When I started traveling seriously last year, I started using Bluetooth devices; they are easy to set up and use, and the convenience makes these products a no-brainer. I use Satechi’s FindAll trackers in my suitcase, travel bag, and key chain – I even have a model that goes with my sunglasses.
So when Xiaomi said it was launching its own tracker, I was intrigued. I really didn’t like the design of the AirTag, and having to use the keyring device to use it in any important situations made it a non-starter. While Samsung’s Galaxy SmartTag2 has a better design, it’s unique to Galaxy phones, and that rubs me the wrong way.
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You can use Xiaomi Tag through Find My and Google’s Find Hub networks
Where the Xiaomi Tag has a noticeable advantage is that it connects to the Apple Find My network as well as the Google Find Hub network. In that sense, there is no limit to how you can use the tool. In that case, you can only connect the Xiaomi Tag to one network at a time; if you set it up with Find Hub, you’ll need to delete it if you want to switch to Find My network.
In my experience, I found it better to use Tag and the Find My network. Google’s Find Hub has improved a lot in the last year – especially in India – but it’s still not as reliable as Find My, so after the first test, I connected Tag to Find My using the iPhone 17 Pro, and I didn’t face any problems. You don’t get UWB, but that didn’t seem to be a problem.
It has a lightweight design with a removable battery
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I really like the Xiaomi Tag design; it’s on the smaller end of the scale as these things go, and at just 10g, it’s one of the lightest. The lightweight design ensures you can carry it anywhere – I put it in my sling bag that I use when I’m out and about, and it holds my EDC tech stuff.
The design of the Tag allows you to attach it to a keyring or luggage without problems. The best part of the design is that there is a removable CR2032 battery, so you can easily turn it off. This is a big deal in itself, and ensures that you don’t have to worry about the battery – the built-in cell lasts up to a year.
The tag has a small piezoelectric motor that generates alerts, and it beeps so you can easily find it. Oh, and it gets IP67 dust and water resistance, giving you the freedom to use it anywhere.
Xiaomi Tag is one of the cheapest trackers
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Coming in at just 14.99 euros ($17), Xiaomi is heavily discounting the AirTag and Galaxy SmartTag2, which retail for $29. Although it does not have UWB, the ability to work with the Find My and Find Hub networks gives the Tag a huge advantage, since it is not limited to one.
And when you combine the possibilities, it’s easy to see why the Xiaomi Tag has the potential to do well. Xiaomi is doing a better job with global availability as well, with the Tag being sold in the UK and other western markets – not including the US.
Overall, Xiaomi is on another winner with Tag, and thanks to its proven reliability and long battery life, it’s an easy recommendation.
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