Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 2 Review: Is It Worth Money?

Have you ever spent 20 minutes frantically searching for your car keys while already late for work? Or watched your luggage disappear at the airport with no way to track it? The Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 2 promises to end these everyday frustrations.

This small device attaches to your valuables and helps you locate them using your Samsung phone. But does it really work as advertised? After testing this tracker for weeks, I can share what it does well and where it falls short. This review covers everything from setup to battery life, helping you decide if this $30 tracker deserves a spot on your keychain.

Key Takeaways

Before diving into the details, here are the most important things you should know about the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 2:

• Battery life is excellent with up to 500 days in normal mode and 700 days in power saving mode, far better than most competitors
• UWB technology provides precise tracking with Compass View showing exact direction and distance when you’re near your lost item
• Works exclusively with Samsung Galaxy devices running Android 11 or later, so iPhone users cannot use this tracker
• IP67 water resistance means the tracker survives rain, accidental drops in puddles, and dusty environments without damage
• No monthly subscription fees required unlike some competing trackers, making it more affordable over time
• SmartThings Find network leverages millions of Samsung devices to help locate your items even when they’re far from your phone

Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 2

The Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 2 represents a significant upgrade over its predecessor. This second generation tracker launched in October 2023 with a fresh design and improved features. Samsung addressed many complaints from the original SmartTag, creating a device that competes directly with Apple’s AirTag.

The tracker measures just 28.8mm x 52.44mm x 8.0mm and weighs only 13.75 grams. You’ll barely notice it attached to your keys or bag. The compact size makes it versatile for tracking various items without adding bulk. The device comes in black and white color options to match your style preferences.

One standout feature is the large keyring hole that accepts chunky keychains easily. The original SmartTag had a smaller hole that frustrated many users. Samsung listened to feedback and made this practical improvement. You can now attach the tracker to backpacks, pet collars, luggage tags, and keyrings without needing extra accessories.

The plastic construction feels durable despite the lightweight design. Samsung added an IP67 rating which means the SmartTag 2 withstands dust and water immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. You don’t need to worry about rain, spills, or dusty environments damaging your tracker. This protection level exceeds what many competitors offer at this price point.

How the SmartTag 2 Works

Understanding how this tracker operates helps you use it effectively. The SmartTag 2 connects to your Samsung Galaxy phone through Bluetooth Low Energy 5.3 technology. This connection works up to 120 meters in open spaces without obstacles. Walls, furniture, and other barriers reduce this range, but 120 meters provides solid coverage for most homes and yards.

When your tagged item goes beyond Bluetooth range, SmartThings Find network takes over. This network consists of millions of Samsung Galaxy devices worldwide. If another Samsung user passes near your lost item, their phone anonymously detects your SmartTag 2 and updates its location in your SmartThings app. You receive this update without the other person knowing they helped you.

The system works similarly to Apple’s Find My network but with fewer participating devices. Samsung sold over 270 million smartphones globally in 2023, creating a substantial network. However, Apple’s network remains larger. In urban areas with many Samsung users, you’ll get reliable tracking. Rural areas with fewer Samsung devices may provide less frequent location updates.

Ultra Wideband Technology Explained

The SmartTag 2 includes Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology, a major upgrade from the original model. UWB provides much more accurate location tracking than standard Bluetooth. When you’re searching for your lost item, UWB helps you pinpoint its exact location within centimeters.

This technology only works with Samsung Galaxy phones that have UWB chips. Compatible devices include the Galaxy S21 series and newer flagship models like the S23 and S24 series. Mid range and budget Samsung phones typically lack UWB chips and cannot use the Compass View feature.

Compass View displays arrows showing direction and distance to your SmartTag 2. As you walk around searching, the arrows update in real time, guiding you directly to your item. The screen shows “2.5 meters” or “0.8 meters” as you get closer. This feature transforms frustrating searches into quick recoveries, especially useful when items hide under couch cushions or in cluttered spaces.

Without UWB compatible phones, you still get standard Bluetooth tracking. The app shows signal strength bars that increase as you approach the tracker. You can also trigger the SmartTag 2’s built in speaker to make it ring. The sound reaches 110 decibels, loud enough to hear from another room or inside a bag.

Setting Up Your SmartTag 2

Getting started takes just a few minutes. First, ensure your Samsung Galaxy phone runs Android 11 or later and has the SmartThings app installed. Most recent Samsung phones come with this app pre installed. Open SmartThings, tap the plus icon, and select “Add device.”

Pull the plastic tab from your new SmartTag 2 to activate the battery. The tracker plays a sound and appears in the SmartThings app automatically. Give your tracker a name like “Car Keys” or “Backpack” so you can identify it easily when you own multiple tags. You can also assign an icon from the available options.

The app lets you customize the tracker’s sound volume across three levels. Maximum volume helps you find items in noisy environments, while lower settings work better for quiet offices. You can test each volume level during setup to find your preference.

Samsung allows you to program the SmartTag 2’s button for custom actions. A single press can trigger your phone to ring, even when it’s on silent mode. This reverse finding feature helps when you misplace your phone but know where your keys are. Long pressing the button can activate SmartThings scenes or routines, like turning on smart lights when you arrive home.

Battery Life Performance

Battery performance impresses users consistently. Samsung promises up to 500 days of normal use on a single CR2032 coin cell battery. This standard battery costs just a few dollars and is available at most convenience stores and supermarkets. You don’t need to send the device back to Samsung or buy proprietary batteries.

The tracker includes a power saving mode that extends battery life to 700 days or nearly two years. This mode reduces how frequently the SmartTag 2 updates its location and adjusts other settings to conserve power. For items you don’t move often, like spare car keys or a bike lock, power saving mode makes excellent sense.

Real world battery life depends on usage patterns. Frequently triggering the ring function drains the battery faster than passive tracking. Walking in and out of Bluetooth range multiple times daily also impacts longevity. Most users report getting 12 to 18 months from a single battery under normal conditions.

The SmartThings app monitors battery levels and sends notifications when power runs low. This warning gives you time to purchase replacement batteries before the tracker stops working. Replacing the battery takes seconds. You simply twist the back cover counterclockwise, swap the old battery for a new one, and twist the cover back into place.

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Finding Lost Items with Search Nearby

The Search Nearby feature guides you to lost items step by step. Open the SmartThings app and select your SmartTag 2 from the list of devices. Tap “Search Nearby” to begin the guided search process. The screen displays signal strength bars that fill up as you move closer to the tracker.

For phones with UWB support, Compass View appears automatically during the search. A large arrow points toward your SmartTag 2, rotating as you change direction. The distance measurement updates every second, showing “5.2 meters” then “4.1 meters” as you walk. This visual guidance eliminates guesswork and speeds up your search significantly.

You can trigger the ring function at any time during the search. The SmartTag 2 emits a series of loud beeps that continue until you press the button on the tracker or stop the ring from your phone. The 110 decibel sound pierces through bags, coats, and couch cushions effectively. You might want to cover your ears when the tracker is in your hand.

The Search Nearby feature works indoors and outdoors equally well. Thick walls and metal structures can interfere with the signal, causing the arrow to point incorrectly. When this happens, walk to different locations in the room and watch how the arrow adjusts. Moving around helps triangulate the position more accurately.

Map View and Location History

The SmartThings app includes a map view showing your SmartTag 2’s last known location. This feature helps you remember where you left items or identify if someone moved your belongings. The map displays a blue dot marking the position where your phone last connected to the tracker via Bluetooth.

Location updates happen automatically when your phone comes within Bluetooth range of the SmartTag 2. If you walk past your gym bag in the closet, the app updates that location without you opening the app. When the item leaves your Bluetooth range, other Samsung devices in the SmartThings Find network can detect it and update the location.

The app maintains a location history showing where your tagged item traveled over time. You can review this history to track patterns or verify that your luggage arrived at your destination. The history typically stores several weeks of location data depending on how actively the tracker moves.

One limitation is that map updates require Samsung devices nearby. If your lost item sits in a remote location with no Samsung users passing by, the map shows the last known location which may be hours or days old. Urban environments provide much more frequent updates than rural areas.

Two Way Finding Feature

The two way finding capability sets the SmartTag 2 apart from basic trackers. Most people focus on using their phone to find tagged items. However, the SmartTag 2 also helps you locate your phone using the tracker’s button. This bidirectional functionality proves incredibly useful in daily life.

Press the button on your SmartTag 2 once to make your Samsung phone ring at maximum volume. This works even when your phone is on silent or vibrate mode. The phone plays a distinct ringtone and displays a notification until you dismiss it or let it time out after 30 seconds.

This feature saves time when you can’t remember where you set your phone down at home or in the office. Instead of using another device to call yourself or retracing your steps, simply press the tracker button attached to your keys or bag. Your phone immediately announces its location with sound.

You can customize what happens when you press the SmartTag 2 button through the SmartThings app. Options include triggering different sounds, activating smart home scenes, or running automation routines. Some users set up their tracker to turn on lights when they arrive home at night or to start their coffee maker in the morning.

IP67 Water and Dust Resistance

Weather protection matters for tracking devices that travel everywhere with you. The SmartTag 2 carries an IP67 rating, the same protection level found on many flagship smartphones. The “6” indicates complete dust protection, meaning no particles can enter the device even in dusty workshops or beaches.

The “7” means the tracker survives immersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. You can drop the SmartTag 2 in a puddle, leave it in the rain, or accidentally include it in a load of laundry without destroying it. The device dries out and continues working normally after these mishaps.

This protection level gives peace of mind when attaching trackers to outdoor gear, pet collars, or children’s backpacks. Your SmartTag 2 handles playground splashes, rainy commutes, and dusty hiking trails without special cases or covers. The sealed design prevents moisture and debris from damaging the internal electronics.

However, IP67 does not mean fully waterproof for all situations. Prolonged submersion beyond 30 minutes, very deep water, or high pressure water jets may damage the tracker. Swimming pools and beaches are fine for brief exposure, but don’t attach a SmartTag 2 to diving equipment or keep it underwater continuously.

The water resistance also applies to common liquids like coffee, soda, and juice. If you spill a drink on your bag containing a SmartTag 2, the tracker survives without problems. Rinse it with clean water if needed and let it dry completely before replacing the battery cover.

SmartThings App Integration

The SmartThings app serves as the control center for your SmartTag 2 and other Samsung connected devices. This single app manages smart home products, wearables, and trackers in one place. The unified approach simplifies your digital life compared to juggling multiple apps from different manufacturers.

The interface shows all your trackers at a glance. Each one displays its name, icon, battery level, and last updated location. Tap any tracker to access detailed controls including Search Nearby, map view, ring function, and settings. The clean design makes navigation intuitive even for users unfamiliar with tracking technology.

SmartThings includes automation features that work with your SmartTag 2. You can create routines that trigger when the tracker enters or leaves specific locations. For example, set your lights to turn on automatically when your keys (with attached tracker) come within range of your home. Or receive a notification if your child’s backpack leaves school grounds during class hours.

The app also manages offline finding through the SmartThings Find network. You can enable or disable network participation, view how many Samsung devices detected your lost tracker, and adjust privacy settings. Samsung anonymizes all location data, so other users cannot identify you or intentionally track your movements.

Multi device support allows you to track up to 10 SmartTag 2 devices per Samsung account. Families can track everyone’s keys, bags, and other items through one app. The app supports multiple users, so household members can each track shared items like car keys or the TV remote.

Sound Quality and Volume

The built in speaker produces a loud, distinctive sound that helps you locate hidden items. Samsung rates the volume at 110 decibels, comparable to a chainsaw or rock concert. This high volume ensures you’ll hear the tracker even in noisy environments or from several rooms away.

The sound consists of a series of beeps rather than a continuous tone. This pattern makes the tracker easier to locate because your ears can better determine direction with intermittent sounds. The beeps continue for 30 seconds by default or until you manually stop them from the app or press the tracker’s button.

You can adjust the volume through three preset levels in the SmartThings app. Maximum volume suits outdoor searches or noisy offices. Medium volume works well for quiet homes and libraries. Low volume helps you avoid startling people in silent spaces while still being audible up close.

Some users report the speaker sounds slightly muffled when the tracker sits inside thick bags or under heavy coats. The sound remains audible but may seem quieter than expected in these situations. Moving items around usually reveals the source quickly even with reduced volume.

The speaker quality exceeds many competing trackers that emit weak chirps difficult to hear. Samsung clearly prioritized making a loud, attention grabbing sound. This design choice proves valuable during stressful searches when you need to find something quickly.

Comparing SmartTag 2 to AirTag

Apple’s AirTag dominates the tracker market, making it the obvious comparison point. Both devices cost about $30 for a single unit and offer similar core functionality. However, several key differences affect which one suits your needs better.

The SmartTag 2 includes a keyring hole built into the design, while AirTag requires purchasing a separate holder or case. This difference saves you $10 to $30 on accessories and reduces bulk. The SmartTag 2’s integrated hole makes it more practical for everyday use right out of the box.

Battery life strongly favors Samsung’s tracker. The SmartTag 2 lasts up to 500 days compared to AirTag’s one year battery life. More importantly, the SmartTag 2 uses a replaceable CR2032 battery you can change yourself. AirTag also uses CR2032 batteries, but Samsung’s longer life means fewer replacements.

Apple’s Find My network significantly exceeds Samsung’s SmartThings Find network in size. Apple has over 1 billion active devices participating in lost item detection globally. Samsung’s network contains several hundred million devices. This difference matters most in less populated areas where fewer Samsung users live.

UWB tracking works similarly on both devices for close range finding. Both provide augmented reality style directions through their respective apps. The SmartTag 2’s Compass View and AirTag’s Precision Finding deliver comparable experiences. You need compatible flagship phones from each brand to access these features.

Cross platform compatibility gives AirTag an advantage for mixed device households. Anyone with an iPhone can help locate AirTags, regardless of their own tracking needs. SmartTag 2 requires Samsung Galaxy phones exclusively, limiting usefulness in families with iPhones or other Android brands.

Privacy features differ slightly between the two. Both systems anonymize location data and alert you if an unknown tracker follows you. Apple’s anti stalking features work across iOS devices, while Samsung’s alerts only reach Galaxy phone users.

Range and Connectivity

Bluetooth Low Energy 5.3 provides the SmartTag 2’s primary connectivity up to 120 meters in ideal conditions. Real world range varies based on obstacles, interference, and environmental factors. Open outdoor spaces often achieve the full 120 meter range. Indoor environments with walls, furniture, and electronic devices typically see 30 to 60 meter ranges.

The 120 meter specification assumes line of sight with no obstacles between your phone and the tracker. Concrete walls, metal structures, and large appliances significantly reduce range. A tracker in your basement may not connect to your phone on the second floor even if the straight line distance is under 120 meters.

Multiple SmartTag 2 devices don’t interfere with each other when used simultaneously. You can track your keys, backpack, and luggage at the same time without connectivity issues. The Bluetooth protocol manages multiple connections efficiently, though switching between trackers in the app takes a moment.

Connection stability remains solid during testing. The SmartTag 2 rarely disconnects unexpectedly when within range. The app shows connection status clearly with indicators that update every few seconds. You’ll notice right away if the tracker moves out of range or if something blocks the signal.

Battery efficient connectivity means the tracker doesn’t drain your phone’s battery significantly. You can keep multiple trackers connected throughout the day without noticing reduced phone battery life. Samsung optimized the power consumption for both devices in the tracking relationship.

Using SmartTag 2 for Luggage Tracking

Travel represents one of the most popular use cases for tracking devices. The SmartTag 2 excels at helping you monitor luggage during flights and ground transportation. Attach a tracker to your checked bag and follow its location through the SmartThings app during your journey.

Airport environments typically have excellent SmartTag 2 tracking because of the high concentration of Samsung phone users. As your luggage moves through baggage handling systems, nearby Samsung devices update its location automatically. You can see when your bag leaves the aircraft, enters the terminal, and approaches the baggage carousel.

The IP67 rating protects your tracker from rough handling, rain exposure, and temperature changes in cargo holds. The SmartTag 2 withstands the challenging conditions of checked luggage without special protective cases. Simply slip it into an inside pocket or attach it to your bag’s interior lining.

Some travelers worry about airline restrictions on tracking devices in checked bags. The SmartTag 2 uses Bluetooth technology, not cellular or GPS, so it complies with aviation regulations. The tracker emits very low power radio signals similar to wireless headphones or keyboards. Airlines and aviation authorities permit these devices in both checked and carry on luggage.

International travel may present challenges in countries with fewer Samsung users. Popular tourist destinations in Europe, Asia, and North America provide reliable tracking. Remote locations or less developed regions may have gaps in SmartThings Find network coverage. Consider this limitation when traveling to rural or isolated areas.

Privacy and Security Features

Samsung takes privacy seriously with several protective features built into SmartTag 2 and the SmartThings Find network. All location data transmits through encrypted connections that prevent interception. Your tracker’s location history stays private, visible only to you through your Samsung account.

The system includes unknown tracker alerts that warn you if someone else’s SmartTag 2 travels with you for an extended period. This anti stalking feature helps prevent malicious tracking attempts. If the system detects an unfamiliar tracker moving with you, your Galaxy phone displays a notification and allows you to make it ring.

You control who can track your SmartTag 2 devices through the SmartThings app. Family sharing features let you grant access to specific people without revealing your Samsung account credentials. Children, elderly relatives, or trusted friends can help locate shared items while maintaining appropriate privacy boundaries.

Anonymous crowdsourcing protects everyone’s identity in the SmartThings Find network. When another Samsung user’s phone detects your lost tracker, neither party learns the other’s identity or personal information. The system only shares the tracker’s location with the owner, nothing more.

Samsung allows you to permanently disconnect and erase a SmartTag 2 from your account if you sell or give it away. This process removes all association with your identity and location history. The new owner can then pair it with their Samsung account as if it were brand new.

Price and Value Comparison

At $30 for a single tracker, the SmartTag 2 sits in the middle of the tracking device price range. Apple AirTag retails for $29, creating direct price competition. Tile trackers range from $20 to $35 depending on the model and features. The SmartTag 2’s pricing feels appropriate given its capabilities and target audience.

Samsung frequently offers multi pack discounts that reduce the per unit cost significantly. A four pack typically sells for around $70, making each tracker about $17.50. These bulk discounts make sense for families or individuals who want to track multiple items. Watch for holiday sales and promotions that offer even better pricing.

The lack of subscription fees adds considerable value over time. Some competing trackers require monthly payments for premium features like location history or smart alerts. The SmartTag 2 includes all features without ongoing costs after your initial purchase. You only pay for replacement batteries every year or two.

Compared to GPS trackers that cost $50 to $150 and require monthly cellular subscriptions, the SmartTag 2 provides excellent value for Samsung users. GPS devices offer advantages in remote areas without smartphone coverage, but their higher costs don’t justify the benefits for most users tracking everyday items around cities and suburbs.

Accessory costs remain minimal since the built in keyring hole eliminates the need for separate holders. Some users prefer adhesive mounts or protective cases sold separately for $5 to $10. These accessories are optional, not mandatory like with AirTags.

What Are the Common Issues with SmartTag 2?

The SmartTag 2 requires a Samsung Galaxy phone running Android 11 or later. This exclusive compatibility frustrates users with iPhones, Google Pixels, or other Android brands. Families with mixed device ecosystems cannot share trackers effectively. This limitation represents the biggest complaint about Samsung’s tracker.

Some users report shorter battery life than Samsung’s 500 day estimate. Heavy use patterns drain batteries faster. Frequently triggering the ring function, walking in and out of Bluetooth range many times daily, and keeping the tracker in areas with weak connectivity all reduce battery longevity to 6 to 12 months in some cases.

The SmartThings Find network provides less coverage than Apple’s Find My network, especially in rural areas. Lost items in remote locations may not update their positions frequently if few Samsung users pass nearby. Urban areas offer much better performance with regular location updates.

UWB Compass View only works with flagship Samsung Galaxy phones containing UWB chips. Mid range and budget Samsung devices cannot access this precise tracking feature. Users with older or less expensive Samsung phones miss out on one of the SmartTag 2’s best capabilities.

The speaker volume, while generally loud, sometimes seems muffled when the tracker hides inside bags or under heavy objects. Moving items around typically resolves this issue, but some users wish for an even louder speaker that penetrates obstacles more effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Samsung SmartTag 2 with an iPhone?

No, the SmartTag 2 only works with Samsung Galaxy smartphones and tablets running Android 11 or newer. iPhone users cannot pair or track SmartTag 2 devices because the required SmartThings app and SmartThings Find network are exclusive to Samsung’s ecosystem. Consider Apple AirTag or Tile trackers for iPhone compatibility.

How do I change the battery in my SmartTag 2?

Twist the back cover counterclockwise to remove it from the tracker body. Remove the old CR2032 coin cell battery and insert a new one with the positive side facing up. Replace the back cover and twist clockwise until it clicks into place. The process takes less than 30 seconds and requires no tools.

Does SmartTag 2 have GPS tracking?

No, the SmartTag 2 uses Bluetooth Low Energy and Ultra Wideband technology, not GPS. It connects directly to your Samsung phone within 120 meters using Bluetooth. When beyond this range, the SmartThings Find network of other Samsung devices anonymously reports the tracker’s location. This approach works well in populated areas without requiring cellular connections or subscription fees.

How accurate is the SmartTag 2 location tracking?

Within Bluetooth range of 120 meters, the SmartTag 2 provides general proximity tracking. Samsung Galaxy phones with UWB chips can pinpoint locations within a few centimeters using Compass View. Beyond Bluetooth range, location accuracy depends on how close other Samsung devices pass to your tracker, typically within 10 to 50 meters in urban areas.

Can SmartTag 2 track my pet or child in real time?

The SmartTag 2 is not designed for real time continuous tracking of moving targets like pets or children. It works best for stationary items you might forget or misplace. The 120 meter Bluetooth range limits tracking to nearby areas. For active pet or child monitoring, consider dedicated GPS trackers with cellular connectivity.

Is there a monthly fee to use SmartTag 2?

No, the SmartTag 2 requires no subscription fees or monthly charges. All features including SmartThings Find network, location history, and app access are free after purchasing the tracker. You only need to replace the CR2032 battery approximately once per year, costing a few dollars.

How many Samsung SmartTag 2 devices can I use?

You can register and track up to 10 SmartTag 2 devices on a single Samsung account through the SmartThings app. This limit accommodates tracking multiple items for individuals or families. Each tracker requires its own CR2032 battery and individual setup.

Will SmartTag 2 work in other countries when I travel?

Yes, the SmartTag 2 works globally wherever Bluetooth connections function and Samsung Galaxy users are present. The SmartThings Find network operates in most countries, though coverage varies by region. Popular tourist destinations offer reliable tracking, while remote areas may have limited network availability due to fewer Samsung device users nearby.

Last update on 2026-01-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API