Orbitkey has expanded its range with a new tracking solution that is compatible with both Apple's "Find My" network and Google's counterpart. I took a closer look at the manufacturer's two current approaches in practice: the Universal Tracker in the subtle Pistachio color and the Key Organiser Tracker in the fresh Citrus finish.
Orbitkey Key Organiser Tracker
The Key Organiser Tracker combines classic key storage directly with modern tracking technology. In the tested leather-free Citrus version made of synthetic material, the band immediately catches the eye, but weighs just 26 grams. With dimensions of 92 by 21 by 25 millimeters, it is hardly larger than a regular key holder and reliably holds two to seven keys without them rattling in your pocket.
The special feature lies inside the band: an integrated tracker with a rechargeable lithium battery sits here, offering a runtime of three to five months per charge.
On the smartphone, the system is very easy to integrate, as Orbitkey does without its own additional app. Pairing is done natively via Apple's "Find My" network or the Google Find Hub.
A short press on the button discreetly embedded in the band puts the device into pairing mode, after which the operating system immediately recognizes the tracker. Via the respective system app, you can always see the last known location on the surrounding map, which is updated via the worldwide device networks of both platforms.
If the keychain is somewhere nearby, you can trigger an acoustic signal on the built-in speaker via the app, which is loud enough to be heard even under jackets or sofa cushions.
One aspect stands out in everyday handling: For charging, the manufacturer relies on a special charging cable with magnetic contacts. While you don't charge the tracker constantly, in the end it's just another cable lying around in the drawer. A direct USB-C port or even wireless charging would have been a noticeably more practical option here.
Orbitkey Universal Tracker
The Universal Tracker is primarily aimed at those who already use a regular Key Organiser without integrated tracking and want to easily add a search function. It can be attached directly to the D-ring, but is by no means limited to keys.
With dimensions of approximately 65 by 20 by 5 millimeters and a weight of just six grams, the plastic housing in matte Pistachio green is hardly noticeable. Thanks to the solid IP65 certification against dust and water jets, it is also suitable for other equipment: you can discreetly store it in one of the Orbitkey Pouches between films and memory cards or place it in the inner compartment of a camera backpack.
Integration with the smartphone is just as straightforward as with the key model. The Universal Tracker connects directly to Apple Find My or the Google Find Hub without any additional third-party app.
Like the Key Organiser, the Universal Tracker is charged via the included charging cable with magnetic contacts. With a runtime of three to five months, the module rarely needs to be plugged in.
Conclusion
Both products reliably fulfill their task, but follow fundamentally different philosophies. Personally, I would prefer the standalone Universal Tracker, as it simply represents the future-proof option.
Technology is developing so quickly these days that tracking standards are constantly changing, and built-in batteries inevitably degrade over the years. It's a shame when you can no longer use the entire organiser after a few years, or when there's already a better solution on the market, but you're tied to the fixed housing.
The advantage of the version with the integrated tracker is, of course, that everything is a bit sleeker and more organized. Additionally, the tracker doesn't take up space for an extra key.
If you're interested in the products, you can find the Key Organiser Tracker in the Citrus variant directly here. If you value maximum flexibility and want to easily switch the tracker between your keychain, Orbitkey Pouches, and backpack, you can take a closer look at the Universal Tracker in Pistachio on the Orbitkey website.
