CPU Card VS IC Card：can you still not distinguish them?

Have you applied for an access control card or a bus card? The one with the "brain" hidden in these cards is called CPU cards, and the one with only "simple memory" is called IC cards - although they are all called smart cards, their "IQs" are far different! Today, I will use the most straightforward language to help you distinguish the difference between the two and talk about which one is more suitable for your business scenario~

1.What are IC cards and CPU cards?

IC card (contact type/contact non-contact type)

• Essence: A card with storage function has a memory chip (similar to USB flash drive) inside, which can store data (such as card number and balance), but does not have computing power. 

• Common scenarios: community access control card (swipe and open the door), old version of bus card (deduct fees after recharge), some member value storage cards (record the number of consumptions). 

• Features: Cheap, easy to make, but weak security (data is easily copied or tampered with).

CPU card (smart chip card)

• Essence: The card with a "brain" has a microprocessor chip (CPU) + storage unit inside, which not only stores data, but also encrypts computing and logical judgment (like a mini computer). 

• Common scenarios: social security card (safely read personal information), high-end access control card (anti-copy). 

• Features: High security, flexible functions, but slightly higher cost than IC cards.

2. Core difference: 4 dimension comparison

3. How to choose? Depend on your business needs!

It is more appropriate to choose an IC card: 

• A limited budget requires a large number of low-cost cards (such as short-term event check-in cards and temporary training certificates)

• A simple function, only basic information (such as card number and name) is required without encryption verification

• A low security requirement (such as temporary pass for internal employees)

It is more appropriate to choose a CPU card: 

• It involves funds or sensitive information (such as payment cards, social security cards, and membership value cards), and needs to be anti-copy and tamper-proof

• Complex functions (such as access control + consumption + identity verification, or real-time verification is required for connection with the background system)

• Long-term use (the CPU card has a longer life, and the security reduces subsequent risks)

4. Our service: CPU card/IC card can be customized!

As a smart card source manufacturer, we provide full customization of two card types:

• IC card: Contact/contact non-contact type is optional, with PVC/environmental paper, suitable for low-cost scenarios 

• CPU card: supports national encryption algorithm (more secure), multi-application integration (access control + payment + identity), suitable for high security needs

• Function expansion: printable LOGO/QR code, customized chip permissions (such as limiting usage times/time)

Not sure which one to choose? Tell us your usage scenarios (such as "employee access card" and "campus card"), and we provide free selection suggestions + sample sending.