Paperless cards are rapidly becoming obsolete as more professional and modern business cards are coming into the market that are providing more convenience and functionality. The two most popular choices are- Digital business cards and NFC (near-field communication) business cards. Though both use innovative technologies, these are not the same products and come with their pros and cons. If you are among many people who don’t know about them and the difference between them, we will help you.
What are NFC business cards?
Before learning about NFC business cards, let us first understand NFC technology. Near field technology, or NFC, is a short-range wireless technology that enables nearby NFC-enabled devices to exchange information seamlessly.
NFC business cards are equipped with an NFC chip that enables the card to share your details with other’s smartphones when they tap the card with their phone. Others don’t need to download an app to see the information stored on a NFC card. However, after buying the NFC card, you need to set up your profile on the app by adding relevant details, such as contact information, business brochures, social media links and more. Some NFC business cards also feature a QR code that helps people share their information with the phone scanner. This ensures that others can see their information even if their phone has no NFC capabilities.
What are Digital Business Cards?
Digital business cards are a virtual version of paper business cards that are created and shared online. They enable users to add all their essential information, such as contact information, company name, email, social media profile and more. Digital visiting cards also allow users to update their information, which helps them share their latest information with others without the need for reprinting (NFC cards also allow users to modify their information).
Digital business cards can be created as images (Dynamic QR codes) or links that can be shared through WhatsApp, email, text messages, etc. So, they offer individuals a contactless and more versatile way to share their information.
Difference between NFC and Digital Business Cards
One of the best ways to understand the difference between NFC and digital business cards is to compare the key elements of business cards, such as sharing method, technology requirement, cost, sustainability and more. So, let us compare these aspects to know the fundamental difference between the two.
Method of Sharing
One can easily share his/her information through an NFC card by tapping the card against a smartphone or any NFC-enabled device. On tapping, all the information will be automatically shared with another person, making NFC sharing one of the smoothest methods for transferring data. NFC cards are great for networking, as they enable individuals to share their information instantly with anyone they meet in a meeting, event, or conference.
Digital visiting cards are typically digital images (QR codes), or a link that can be shared virtually. You can send the link through WhatsApp, email or text, which others can open on their smartphone to see your information. Alternatively, you can ask someone to scan the QR code in person to get access to your details. These are two common ways by which you can share your information with others through digital business cards.
Technology Requirements
NFC cards are physical cards which, when placed in close proximity to NFC-enabled devices such as smartphones, instantly share information. The sender does not require an internet connection to transfer his/her details to the receiver through an NFC card. The receiver, however, needs an internet connection to see the information that is sent, such as contact information, business details and other relevant information.
Digital cards are virtual, so they don’t need to be carried physically. And since they are present in the digital realm, any device that has an internet connection can access and share the information that is included in them at any time and from anywhere. Also, one can share their details with multiple recipients, which makes them efficient and convenient for exchanging information.
Cost
NFC cards provide a more easy and convenient way to share information but can be costly because they require physical printing, just like paper cards. However, as they are not given to others, they are not printed in large quantities, which reduces the overall printing cost compared to paper cards. Plus, they are impressive. With a simple tap, you can share information, unlike digital cards.
Digital business cards are not printed like paper and NFC cards, they are created and stored electronically. This means that you need not to spend your hard-earned money on printing them. Moreover, you can easily update your information on digital business cards and provide up-to-date information to your clients (You can do the same with NFC cards). All this makes digital business cards an appealing option for exchanging information with clients, customers and anyone else.
Sustainability
NFC business cards also known as smart business card are more sustainable than traditional cards, as they don’t require to be printed in large amounts. You can reuse and update them digitally without reprinting them, which helps reduce waste. Though they are made from metal, PVC and plastic, their reusability and longevity make them a sustainable option among physical cards. But, as compared to digital cards, they are less sustainable. Stylish 24 Carat Custom Gold Cards which are made from metal gives a premium look your business card and leave a long lasting impression. Digital business cards are highly sustainable since they are not physical. They help reduce paper and plastic waste by enabling individuals to share their information digitally.
The below table will help you know the key differences between the two.
| Key Aspects | NFC business cards | Digital business cards |
| Sharing method | Data transfer through a tap. | Sharing through links and QR codes. |
| Technology requirements | NFC enabled devices such as a smartphone. | Internet connection for sharing and accessing information. |
| Sharing medium | Physical | Digital |
| Sustainability | Reduce paper waste. | No physical production. |
| Accessibility | Requires an NFC enabled device. | Any device with internet can access it. |
| User experience | Instant sharing with a simple tap. | Requires scanning or clicking of link. |
Also read about the reasons we think Why Smart Business Cards Are the Future of Networking!
Which one is better? The Brainstorming Question.
Well, it all depends on what you need. For example, if you want to impress your prospects, go with NFC cards. They have a modern appeal and provide a seamless sharing experience. However, if you want to be more sustainable, pick digital cards as they are more eco-friendly and eliminate the need for printing. Ultimately, the choice between the NFC and digital card ends relies on one’s specific needs, networking goals and the impression that one wants to make. So consider your target audience and think which among them will align best with your requirements.
Final words
At last, both NFC and digital business cards are beneficial in different scenarios. NFC cards provide a better and quicker sharing option but are a bit expensive. On the other hand, digital business cards enable you to share information remotely. A solution like Niha NFC cards can provide you with the best of both worlds by combining the tap capabilities of NFC with the digital card’s ability to share information virtually.
