The main difference between RFID vs. magnetic key cards is that RFID key cards use an internal chip that allows for contactless door-opening; magnetic key cards have a magnetized strip on the outside of the key card that needs to be swiped through a card reader.
When you’re trying to choose the right type of key card for your hotel, consider the following:
What is your budget?
Is your hotel small or large?
How up-to-date is the technology on your property?
These are questions you need to answer when you’re trying to figure out which one will be best for your hotel.
Related Blog: Turning Hotel Key Cards Into Keepsakes
The Difference Between RFID & Magnetic Key Cards
The key difference is that RFID Key Cards don’t require contact while magnetic ones have to be swiped. That might seem like a minor difference, but it can actually have a tremendous impact on your guest experience and your budget.
How RFID Cards Work
RFID key cards are a newer technology in the hospitality industry. They allow guests to access their rooms simply by touching the key card (or wristband) to a pad on the hotel room’s door. They continuously improve and your hotel’s security.
When compared to magnetic cards, RFID key cards typically offer a longer lifespan and less maintenance. They’re equipped with a “chip” on the inside (like a computer), as well as a small antenna. Since the chip is inside the card it’s better protected against damage and magnetic devices that can accidentally demagnetize the card.
“Most of the key cards purchased at Front Desk Supply are RFID. More properties are upgrading to RFID because it’s dynamic, reliable, and generally preferred by hotel guests. If your hotel is planning on upgrading from a magnetic card system to RFID, we’re happy to provide guidance on customizing the design and functionality of your room keys and staff fobs.”
–Mark Zisek, Director of Commercial Operations, Front Desk Supply
Cost of RFID Key Cards
The pricing of these cards depends on your hotel’s access system and customization requests, but they’re generally 2-4 times more expensive than magnetic stripe cards. However, you typically don’t need to replace them as frequently as magnetic key cards.
Related Blog: 3 Elements of Key Card Design Other Than Your Hotel Logo
How Magnetic Key Cards Work
Magnetic stripe key cards are the more traditional option. To open a door, the guest slides the key card into a magnetized slot, unlocking the door when the magnetic stripe lines up correctly.
There are different levels of magnetization available with this type of card, and each level offers different levels of protection. A LoCo magnetic key card is typically more affordable but may have a shorter lifespan compared to a stronger card with a HiCo magnetization. For example, LoCo cards may be easily demagnetized when held against a cellphone, while HiCo cards are more resilient to this (what a credit card uses).
“Magnetic key cards are a great option for larger properties that are trying to minimize their supply costs, or smaller properties that are not able to upgrade to an RFID system. Although magnetic key cards have a reputation for demagnetizing, you can order HiCo key cards from Front Desk Supply that are much more durable, for just a minimally higher cost.”
–Mark Zisek, Director of Commercial Operations, Front Desk Supply
Cost of Magnetic Key Cards
When compared to RFID cards, magnetic stripe cards are typically lower cost and may be easier to integrate with your current room-locking system. Magnetic key cards do require more maintenance than RFID and typically need to be replaced more frequently. You may also need to clean the door locks at least once per week with a card cleaner.
Related Blog: How To Protect Key Cards from Demagnetizing
How to Choose Between RFID and Magnetic Key Cards
When you’re trying to choose between RFID and magnetic key cards, you will need to weigh the pros and cons of each:
- Pricing: For most of the hotels we work with, pricing is the biggest factor. Magnetic key cards are definitely the most cost-effective type of key card; magnetic keys run around 10 cents per unit, while RFID cards range from 30 to upwards of 90 cents per unit. Large hotels with hundreds of rooms can save more money using magnetic key cards. However, it’s important to remember that RFID key cards are more durable and don’t need to be replaced as often, so they could save more money in the long run.
- Guest Experience: Guests appreciate the simplicity of RFID key cards, especially when their hands are full carrying luggage and other items. It’s just easier to open doors with RFID room keys, and they’re better protected against demagnetizing, which is frustrating for guests. RFID is also useful for hotels that host big, on-site events because it allows you to use RFID wristbands.
- Hotel Operations: RFID key cards are faster to program, which makes them more ideal for your front desk staff. They also allow you to make key fobs for your staff, which are durable and efficient.
- Keepsakes: When guests have thoroughly enjoyed their stay, they may want to bring home their room keys as a souvenir. If you expect a sizable percentage of guests to keep their room keys, then it might be useful for you to go with magnetic key cards since they’re cheaper to replace, but certainly RFID cards make for a generally low cost souvenir.
- Your Access System: It can be costly and tedious to upgrade your access system from magnetic to RFID, so it’s best to stick with the one that’s compatible with your current technology. However, if your property will be undergoing extensive upgrades, it might be worthwhile to take the leap and incorporate RFID technology. RFID is more adaptable and is generally preferred by hotel guests.
Related Blog: RFID Key Card System Upgrade: Accompanying Cards You’ll Need
“We forgot to order RFID keys and they rushed us stock keys within a few days. Front Desk Supply really gives us personal service at affordable pricing.
Front Desk Manager, Boyne Highlands
Order RFID or Magnetic Key Cards That Look Amazing
Guests may use their room keys several times per day, so they can have a tremendous impact on your guest experience. We can help you get the most for your money, whether you’re ordering RFID or magnetic key cards:
- Create a stunning design for your key cards using your logo and/or brand imagery. We offer a complimentary graphic design service when you order with us.
- We can make sure the design of your key cards matches the style of your other branded hotel products, including your key sleeves and key folders.
- We can provide you with guidance on how to upgrade your LoCo magnetic key cards to HiCo.
From key cards to hotel stationery, Front Desk Supply can provide you with all the essential products you need to create a memorable stay for your guests. Contact us today to request a quote.
