Key Takeaways
Samsara is best for large fleets with AI dashcams, automation, and real-time tracking.
Motive is ideal for small to mid-sized fleets with affordable pricing and compliance.
Samsara has premium pricing, while Motive is budget-friendly.
Both offer plug-and-play installation, but Samsara supports hardwired options.
Samsara focuses on AI safety and automation, while Motive prioritizes compliance.
Choose Samsara for automation and analytics, and Motive for cost-effective compliance.
Choosing the right Electronic Logging Device (ELD) is important for managing fleets and following regulations. Samsara and Motive are top ELD providers in 2025, designed for different fleet sizes. Samsara is best for large and mid-sized fleets, offering GPS tracking, AI safety features, automation, and compliance tools. Motive is a budget-friendly, easy-to-use option that meets FMCSA regulations, making it ideal for small to mid-sized fleets and owner-operators.
This guide compares their features, pricing, installation, usability, pros and cons, and customer reviews to help fleet managers choose the best option.
Samsara Vs Keep Truckin : A Quick Comparision
| Feature | Samsara | KeepTruckin (Motive) |
| Company Type | IoT-based fleet management | Fleet compliance and safety platform |
| Installation | Plug-and-play OBD-II, hardwired for advanced features | Simple plug-and-play setup |
| ELD Compliance | FMCSA-certified, real-time HoS tracking | FMCSA-certified, automatic HoS logging |
| GPS Tracking | Real-time GPS with geofencing, route history | Live GPS tracking with geofencing |
| Dashcam Integration | AI-powered dual-facing dashcams, live alerts | Smart dashcams with AI event detection |
| User Interface | Customizable dashboard, detailed analytics | Simple, mobile-friendly interface |
| Driver Coaching | AI-driven safety analysis, automated coaching alerts | Driver scorecards, coaching tools |
| Fuel & Maintenance | Fuel efficiency tracking, vehicle diagnostics | Fuel tracking, maintenance reminders |
| Cloud Data Storage | Secure cloud-based fleet data storage | Cloud storage with compliance reporting |
| Customer Support | 24/7 dedicated support | Phone and email support (reports of delays) |
| Pricing (Starting at) | $30/month subscription | $20/month subscription |
What Is Motive ELD
Motive is a fleet management platform that provides ELD compliance, GPS tracking, and driver safety solutions. It automates Hours of Service (HoS) logging, route tracking, fuel monitoring, and maintenance alerts.
The system uses plug-and-play hardware for easy installation and cloud-based storage for compliance reporting. It serves trucking companies, delivery fleets, and independent drivers, offering real-time tracking, AI dashcams, and expense management.
How To Install Keep Truckin ELD
- Unbox the Device – Ensure you have the Motive, compatible cable, and installation guide.
- Locate the Diagnostic Port – Find the OBD-II, 6-pin, 9-pin, or J1939 port, usually under the dashboard near the steering wheel.
- Connect the ELD to the Diagnostic Port – Plug the ELD device into the port using the correct adapter if needed.
- Secure the Device – Place the ELD in a fixed position to prevent disconnection or damage during vehicle operation.
- Download and Pair the Motive – Install the Motive Driver App, sign in, and follow the steps to connect the ELD via Bluetooth.
- Verify Connection and Test the System – Check if the ELD records driving time and vehicle data correctly by taking a short test drive.
What Is Feature Of Keep Trucking ELD
- ELD Compliance: FMCSA-certified electronic logging devices for automatic HoS tracking.
- GPS Tracking: Real-time vehicle location monitoring with geofencing.
- Smart Dashcams: AI-driven cameras that detect and record critical events.
- Driver Performance Analysis: Offers driver scorecards and coaching tools to improve safety.
- Fuel Monitoring & Maintenance Alerts: Tracks fuel consumption and provides timely maintenance
Pros And Cons Of Keep Trucking ELD
| Category | Pros | Cons |
| Installation | Easy plug-and-play setup with no complex wiring. | No hardwired option for additional security. |
| User Experience | Simple interface with an intuitive mobile and desktop dashboard. | Limited customization options for advanced fleet management. |
| Pricing | Affordable upfront cost and flexible subscription plans. | Some advanced features require premium plans. |
| Compliance | FMCSA-certified ELD with automatic HoS logging. |
Bluetooth connectivity may drop occasionally, requiring manual reconnection.
|
| GPS Tracking | Real-time location tracking with geofencing. | GPS accuracy lags in some areas compared to high-end providers. |
| Dashcams | AI-powered dual-facing cameras for driver safety monitoring. | Some AI features require additional costs. |
| Fuel & Maintenance | Tracks fuel consumption, vehicle diagnostics, and maintenance reminders. | Lacks predictive maintenance tools found in higher-end systems. |
| Expense Management | Offers free Motive Card for fuel and expense tracking. | Expense tracking features are limited in the basic plan. |
| Customer Support | Phone and email support available. | Slow response times reported by some users. |
| Scalability | Best for small to mid-sized fleets and owner-operators. | Lacks advanced automation for large enterprise fleets. |
GPS tracking is an essential component of every fleet; it is nearly impossible to carry out operations without one! The main features of GPS remain the same everywhere- it enables you to track and manage the location of all the vehicles in your fleet. It allows you to have one eye on the road alongside the driver. You can plan routes, improvise if there is traffic or an emergency, and assign tasks to the closest drivers- saving time and fuel. It also improves customer satisfaction due to faster deliveries and pick-ups.
What Is Samsara
Samsara is a cloud-based fleet management platform that provides Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs), real-time GPS tracking, AI-powered dashcams, fuel monitoring, and compliance solutions. It is designed for large and mid-sized fleets to enhance operational efficiency, ensure regulatory compliance, and improve driver safety.
Samsara integrates IoT (Internet of Things) technology with AI-driven analytics, allowing fleet managers to monitor vehicle performance, track drivers, optimize fuel usage, and reduce operational costs. It is widely used in industries such as logistics, construction, transportation, and delivery services.
How To Install Samsara ELD
Installing Samsara ELD is a straightforward process and requires minimal technical knowledge. Follow these steps to set it up:
Unbox the Device
- Ensure the package contains the Samsara Vehicle Gateway (VG), mounting accessories, and necessary cables.
Locate the Diagnostic Port
- Find the OBD-II, 9-pin, 6-pin, or J1939 diagnostic port under the dashboard or near the steering wheel.
Connect the Vehicle Gateway
- Plug the Samsara VG into the diagnostic port.
- If needed, use an adapter to ensure compatibility with different vehicle types.
Secure the Device
- Mount the Vehicle Gateway in a secure location to prevent accidental disconnections.
Install the Samsara Driver App
- Download the Samsara Driver App from the App Store or Google Play.
- Log in with your fleet credentials.
Pair the Device with the App
- Open the app and connect to the Samsara Vehicle Gateway via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
- Follow the on-screen instructions for activation and configuration.
Verify Connection
- Confirm that the ELD is logging driving hours and vehicle diagnostics correctly.
- Take a test drive to ensure proper data synchronization.Once installed,
What Is Feature Of Samsara ELD
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- Real-Time GPS Tracking – Provides live vehicle location monitoring with geofencing and route history.
- FMCSA-Compliant ELD – Ensures automatic Hours of Service (HoS) logging for regulatory compliance.
- AI-Powered Dashcams – Detects distracted driving, hard braking, and other unsafe behaviors.
- Driver Behavior Monitoring – Tracks speeding, harsh braking, and turns with AI-based alerts.
- Fuel & Maintenance Tracking – Monitors fuel usage, engine diagnostics, and scheduled maintenance.
- Cloud-Based Storage – Securely stores ELD logs, dashcam footage, and fleet data for easy access.
- Automated Compliance Reporting – Generates HoS reports, IFTA fuel tax logs, and violation alerts.
- Mobile & Web Dashboard – Provides fleet managers access to real-time data from any device.
- Custom Alerts & Notifications – Sends instant alerts for safety violations, fuel waste, and engine faults.
Pros And Cons Of Samsara ELD
| Category | Pros | Cons |
| Fleet Management | Comprehensive tracking, AI-powered dashcams, and automated compliance tools. | Higher cost compared to basic ELD solutions. |
| Safety Features | AI-powered cameras detect distracted driving, speeding, and collisions. | Some advanced safety features require additional hardware purchases. |
| GPS & Route Tracking | Real-time GPS with geofencing and route history playback. | May require a strong internet connection for accurate real-time updates. |
| Compliance & Reporting | FMCSA-certified with automated HoS logging and IFTA fuel tax reports. | HoS editing restrictions may limit flexibility for drivers. |
| Installation | Plug-and-play setup with OBD-II or hardwired options for enhanced security. | Hardwired installation may require professional assistance. |
| Cloud Storage & Data Access | Secure cloud-based storage for logs, dashcam footage, and fleet performance reports. | Limited offline access to cloud-stored data. |
| User Experience | Intuitive dashboard with mobile and desktop access. | Some users find the interface complex at first due to extensive features. |
| Customer Support | 24/7 technical support with extensive online resources. |
Customer service response times can vary depending on issue complexity.
|
| Scalability | Best for large and mid-sized fleets needing advanced telematics. | Expensive for small fleets or independent owner-operators. |
Which One You Should Choose
| Use Case | Best Option | Why? |
| Large Fleets | Samsara | Offers scalable fleet management, real-time GPS tracking, and advanced automation tools. |
| Small to Mid-Sized Fleets | Motive | More affordable with simple compliance tracking and easy-to-use interface. |
| Owner-Operators | Motive | Provides cost-effective solutions, quick installation, and flexible contracts. |
| ELD Compliance & FMCSA Rules | Both | Both Samsara and Motive are FMCSA-certified, ensuring automatic HoS logging and compliance. |
| Advanced GPS Tracking | Samsara | Provides real-time location updates, route history playback, and geofencing. |
| Ease of Installation | Motive | Features a plug-and-play setup requiring no complex wiring. |
| AI-Powered Dashcams & Safety | Samsara | AI-driven dual-facing dashcams detect distracted driving, speeding, and risky behavior. |
| Budget-Friendly Solution | Motive | Offers lower upfront costs and flexible pricing models for smaller fleets. |
| Fleet Automation & Reporting | Samsara | Provides automated compliance alerts, IFTA fuel tax reports, and vehicle diagnostics. |
| Customer Support | Samsara | Offers 24/7 customer service and faster response times. |
| Scalability for Growth | Samsara | Best for large enterprises needing an all-in-one telematics solution. |
| Simple User Experience | Motive | Features an intuitive dashboard, mobile-friendly app, and easy log management. |
Conclusion
Both companies provide unique features and have their own USPs. We strongly recommend Samsara for small fleets. Its personalized nature and the intuitive database will be of great benefit to them. Samsara is a good choice for big fleets as well. Its wide variety of features provides some benefits to fleets of all industries.
Motive has a loyal customer roster and many customer ratings befitting its claim. It does not have many unique features but is a simple and reliable solution to all your needs. It is also more cost-effective. With all the details covered in this article, you can make an informed decision for all your telematics hardware and invest in the right solution for your fleet.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the similarities between Samsara and Motive?
Ans. Both Samsara and Motive offer features such as GPS tracking, vehicle diagnostics, driver safety monitoring, and electronic logging devices (ELDs). They both also provide mobile apps for drivers and offer real-time data and analytics.
2. What are the differences between Samsara and Motive?
Ans. Some of the differences between Samsara and Motive include pricing options, customer support, and integrations with other software and systems. Samsara also offers more advanced AI-powered features such as predictive maintenance and fuel efficiency monitoring.
3. How easy is it to use Samsara and Motive ?
Ans. Both Samsara and Motive offer user-friendly interfaces and mobile apps, but Samsara may have a steeper learning curve due to its more advanced features. KeepTruckin is generally considered to be a more straightforward and easy-to-use option.
4. Which company has better customer support: Samsara or Motive?
Ans. Samsara has a reputation for offering excellent customer support, with a dedicated support team available 24/7. Motive also offers customer support via phone and email, but some users have reported longer wait times and less helpful responses.
5. What are the pricing options for Samsara and Motive?
Ans. Samsara’s pricing is based on the specific needs of your business, with custom quotes available upon request. Motive offers a range of pricing plans starting at $20 per vehicle per month.
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.