Originally, hotel keycards were made of metal and were later transformed to provide a digital solution to access control. Nowadays, most hotels provide room access through either RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) or NFC (Near Field Communication) technology.
This raises the question, ‘Are hotel cards NFC or RFID?’ Even though both technologies offer easy access, their differences greatly influence how they are used in the hotel industry.
In this article, we are going to delve into the RFID and NFC hotel key card technologies, their components, benefits and which type is the most appropriate for contemporary hotels.
What are hotel keycards and how do they function?
Hotel keycards use contactless technology to provide guests access to their rooms and the rest of the hotel. The cards are made with small electronic chips that relay information with the electronic locks on doors over a set distance.
The most popular two contactless key cards used in hotels are:
- RFID Keycards: Relays information over radio waves with the door locks.
- NFC Keycards: Provide access through a short-range communication feature.
Both types of cards serve the same purpose: replacing a metal key, making checking in and out more efficient.
Understanding RFID and NFC Technology in Hotel Key Cards
Let’s take a look at the technologies at work in the hotel key cards before attempting to draw comparisons.
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) Technology
RFID Key cards work by storing a Radio Frequency identifier (tag), which is read by the electronic lock using radio-frequency-signal communication. Each card possesses a microchip and an antenna that sends and receives data from an RFID reader.
Different Kinds of RFID Integrated Into Hotel Key Cards
Three distinct categories utilize the frequencies of RFID.
- 125kHz (Low Frequency): Used for basic access control for multiple business sectors.
- High Frequency (HF – 13.56 MHz): Software-based access controls (RFID HID brooders) are widely used in hotels.
- Ultra High Frequency (UHF – 860-960 MHz): Used for long-distance ranges but rarely in hotels.
The UHF frequency does not require direct positioning of the RFID card for the reader to function, providing more convenience than that provided by magnetic stripe cards.
NFC Technology
NFC is a type of two-way communication RFID technology. On the other hand, communication between keycards and readers has been one-sided through RFID methods, whereas NFC permits interaction from both ends.
How NFC Technology Is Used In Hotels?
- Similar to most high-frequency RFID, NFC also functions on 13.56 MHz.
- For activation, it requires close-range contact (typically 1-4 cm).
- Guests can use their smartphones as key cards, making it possible to operate using mobile devices.
Hotels utilizing NFC technology can reduce physical key card usage since guests can unlock doors with their mobile devices.
Key Differences Between RFID and NFC Hotel Key Cards
| Feature | RFID Key Cards | NFC Key Cards |
| Communication | One-way transmission | Two-way communication |
| Range | Up to several meters | Close range (1-4 cm) |
| Interactivity | Limited | Can interact with mobile devices |
| Usage | Access control | Mobile keys, payments, and access |
| Security | Secure, but limited encryption | More secure with encryption |
Which One Do Hotels Use More?
Due to their low cost and easy implementation, RFID key cards are the most commonly used by hotels. However, there is growing adoption of NFC-equipped key cards, particularly in high-end hotels that provide smartphone keyless entry.
Advantages of RFID and NFC Key Cards for Hotels
Both types of key cards are useful for hotel operators and clients.
Benefits of RFID Key Cards:
- Touchless Convenience: Guests do not need to swipe or insert cards; bringing the card close to the reader allows the doors to open.
- Durability: RFID cards are more durable than magnetic stripe cards which have a short life span.
- Increased Protection: Lowers chances of lost keys or unauthorized copying.
- RFID Powered Key Card Bulk Encoding: Speeds up the check-in process.
Benefits of NFC Key Cards
- Compatible on Mobile Devices: Strips down the need for physical cards as it can work with smartphones.
- Superior Security: Enables encrypted communication for enhanced security.
- Multi-Function: Usable for payments, accessing rooms, and other hotel services via apps.
Adoption of NFC in Hotels Examples
- Marriott Bonvoy App: Guests can use smartphones with NFC capabilities to unlock their doors.
- Hilton Digital Key: Let guests skip the front desk and use rooms with NFC technology.
- Hyatt Mobile Key: Allows contactless check-in with the use of NFC via mobile phones.
Challenges of Using RFID and NFC Key Cards
Hotels may find a few difficulties with the convenience provided by RFID and NFC.
Challenges of RFID Key Cards
- Cloning RFID Skimming Devices: If older systems of RFID s are not shielded from certain secure cloning devices, then cloning is possible.
- Deactivation Card Problems: Damage or interference can deactivate some RFID cards too omnipresent.
- Infrastructure Investment: Changing the locks on hotel doors to RFID-enabled versions incurs some costs.
Challenges of NFC Key Cards
- Compatibility Issues With Guest Smartphones: Some guests do not possess the required NFC phones.
- Dependence On A Network: Mobile keys based on NFC have a heavy dependency on the hotel application and the availability of the internet.
- Implementation Cost Problems: Investment in infrastructure and locks that support NFC technology is mandatory in hotels.
Prospective Developments of the Hotel Key Card Technology
Smart adaptations are rapidly being integrated into the hospitality space and it is bound to get smarter with new improvements such as:
- Smart Locks Enabled With AI: AI access control that gives access to the room and the guests.
- Blockchain Digital Key: The digital key that is more secure can be stored using blockchain technology.
- Key Cards That Charge Themselves: Type of RFID cards that can charge without a wire and thus remove reliance on a battery.
With innovation in both RFID and NFC hotes will continue to improve the relieves, security and other features for guests.
Conclusion
To wrap this up, are hotel cards powered by NFC or RFID technology? Both. Hotels mainly utilize RFID key cards at this time. However, the NFC technology’s integration with mobile devices and ease of use make it popular and a preferred choice for many hotels.
Because of their low cost and extensive use, RFID cards are still the industry standard, while unlocked NFC hotel locks that allow the use of smartphones to open doors are a prospective innovation.
With the implementation of digital keys and mobile apps by many hotels, NFC technology is bound to change the hospitality landscape for the better by making it more convenient, touch-free, and modern for guests.
