RFID Technology

RFID Access Control: How to Choose the Right Cards and Key Fobs

Posted on by Admin

Access control is one of the most common applications of RFID technology. Whether for a company, a residential building, a hotel or a car park, RFID cards and key fobs offer a fast, reliable and secure solution for managing entry and exit points.

How does RFID access control work?

An RFID access control system consists of three main components: an RFID reader installed at the entry point, an RFID credential (card, key fob or wristband) carried by the user, and a control panel that grants or denies access based on the stored data.

When the user presents their credential to the reader, the chip transmits its unique identifier wirelessly. The system checks this identifier against its database and triggers the door opening mechanism if access is authorised.

Which frequency should you choose?

The choice of frequency is critical and must be compatible with your existing reader infrastructure.

  • Low Frequency (LF – 125 kHz): the most widely used standard in access control. Compatible with EM4200, TK4100, HID Prox and Hitag chips. Reading range of 5 to 15 cm. Ideal for most standard installations.
  • High Frequency (HF – 13.56 MHz): offers greater security with encryption and anti-cloning capabilities. Compatible with MIFARE Classic, MIFARE DESFire, NTAG and HID iCLASS chips. Recommended for sensitive environments requiring higher security levels.
  • Ultra High Frequency (UHF – 860-960 MHz): longer reading range (up to several metres). Used for vehicle access control or logistics applications.

Cards or key fobs: which credential to choose?

Both formats offer the same level of security. The choice depends mainly on your users’ preferences and usage context.

  • RFID cards (CR80 format) are ideal for employee badges, hotel key cards and visitor passes. They can be printed with a logo, photo or barcode.
  • RFID key fobs (ABS or epoxy) are more compact and practical for daily use. They attach easily to a keyring and are available in multiple colours.
  • RFID wristbands (silicone) are particularly suited to environments where hands-free access is required, such as swimming pools, gyms or events.

Common compatibility mistakes to avoid

The most frequent mistake is purchasing credentials without verifying compatibility with the existing reader. A 125 kHz reader cannot read a 13.56 MHz card, even if they look identical. Always check:

  • The operating frequency of your reader (125 kHz or 13.56 MHz)
  • The chip technology required (EM4200, MIFARE, HID…)
  • Whether a specific encoding is needed

If in doubt, contact our technical team before placing your order. We can help you identify the right product for your system.

Customisation options

All our RFID credentials can be customised to your specifications: logo printing, sequential numbering, QR code, barcode or secure encoding. This makes it easy to create professional, branded access control credentials for your organisation.

Our recommended products for access control

Need advice on choosing the right RFID credentials for your access control system? Contact our team for a personalised recommendation.