Proximity Cards or Key Fobs?

Time for a Decision

You’ve finally decided to go with secure physical access control. Great! Now the question is, “Which should I go with, proximity cards or key fobs”?

Let’s see what they both have in common. Both are known as “contactless” cards, which means they don’t require physical contact with the reader. Users simply wave them in front of the reader, which reduces wear on both the card and the reader – extending the life of the system.

Each proximity card and key fob is encoded with a unique code that cannot be updated or modified. This ensures that the data on the card remains intact and altered.

Both key fobs and proximity cards have their own advantages:

Key Fob Advantages

• Key fobs offer proximity technology in a convenient, pocket-sized device. It easily attaches to a key ring, ID badge clip, or ID neck lanyard.
• Key fobs are a great choice if
  • You don’t need identification, yet want convenient proximity technology for your users.
• Key fobs are built to withstand harsh operating environments and handling.
• Key fobs are most popular with:
  • Apartments
  • Home Owner Associations
  • Janitors
  • Facilities
  • Manufacturing
  • Warehouses

Proximity Card Advantages

• Proximity cards offer the security of access control with the added flexibility of visual identification. ISO proximity cards can be directly printed to add identification. Clamshell cards, which are too thick to pass through ID card printers, can also be used for identification by printing onto an adhesive-backed card and placing the sticker on the card.
• Proximity cards are a great choice if
  • You need identification along with secure access control for your users.
• Durability can be increased by placing cards into a badge holder to help protect them from wear and tear, especially from the elements.
• Most popular cards are durable, convenient, and come in affordable styles:

Clamshell Proximity Card

Key Fob

ISO Proximity Card

ADVANTIDGE offers a wide variety of card printer systems, or other visitor management devices, to fill any of your asset tracking, visitor management, or identification card needs. From card printers and supplies for issuance to badge clips and other peripherals to put them into your users’ hands. With more than 40 years of combined industry experience, we’re ready to help you achieve your identification goals. For specific information please contact our Sales department at [email protected] or call 800-965-5932 for more information on this update, we provide excellent customer service!