Apple AirTag vs Chipolo: Which Tracker Is Right for Your PenGuard or EpiGuard?
If you're thinking about adding an item tracker to your insulin pen or EpiPen® case, Apple AirTag and Chipolo are two popular options.
Both can help you find everyday belongings, but the features available depend on the tracker model, your phone and the tracking network you choose.
Here's a simple comparison to help you choose the right combination for your PenGuard or EpiGuard.
The Short Answer
Use an iPhone? Apple AirTag is a straightforward choice thanks to its integration with Apple's Find My network. Compatible Chipolo models can also be an option.
Use Android? A compatible Chipolo tracker designed for Google's Find Hub network choose a compatible Chipolo model designed for Google's Find Hub network.
The important thing is to check the specific Chipolo model and network compatibility, rather than choosing by brand alone.
PenGuard and EpiGuard are available for compatible Apple AirTag and Chipolo trackers.
Apple AirTag
Apple AirTag is designed to work with Apple's Find My network and integrates directly with the Find My app.
Depending on your Apple device, available features can include:
- Playing a sound from the AirTag when looking for it nearby
- Viewing its reported location through Find My
- Nearby finding features on compatible Apple devices
- Access to Apple's Find My network when the AirTag isn't directly within range of your own device
- A user-replaceable CR2032 battery
For someone already using an iPhone and Apple's Find My ecosystem, AirTag provides a simple way to add item tracking to a compatible PenGuard or EpiGuard.
Compatible adapters: PenGuard NovoStar Air and EpiGuard Air.
Chipolo
Chipolo offers several trackers, and it's important to distinguish between them because different models can use different finding networks.
For example, compatible Chipolo models may work with Apple Find My or Google's Find Hub network, depending on the model and how it is configured.
This can make Chipolo particularly useful if you want an alternative to AirTag or use an Android phone.
Available features vary by Chipolo model and network, but can include:
- Playing a sound to locate the tracker nearby
- Viewing its reported location
- Finding-network assistance when the tracker is away from your phone
- Separation or left-behind notifications where supported
Always check the features and phone compatibility of the particular Chipolo model before choosing your tracker.
Compatible adapters: PenGuard NovoStar Chip and EpiGuard Chip.
AirTag vs Chipolo at a Glance
| Feature | Apple AirTag | Compatible Chipolo Trackers |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Find My | Yes | Available on compatible models |
| Google Find Hub | No | Available on compatible models |
| Play a sound | Yes | Yes, on supported models |
| Location shown in app | Yes | Yes, depending on model/network |
| Nearby finding | Available on compatible Apple devices | Depends on model/network |
| Replaceable battery | Yes | Depends on Chipolo model |
| PenGuard option | PenGuard Air | PenGuard Chip |
| EpiGuard option | EpiGuard Air | EpiGuard Chip |
Which Tracker Should You Choose?
For most people, the easiest place to start is with the phone and finding network they already use.
If you're already an Apple Find My user, AirTag is an obvious option, while compatible Chipolo models may provide an alternative.
If you use Android and Google's Find Hub network, choose a compatible Chipolo model designed to work with that network.
Whichever option you choose, remember that PenGuard and EpiGuard don't provide the tracking service themselves. They're physical adapters designed to provide a convenient way of attaching a compatible third-party item tracker to a compatible insulin pen or EpiPen case.
Choose Your Adapter
PenGuard NovoStar Air — for compatible insulin pens and Apple AirTag
PenGuard NovoStar Chip — for compatible insulin pens and supported Chipolo trackers
EpiGuard Air — for compatible Viatris (Mylan) EpiPen® cases and Apple AirTag
EpiGuard Chip — for compatible Viatris (Mylan) EpiPen® cases and supported Chipolo trackers
Check the individual product page for current pen, case and tracker compatibility before ordering.
PenGuard and EpiGuard are accessories for attaching compatible third-party item trackers. Trackers, insulin pens and EpiPen® products are not included. Tracking features, network coverage and compatibility are provided by the relevant tracker and platform manufacturers and are not guaranteed by Future Forge Solutions.