The Halo Collar 4 vs. SpotOn Collar debate has been a hot topic among dog parents for good reason—both offer advanced features, but choosing the right one can be tricky. As someone who has personally used both collars, I’ve put together a side-by-side comparison to help you make an informed decision based on your dog’s needs and your lifestyle.
In this article, you will find:
- Key Features – Activity tracking, Connectivity, Device support, GPS tracking, virtual fence, Customization, etc.
- Strengths and weaknesses of both collars.
- Most importantly, I have experience with the Halo and Spot On Collar.
Let’s check out the comprehensive comparison below!
Halo Collar 4 Vs Spot On Collar: In A Nutshell (2025)
| Category | Halo Collar 4 | SpotOn Collar |
|---|---|---|
| Collar Size | 11 inches to 30.5 inches | 10 inches – 26 inches |
| Battery Life | 24–30+ hours | 14–22 hours |
| Time to fully charge | Approx. 2 Hrs. | Approx. 1 Hr. |
| App Connectivity | ✅ | ✅ (subscription optional) |
| Waterproof | IP67 certified | IP67 certified |
| Coverage Area | 30 square feet to 1000 Acres | ½ Acre to 1,000+ Acres |
| Fences | 20 Fences | 20 fences stored / unlimited via app |
| Fence Overlapping | ❌ | ✅ |
| GPS Tracking | ✅ | ✅ (RTK-enhanced) |
| Static Correction Levels | 15 levels | 30 Levels |
| Activity Tracking | ✅ | ❌ |
| Wi-Fi Required | ❌ | ❌ |
| Price Required/Optional | $549 + mandatory subscription | $999 (subscription optional) |
| Subscription Plan | Mandatory (starts at $5.99/month) | Optional (starts at $5.95/month) |
| Training Program | Only with the gold plan | Included |
| Available Colors | Gray, White | Gray |
Halo Collar 4
The Halo Collar 4 allows users to set up to 20 custom fences via its app, using GPS mapping or by walking the boundary. These fences activate automatically when the collar is turned on.
Halo’s recent updates include improved GPS accuracy, faster fence setup, and a better app experience. However, overlapping fences are still not supported, limiting their flexibility for users who want complex zones.
Halo is a practical solution for pet parents needing basic training and containment in both indoor and outdoor environments.
SpotOn Collar
SpotOn remains a top-tier solution for large properties in 2025. It allows users to create unlimited fences and store 20 on the collar, either by walking the perimeter or drawing it in the app.
Unlike Halo, SpotOn supports overlapping/intersecting fences and individual activation. It also boasts RTK-enhanced GPS for sub-3-foot accuracy, ideal for farms or vast rural areas.
SpotOn doesn’t require a subscription for core functions, though advanced tracking features are unlocked with an optional plan.
Halo Collar Vs SpotOn Collar: Key Features Comparison
Here, I have shared my analysis of the key characteristics that will help you understand the similarities and differences between the Halo collar and the SpotOn collar.
Collar Equipment
The following features represent the structure and design of the Halo and SpotOn collars:
1. Size
Having Large, medium, and small sizes, dogs with Neck sizes ranging from 11 inches to 30.5 inches can fit into Halo’s collar. SpotOn can now fit neck sizes ranging from 10 to 26 inches, thanks to the addition of a small collar to its collection. Both collars include easy rechargeable batteries and are waterproof.
2. Colors
The Halo collar comes in four colors: pink, yellow, black, and white. On the other hand, the spot-on collar is only available in grey. Previously, Halo Collar had a few special edition colors, which I really liked, but they’re not available anymore.
3. Adjustments And Customization
When trying out the collars, I realized the Spot On collar seems to adjust and put on your dog easily. However, despite having an easy collar structure and design, the Halo collar took a bit of time to adjust the straps and fit right on my dog’s neck due to the fabric cover that comes before you put the collar on the dog.
The Halo collar has a clasp to be adjusted, while the spot-on collar has a pop-out clip in which you can put the holding ring as you want. However, the Spot on collar has a limited number of holes, whereas the Halo collar is more fine-tuned.
4. Battery Life & Charging
You can expect the Halo collar’s battery to last up to 24 hours and the Spot On collar’s battery up to 22 hours while using containment mode. Also, if you are using the tracking mode, it will last 14 hours with the Spot On collar.
When I tested and tracked the time both collars took to charge, I found both of them to charge equally fast and only took about an hour to be fully charged. However, the SpotOn collar needs a transmit power base, which will be difficult to replace if you lose it compared to the USB-C Cord Halo uses.
5. Comfort With Durability
The latest Halo 3 collar has a magnetic charger that can endure any kind of chewing and rough handling. On the other hand, the SpotOn collar has a more flexible material that takes the shape of your dog’s neck.
Halo is made out of fabric, which gets wet and can become uneasy for your dog as it stays wet for a while, unlike the rubber material of SpotOn Collar.
Simply put, the SpotOn collar is a little less complex than the Halo collar.
Network Coverage
I’ve tested both collars for accuracy, range, and coverage. Now, let’s delve into the details:
1. Accuracy
The built-in antennas on the collars receive location and timing data from multiple constellation satellites used by both firms. There are some limitations with the Global Navigation Satellite System, which includes GPS.
The precision of the Halo collar was not consistent when we first tested it. However, after testing the updated Halo 3 Collar, we saw a significant improvement in both response time and position accuracy.
This is most likely a result of their technology, which combines GPS satellites with Bluetooth and WiFi signals.
2. Range
SpotOn requires at least half an acre to function successfully. However, Halo can be used in a smaller yard (0.2 acres).
The virtual Fence lines cannot be too close together since SpotOn also needs room between barriers. SpotOn was created with larger properties in mind as a result (and requires a greater minimum-sized zone).
3. Coverage
After testing them both, I found that using SpotOn to put up a fence boundary was far simpler than using any other method. I just had to walk around the area I wanted to contain.
I discovered that Halo was less precise and user-friendly, making the setup process a little annoying.
The Posts could be dropped, but they weren’t placed correctly. So, we had to figure out how to drag and drop them in the proper place.
In addition, SpotOn more readily conforms to the geometry of your space, while Halo employs more straight fence lines.
When it comes to building fence zones quickly and efficiently, SpotOn comes out on top. In addition, it supports a greater number of zones and makes zone creation slightly simpler than in Halo.
Key Components In Halo Collar Vs. SpotOn Collar
The following is a comparison of the key technical components of the Halo collar and SpotOn collar.
1. Alerts
The Halo and SpotOn collars both have several correction levels, such as vibration, static, tone, etc. However, the SpotOn collar has a total of 30 options, whereas the Halo collar has only 15 options.
Both collars have a loud enough tone when the collar alerts you. However, SpotOn’s tone goes a little louder than Halo’s.
Nonetheless, the vibration levels on them are equally effective while allowing you to customize the intensity levels. Moreover, despite having an intense shock correction, it is not painful to the dog.
2. Safe Zones
Both collars have the ability to save up to 20 safe zones or virtual fences. However, you will need a Bluetooth beacon if you wish to create a ‘keep out’ zone when using Halo. You can also purchase an additional beacon to create more ‘keep out’ zones.
On the other hand, for SpotOn, you will need to create unlimited no-go zones or home zones through the smartphone app itself.
3. Smartphone Apps
The smartphone apps to operate Halo Collar and SpotON Collar let you interact with your dog and control your fences. Both provide video training to assist you in setting up the collars and acclimating your dog to the fencing system.
You can add more than one pet and turn the fences on and off with both. While tracking is an add-on for SpotOn, it is included with the Halo plans.
Additionally, Halo’s collar tracks your dog’s activity level, indicating how much time it spends moving around vs sleeping, as well as how it reacts to praise.
4. Training Method
The Halo app has a bunch of tutorials, detailed videos, guidance, and techniques for helping train your dog, and dog training professionals like Cesar Millan support it.
You can discover how to train your dog to react to alerts by watching the numerous videos and lessons available on SpotOn. Apart from that, SpotOn’s software is more suited for tracking and containment than for training. Hence, I find the Halo Collar superior for continuous behavior change.
5. Portability
Both devices are remarkably portable and suitable for any type of environment. However, SpotOn also offers a unique feature called Forest Mode that you can activate if your yard is heavily covered with trees. It increases the sensitivity of GPS when it is turned on.
Additionally, Halo features PrecisionGPS AI software, which distinguishes between direct signals and those reflecting off of barriers (trees or buildings) using machine learning.
SpotOn can only be used somewhere that is covered by the cell phone carrier of your choice (AT&T, Verizon, etc.)
Therefore, it cannot connect if you travel to a place lacking that specific service. It depends on cellphone service for tracking because it lacks built-in WiFi.
Pros And Cons of Halo Collar And SpotOn Collar
After comparing the features, here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each system:
Halo Collar Pros And Cons
Here are the pros and cons of the Halo Collar for a more precise comparison of the collar:
Pros
- More affordable upfront than SpotOn
- Simple app-based or walk-the-boundary setup
- Great for tracking activity and training progress
- Accurate GPS with improved response in 2025
- Offers sessions with Cesar Millan
- IP67 waterproof rating
- Lightweight and durable design
- Doesn’t need Wi-Fi for operation
- Includes 15 correction levels
- 30-day gold plan trial included
- Available in multiple sizes and colors
Cons
- Only 20 fences can be stored
- Doesn’t support overlapping fences
- A gold subscription is required for full training features
- Needs recharging every 1–2 days
Spot On Collar Pros And Cons
Here are the pros and cons of the SpotOn Collar for a more precise comparison of the collar:
Pros
- Extremely accurate RTK GPS tracking
- Supports overlapping and intersecting fences
- Store 20 fences on-collar; create unlimited via app
- Sub-3-foot GPS precision
- Fully waterproof (IP67)
- Subscription is not required for basic features
- 30 correction levels for customization
- Easy setup via app or boundary walk
- Lightweight, rugged design
- Works well even in wooded or remote areas
- Includes a free training program
Cons
- Higher upfront cost ($999)
- Requires at least ½ acre for operation
- Battery lasts slightly less than Halo (14–22 hrs)
- Advanced features require a subscription if needed
Comparison Of Training Programs: Halo Collar Vs. SpotOn Collar
You and your dog need some instruction to ensure your GPS collar is as efficient as possible.
When a GPS Collar is purchased, both Halo and SpotOn provide professional training.
You can access this course through the Halo app if you subscribe to the Gold Plan. Halo also provides customers with exclusive training opportunities.
YouTube makes it simple to access the 3-step training procedure for SpotOn. Additionally, the business provides a free 30-minute session with a licensed SpotOn trainer if you have any issues.
Performance Comparison: Halo Collar Vs. SpotOn Collar
Nothing in technology and performance is flawless, and the Halo & SpotOn collars are no exception.
Regarding the GPS satellite fence system, both collars have received criticism for imprecise borders and dropped GPS signals.
However, each collar appears to deal with unique issues as well. Some people have trouble activating the SpotOn system, and its software frequently crashes.
On the other hand, Halo’s app has received many great ratings. However, it occasionally experiences a delay in notifications and even false-positive alarms.
Halo has a track record of paying attention to client feedback, though. In response to customer feedback, they released the upgraded Halo 2 in late 2021.
The Halo 2+, which had even more enhancements, was then released in 2022. It featured greater GPS and position accuracy as well as improved cellular, WiFi, and Bluetooth connections.
Halo collars have an advantage in terms of performance because they pay attention to their clients and implement any adjustments they advise.
Price of Halo Collar And SpotOn Collar
Smart dog collars are not inexpensive, but when it comes to affordability, there are key differences between Halo and SpotOn.
Halo Collar Your dog is safe everywhere  $699
| SpotOn Collar Goodbye wires. Hello Freedom  $1295
|
Even if SpotOn GPS fences offer more capabilities than Halo, the significant price difference still matters, especially when factoring in subscription plans.
The $549 Halo Collar 4 includes a 60-day money-back guarantee and a one-year warranty. A free 30-day trial of the gold subscription is provided, after which users must choose a plan:
- Basic Plan: $5.99/month (includes unlimited cellular data)
- Silver Plan: $9.99/month (adds enhanced tracking)
- Gold Plan: $29.99/month (includes premium training)
On the other hand, the SpotOn Collar is priced at $999. Subscription is optional and only required for added features like tracking history and cellular connectivity:
- Monthly Plan: $9.95/month
- 1-Year Plan: $7.95/month (billed annually)
- 2-Year Plan: $5.95/month (billed biennially)
While SpotOn offers advanced fencing and RTK-level GPS accuracy, Halo remains a more budget-friendly choice for users who prioritize training features and lower upfront costs.
My Experience With Halo Collar
The Halo Dog Collar satisfied and exceeded my expectations and has proven to be an essential tool for pet protection. It distinguishes itself in the market with its modern technology and sturdy, elegant style.
I was first drawn to the sophisticated LED lighting system, which offers excellent low-light vision.
This function is essential for outside activities like walks in the evening because it makes sure my pet is secure and visible even in poorly lit areas. The customizable light modes are equally flexible to different situations and tastes.
In addition, the Halo Dog Collar has a powerful GPS tracking system that provides real-time location tracking via an easy-to-use smartphone.
Moreover, the collar’s dependable, lengthy battery life has allayed worries about unexpected power loss during prolonged outdoor activity.
My pet has been comfortable wearing the collar all day because of its soft yet sturdy fabric. My dog can also move around freely and without hindrance because the straps are adjustable to create a secure fit without causing any discomfort.
Its waterproof design also handles unforeseen weather changes, making it appropriate for various outdoor environments.
Although the collar is a little expensive, it is definitely worth it.
My Experience With Spot On Collar
Our dogs now have complete freedom on our 56 acres thanks to these collars, and I can monitor them in real-time using the app, which gives me so much peace of mind because my dogs love to roam around when they’re alone.
The first item that has effectively kept our dogs at home is this product. And if necessary, changing or adjusting the fence lines is quite simple.
I adore that SpotOn has added new capabilities, such as the collar’s ability to play a tone for summoning the dog home from a distance and that I can watch my dogs work in the app even when they are on the property.
I’m amazed at how simple the setup procedure was overall. Ultimately, these collars have seen a lot of abuse from our dogs, who live outside in the rain, snow, and dirt, and even while swimming in the pond.
What Do People Say About Halo Collar And SpotOn Collar? (User Reviews)
Since you saw my experience with the Halo Collar and Spot On Collar, it’s only fair to see what other users say about these collars. Therefore, to give you extra insights, below I have shared a few user reviews from popular public discussion forums.
Let’s check the reviews out:
Who Should Go For a Halo Collar 4?
Users who need a dog collar within budget, a smaller yard, and basic requirements from the collar can opt for the Halo collar. This collar also provides training sessions by the founder of the company, Caesar Milan.
Who Should Go For SpotOn Collar?
Users who need multiple customizable options, correction levels, and accurate GPS tracking with fencing boundaries should go for the SpotOn collar. It provides services with the help of the best technology available in the industry.
Pro Tip: If you don’t know how to keep your dog’s collar clean, check out my complete guide to cleaning dog collars, Click here.
Related Read:
- Quick Dog Tag Fix
- Training collars that work for stubborn dogs
- Dog Harness Vs. Collar: Detailed Comparison
Conclusion: SpotOn is superior for long-range tracking and complex zoning
If you have a large property and need precise, flexible containment zones, SpotOn offers unmatched accuracy and customization. No mandatory subscription is another plus.
If you’re an urban or suburban pet parent who values training features, activity tracking, and portability, Halo’s all-in-one approach might better suit your needs, despite the subscription requirement.
Choose SpotOn for large open areas and flexible fence setups. Choose Halo for budget-friendly, training-focused smart collars.
I have a dedicated article covering on Halo collar review, which you can check out for more exclusive information.
FAQs
This symbol indicates that the collar’s cellular signal is not present. This could mean that the cellular connection is halted, the collar’s data is “outdated,” the collar is “unplugged,” the data is “unknown” since it was not received from the collar, or it could mean that the collar is disconnected.
Even though the Halo dog collar is primarily a shock collar, it initially provides your dog a gentle warning because it doesn’t want to be harsh on them.
No, your dog won’t be required to wear the e-collar always. You can discontinue using the e-collar after your dog becomes accustomed to keeping within the fence border.
A correctly adjusted head collar will be slack sufficient for you to put one finger between both the platform of your dog’s neck and the collar; make sure you can slide two fingers there.
