Paw ID alternatives UK (2026): cheaper QR pet tags compared
Updated 5 November 2026 · 3 min read
We make PetTag (pet-tag.app), so read this knowing that. Paw ID (pawid.co.uk) is a good metal QR tag with no subscription, at £29.99 for one (shown as 25% off £39.99). If that's more than you want to pay, or you want your name and address on the tag, these are the UK alternatives. Everything about each one comes from its own website, checked on 1 to 5 November 2026.
The short answer
Our pick is PetTag: a third of the price (£10, or £8 a tag in a four-pack), still no subscription needed, free UK delivery, and like Paw ID it emails you when the tag is scanned and keeps your number hidden while finders message you. It can also carry your surname, house number and postcode on the back (£13), which Paw ID's tag didn't when we checked on 5 November 2026.
Paw ID alternatives side by side
| Tag | Price | Subscription | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paw ID | £29.99, free delivery | None needed; optional Premium | Metal, 30 mm, 8 g, scan history map, owner app |
| PetTag | £10, free UK delivery | None needed | 40 mm, 4 g, plus 34 mm and 29 mm sizes; name and address on the back for £3 |
| CollarCode | £4.99 + £1.20 delivery | None | The lowest price; 30-day money-back guarantee |
| Pet-Tags | £19.99, free delivery | None | Steel, with up to four engraved lines |
| Crumb | Free tag + £2.95 postage | Premium £6.95 a month for location texts and privacy | Owners use its app |
| Supernormal | Free tag + delivery | Care £4.99 a month after a free first month | Metal core; AI vet and trainer on Care |
What you'd give up
- Metal: Paw ID is metal with an epoxy seal; PetTag is light printed plastic with the code set flush into the face, so it can't rub off.
- A scan history map: PetTag emails you the rough area of every scan instead, free.
- An app: Paw ID has one for owners. PetTag needs none, for you or a finder.
- Alerts to vets and shelters: Paw ID alerts nearby Paw ID users, vets and shelters when your pet is lost. PetTag alerts nearby PetTag owners and the vets, kennels and shops that signed up for its free alerts, at no cost.
Quick answers
What is a cheaper alternative to Paw ID?+
PetTag (pet-tag.app), which we make: £10 once with free UK delivery and no subscription needed, against £29.99 for Paw ID. CollarCode is cheaper still at £4.99 plus delivery (checked 1 to 5 November 2026).
Is PetTag as good as Paw ID?+
For getting a lost pet home, both do the same core job with no subscription: a finder scans with a phone camera, messages you without seeing your number, and you're emailed on scans. Paw ID is metal and keeps a free scan map; PetTag costs a third as much and can carry your name and address for the UK dog tag law. Our PetTag vs Paw ID guide has the detail.
Does Paw ID have a subscription?+
No. It's a one-off payment, with an optional Premium plan (£3.99 a month or £29.99 a year).
Sources (6)
This guide is general information, not legal or veterinary advice. How we write our guides
