Tracking time can be difficult in some industries where many employees work offsite. Whether they are delivering pakages, working at construction sites, doing field maintenance jobs, or making on-site visits to several different work locations, you need to know when your team clocked in and out and how many hours they worked. A GPS time clock app can be the exact thing you need to track time accurately.
Read this article for an introduction to what GPS time clocks are, how they work, and why some businesses prefer them over other methods of time tracking. We’ll also give you a ranked list of the top 5 GPS time clock apps where we’ll compare features, pros and cons, and pricing. Finally, we’ll discuss the benefits of location-based time tracking and give you a few tips on what to consider when choosing a time clock that suits your needs.
What is a GPS Time Clock App?
A GPS time clock app is a software application that tracks employees’ work hours by combining time records with location data. Rather than manually punching a time card, employees clock in and out on the app installed on the mobile device they carry. What makes a GPS time clock more accurate is that it also records where clock-ins and clock-outs happen. Occasionally, these apps are also capable of tracking location throughout work periods.
This is often called location based time tracking or a location-based time tracking app. The system works using GPS, WiFi, or geofencing.
- GPS: The device’s GPS chip gives latitude/longitude coordinates.
- WiFi: When GPS signal is weak (indoors, for example), the system can use known WiFi access points or cell tower triangulation to estimate location.
- Geofencing: You create a virtual boundary around a job site or work zone and when an employee enters or leaves that boundary, it triggers clock-in and time tracking tracking.
Location data is recorded together with clock-in actions, so the system can automatically record the work hours of your team, including who worked where and when. This tech helps you reduce the need for manual data entry and guesswork. It makes compliance and payroll easier by reducing the amount of tracking mistakes.
Automating your time tracking in this way is a much better solution than using spreadsheets to track time. While excel is budget-friendly and works well enough for a small team, it’s easier to make mistakes that lead to payroll disputes, which in turn can lead to an increase in employee dissatisfaction and risk of legal fees.
How Does a GPS Time Clock App Work?
Most GPS time clock vendors offer mobile apps that run on devices using Android and iOS.
- Setup: In general, your team will have to download the app to their device, sign in, and give the app permission to access loation services and run in the background when prompted.
- Clocking in: Your team will clock in using the time clock app.When an employee taps “Start shift” or “Clock in”, the app records the current timestamp and the device’s location coordinates using GPS or other signals. (e.g. WiFi)
- Live tracking: Some apps may periodically log location updates during the shift depending on the settings. This can be especially useful for mobile teams moving from one location to the other where tracking of the route is also important. Not all apps offer this feature.
- Clocking out: At the end of the shift, the app records time and location again.
- Syncing data: The information collected is sent to a central server/cloud where managers can view, approve, and export timesheets based on the clock-ins and clock-outs recorded. If the devie was offline, it may store data offline and upload it later when the device is connected to the internet again.
Many time tracking apps also use geofencing. This feature lets employers set a virtual boundary around a specific area, such as a job site. Employees can only clock in when they’re inside that area. If someone leaves the zone, the system can stop tracking or send a notification to the manager.
Benefits of GPS-Enabled Time Tracking
GPS time tracking simplifies work for both managers and employees.
- Less admin work: Automatic logging of hours saves hours of manual work and reduces back-and-forth communication over timesheets.
- Fewer mistakes: Forgetting to clock in or rounding errors are eliminated. Every shift is tracked accurately.
- Better compliance: Time and location stamps make audits and labor law checks easy.
- More transparency: Everyone can see who’s working and where in real time.
- Smarter insights: GPS data helps spot inefficiencies, improve schedules, and lower costs.
In industries such as construction, delivery, logistics, retail, and field services, and the service industry in general, these systems can save hours every week by getting rid of the need to manually review or correct timesheets.
Why Businesses Use GPS Time Clock Apps
More and more companies are adopting GPS time clock apps and so should you because they solve key challenges that come with managing your mobile or remote workforce.
- They improve accountability: GPS tracking prevents “buddy punching,” a form of time theft where one employee clocks in for another. Each entry is verified by location, so managers know who was actually present.
- Job costing is easier: Businesses can assign hours worked to specific clients, projects, or locations. This helps with accurate billing and better cost control.
- Visibility into your workforce: Managers can monitor who’s on site and what tasks are being done, without the need for phone calls or constant check-ins. It makes it easier to coordinate teams working in multiple places.
- Payroll is so simple: GPS-based systems sync automatically with payroll and HR tools, cutting down on duplicate data entry and ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time.
- The best systems scale with you: As teams grow digital time tracking systems can easily grow with you. They handle hundreds of users and multiple job sites without the chaos of paper-based systems.
Because mobile, offsite, and deskless work – and a mixture of all three – are becoming the norm, GPS time clocks turning from being a convenience into being a necessity. These apps help your business save time and reduce errors no matter where your teams are working.
The 5 Best GPS Time Clock Apps in 2025
GPS time clock apps make tracking employee hours simple, accurate, and fast, especially for teams that work outside the office. These tools use GPS to record where and when employees start or end their shifts, helping companies stay organized and compliant. Below are five of the best GPS time clock apps in 2025, each with its own strengths, features, and pricing.
1. Factorial
Overview: Factorial is an all-in-one HR platform that combines time tracking, payroll, scheduling, and absence management in one place. It includes GPS features like geofencing and location-based clock-ins, making it a complete solution for companies that want to manage both employees and time tracking under the same system.
Key Features:
- Geofencing that limits clock-ins to approved worksites.
- QR code scanning for location-based clocking.
- Built-in time tracking, attendance, and HR reporting.
- Shift management and leave tracking.
- Central dashboard for employee hours and analytics.
Pros:
- Combines time tracking, HR, and payroll in one platform.
- Keeps all employee data and reports in one place.
- Helps companies stay compliant with labor rules.
- Simple, modern interface designed for everyday users.
Cons:
- May include more HR features than small businesses are looking for.
- Only records location at the time of clocking in and out, not continuously.
Price: Starts at $8 per user per month for the Core HR plan.
Best for: Companies that want to centralize HR, payroll preparation, and time tracking in one system.
2. QuickBooks Time (formerly TSheets or QuickBooks Workforce)
Overview: QuickBooks Time by Intuit is a time-tracking app with GPS and geofencing tools. It’s designed to integrate perfectly with QuickBooks accounting and payroll, making it a great option for businesses already using the QuickBooks ecosystem.
Key Features:
- Real-time GPS tracking shows where employees are working.
- Geofencing prevents off-site clock-ins.
- Tracks time by job, customer, or project.
- Works offline and syncs automatically later.
- Full integration with QuickBooks payroll and billing.
Pros:
- Best choice for companies already using QuickBooks.
- Excellent for job costing, scheduling, and invoicing.
- Reliable brand with strong customer service.
Cons:
- GPS and advanced features are only available on higher plans.
- Best for businesses already using other QuickBooks products.
Price: Base fee of $20 per month, plus $8 per user per month.
Best for: Businesses that already manage payroll or accounting with QuickBooks.
3. Timeero
Overview: Timeero is built for mobile teams that are always on the go. It’s especially useful for companies in delivery, maintenance, or field service, as it tracks employee routes, travel distance, and job locations through GPS.
Key Features:
- GPS tracking with route mapping and playback.
- Geofencing for location-based clock-ins.
- Built-in mileage tracking for expense reporting.
- Offline mode that syncs when back online.
- Automatic reports and manager alerts.
Pros:
- Great for teams that travel between multiple job sites.
- User-friendly app with clear maps and reports.
Cons:
- Lacks full HR or payroll features.
- Some integrations may require setup help.
- Analytics are simpler than in more advanced systems.
Price: Plans start at around $8 per user per month.
Best for: Service, maintenance, and delivery teams that spend much of their day on the road.
4. Clockify
Overview: Clockify is one of the most popular time-tracking apps available, known for its flexibility and affordability. It supports GPS location tracking and works both online and offline, making it a practical option for freelancers, small teams, and larger businesses alike.
Key Features:
- GPS location recording during clock-ins and clock-outs.
- Offline mode that syncs automatically once connected.
- Project tracking, productivity reporting, and timesheets.
- Integrations with project management and communication tools.
- Free plan available with essential features.
Pros:
- Extremely cost-effective with a strong free version.
- Works across web, mobile, and desktop.
- Simple interface that’s easy for anyone to use.
- Scales easily as teams grow.
Cons:
- GPS and geofencing options are more basic than in other apps.
- Lacks built-in payroll or HR features.
- Some advanced features require a paid plan.
Price: Free plan available; paid plans start at around $4 per user per month.
Best for: Freelancers, small businesses, and small teams.
5. ClockShark
Overview: ClockShark is a time-tracking and scheduling app designed specifically for construction, field service, and job-based businesses. It uses GPS to track employees’ locations during the workday and includes advanced scheduling, reporting, and job costing tools.
Key Features:
- GPS tracking with automatic updates while employees are clocked in.
- Job and task tracking with visual maps.
- Scheduling, timesheets, and reporting features.
- Integrations with payroll and accounting systems.
- “Crew Clock” for easy group clock-ins.
Pros:
- Perfect for construction, maintenance, and service industries.
- Provides detailed maps and accurate job location data.
- Offers multiple clock-in methods to fit different workflows.
Cons:
- Continuous GPS tracking can use more device battery.
- Costs can rise for larger teams or premium features.
- Fewer HR management tools beyond time and scheduling.
Price: Standard plan starts at $40 base + $9 per user per month. Pro plan costs $60 base + $11 per user per month.
Time Clock App Comparison Chart
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the 5 apps for a quick overview.
| App | Platform Support | Best For | Approximate Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Factorial | Web & mobile | Businesses needing HR, payroll, & time tracking in one system | From ~$8 per user/month |
| QuickBooks Time | Web & mobile | Businesses using QuickBooks for payroll & accounting | $20 base & $8 per user/month |
| Timeero | Mobile & web | Field service, delivery, & maintenance teams | ~$8 per user/month |
| Clockify | Web, desktop & mobile | Freelancers, small teams, & growing businesses | Free plan or ~$4 per user/month |
| ClockShark | Web & mobile | Construction & field service industries | $40 base & $9 per user/month (Standard) |
Remember to visit the website of each vendor in order to verify packages and pricing for yourself.
Benefits of GPS Time Clock Apps
GPS time clock apps do more than just track hours. They make work safer, more connected, and more efficient for teams on the move.
1. Better Team Coordination
When managers know where employees are working, they can easily assign help or reallocate resources if a site gets busy. This keeps jobs running smoothly and avoids downtime.
2. Improved Safety
Location tracking can be a safety tool too. If employees work in remote or high-risk areas, managers can quickly check their location in case of emergencies.
3. Fair Pay for All
Automatic location-based tracking ensures employees get paid for their real hours and travel time, not estimates or guesses. It protects both workers and employers from under- or over-reporting hours.
4. Easier Job Costing
By linking time to specific job sites or projects, businesses can see exactly how much labor each task requires. This helps with budgeting, pricing, and future planning.
5. Scales with Your Business
As your team grows or spreads across new locations, GPS time tracking scales with you. Whether you have five employees or five hundred, the system keeps time data organized and accessible in one place.
Track Time with GPS using Factorial
If your company wants a single platform that connects time tracking, payroll, and HR, Factorial is a strong choice.
Its geofencing and GPS features make sure employees only clock in from the right place, and all tracked hours are automatically linked to payroll and attendance. Factorial also includes tools for scheduling, time off, and compliance, so everything stays organized in one dashboard.
It’s designed to be simple to set up and easy to use, even for teams without technical experience. With accurate reporting and strong record-keeping, Factorial keeps your business audit-ready and efficient.
If you want a GPS time clock that supports your growth and simplifies every part of workforce management, Factorial delivers a complete, scalable solution.
GPS Time Clock FAQs
1. Is GPS tracking legal for employees in the US?
Yes, but there are rules. Employers must respect privacy laws, inform employees in writing, and usually get consent. Tracking should only happen during work hours. Always check state and local laws before using GPS tracking.
2. How accurate is GPS tracking?
GPS is usually accurate within 5 – 10 meters in good conditions. Indoors or near tall buildings, it may be less precise. Many apps use WiFi or mobile networks to improve accuracy. For time tracking, small errors don’t matter since the system just checks if someone is on-site.
3. Can employees clock in without internet access?
Yes. Many GPS time clock apps work offline. They save clock-ins and locations on the device, then upload everything once the internet connection returns.
4. What industries benefit the most from GPS time clocks?
GPS time clocks are best for jobs where employees move between sites, like:
- Construction and field work
- Delivery and logistics
- Home or maintenance services
- Retail teams at multiple stores
- Sales and field reps
These industries use GPS to track time, travel, and job site attendance accurately.
