Mela vs Tractive

Mela is a recipe management app for iOS and macOS that lets users save recipes from websites through an in-app browser, subscribe to recipe blogs via RSS, or scan printed cookbooks using text recognition. Saved recipes sync across devices through iCloud, and recipe libraries can be shared with other users. Its Cook Mode presents recipes full-screen with larger text, step-by-step instructions, ingredient checkboxes, and built-in timers, while a meal-planning calendar and grocery lists integrate with Apple's native Calendar and Reminders apps. Mela states it does not collect user data, storing everything in private iCloud containers, and won a MacStories Selects award for Best Design in 2021.

Tractive makes wearable GPS trackers for dogs and cats that pair with a companion app to show a pet's real-time location on a map anywhere there's cellular coverage, unlike short-range Bluetooth trackers. The trackers also monitor activity, sleep, and behaviors like scratching, giving owners early alerts to potential health issues.

• Clean, ad-free way to save recipes from any website
• Cookbook scanning digitizes physical recipes
• Privacy-focused with no data collection claimed
• Award-winning interface design

• True GPS/cellular tracking works far beyond Bluetooth range
• Combines location tracking with health/activity monitoring
• Long battery life on larger dog models
• Highly rated on both app stores and Trustpilot

• Only available on iOS and macOS, no Android or web version
• Pricing is not listed on the marketing site
• Requires an Apple ID and iCloud for syncing

• Requires an ongoing subscription in addition to the hardware cost
• Cellular tracking needs coverage, so remote/rural dead zones reduce accuracy
• Battery life is much shorter on the compact cat tracker