SimpleGPS vs Traccar
Traccar is a great open-source project - free software supporting hundreds of GPS protocols. But "free" means: your own server (a €5-10/month VPS), installation, port and protocol setup, updates, backups, and debugging when it stops at 2 AM.
SimpleGPS is the opposite approach: a hosted service with a ready Teltonika listener, a pre-configured device shipped to you, a modern interface and real support. Plug the device in - the map starts moving.
Traccar is free open-source software but needs your own server, tracker and upkeep. SimpleGPS is the hosted alternative with an included device and zero maintenance - for a transparent monthly euro fee.
Side by side
| SimpleGPS | Traccar | |
|---|---|---|
| Transparent public pricing (€) | Yes | Free (open source), but you pay for a server + your time |
| Modern app-style UI | Yes | No |
| Device included / sold with the service | Yes | No |
| Hosted - no own server needed | Yes | No - you host it yourself |
| Fits private individuals | Yes | Only if you are technical |
| Real-time tracking | Yes | Yes |
| No long-term contract | Yes | Yes |
| Self-serve online signup | Yes | DIY install and setup |
| Bulgarian support | Yes | No |
The differences in detail
Who maintains the server
With Traccar the server is yours - you stand it up, update it and fix it when a protocol breaks or a map layer changes its terms. With SimpleGPS the listener, database and map tiles are our job; you only ever see the working app.
Device and SIM card
Traccar is software only - you choose, buy and configure the tracker and SIM yourself, including the APN and the exact port for your protocol. Ours ships pre-configured with an active SIM and attaches to the listener out of the box.
Real cost of ownership
The software is free, but the bill includes a VPS (~€5-10/month), your own maintenance time and the risk of downtime at an awkward moment. With SimpleGPS those costs are already priced into one fixed monthly fee.
When is Traccar the better choice?
Traccar is the better pick if you are technical, want full data control on your own server and enjoy maintaining infrastructure. If you just want to see your car on a map - no servers, no config - SimpleGPS is for you.
Bottom line
Open-source freedom has a hidden price: time, a server and maintenance. SimpleGPS costs a transparent monthly fee in euro and simply works.
Frequently asked questions
Is Traccar really free?
The software is - the licence is open source. But to run it you need your own server, a tracker, a SIM card and maintenance time. Those costs do not disappear; they are just not collected in one clear price list.
Can I migrate from Traccar to SimpleGPS?
Yes. If you already own a Teltonika device, in many cases it can be pointed at our listener with just a server-address change. Send us the model and we will check.
Which is better for data privacy?
Traccar, if you want the data physically on your own server. SimpleGPS hosts in the EU (Germany) with a clear policy - for most private customers that is enough, without running any infrastructure.
Do I need technical skills for SimpleGPS?
No. That is exactly the difference - you plug the device in and the car appears on the map. Traccar requires installation, port configuration and ongoing maintenance.
Try SimpleGPS
Plans from $4.99/month, device from our shop, online signup in two minutes.