Terminology » Other Wireless » NFC Tag Types: Understanding the Differences Between Types 1-5

NFC Tag Types: Understanding the Differences Between Types 1-5

nfc nfc tag wireless communication tag type near field communication

Near Field Communication (NFC) technology enables a wide variety of wireless communication applications, from contactless payments to interactive smart posters. NFC tags come in several types, each with its own unique features and capabilities. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between NFC tag types 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, focusing on their memory capacity, data transfer speeds, data access methods, collision mechanisms, pricing, and practical applications. Understanding these distinctions will help you choose the right NFC tag for your specific use case.

NFC tags are used in a variety of applications such as banking, transit passes, business IDs, and ticketing.

NFC Type 1 Tag

Here are the features of the NFC Type 1 Tag:

  • Standard: ISO-14443A
  • Memory Size: 96 bytes
  • Speed: 106 Kbps
  • Data Access: Read/Write or Read Only
  • Collision Mechanism: Data collision protection not available.
  • Compliant Products: Innovision Topaz
  • Pricing: Low

NFC Type 2 Tag

Here are the features of the NFC Type 2 Tag:

  • Standard: ISO-14443A
  • Memory Size: 48 bytes / 144 bytes
  • Speed: 106 Kbps
  • Data Access: Read/Write or Read Only
  • Collision Mechanism: Anti-collision support available
  • Compliant Products: NXP Mifare Ultralight, NXP Mifare Ultralight C
  • Pricing: Low

NFC Type 3 Tag

Here are the features of the NFC Type 3 Tag:

  • Standard: ISO-18092, JIS-X-6319-4
  • Memory Size: 1 KB / 4 KB / 9 KB
  • Speed: 212 or 424 kbps
  • Data Access: Read/Write or Read Only
  • Collision Mechanism: Anti-collision support available
  • Compliant Products: Sony Felica
  • Pricing: High

NFC Type 4 Tag

Here are the features of the NFC Type 4 Tag:

  • Standard: NXP DESFire Tag (ISO-14443A)
  • Memory Size: 4 KB / 32 KB
  • Speed: 106 / 212 / 424 Kbps
  • Data Access: Read/Write or Read Only
  • Collision Mechanism: Anti-collision support available
  • Compliant Products: NXP DESFire, NXP SmartMX-JCOP
  • Pricing: Medium to high

NFC Type 5 Tag (Type Mifare Classic Tag)

Here are the features of the NFC Type 5 Tag, i.e., Mifare Classic Tag:

  • Standard: ISO-14443A, MF1 IC S50
  • Memory Size: 192 Bytes / 768 bytes / 3584 bytes
  • Speed: 106Kbps
  • Data Access: Read/Write or Read Only
  • Collision Mechanism: Anti-collision Support available
  • Compliant Products: NXP Mifare Classic 1K, NXP Mifare Classic 4K, NXP Mifare Classic Mini
  • Pricing: Low

Conclusion

Each NFC tag type offers unique advantages depending on the application. While Type 1 and 2 tags are ideal for simple tasks due to their lower memory and speed, Type 4 and 5 tags provide higher performance and security features suitable for complex applications like payment systems. By understanding the key differences between NFC tag types, you can make informed decisions when selecting the right tag for your project, ensuring optimal performance and cost efficiency.