waterproof rating. Never lose track of your pooch again with the TagVault.
Pros
- Most durable option on this list, only one with waterproof protection
- Doesn't dangle so won't get caught in dog leads
Cons
- On the pricier side
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William Lobley is the Editor for What's The Best. Here, he oversees, curates and researches listicles and reviews as many products as his home office can handle.
He has spent nearly five years writing about tech, audio, outdoors and fitness and has reviewed everything from smartphones to ice baths. In addition, he's well-versed in sniffing out the best deals and savings the internet offers.
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