Launching an IoT Project for Cellular GPS Tracking: Should You Use Cat-M or NB-IoT?

When launching an IoT project for cellular-connected GPS tracking devices, one of the key decisions you’ll face is choosing between Cat-M (LTE-M) and NB-IoT technologies. Both options offer unique benefits for different IoT use cases, but which one is the best fit for GPS tracking? Below, we’ll explore the differences between these technologies and which one might suit your project better.

What Are Cat-M and NB-IoT?

Cat-M (LTE-M) and NB-IoT (Narrowband IoT) are both low-power, wide-area network (LPWAN) technologies developed as part of the 3GPP standards to support the growing IoT ecosystem. They provide cellular connectivity for IoT devices, but they cater to different use cases.

• Cat-M1: This is a variation of LTE technology designed specifically for IoT devices that require mobility and higher data throughput. It supports voice functionality (VoLTE), enables moderate data speeds, and provides seamless handoff between cellular towers, making it ideal for mobile applications.

• NB-IoT: As the name suggests, NB-IoT operates on a narrowband spectrum and is highly optimized for low data transmission rates. It excels in stationary applications that require minimal data use and deep coverage but has limited mobility support.

Key Factors to Consider for GPS Tracking

1. Mobility

• Cat-M1: If your GPS tracking devices are mobile—whether you’re tracking vehicles, assets in transit, or anything else that moves—Cat-M1 is the clear winner. Cat-M1 supports seamless handoff between cellular towers, allowing for continuous data transfer as devices move across large geographic areas.

• NB-IoT: NB-IoT, on the other hand, is not designed for mobility and lacks handover capabilities. Devices connected via NB-IoT may experience service interruptions as they move between cellular towers, making it unsuitable for applications that require uninterrupted tracking.

2. Data Usage and Bandwidth

• Cat-M1: Cat-M1 offers higher data throughput compared to NB-IoT, with typical data rates of 375 kbps up to 1 Mbps. For GPS tracking, where frequent location updates and data transfer are essential, this makes Cat-M1 a strong choice.

• NB-IoT: NB-IoT is optimized for very low data rates, often under 100 kbps. This makes it ideal for low-bandwidth applications like environmental sensors but insufficient for applications like GPS tracking that require regular, real-time location updates.

3. Battery Life

• NB-IoT: If battery life is your primary concern and your GPS tracking devices are stationary, NB-IoT can offer superior battery efficiency. Its low data rate and deep sleep modes allow devices to operate for extended periods without draining the battery.

• Cat-M1: While not as power-efficient as NB-IoT, Cat-M1 still offers good power efficiency for mobile applications. However, the higher data rates and support for mobility can reduce battery life.

4. Coverage and Range

• NB-IoT: One of NB-IoT’s standout features is its ability to provide deep coverage, particularly in challenging environments like basements, rural areas, or underground tunnels. If your GPS tracking devices will be deployed in remote or indoor locations with poor signal strength, NB-IoT can offer more reliable connectivity.

• Cat-M1: Cat-M1 also provides good coverage, but its signal penetration in difficult environments is not as robust as NB-IoT. However, Cat-M1’s broader overall coverage and network availability make it a strong contender for most applications.

5. Cost

• NB-IoT: Typically, NB-IoT modules and connectivity plans are slightly cheaper than Cat-M1, making them an attractive option for large-scale, stationary deployments where cost is a critical factor.

• Cat-M1: While more expensive than NB-IoT, Cat-M1 offers greater versatility, particularly for applications requiring mobility and higher data throughput, which may justify the added cost depending on your project’s requirements.

Conclusion: Which Technology Is Right for GPS Tracking?

For a GPS tracking project, the majority of use cases favor Cat-M1 (LTE-M). Its superior support for mobility, higher data rates, and broad coverage make it ideal for tracking moving assets. Whether you’re monitoring vehicles, fleets, or other assets in motion, Cat-M1 will provide seamless connectivity and real-time data, which is crucial for accurate GPS tracking.

However, if your project involves stationary devices that don’t need frequent location updates or mobility (e.g., remote assets or equipment), NB-IoT might be a more cost-effective and power-efficient option.

In short:
• Choose Cat-M1 if your GPS trackers are mobile and need reliable, real-time data transmission.
• Choose NB-IoT for stationary devices in challenging environments where long battery life is a priority and data transmission is infrequent.

This article was created by Jan Lattunen, CCO Simplex Wireless

About the Author: Jan Lattunen manages Sales and Marketing for Simplex Wireless. Jan has 20 years’ experience in working with SIM card technology and was involved in launching the eSIM in North America with major carriers and OEMs. His expertise in telecommunications is around SIM cards. On a personal note, Jan is a family man and avid cyclist with advocacy for safety in the roads. You can connect with Jan on https://linkedin.com/in/JanLattunen