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The Loop works with Apple Find My and Google Find Hub Device networks, so it’s compatible with hundreds of millions of smartphones out there, allowing you to find your lost items no matter where you are (which is handy when you leave your keys in a random riad in Marrakech… speaking from experience).
So, how does the Loop differ from an AirTag?
First, the battery is rechargeable, and when it needs topping up — every six months or so — you can use any handy USB-C cable. This means no piles of old CR2032s to recycle.
The built-in soft yet tough silicone loop is a great touch, and makes the tag a lot more usable.
Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET
The tags are also IP67 rated so they’re dustproof, and have no problem shrugging off water.
The loop comes in a range of colors — honey, chalk, charcoal, coral, mint, and navy — so you can color-coordinate your gear.
But there are some limitations. First, you don’t get precision finding on iOS like you do with the AirTags (this feature isn’t available to any of the third-party tags using the Apple Find My network). This means that you can get a gist of where the tag is, but you can’t get taken to its exact loation like you can with AirTags.
Then there’s the price. At $39 a tag, these command a premium price, substantially more than Apple’s finder tag.
ZDNET’s buying advice
Third-party finder tags are always a compromise on the Apple Find My network because you don’t get precision finding. But if that’s not something that’s important to you — maybe you’re tracking bigger things like suitcases — then the Loop might be for you. The USB-C charging is a nice touch, and the loud speaker is a night and day difference compared to the puny one on the AirTag.
But, you will pay a premium for this tag. AirTags are currently $24 if you buy them singly (making them $6.25 each). The Chipolo Loop