PCMag Weighs In: Why SpotOn Is a Top Choice for Large Properties

REVIEW: A Trustworthy Choice for Dog Owners with Large Properties, according to editors at PC Mag

When it comes to giving your dog the freedom to roam while ensuring their safety, the SpotOn GPS Dog Fence emerges as a standout choice, according to Eric Griffith, Senior Editor at PC Magazine. Joined by his loyal testing companion, Clark, Griffith recently tested SpotOn. In his PCMag review, SpotOn is praised as an innovative solution that combines cutting-edge GPS technology, flexible boundary options, and unparalleled convenience to create the ultimate virtual fencing system. While Griffith mentions that competitors like the Halo Collar 4 bring their own strengths, he describes SpotOn collar sets itself apart in ways that make it the preferred choice for dog owners with expansive properties — read on to learn why! 

Unmatched GPS Accuracy and Flexibility

One of SpotOn’s most significant advantages is its precise GPS performance, which ensures that virtual boundaries are reliable and accurate. Unlike traditional wired fences, SpotOn enables you to create custom-shaped perimeters that fit your property’s unique layout, no matter how complex. Griffith highlights this by noting:  

"SpotOn lets you set up an unlimited number of virtual fences at no additional cost… [and] fences can overlap, allowing you to create keep-out zones within safe areas."
- Eric Griffith, Senior Editor of Features, PCMag

This flexibility means you can tailor your dog’s boundaries to specific needs, such as keeping them out of your barn or away from a pond.

For dog owners who frequently travel or enjoy off-the-grid adventures, SpotOn offers an "off-grid mode" that operates without cellular or internet connectivity. As Griffith explains, this feature is a huge advantage for outdoor enthusiasts who want to give their dogs the freedom to explore safely, no matter the location.  

Courtesy photo: SpotOn App/PCMag

No Subscription Fees for Boundary Features

"The high price means you don’t pay a subscription fee unless you need to track an escaped pet."

"If you subscribe to Halo’s least expensive Bronze plan, which includes five virtual fences and real-time location tracking, and prepay for two years, it will take about four years to cost as much as the SpotOn."

Durable Design for Active Lifestyles

SpotOn’s rugged build is another aspect that makes it ideal for active dogs, making it a reliable choice for pets who love the outdoors. With an IP67 rating, the collar is dust- and water-resistant, meaning your dog can safely wear it while swimming or playing in rough terrain. 

The collar’s battery life gives 25+ runtime and is sufficient for daily use, though Griffith notes that it’s best to charge it nightly for optimal performance. Additionally, users can activate Extended Battery Life Mode to unlock 10+ extra hours of runtime. Combined with its robust construction and reliable performance, SpotOn ensures your dog’s safety without compromising on their active lifestyle. 

Intuitive Setup and Advanced Features 

Setting up the SpotOn GPS Dog Fence is a straightforward process, thanks to its user-friendly app. Owners can draw the fence in the app or, if more specificity is desired, simply walk the desired perimeter with the collar in hand, and the app creates a virtual fence with up to 1,500 “posts” for precise customization. Griffith describes this process as a significant advantage:

"You can pause it when you hit an obstacle (like a pond) and resume again on the other side; this is also useful for setting the fence on a larger property."

Additionally, the collar’s feedback system offers multiple options—tones, vibrations, and static correction—allowing owners to choose the level of correction that best suits their dog’s temperament. While training is essential for the system’s success, SpotOn supports owners with resources and access to certified trainers. Griffith emphasizes the importance of this, stating:

"The goal is to get your dog to react to an alert tone first. Once the dog knows the sound, if that doesn’t prevent escape, then you escalate."

Courtesy photo: Eric Griffith, PCMag

Standing Out Among Competitors  

While competitors offer their own benefits, SpotOn’s comprehensive feature set makes it the superior choice for large properties. Unlike Halo, which is limited to smaller fences and requires a subscription, SpotOn supports unlimited and overlapping virtual boundaries without recurring fees. Alternative products, such as Tractive or the Fi Series 3, on the other hand, focus purely on tracking rather than containment, making it less suitable for owners who prioritize keeping their pets safely contained within a defined area. 

Why SpotOn is the Best Option 

In conclusion, PCMag found that the SpotOn GPS Dog Fence redefines pet containment with its precise GPS technology, flexible fencing options, and subscription-free boundaries. As Eric Griffith from PC Magazine aptly summarizes:    

"The SpotOn GPS Dog Fence comes at a hefty up-front cost, but it offers excellent GPS fencing and doesn't require a subscription unless you need to actively track your dog's location."

For dog owners who value reliability, customization, and freedom, SpotOn is a clear winner. Its innovative features, durable design, and commitment to providing a seamless experience for both pets and owners make it the best option for keeping dogs safe and secure, no matter the terrain or circumstances.   

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