The types of access control cards can have identical designs but different chips, frequencies, or encoding methods.
Incompatibility can result in no response, errors, or failure to unlock the door.
Here are the key differences between card types and the factors you need to consider before placing your order.
What Are Access Control Cards?
An access control card is used to unlock a secured door or gate.
Once the reader identifies the card, it sends the card information to the controller. The controller then verifies your authorization to open the door.
The system consists of a card, reader, controller, software, and electronic lock.
Some cards may also have other functions, such as tracking attendance, unlocking elevators, managing parking, and making payments.
Main Types of Access Control Cards
Card names may refer to the card’s technology, frequency, chipset, manufacturer, or design.
MIFARE is an example of an RFID card family. However, not all RFID cards are MIFARE cards.
Magnetic Stripe Access Cards
Magnetic stripe access cards are called “swipe cards” and carry an access code in Magnetic Stripe located on the back of the card.
The card is swiped through the card reader.
There are two types of magnetic stripes: LoCo and HiCo. LoCo stripes have low magnetic strength, while HiCo stripes have high magnetic strength and are more durable.
They’re inexpensive but less secure than other cards.
Proximity Cards
Proximity cards, also known as contactless cards, operate near the reader.
These cards typically operate at a frequency of 125 kHz and transmit a predefined number for identification purposes.
EM4100, TK4100, T5577, and HID Prox are some common types of proximity cards.
RFID Access Cards
RFID access cards exchange data using radio waves.
RFID includes LF, HF, and UHF cards. All of them have chips and antennas.
This technology is available in cards, key fobs, bracelets, stickers, and tags.
RFID security depends on the chips, keys, readers, and system configuration.
Smart Access Cards
A smart card can store information and perform some data processing.
Smart cards typically operate at a frequency of 13.56 MHz and can write information, encrypt data, and authenticate users.
An ordinary card might only communicate its ID. But, a smart card can validate a secret key.
MIFARE Access Cards
MIFARE is a contactless chip family from NXP.
Options include Ultralight, Classic, Plus, and DESFire.
Classic remains common but has known security limits. Plus supports stronger protection.
DESFire suits secure multi-use systems. A campus may use one card for doors, meals, and libraries.
NFC Access Cards
NFC access cards operate at 13.56 MHz over short ranges.
Some cards work with compatible mobile phones. However, not all NFC cards necessarily work with phones.
The devices need to comply with the same standards.
HID Access Cards
HID is a company name, not a card type.
Its card families include Prox, iCLASS, iCLASS SE, and Seos. These vary in frequency, format, and security.
When ordering, check the card family, facility code, serial number, and encoding.
UHF Access Cards
UHF access cards normally operate at frequencies between 860 and 960 MHz.
This provides a longer range and is suitable for parking areas and vehicle gate entry.
Metallic objects, water, tag orientation, and reader positioning can affect their performance.
Key Fobs, Wristbands and RFID Tags
Many access cards are available in key fob, wristband, label, and token forms.
Key fobs are commonly used in flats and gyms. Wristbands are commonly used in pools, resorts, and hospitals.
The shape determines the usage. The chip determines compatibility.
Comparison Table of Access Control Card Types
| Card Type | Frequency | Good For | Notes |
| Magnetic stripe | N/A | Older hotels | Cheapest but not that durable |
| Proximity | 125 kHz | Older door systems | Inexpensive but offers low security |
| RFID | LF, HF, or UHF | General access | Suitable for people and various choices |
| Smart card | Usually 13.56 MHz | Multi-use security systems | Data storage capacity and encryption |
| MIFARE | 13.56 MHz | Offices, hotels, and campuses | Security depends on the type |
| NFC | 13.56 MHz | Phone-based access control | Requires compatibility between the phone and reader |
| HID | 125 kHz or 13.56 MHz | Commercial buildings | Format and encoding compatibility is necessary |
| UHF | 860-960 MHz | Parking and vehicle access | Long-range reading capability |
| Key fob | LF or HF | Apartments and gyms | Durable but offers minimal printing space |
| Wristband | LF, HF, or NFC | Pools and resorts | Wearable and waterproof |
Access Control Cards by RFID Frequency
125kHz LF Access Cards
125kHz LF access card frequency provides basic identification. Common types include EM4100, TK4100, T5577, and HID Prox. They offer low-cost performance and short-range reading. They are widely used in many older buildings. Most low-frequency cards have limited encryption.
13.56MHz HF Access Cards
13.56MHz HF access card frequency offers greater data storage and stronger security. Common types include MIFARE, DESFire, NTAG, LEGIC, and iCLASS.They usually use ISO/IEC 14443 short-range contactless communication. However, reader compatibility can vary widely.
860-960MHz UHF Access Cards
860-960MHz UHF access cards offer a longer reading range. They’re ideal for vehicle, logistics, and parking gate applications. Performance depends on several factors, including the reader, antenna, tag placement, and local regulations. Test them on-site before placing an order.
Proximity Cards vs Smart Cards vs RFID Cards
RFID is the general term.
Both proximity cards and smart cards use RFID technology.
A proximity card typically transmits a single static identifier at 125 kHz. A smart card may store information and provide secure authentication at 13.56 MHz.
Think of RFID as the overall family.
Proximity cards and smart cards are two categories within the RFID family.
Access Control Cards by Application
Office Access Cards
Office cards can be used for door access, elevators, attendance tracking, and printer access.
A small office may use proximity cards. Secure sites may use DESFire or HID Seos cards.
Hotel Key Cards
Hotels may use magnetic stripe, MIFARE, or smart cards.
The card should be compatible with the lock and software. Having the correct frequency alone isn’t enough.
Residential Access Cards
Residents may use proximity cards, MIFARE cards, or key fobs.
Key fobs work well for daily use. Cards offer more branding opportunities.
Parking Access Cards
Parking systems may use LF, HF, or UHF cards.
Use UHF for hands-free access. Choose LF or HF for tap-and-go systems.
School and Campus Cards
Campus cards may support door access, attendance tracking, library access, and meal payments.
HF smart cards are usually suitable for these purposes.
Gym and Club Access Cards
Gyms use membership cards, key fobs, or wristbands.
Waterproof materials should be chosen for wet environments.
Healthcare Access Cards
Healthcare facilities need to control access to wards, laboratories, pharmacies, and storage areas.
Smart cards provide secure access and identification.
How to Choose the Right Access Control Card
First, consider the user’s needs and your existing system.You need to consider the frequency, chip, card format, facility code, and encoding. This information will determine the card’s compatibility.
Consider the required security level, reading distance, and operating environment. Also consider water exposure, temperature, wear and tear, printability, and future upgrades.
Custom Access Control Card Options
The cards can be customized to suit your branding, identity, and systems. Available customization options include logos, photographs, serial numbers, barcodes, QR codes, finishes, encoding, and data writing. Other customization options include key fobs, wristbands, labels, and custom packaging.
JLTRFID can assess your chip, printing, and encoding requirements. Sample cards are available for evaluation.
Common Mistakes When Buying Access Control Cards
Common access card ordering failures are due to missing key information. Some common problems include an incorrect chip, format, facility code, or encoding.
Many customers purchasing these cards for secure areas choose lower-cost options that may not meet their requirements.
The installation site can greatly affect how well an access card performs.
Weather conditions, such as heat and water, metal surrounding the reader, and everyday use can all cause problems with your access card.
Test several samples and verify all the details before placing a large-quantity order.
Conclusion: Which Access Control Card Should You Choose?
Choose the card you need based on your intended users, required security level, and project type. Use proximity cards with basic or older systems. Smart cards are best when you need stronger security and additional capabilities. Use NFC cards if you need direct communication with smartphones. Use UHF cards for applications such as long-range parking gates.
JLTRFID offers custom access control cards, including encoding, samples, and bulk orders. Before we can fulfill your order, please send us your complete system specifications.
FAQ About Types of Access Control Cards
- What are the main types of access control cards?
Common types include magnetic stripe, proximity, smart, MIFARE, NFC, HID, and UHF cards.
- What is the difference between RFID cards and access control cards?
They’re not always different, since RFID technology is used in many access control cards.
- What is the difference between proximity cards and smart cards?
Proximity cards contain basic identification information, while smart cards can store more information and offer stronger security.
- What is the difference between 125kHz and 13.56MHz access cards?
125 kHz access cards are suitable for simple applications, while 13.56 MHz access cards are better for more complex functions.
- Are MIFARE cards used for access control?
Yes. MIFARE access cards are used in offices, hotels, schools, and other facilities.
- Can NFC cards be used as access cards?
Yes, but only if your reader and access control system support NFC cards.
- What type of access card is best for office buildings?
A small office may use proximity cards. If you need it in advanced security, smart cards may be used.
- What type of card is used for hotel door locks?
Magnetic stripe, MIFARE, and other smart cards are used by hotels for lock doors.
- What access cards are used for parking systems?
Parking systems may use proximity cards, smart cards, and long-range UHF cards.
- How do I know which access control card I need?
Check the reader, chip, frequency, card format, and data encoding.
- Can access control cards be customised with a logo?
Yes. The cards can be printed with a logo, name, photo, number, and other information.
- Can you encode access control cards before shipping?
Yes. The supplier can encode the required data onto the cards before shipping.
