Teltonika FMB920 vs FMC920: Complete Comparison for UK Fleet Managers

Joseph Cimand
May 29
4 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

The Teltonika FMB920 and FMC920 are the two most widely deployed GPS trackers in UK fleets. They share the same compact form factor, the same accessory ecosystem, and the same firmware architecture — but differ in one critical specification: network technology. The FMB920 uses 2G (GPRS), while the FMC920 uses 4G LTE. Understanding that difference, and what it means for your fleet in the UK today and in the years ahead, is the key to choosing the right device.

GPS tracking technology — Teltonika FMB920 vs FMC920 comparison

The Core Difference: 2G vs 4G LTE

The FMB920 communicates over 2G (GPRS/EDGE) cellular networks. 2G coverage across the UK remains widespread, but the network is ageing — UK carriers have begun planning decommissioning of 2G infrastructure to free spectrum for 5G expansion. The FMC920 communicates over 4G LTE — the same network generation that powers modern smartphones. 4G delivers faster data transmission, lower latency, better performance in marginal coverage areas, and is the network standard UK carriers will maintain for the foreseeable future. For new deployments, 4G is the clear long-term choice.

Identical Hardware, Identical Accessories

Apart from the cellular module, the FMB920 and FMC920 are electrically and physically identical. Same PCB dimensions, same casing, same connector pinout. All Teltonika accessories are compatible with both — driver identification keypads, iButton readers, Bluetooth sensors, fuel probes, and CAN adapters all work with both models. Fleets migrating from FMB920 to FMC920 need only swap the tracker unit — no vehicle rewiring is required.

Shared Technical Specifications

Both the FMB920 and FMC920 include: high-sensitivity GNSS with GPS and GLONASS; 3-axis accelerometer for harsh driving detection; 1-Wire interface for driver ID keypads and temperature sensors; a 6-pin I/O connector with 2 digital inputs, 1 digital output, and 1 analogue input; Bluetooth 4.0 for peripheral sensor connectivity; 128 MB internal memory for data buffering during signal outages; and 10-30V DC power input covering both 12V and 24V vehicle systems. The only hardware difference is the cellular radio module.

Which Should You Choose for New Deployments?

For any new fleet deployment today, the FMC920 is the correct choice. 4G LTE delivers faster, more reliable data transmission and longer-term network support. The cost difference is modest relative to a full fleet installation, and is fully justified by improved reliability and the elimination of future 2G sunset migration risk.

Is the FMB920 Still Valid?

The FMB920 remains viable in specific circumstances: where 2G coverage across your fleet routes is proven reliable, where budget constraints are significant, or where you are adding units to a large existing FMB920 fleet to maintain hardware homogeneity. However, fleet managers should account for the eventual 2G network sunset when planning — deploying the FMC920 now avoids a forced hardware migration later.

Driver ID and Accessory Compatibility

Both the FMB920 and FMC920 support the full range of driver identification keypads from Tracking Hardware UK. Driver ID is configured identically on both models using the Teltonika Configurator, with the same I/O parameters and 1-Wire protocol settings. The same wiring diagram applies to both devices.

Platform Compatibility: Fully Interchangeable

Both devices use Teltonika Codec 8 and Codec 8 Extended protocols, supported by virtually every fleet management platform. Any platform configured for the FMB920 works immediately with the FMC920 — no platform reconfiguration, no AVL ID remapping. Upgrading from FMB920 to FMC920 is a pure hardware swap with zero software disruption.

Buy Teltonika FMB920 and FMC920 from UK Stock

Tracking Hardware UK holds both the FMB920 and FMC920 in UK stock with next-day delivery available on most orders. Volume pricing is available for fleet deployments. Contact us to discuss your requirements, request a quote, or ask about compatibility with your fleet management platform and driver ID accessories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between the FMB920 and FMC920?

The key difference is connectivity. The FMB920 is a 2G/GPRS device with Bluetooth 4.0, while the FMC920 is a 4G LTE device with 2G fallback. Both have a backup battery, internal GNSS antenna, and full support for driver identification keypads. The FMC920 is the better choice for fleets needing faster data transmission or future-proofing against 2G network changes.

Does the FMB920 work with driver ID keypads?

Yes. The FMB920 supports 1-Wire and RS232/RS485 digital inputs, making it fully compatible with driver identification keypads from Tracking Hardware. The driver's PIN is captured on the keypad and transmitted to the tracker, where it is linked to all subsequent journey data.

Is the FMB920 still a good choice given 2G network changes in the UK?

The UK 2G network is expected to remain operational until at least 2033, so the FMB920 remains a viable deployment. However, for long-term fleet programmes being set up today, the FMC920 with 4G connectivity offers a more future-proof option at a modest price difference.

Which telematics platforms support the FMB920 and FMC920?

Both devices are supported by virtually all major UK telematics platforms, including Quartix, Teletrac Navman, Masternaut, and Samsara. Teltonika publishes full firmware and codec documentation, making integration straightforward for any platform developer.

All Teltonika devices we supply are fully unlocked — not tied to any specific telematics platform or fleet management software. You are free to use them with any platform that supports the Teltonika protocol.