In this guide we have provided you with our top e collar/remote trainer models from Educator, SportDOG, Garmin and Dogtra brands.
We’ve also linked you to some other useful guides, such as comparison guides.
Note that there are regular remote training collars listed first in this guide, but at the bottom are collars that are for tracking (with a GPS), or both training and tracking.
Let’s take a look!
(NOTE: this is a general information guide only, and is not professional advice, or a substitute for professional advice. A qualified vet or animal expert is the only person qualified to give you expert advice in regards to your pet/s)
(*Friendly Disclosure – links to retailers or brands on this page may include affiliate links, and we may receive a commission when you purchase through these links)
Educator E Collar vs SportDOG vs Garmin vs Dogtra: Comparison
From these brands, our top rated e collar models that fit a range of dogs, and can be used for a range of uses are the:
Educator
ET-300
- Educator ET-300 Mini E Collar (on Chewy)
- Educator ET-300 Mini E Collar (on Amazon) (For dogs 5lbs to 150lbs, and has low to medium static stimulation, for dogs with soft to normal temperaments. Has 1/2 a mile range)
ET-800
- Educator ET-800 ‘The Boss’ E Collar (on Chewy)
- Educator ET-800 ‘The Boss’ E Collar (on Amazon) (For dogs 25lbs and over, and has low to high static stimulation, for dogs with a soft to harder/more stubborn temperaments. Has 1 mile range)
SportDOG
425X
- SportDOG FieldTrainer 425X (on Chewy)
- SportDOG FieldTrainer 425X (on Amazon) (For dogs 8lbs or larger, with necks that are 5 to 22 inches in size. Has 500 yards of range)
425XS
- SportDOG FieldTrainer 425XS (on Chewy)
- SportDOG FieldTrainer 425XS (on Amazon) (Similar features to the 425X, but, made for high-drive, more stubborn dogs by offering a higher static stimulation range than the 425X)
Dogtra
1900S
- Dogtra 1900S (on Amazon) – Advanced E Collar For Dogs 35lbs and Over
Potential Alternatives To The Above Brands
Affordable alternatives might include:
- PATPET P320 Remote Dog Training Collar (on Chewy)(For 15-100 lbs dog)
- PATPET Dog Training Collar, P-Collar 320 (on Amazon) (2 collar kit)
- PATPET Dog Training Collar, P-Collar 320A (on Amazon)
- DOG CARE Dog Training Collar (on Chewy)
- DOG CARE Dog Training Collar (on Amazon) (A cheaper/affordable e collar option. For dogs 15 to 100lbs. Has 330 yards of range)
Educator E Collar vs SportDOG vs Garmin vs Dogtra: Comparison
The following are some review and comparison guides which list the features of the above brands and models of e collars:
Comparison Guides
Educator E Collar Reviews Guide: ET vs EZ vs PE vs ME vs FT vs WF & UL vs PG vs K9 Series Comparison
SportDOG FieldTrainer 425 vs 425S vs 425X vs 425XS: Comparison, & What Are The Differences?
Brand Review Guides
SportDOG Remote Trainer & E Collar Reviews Guide
Dogtra Remote Trainer & E Collar Reviews Guide
Garmin Remote Dog Trainer & E Collar Reviews Guide
Model Review Guides
Educator ET-800 ‘The Boss’ (& ET-800 Plus) Review
SportDOG FieldTrainer 425X Review
SportDOG FieldTrainer 425XS Review
PATPET Remote Dog Training Collar Review
DOG CARE Remote Dog Training Collar Review
Other E Collar Brand & Model Reviews
This e collar guide contains links to reviews of other e collar models from these brands.
E Collar & Remote Dog Training Collar Buyers & FAQ Guide
You can read this guide which is an e collar and remote dog training collar buyers guide and FAQ guide.
In it, information is provided on the following:
What some of the best e collars might be
Factors to consider in deciding which e collar to buy
What the cost of an e collar is
What size e collar to get
What is an e collar
Types of e collars
What is an e collar used for, and why use one
How to use an e collar
How to put an e collar on your dog
How to train a dog with an e collar
At what age to start using an e collar, and how long training takes
When you might consider using an e collar
Safety considerations for using an e collar
E collars vs bark collars
What Size E Collar/Remote Dog Training Collar Do I Get?
In terms of size of the e collar, you might look for two main things:
– The weight range of the collar i.e. it might say ‘for dogs 8lbs and over’
– The neck size that the collar fits i.e. it might say for dogs with neck sizes 6 to 28 inches
So:
– Find out the weight of your dog
– Measure their neck size and compare it to the collar strap length that the collar comes with
– And, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s sizing specifications for the e collar you want
Safety Considerations With A Remote Dog Training Collar
Safety is extremely important with a remote dog training collar.
Always always get your vet’s advice or the advice of an animal health and/or training expert – nothing is a substitute for professional advice.
Some general safety guidelines for using an e collar humanely might be:
Buy from a reputable company who put proper use of the e collar and the safety of the dog as a priority
Read and follow the operating guide, instruction/safety manual and training guide that comes with the e collar system from the manufacturer for operation and safety instructions and guidelines
Pay attention to any warnings issued by the manufacturer
Monitor your dog’s response both mentally and physically to using an e collar. Take the collar off immediately and discontinue use of the system if you notice any negative implications or reactions
A good remote dog training collar that uses static stimulation should simply stimulate the muscle (to the point of reflex) to get the dog’s attention, but should not cause pain (it might be slightly annoying for the dog to act as a small deterrent – but shouldn’t cause pain or harm). It certainly shouldn’t cause a ‘sharp pain’ to the muscle or body.
To get a safe stimulation level – you can always start from the lowest stimulation level, and work your way up to a level that gets the dog’s attention (such as changing body language when a stimulation, vibration or tone is administered) without any visible sign of pain or harm (such as yelping, or showing signs of stress).
A good e collar company should give you all the necessary safety, use and training instructions, and should have a dedicated customer service line to help when you being using the collar system.
The static stimulation function does not need to be used either – tone and vibrate training modes can be used instead.
Some owners like to even use their e collar as a temporary training tool, and may go back to using body or verbal commands once behaviors are reinforced (if suitable).
What About Remote Tracking & GPS Collar Systems?
These brands offer some tracking and GPS collar system models too.
We’ve included some comparisons of some of the prominent models below.
Dogtra Edge vs Garmin PRO 550 Comparison
If you want to go straight to viewing these e collars, you can do so here:
*NOTE: you can add more dogs to the PRO 550 remote by buying separate collar devices – Garmin PT10 Collar Devices (on Amazon)
*NOTE: you can add more dogs to the Edge remote by buying separate Edge collar devices – Dogtra Edge Add On Collars/Receivers In Black, Blue, Orange or Green (on Amazon)
– Which To Get?
The main similarities between these two e collar dog systems is that they:
– are for advanced and serious owners, trainers and professionals who want a customisable dog collar training system
– are multi dog training systems – you can train/control more than one dog from the remote handhelds
However, you might find one of the e collar systems better than the other for your intentions and for your dog/s depending on the following:
You might get the Dogtra Edge if…
You want the ability to train up to 4 dogs from the handheld remote
You only need or want static stimulation (shock) training modes
You want two different and customisable static stimulation systems – a 127 level, and an 8 level static stimulation level system
You want a platinum lifetime warranty
You want a system for dogs as small as 35lbs
You might get the Garmin PRO 550 if…
You want the ability to train up to 3 dogs from the handheld remote
You want all three training options of static stimulation, vibration and tone/sound
You only need one static stimulation system
You want bark collar technology
You want a collar device beacon light for darker conditions
You want a system for most small to large dogs
– Differences
The Dogtra Edge can control/train up to 4 dogs from the handheld remote with the purchase of additional/separate add on collar devices, whilst the Garmin PRO 550 can only train up to 3 dogs
The Garmin PRO 550 allows you to train with static stimulation (shock), tone and vibration modes, whereas the Dogtra Edge only allows you to train with static and vibration
The Dogtra Edge has two static stimulation systems that you can interchange between instantly – a 127 static stimulation level system you can control on the R dial on the remote, and also an 8 level static stimulation system controllable on the S dial. The Garmin PRO 550 has one static stimulation system – a 21 level static stimulation system controllable by a dial.
The Garmin PRO 550 has in built BarkLimiter technology, which allows it to double as a bark collar. The Dogtra Edge does not have bark collar technology.
The Garmin PRO collars have built in LED lights you can activate so you can find your dog in darker conditions. The Dogtra Edge collars don’t have LED lights
The Dogtra Edge remote has a LCD display that allows you to see static stimulation level and battery level, whereas the Garmin PRO 550 doesn’t have a LCD display on it’s remote.
The Dogtra Edge is For Dogs as Small as 35 lbs, whilst the Garmin PRO 550 is for most small to large dogs.
The Dogtra Edge comes with extendable collar contact points (5/8″ to 3/4″), whilst the Garmin PRO 550 comes with both long and short contact point sets
The Garmin PRO 550 can have a beeper system added to it, whereas the Dogtra Edge can’t
The Dogtra Edge has a lifetime warranty, whilst the Garmin PRO 550 has a limited warranty.
– Similarities
They were both designed for similar things. The Dogtra Edge is designed for dog owners and trainers that need advanced features, like customizability, expandability, and durability. Specifically it is designed for pet training, hunting, hounds, K9, and serious amateurs. The Garmin PRO is designed for serious and professional trainers, and hunters
Both have 1 mile range from handheld remote to collar receiver
They are both expandable systems – they can control more than 1 dog from the handheld remote
Both handheld remotes come with color coded buttons and layouts so you can better see the dog you are training/controlling
Both e collars have both momentary and continuous static stimulation options
Both e collars have low to high power output for the static stimulation (for soft to harder temperament dogs)
Both e collars have quick charge rechargeable batteries
Both e collars are water proof. The Dogtra Edge is fully waterproof. The Garmin PRO 550 collar device is water-rated to 1 ATM (10 meters), and the transmitter remote is water-rated to IPX7
Dogtra Pathfinder vs Garmin Alpha 100 Comparison
If you want to go straight to viewing the dog tracking and training systems, you can do so here:
Dogtra Pathfinder
You can get an add-on collar receiver which allows you to add more dogs to the system (up to a maximum of 21 dogs).
They come in black, blue, green and orange colors – Dogtra Pathfinder Extra Collar (on Amazon).
Garmin Alpha 100
- Garmin Alpha 100 Handheld (on Amazon)
- Garmin Alpha 100 with TT 15 Collar Bundle (on Chewy)
- Garmin Alpha 100 (with TT 15 collar) Dog GPS Bundle (on Amazon)
NOTE: if you buy the handheld only, you can buy any of the compatible collars with it to add to the system:
- Garmin TT 15 Dog Tracker Collar (on Chewy)
- Garmin TT 15 Mini Dog Tracker Collar (on Chewy)
- Garmin TT 15 Tracking and Training Collar (on Amazon) – tracking and training collar for medium to larger sized dogs
- Garmin TT 15 MINI Tracking and Training Collar (on Amazon) – tracking and training collar for smaller dogs
- Garmin T5 GPS Collar (on Amazon) – a tracking only collar
– Which To Get?
The major things to look at and consider in deciding which tracking and training dog collar system is better for you is:
You might get the Dogtra Pathfinder if…
You want a more basic tracking and training collar system with less features and less potential add ons
You want a cheaper collar system
You want a system that you control primarily from your existing smartphone
You don’t need a vibration training option
You might get the Garmin Alpha 100 if…
You want a more advanced tracking and training collar system with many more features and capabilities, plus more potential add ons
You have the budget for a more expensive system
You want a system that you control from a handheld device (you don’t need to use your smartphone)
You want all three of static stim, vibration and audible/tone training options
You want a system that has different types of collars available for a more customisable system
– Differences
For a full list of differences, refer to the reviews at the bottom of this guide.
But, the main differences are:
The Pathfinder is cheaper, the Alpha is more expensive
The Pathfinder is more simple with less features, capabilities and potential to add extras onto the system, whereas the Alpha is highly advanced, with lots of features and plenty of potential to add on extras such as more software
The Pathfinder is primarily operated through your smartphone whereby you download the Pathfinder app and then connects to the GPS connector, and then to the collar device.
The Alpha operates through the handheld device it comes with which can connect to collar devices and other Alpha 100’s of other owners
The Pathfinder doesn’t have a vibration training option, whereas the Alpha does
The Pathfinder comes as the Pathfinder and the Pathfinder X (GPS tracking only), and all the collars are the same.
The Alpha can be bought and is compatible with different collars like the TT15, TT15 mini (for small dogs) and the T5. The T5 is a GPS only collar, whereas the TT15 is a GPS and training collar.
The Pathfinder can expand up to 20 dogs, whereas the Alpha can expand up to 21.
– Similarities
For a full list of similarities, refer to the reviews at the bottom of this guide.
But, the main similarities are:
Both systems allow both tracking and training for dogs
Both systems can be used without using cellular data – they have pre loaded maps
Both systems allow both static, and tone based training
Both systems have nick and constant static stimulation
Both systems require you to purchase additional add on collar receivers to add more dogs to the system
Garmin Astro vs Dogtra Pathfinder Comparison
You can go straight to checking out the Astros and Pathfinder here:
Astro 320
Astro 430
- Garmin Astro 430 Handheld Only (on Amazon)
- Garmin Astro 430/T 5 Collar Bundle (on Amazon)
- Garmin Astro 430/T 5 Mini Collar Bundle (on Amazon)
Pathfinder
You can get an add-on collar receiver which allows you to add more dogs to the system (up to a maximum of 21 dogs). They come in black, blue, green and orange colors – Dogtra Pathfinder Extra Collar (on Amazon).
You can get an add-on collar receiver which allows you to add more dogs to the system (up to a maximum of 21 dogs). They come in different colors – Dogtra Pathfinder TRX Extra Collar (on Amazon).
– Which To Get
There’s two huge differences between the two Astros, and the Pathfinder, that will probably influence your decision of which one you buy.
It depends on your preference, what’s more important to you, and of course whether you have a compatible smartphone if you’re looking at the Pathfinder.
Those two factors are:
Garmin Astro 320, and Astro 430
Both are GPS tracking only dog handhelds
You control and monitor the dog’s collar device from the handheld unit
Dogtra Pathfinder
The Dogtra Pathfinder is a tracking + training system (there’s also the Pathfinder TRX that is a tracking only system)
The Pathfinder is controlled and monitored from your smart phone when you download the Pathfinder app. The handheld in this instance simply acts as the connector between your phone and the collar device
It’s worth noting too that the Pathfinder is cheaper and is designed for dogs 35lbs and up, so that may play a factor in your decision.
If you want the best tracking system, the Astro 430 is probably the best with the most features and capabilities/most advanced technology, whilst the Pathfinder offers a tracking + training system 2 in 1.
– Differences
We’ve already outlined the main differences between the Astro 320 and 430 models – you can check them out here in this Garmin Astro 320 vs 430 Comparison Guide.
But, some of the main differences between the Astros and the Pathfinder are:
The Astros handhelds are where you monitor and control the collar device from, whereas the Pathfinders require you to have a compatible smartphone with a downloaded Pathfinder app that controls and monitors the collar devices on your dog/s
The Pathfinder comes in a tracking + training model, and then has a tracking only model which is the Pathfinder TRX. The Astros are strictly tracking only systems
The Pathfinder offers both static and tone/sound training options
The Pathfinder pairs with Dogtra collar devices, whereas the Astros pair with Garmin collar devices
The Pathfinder can support up to 21 different dog collar devices, whereas the Astro 320 can only support 10. The Astro 430 can support 20
The Pathfinder and Astro 430 have Geofence ability, whereas the Astro 320 doesn’t
The preloaded maps on all 3 are different
The Pathfinder has a 2 second update rate, whereas the Astros come in at around 2.5 seconds
The Pathfinder is for dogs 35lbs and up, whereas the Astros don’t have a weight limit
The Pathfinder batteries are rechargeable, whereas the Astro 430 has optional rechargeable batteries but can also be used with 2 x AA batteries. The Astro 320 only takes 2 x AA batteries
The Pathfinder connector/handheld and collar device are fully waterproof, whereas the Astros are water resistant
The Pathfinder overall is cheaper
– Similarities
We’ve already outlined the main similarities between the Astro 320 and 430 models – you can check them out here in this Garmin Astro 320 vs 430 Comparison Guide.
But, some of the main similarities between the Astros and the Pathfinder are:
Both function on a MURS band frequency
Both have up to a 9 mile range from connector/handheld to collar device (the Pathfinder handheld to smartphone range though is about 33 feet)
Both come with preloaded maps so you don’t have to use cellular data
Both have some level of water rating/protection
Both brands allow you to see where your dog is, how far they’ve travelled, and other relevant dog behavior information including a compass to see what direction they are heading
Both brands require you to purchase additional collars for additional dogs
Both brands can also be bought in bundles with the handheld and the collar device
SportDOG TEK 2.0 vs Garmin Alpha 100 Comparison
– Which Is Better
Overall, in our opinion…
The Garmin Alpha 100 is a more detailed, in depth, comprehensive tracking and training collar system than the SportDOG TEK 2.0.
It comes with more features, and a greater range of features.
When you look at the two systems as a whole, the Alpha 100 feels more reliable in it’s performance and design, and more adept for professionals and the most advanced hunters and outdoor type dog owners
For example, you get the beacon lights in the collar device, and there’s a whole range of extra programs, software and devices you can pair with the Garmin from the Garmin range that aren’t available on the SportDOG TEK 2.0 from the SportDOG range.
We are talking about devices and software like Garmin Drivetrack 70, Garmin GPS Navigator, Birdseye Satellite Imagery, BaseCamp, BaseStation + more.
That’s not saying the TEK 2.0 isn’t a good tracking + training collar system. It’s actually quite good and performs well in it’s own right.
In fact, it outperforms the Alpha 100 in a few areas like for example up to a 10 mile range compared to a 9 mile range, and supporting up to 21 dogs compared to 20 dogs.
From a training perspective, it also has 99 different levels of static, as opposed to the Alpha’s 18 levels.
SportDOG usually have pretty good customer service, and as long as you keep up with the regular software updates for the handheld and collar devices (and remember to register it when you get it), there shouldn’t be any major issues with the TEK 2.0.
With the prices being similar though, and looking at the systems and all their features and capabilities as a whole, if we were buying or wanted to absolute top performing, most comprehensive tracking and training collar system on the market, we’d go with the Garmin Alpha 100 by a small margin.
When you are spending this sort of money (which is ALOT) on this sort of product, you want to know you are getting what you paid for.
We feel that as evidence of our opinion, if you compare the product pages on both the Garmin and SportDOG sites for the Alpha 100 and TEK 2.0 respectively – SportDOG give you some good and detailed information, but Garmin leave you swimming in information, and break down the specifications to the last minute detail.
Check out how detailed our reviews are for each of these collar systems as further evidence – Garmin Alpha 100 Review, and SportDOG TEK 2.0 Review.
That’s the sort of attention to detail we want when making a decision this important.
– Differences
Some of the major differences between the TEK 2.0 and the Alpha 100 are:
The TEK 2.0 provides up to 10 miles range from handheld to collar receiver, whilst the Alpha 100 provides up to 9 miles range
The TEK 2.0 comes in two models – a tracking only model, and a tracking + training model. The Alpha 100 only comes in a tracking + training model
The TEK 2.0 can support/track/train up to 21 different dogs on the system with different collar receivers, whereas the Alpha 100 can support up to 20
The TEK 2.0 requires you to purchase additional SportDOG TEK 2.0 collar receivers, whereas for the Alpha 100 it’s Garmin collar receivers – can be the T5 or the TT15 collars (that come in regular or mini models)
The Alpha 100 has rescue mode for the battery. At 25% battery, the location update of your dog slows down to 2 minutes from 2.5 seconds, to conserve battery.
The Alpha 100 has 18 different levels of static for training and 2 different static systems you can switch between, whereas the TEK 2.0 has one 99 level static system you can use for training
Both systems have different water ratings for water protection – the TEK 2.0 Handheld Device is waterproof and submersible up to 5 feet and the GPS Collar is DryTek® waterproof and submersible to 25 feet. The Alpha 100 on the other hand is IPX7 water rated for the handheld, and the TT15 collar device is water rated up to 10 meters
The Alpha 100 and TT15 can activate beacon lights on the collar which help you see a dog up to 100 yards away in dark conditions
The Alpha 100 comes with Garmin software and is compatible with a whole range of Garmin devices and other Garmin software, whereas the TEK 2.0 comes with SportDOG software
The TT15 collar for the Alpha 100 fits dogs a minimum of a 9.5” (24 cm) in circumference neck size, whilst the TEK 2.0 collar is for dogs 8 pounds or larger with neck sizes 10.75″ – 23″
The Alpha 100 allows you up to 2000 waypoints, whereas the TEK 2.0 allows you 20
The Alpha 100 batteries last about 20 hours per charge in the handheld and 20 – 40 hours in the TT15 collar. The TEK 2.0 batteries last about 24 hours in the collar, and about 12 hours in the handheld
– Similarities
Some of the major similarities between the TEK 2.0 and the Alpha 100 are:
Both the TEK 2.0 and Garmin Alpha offer 2 in 1 tracking and training dog collar systems with a collar receiver and a handheld
Both models use GPS + GLONASS tracking
Both handhelds come preloaded with TOPO maps
Both have similar tracking and training screens – for training you see the dog, the training method button, the static levels etc. For tracking there are several different screens including map, compass and dog info screens. You can see how far the dog has travelled, where they are travelling, average speed and other tracking info
Both handhelds notify you about your dog being ‘On Point’ and ‘Treeing’
Both systems have roughly the same update rate – every 2 to 3 seconds
Both training systems have static, vibration and tone/sound training modes
Both training systems have both continuous and temporary (nick) static stimulation options
Both allow you to set Geofences
Both have lithium ion batteries
– Reviews
– View
If you want to go straight to viewing the TEK 2.0 or Alpha 100, you can do so here:
SportDOG TEK 2.0
SportDOG TEK 2.0 GPS Tracking System (on Chewy)
SportDOG TEK 2.0 GPS Tracking & E-Collar System (on Chewy)
SportDOG TEK 2.0 GPS Tracking Collar (on Amazon) – tracking only model
SportDOG TEK 2.0 GPS Tracking Collar + Training E Collar (on Amazon) – tracking + training model
You can get extra add on collars to add more dogs to the 2.0 system:
SportDOG TEK 2.0 Tracking Only Collar (on Amazon)
SportDOG TEK 2.0 Tracking + Training Collar (on Amazon)
Garmin Alpha 100
Garmin Alpha 100 Handheld (on Amazon)
Garmin Alpha 100 with TT 15 Collar Bundle (on Chewy)
Garmin Alpha 100 (with TT 15 collar) Dog GPS Bundle (on Amazon)
NOTE: if you buy the handheld only, you can buy any of the compatible collars with it to add to the system:
Garmin TT 15 Dog Tracker Collar (on Chewy)
Garmin TT 15 Mini Dog Tracker Collar (on Chewy)
Garmin TT 15 Tracking and Training Collar (on Amazon) – tracking and training collar for medium to larger sized dogs
Garmin TT 15 MINI Tracking and Training Collar (on Amazon) – tracking and training collar for smaller dogs
Garmin T5 GPS Collar (on Amazon) – a tracking only collar
- SportDOG TEK 2.0 vs Garmin Astro 320 and 420
– Which Is Better?
This choice should be very simple.
If you want a tracking + training dog collar system – you’d consider the SportDOG TEK 2.0
If you want a tracking only dog collar system that is more advanced than the Astro 320 – you’d consider the Astro 430. But, SportDOG also does their TEK 2.0 tracking only model. Of the two, they are both good and have their own strengths and weaknesses, but we feel like the Astro 430 has a more detailed mapping system and tracking system than the SportDOG TEK 2.0 for more advanced and professional hunters and outside dog owners.
If you want a tracking only dog collar system that is a less advanced version of the Astro 430 or SportDOG TEK 2.0 Tracking Only Model, and has less features, consider the Astro 320
All you really have to consider is pricing.
You should know three other important things though, especially if you want some more choice or information in general:
We’ve put together a Garmin Astro 320 vs Astro 430 Comparison guide here if you want a tracking ONLY dog collar system and want to know the difference between the two
Garmin actually has a tracking + training dog collar system called the Garmin Alpha 100 – you can check out a Garmin Alpha 100 Review guide here
If you’re interested in comparing the Alpha to the SportDOG as a like for like comparison – you can read a SportDOG TEK 2.0 vs Garmin Alpha 100 Comparison Guide here
We’ve linked you to a SportDOG TEK 2.0 review at the bottom of this guide as well.
– Differences
We’ve already looked at the differences between the Astro models in the Garmin Astro 320 vs Astro 430 Comparison guide.
So, what are the main differences between the Astro models, more specifically the Astro 430 and the SportDOG TEK 2.0? –
The TEK 2.0 has a tracking + training model available
The training features available on the TEK 2.0 include static, vibration and sound/tone training options – obviously the Astros don’t have this
The TEK 2.0 provides up to 10 miles range from handheld to collar receiver, whilst the Astro 430 provides up to 9 miles range
The TEK 2.0 can support/track/train up to 21 different dogs on the system with different collar receivers, whereas the Astro 430 can support up to 20 dogs
The TEK 2.0 requires you to purchase additional SportDOG TEK 2.0 collar receivers, whereas for the Alpha 430 it’s Garmin collar receivers – the T5 is built best for the Astro 430
Both systems have different water ratings for water protection – the TEK 2.0 Handheld Device is waterproof and submersible up to 5 feet and the GPS Collar is DryTek® waterproof and submersible to 25 feet. The Astro 430 on the other hand is IPX7 water rated for the handheld, and the T5 collar device is water resistant up to 32 feet
The Astro 430 comes with Garmin software and is compatible with a whole range of Garmin devices and other Garmin software, whereas the TEK 2.0 comes with SportDOG software
The T5 collar for the Astro 430 fits dogs a minimum of a 9.5” (24 cm) in circumference neck size, whilst the TEK 2.0 collar is for dogs 8 pounds or larger with neck sizes 10.75″ – 23″
The Astro 430 allows you up to 2000 waypoints, whereas the TEK 2.0 allows you 20
The Astro 430 batteries last about 20 hours per charge in the handheld and 20 – 40 hours in the T5 collar. The TEK 2.0 batteries last about 24 hours in the collar, and about 12 hours in the handheld
The Astro 430 allows you to count your coveys
The Astro 430 has city navigator mode and road route modes
The SportDOG TEK 2.0 allows Geofencing
The Astro 430 runs on an optional in-unit rechargeable nimh battery Pack or uses standard AA battery power, whereas the SportDOG TEK 2.0 runs on lithium ion batteries
The SportDOG TEK 2.0 has both HOPTEK and DRYTEK technology – both of which are unique patented technology unique to SportDOG
– Similarities
We’ve already looked at the similarities between the Astro models in the Garmin Astro 320 vs Astro 430 Comparison guide.
So, what are the main differences between the Astro models, more specifically the Astro 430 and the SportDOG TEK 2.0? –
Both are good for hunters, competition dogs, sport dogs, outdoor dogs and those looking for tracking systems
Both come with a tracking only system/model available
Both models use GPS + GLONASS tracking
Both handhelds come preloaded with TOPO maps
Both have similar tracking screens available – there are several different screens including map, compass and dog info screens. You can see how far the dog has travelled, where they are travelling, average speed and other tracking info
Both handhelds notify you about your dog being ‘On Point’ and ‘Treeing’
Both systems have roughly the same update rate – every 2 to 3 seconds
Both allow you to share information wirelessly
Both allow you to run the systems without running or using cellular data
– Reviews
Garmin T5 Collar Receiver Review (compatible with the Garmin Astro 430 or 320)
Garmin Astro 320 vs Astro 430 Comparison
Garmin Alpha 100 vs Garmin Astro Comparison
SportDOG TEK 2.0 vs Garmin Alpha 100 Comparison
– View
You can go straight to viewing each of the dog collar systems here:
SportDOG TEK 2.0
SportDOG TEK 2.0 GPS Tracking System (on Chewy)
SportDOG TEK 2.0 GPS Tracking & E-Collar System (on Chewy)
SportDOG TEK 2.0 GPS Tracking Collar (on Amazon) – tracking only model
SportDOG TEK 2.0 GPS Tracking Collar + Training E Collar (on Amazon) – tracking + training model
You can get extra add on collars to add more dogs to the 2.0 system –
SportDOG TEK 2.0 Tracking Only Collar (on Amazon)
SportDOG TEK 2.0 Tracking + Training Collar (on Amazon)
Garmin Astro 430
Garmin Astro 430 Handheld Only (on Amazon)
Garmin Astro 430/T 5 Collar Bundle (on Amazon)
Garmin Astro 430/T 5 Mini Collar Bundle (on Amazon)
The collar receiver device for the Astro 430 is the Garmin T5 Collar Receiver – check out a Garmin T5 Review here.
Garmin Astro 320
Garmin Astro 320/T5 Collar Bundle (on Amazon)
Best Trackers & GPS Collars For Dogs
Read more about some of the best trackers and GPS dog collars for dogs in this guide.
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