The best ELD device in 2025 is Matrack ELD due to its affordable pricing, seamless installation, real-time GPS tracking, and fleet management tools. It ensures FMCSA compliance, making it the top choice for fleet managers and independent truckers.
We tested and reviewed the top 10 ELD devices based on compliance, usability, GPS tracking and fleet management capabilities. Below is a detailed breakdown of the best ELD devices, their features, pricing, pros, and cons.
How to Choose the Right ELD Device
Selecting the right ELD device depends on your fleet size, budget, compliance requirements, and additional features needed for fleet management. Here’s what to consider when choosing an ELD:
1. FMCSA Compliance
Ensure the ELD is FMCSA-certified to avoid penalties and ensure full compliance with Hours of Service (HOS) regulations. Check the FMCSA’s registered ELD list to verify the device.
2. Installation Type
- Plug & Play ELDs – Easy to install, connects via the OBD-II or J1939 port, ideal for small fleets and independent drivers.
- Hardwired ELDs – More stable and secure, designed for large fleets needing tamper-proof compliance tracking.
3. GPS & Real-Time Tracking
An ELD with built-in GPS tracking provides real-time vehicle location, route history, and geofencing alerts, helping optimize fleet operations.
4. Connectivity & Data Transfer
- Bluetooth ELDs – Wireless, ideal for small fleets.
- Cellular & Wi-Fi ELDs – Better for real-time tracking and large fleet management.
- USB-Based ELDs – Manual log transfer, best for compliance-only needs.
5. Fleet Management Features
Choose an ELD that offers:
- Driver Behavior Monitoring – Tracks harsh braking, speeding, and fuel consumption.
- Automated Compliance Reports – Generates IFTA fuel tax reports, HOS violations, and safety alerts.
- Maintenance & Vehicle Diagnostics – Identifies faults to prevent costly breakdown.
Our Top Picks For The Best ELD Devices In 2025
| ELD Device | Best For | FMCSA Certified | Installation | Pricing (Device + Monthly Fee) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Matrack ELD | Best Overall | ✅ Yes | Plug & Play | $50 + $14.95/month | GPS Tracking, HOS Logs, Fuel Reports, Fleet Analytics |
| Garmin eLog | No Subscription Fees | ✅ Yes | Plug & Play | $249 (One-time purchase) | Free App, USB/Bluetooth Data Transfer, No Monthly Fee |
| Samsara ELD | Best for Fleet Management | ✅ Yes | Plug & Play | $129 + $30/month | AI Dashcam, Real-Time Tracking, Fuel & Safety Reports |
| Motive | Best User Experience | ✅ Yes | Plug & Play | $150 + $25/month | Intuitive App, GPS Tracking, Geofencing, Alerts |
| EROAD Ehubo ELD | Best for Compliance Accuracy | ✅ Yes | Hardwired | $400 + $35/month | Tamper-Proof Logs, Reliable HOS Data, GPS Tracking |
| Rand McNally ELD50 | Best for Small Fleets | ✅ Yes | Plug & Play | $150 + $20/month | Compliance Alerts, Fuel Management, GPS |
| BigRoad DashLink | Budget-Friendly Option | ✅ Yes | Plug & Play | $100 + $19.50/month | Easy-to-Use Interface, Basic Compliance Tracking |
| Geotab Drive ELD | Best for Enterprise Fleets | ✅ Yes | Plug & Play | Custom Pricing | Driver Coaching, Advanced Fleet Analytics |
| Stoneridge EZ-ELD | Easiest to Transfer Between Trucks | ✅ Yes | Plug & Play | $169 + $15/month | Quick Swap Feature, Multiple Vehicle Compatibility |
| Azuga ELD | Best for Small Businesses | ✅ Yes | Plug & Play | $50 + $22/month | Integrated Fuel Tracking, Safety Scorecards |
How We Tested ELD Devices
We tested ELD devices for FMCSA compliance, installation ease, HOS accuracy, GPS tracking, connectivity, mobile app performance, fleet management tools, pricing, customer support, and driver usability. Installation speed, log security, and tamper resistance were verified.
GPS tracking, Bluetooth, USB, and cellular stability were assessed. Fleet tools, vehicle diagnostics, and compliance automation were tested. Pricing, hidden fees, and customer support response were analyzed. Final rankings reflect real-world performance, compliance accuracy, and cost efficiency.
Best ELD Devices For 2025
Matrack ELD (Best Overall)
Matrack ELD offers affordable, FMCSA-compliant tracking with real-time GPS, automatic HOS logging, and fuel monitoring. It provides seamless installation and a low monthly cost, making it the top choice for fleets and independent truckers.
Product Information:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Device Type | Plug & Play |
| Connectivity | Cellular & Bluetooth |
| HOS Logging | Automatic, FMCSA-certified logs |
| GPS Tracking | Yes, with geofencing |
| Fleet Management | Fuel tracking, vehicle diagnostics, speed alerts |
| Mobile App | Yes, available for iOS & Android |
| Data Transfer | Cellular & Bluetooth |
| Customer Support | 24/7 Support |
| Pricing | $50 + $14.95/month |
Key Features:
- Real-time GPS tracking with geofencing
- Automatic HOS compliance tracking
- Custom alerts for speeding, harsh braking, and fuel usage
- Easy-to-use mobile app
Pros & Cons:
✅ Pros:
✔️ Affordable pricing
✔️ Strong fleet management tools
✔️ Simple plug-and-play setup
❌ Cons:
✖️ No built-in dashcam
✖️ Limited third-party integrations
Verdict:
Best for truckers needing a budget-friendly and comprehensive ELD solution.
2. Garmin eLog (Best for No Subscription Fees)
Garmin eLog provides lifetime FMCSA compliance with a one-time payment. It supports Bluetooth and USB connectivity, making it ideal for truckers who prefer to avoid ongoing costs.
Product Information:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Device Type | Plug & Play |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth & USB |
| HOS Logging | Automatic log recording |
| GPS Tracking | No |
| Fleet Management | Basic HOS tracking only |
| Mobile App | Yes, free Garmin eLog app |
| Data Transfer | USB & Bluetooth |
| Customer Support | Limited Support |
| Pricing | $249 (One-time purchase) |
Key Features:
- No monthly fees
- Bluetooth and USB data transfer
- Free mobile app for log tracking
Pros & Cons:
✅ Pros:
✔️ No subscription costs
✔️ Easy compliance tracking
✔️ Reliable Bluetooth connectivity
❌ Cons:
✖️ No real-time GPS tracking
✖️ Limited fleet management features
Verdict:
Best for owner-operators who want a no-subscription ELD solution.
BigRoad DashLink (Best Budget-Friendly Option)
BigRoad DashLink is a low-cost ELD that provides basic HOS compliance tracking and Bluetooth connectivity, making it ideal for budget-conscious drivers.
Product Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Device Type | Plug & Play |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth |
| HOS Logging | Automatic log recording |
| GPS Tracking | No |
| Fleet Management | Basic compliance tracking |
| Mobile App | Yes, BigRoad app |
| Data Transfer | Bluetooth |
| Customer Support | Limited support |
| Pricing | $100 + $19.50/month |
Key Features
- Basic HOS Compliance Tracking – Ensures FMCSA compliance.
- Easy Installation – Plug-and-play setup.
- Low Monthly Cost – Affordable option for owner-operators.
Pros And Cons
✅ Pros:
✔️ Budget-friendly pricing.
✔️ Simple and easy-to-use interface.
✔️ No long-term contract required.
❌ Cons:
✖️ No GPS tracking.
✖️ Limited fleet management tools.
Verdict
Best for drivers looking for a low-cost, simple compliance solution.
Geotab Drive ELD (Best for Enterprise Fleets)
Geotab Drive ELD is a premium fleet management solution with advanced GPS tracking, driver coaching tools, and AI-powered analytics, making it ideal for large enterprise fleets.
Product Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Device Type | Plug & Play |
| Connectivity | Cellular |
| HOS Logging | Automatic log recording |
| GPS Tracking | Yes, real-time tracking |
| Fleet Management | AI-powered driver coaching, analytics |
| Mobile App | Yes, Geotab Drive app |
| Data Transfer | Cellular |
| Customer Support | 24/7 support |
| Pricing | Custom Pricing |
Key Features Of Geotab ELD
- AI-Powered Analytics – Helps improve driver safety.
- Customizable Fleet Reports – Tracks vehicle performance.
- Real-Time GPS Tracking – Live location monitoring.
Pros And Cons Of Geo Tab
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
✔️ Advanced fleet analytics and tracking.
✔️ AI-powered driver coaching tools.
✔️ Customizable reporting and compliance automation.
❌ Cons:
✖️ Expensive for small fleets.
✖️ Requires enterprise-level investment.
Stoneridge EZ-ELD (Easiest to Transfer Between Trucks)
Stoneridge EZ-ELD is a compact and easy-to-use ELD designed for drivers who frequently switch vehicles. It features a quick swap function, allowing it to be moved between trucks without reinstallation. It provides FMCSA-compliant logging and basic fleet management tools, making it a great option for contract drivers and small fleet operators.
Product Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Device Type | Plug & Play |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth |
| HOS Logging | Automatic, FMCSA-certified logs |
| GPS Tracking | No |
| Fleet Management | Limited, basic compliance tracking |
| Mobile App | Yes, iOS & Android compatible |
| Data Transfer | Bluetooth |
| Customer Support | Standard business hours support |
| Pricing | $169 + $15/month |
Key Features
- Quick Swap Technology – Allows easy transfer between multiple trucks.
- Basic HOS Compliance – FMCSA-certified automatic log tracking.
- User-Friendly App – Simplifies compliance tracking for drivers.
Pros And Cons
✅ Pros:
✔️ Quick swap feature makes it ideal for multi-vehicle drivers.
✔️ Simple installation and easy-to-use interface.
✔️ Affordable option with a reasonable monthly fee.
❌ Cons:
✖️ No GPS tracking feature.
✖️ Limited fleet management tools.
Verdict
Best for drivers who operate multiple vehicles and need a portable, FMCSA-certified ELD.
Azuga ELD (Best for Small Businesses)
Azuga ELD is an affordable and efficient ELD solution designed for small businesses and fleet managers. It offers real-time fuel tracking, driver safety monitoring, and automated compliance reporting.
Product Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Device Type | Plug & Play |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth & Cellular |
| HOS Logging | Automatic log recording |
| GPS Tracking | Yes |
| Fleet Management | Driver scorecards, fuel tracking, compliance monitoring |
| Mobile App | Yes, iOS & Android compatible |
| Data Transfer | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and cellular |
| Customer Support | 24/7 support available |
| Pricing | $50 + $22/month |
Key Features
- Integrated Fuel Tracking – Helps optimize fuel usage and costs.
- Driver Safety Scorecards – Tracks and ranks driver performance.
- Fleet Management Integration – Includes compliance alerts and monitoring.
Pros And Cons
✅ Pros:
✔️ Affordable pricing, making it ideal for small businesses.
✔️ Driver scorecards and safety monitoring for improved compliance.
✔️ Real-time fuel tracking to reduce operational costs.
❌ Cons:
✖️ Lacks advanced analytics compared to premium ELDs.
✖️ Requires a subscription for full functionality.
Benefits of ELD Solutions
Using an ELD device provides multiple benefits for fleets and drivers:
Compliance with FMCSA Regulations
- Automated HOS tracking ensures 100% compliance with the ELD mandate.
- Reduces the risk of fines, penalties, and logbook violations.
Enhanced Fleet Safety & Driver Performance
- Monitors harsh braking, speeding, and distracted driving.
- Sends real-time alerts for unsafe driving behaviors.
Improved Fuel Efficiency & Cost Savings
- Tracks idling time, fuel consumption, and route efficiency.
- Helps lower operational costs and reduce fuel wastage.
Real-Time GPS Tracking & Fleet Optimization
- Monitors vehicle locations, prevents unauthorized trips, and enhances dispatch efficiency.
- Helps businesses deliver goods on time and improve customer satisfaction.
Automated IFTA Fuel Tax Reporting
- Eliminates manual data entry errors and simplifies tax compliance.
- Saves time by generating accurate fuel and mileage reports.
Reduces Paperwork & Manual Errors
- Digital logkeeping reduces administrative workload and increases accuracy.
- Ensures instant access to compliance reports, inspections, and duty logs.
Prevents Downtime & Maintenance Costs
- Tracks engine performance and vehicle health.
- Alerts fleet managers about potential issues before they become costly repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is an ELD and why is it required?
An ELD (Electronic Logging Device) automatically records driver Hours of Service (HOS) and vehicle movement to ensure FMCSA compliance and prevent violations.
2. How does an ELD help with compliance and safety?
An ELD reduces logbook errors, prevents HOS violations, and improves road safety by monitoring driver fatigue, speeding, and vehicle diagnostics.
3. Are all commercial drivers required to use an ELD?
Most commercial drivers must use an ELD, except those with short-haul exemptions, vehicles manufactured before 2000, and certain agricultural transport drivers.
4. How much does an ELD cost, and are there monthly fees?
ELDs range from $50 to $400 upfront, with monthly fees between $15 and $35, while Garmin eLog offers a one-time purchase with no monthly fees.
5. What should I do if my ELD malfunctions?
Drivers must report the issue within 24 hours, use paper logs temporarily, and get the ELD fixed within 8 days to stay compliant.
James Johnson is a former truck driver who now works as a writer, specializing in the trucking industry. With over 15 years of experience on the road, James has a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities faced by truck drivers and the trucking industry as a whole. His writing focuses on issues such as safety, regulation, and the latest industry trends. His work has been featured in several trucking publications and he has received recognition for his contributions to the industry. In his free time, James still enjoys being around trucks and often attends truck shows and other industry events.