It is necessary to pick the right ID card for strong security, checking your ID and a professional image. Because there are so many formats and features, different card types are useful depending on the size of a business, its industry and what it needs to do. When you know what’s available, you can make the best choice for security, branding and efficiency.

Different Types of ID Cards

1. Proximity Cards

A proximity card (sometimes called a “prox card”) is a contactless ID that has a chip and an antenna inside. Because these components are sealed inside the card, it can connect wirelessly to access control systems, usually using 125kHz signals.

Who uses proximity cards?

• Office complexes and company campuses
• Educational institutions
• Government institutions
• Industrial sites

Types of proximity card formats:

• Standard PVC Prox Cards– Excellent for simple purposes and work best with printers that print directly on the cards.
• Clamshell Prox Cards– These are thicker and larger and usually have adhesive overlays; they are perfect for use with temporary staff.
• Composite Prox Cards– Designed for tough conditions and extreme temperatures that are common in outdoor or industrial areas.

Since you don’t have to swipe prox cards, they stay in good condition longer.

2. PVC Cards

Polyvinyl Chloride or PVC, is the plastic most often used for making ID cards. Because they do not have any technology, these cards are used only for identification by sight.

What is the purpose of PVC cards?

• School and student identification
• Membership cards Visitor passes
• Healthcare identification cards
• Employee IDs containing a picture and some text

They are available in different sizes:

• CR80– Sized just like a credit card
• CR79– A bit smaller, with an adhesive backing
• CR100– A model designed for large events or to attract attention with its size.

If you must identify people without using technology, PVC cards are the best choice.

3. Smart Cards

A smart card has a chip that allows it to both store and process information. Such systems are deployed in places that require strong security, encryption or data storage.

There are two types of them:

• Contact Smart Cards– Require users to place a visible chip into a reader.
• Contactless Smart Cards– The card connects wirelessly with systems using an antenna.

Common smart card applications:

• Employee login pages
• Easily available secure facilities
• Ways people pay for using public transportation
• Vending and meal plans
• Loyalty cards and paying with electronic methods

Multifunctional cards such as those used for identification and other purposes, are best achieved with smart cards.

4. Magnetic Stripe Cards

Chances are you’ve swiped a magstripe card to enter a building, clock in at work or pay for something you bought. Such ID cards have a magnetic strip on the back to hold information and they are still popular for recording time and access.

There are two types:

• HiCo (High Coercivity)– Made to last and keep data safe, so they are usually found in credit cards or access badges.
• LoCo (Low Coercivity)– Employed for temporary solutions such as hotel key cards or guest passes.

How magstripe cards are used:

• Monitoring employee attendance
• School lunch programs
• Library access
• Access control at its most basic level
• Employee identification

Even though they’re affordable, remember that magstripe cards get worn and may be damaged by magnets.

How to Pick the Best ID Card for Your Company

The use of your ID card will help you decide what kind to choose.

1. What Do You Require for Security?

If you manage sensitive data or areas that are off-limits, proximity or smart cards are the better choices. They provide safe access by using encryption or radio waves.

In some cases, a PVC or magstripe card is adequate for photo identification.

2. Consider Functionality

Is the card designed to do more than show a person’s name and picture? Smart cards can keep several credentials, support making payments and monitor attendance using digital methods. You can walk right into your building using a proximity card. The low-tech world benefits from PVC cards.

3. Consider How Much You Can Spend

If you are most worried about cost, PVC and LoCo magstripe cards are the best options for you. If it’s possible to spend a little more, prox and smart cards will pay off in the long run with improved security and durability.

4. Examine if your system meets the game’s requirements

Check that the card will be compatible with your current computer and software. You should use compatible prox cards if you have 125kHz readers. Looking to update your infrastructure? Verify that your new ID cards will work with future technologies.

5. Look at how durable the cards are

If cards are needed daily in places like schools, factories or hospitals, it’s better to choose a composite prox card or a retransfer-compatible smart card. Such surfaces are not prone to bending, cracking or damage from the environment.

Which ID Card Is Best for You?

For School and University Organizations

Smart cards or proximity cards are the best choice. They give you entry into buildings, record your attendance and help with services such as libraries or meals—all on the same card.

When focusing on small businesses

If your only needs are basic photo ID and using access control on rare occasions, PVC or magnetic stripe cards will do. They’re inexpensive and simple to make.

When it comes to Large Corporations

If you require both safe entry and the ability to increase access control, proximity cards are the best choice. They match nicely with time-tracking systems and employee databases.

For offices within the Government

Contactless smart cards are regularly used for identification that is both secure and encrypted. They ensure quality data protection and are able to work with national ID systems.

When organizing Events and Conferences

Larger PVC cards such as CR100, are selected for their ability to catch attention and display a brand. You can use them at expos, trade shows or concerts for a short period of time.

For the Healthcare and Industrial Field

Smart cards made from a composite material are less likely to break, warp or be damaged by the environment. You can use them every day in tough environments.

Conclusion

Decide how you will use your ID card when you start looking at them. After you determine what is most important for your business, security, identification or durability, you can decide on the ID card that is right for you.