Why it matters
SpotOn is one of the few GPS fences where the subscription really is optional. Without a plan you can still draw fences in the app and the collar enforces them using GPS alone. A tracking plan adds live location, breach alerts, a call-home feature and the collar light.
The Nova Edition is SpotOn's newest collar. SpotOn says it builds on the Omni Edition with tighter boundary accuracy, a dual-band, dual-feed antenna, improved cellular reception and longer battery life.
Who it's for, and who should skip it
Good fit if
- Your property is a third of an acre or larger, including wooded lots
- You want GPS containment without a mandatory monthly bill
- You live where cell coverage is patchy
Look elsewhere if
- Your yard is small (Halo publishes much smaller fence sizes)
- Your dog weighs under 15 lb
- Up-front price is your main constraint
What it really costs to own
SpotOn's plans are optional and add tracking features; the collar works as a fence without them. The table shows the cost if you add a plan.
| Plan (as listed) | Per year | 1 year total | 2 years | 3 years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Year Plan ($101.88 billed yearly) | $101.88 | $1,100.88 | $1,202.76 | $1,304.64 |
| 2-Year Plan ($179.76 every two years) | $89.88 | $1,088.88 | $1,178.76 | $1,268.64 |
| Monthly Plan ($9.95 billed every month) | $119.40 | $1,118.40 | $1,237.80 | $1,357.20 |
Pros and cons
Pros
- No required subscription for fencing
- Works without a cellular connection
- Newest SpotOn hardware (dual-band antenna and receiver)
- 90-day returns
Cons
- $999 device price
- Each dog needs its own collar and, if wanted, its own plan
- Not designed for lots under about a third of an acre
Limitations to weigh
- SpotOn warns with a tone about 10 feet inside the boundary and can add static correction at the boundary. Work with a qualified trainer before relying on any correction-based containment.
- GPS accuracy figures are SpotOn's own; no GPS fence is a physical barrier.
- Battery life is not stated as a figure on the pages we read.
Specifications
Every figure below comes from the source shown in brackets. Where the maker doesn't state something, we say so instead of estimating.
| Price seen | $999 | Maker |
|---|---|---|
| Satellites | 151-satellite network | Maker |
| Accuracy (maker claim) | Under five feet (maker claim, asterisked) | Maker |
| Minimum property (maker) | About 1/3 acre | Maker |
| Minimum dog weight (maker) | 15 lb | Maker |
| Subscription | Optional (fencing works without a plan) | Maker |
| Works without cell service | Yes, fences work without cellular | Maker |
| Warranty | 1 year | Maker |
| Returns | 90-day returns | Maker |
| Multiple dogs | Each dog needs its own collar | Maker |
Alternatives worth comparing
More dog fences & containment we cover
- PetSafe Basic In-Ground Fence System $134.99 seen
- PetSafe Classic In-Ground Fence $174.99 seen
- PetSafe In-Ground Fence $204.99 seen
- PetSafe Stubborn Dog In-Ground Fence $244.99 seen
Final verdict
If you have room for it and hate subscriptions, the Nova is the most complete subscription-optional GPS fence we cover. On a small lot, or on a budget, the Halo Collar 5 or Dogtra's FieldGuard make more sense.
Where to buy
Our links open this exact model's product page. Prices and stock change; check what's included before you order.
Each button opens this exact model. Disclosure