Why do high-end cards support plug-in and touch cards at the same time?

Why do high-end cards require both "inserting" and "tapping"? Understand the clever ideas behind the dual-mode in one article!

Have you noticed that some high-end cards (such as bank VIP cards, brand co-branded cards, and smart access cards) have both a "Card Insertion and Induction Area" and an NFC area for "tap-to-connect" marked on the back? Can't they just keep one? Actually, this isn't a case of "adding features just to fill the count" in design – the dual mode of "card insertion + tap-to-connect" is the real "all-round ace" of high-end cards! Today, we'll break down the clever thinking behind this, and by the way, tell you how Zhanfeng smart cards make a card "both stable and trendy".

2. What exactly is the difference between inserting a card and tapping a card?

To put it simply: 

 · Card insertion (contact type): Insert the card into the device's card slot (such as a card reader) and directly transmit data through metal contacts. It is characterized by stability and strong compatibility, and is suitable for scenarios requiring high-precision reading (such as access control permission verification). 

 · Card tapping (contactless/NFC): Use a mobile phone or card to approach the device's sensing area (no need to insert the card) and transmit data wirelessly through radio frequency signals. It is characterized by speed and convenience, and is suitable for daily quick operations (such as swiping a bus card, opening a door in seconds). 

However, both methods have their "little quirks": Card insertion relies on physical contacts, which may wear out after long-term insertion and removal; although NFC is convenient, it may be affected by mobile phone models and device compatibility (for example, old POS machines do not support it).

2. Why must high-end cards have a "dual-mode"?

· Compatibility: covers all usage scenarios

The usage environment of high-end users is often very complex. For example, a bank's platinum card needs to be able to be inserted into an ATM to withdraw cash (contact mode is more stable) and also to "tap" to buy coffee in a convenience store (NFC is faster); a brand's VIP card needs to be able to be inserted into an old-fashioned access control machine to open the door (to be compatible with old equipment) and also to allow customers to quickly verify benefits by tapping it with a mobile phone (a cool NFC experience). With only one mode, there will always be a type of scenario that "fails".

· Security: Critical operations have a "double insurance"

For operations involving funds or sensitive information (such as large-amount transfers, modification of access control permissions), the physical connection of contact card insertion is more difficult to be interfered with (for example, NFC may be more at risk of signal shielding or duplication), thus having higher security. For daily small-amount payments or quick passage, the convenience of NFC can enhance user experience. The dual-mode is equivalent to providing "double insurance" for both security and convenience.

· Experience: High-end means "being comprehensive in every aspect"

Users of high-end cards often pursue "seamless and smooth experience" — they need to quickly unlock hotel doors (via NFC) and also use card insertion for identity verification on important occasions (such as in VIP rooms of clubs); it should make young people feel that "tapping to pay" is technological, while making elders feel that "inserting a card is more reliable" and not troublesome. The dual-mode perfectly adapts to the usage habits of different groups of people, and this is the true "high-end detail".

3. Zhanfeng Smart Card: Dual-mode customization, achieving stability and fashion in one step

"Insert card + tap card" is not a simple function overlay, but an in-depth insight into user scenarios - it must not only cover the compatibility of old devices, but also embrace the convenience of new technologies; it must not only ensure the security of key operations, but also improve the smoothness of daily use.If you are designing a card for high-end customers that "can be used in any scenario and satisfy any group of people", you might as well try Zhanfeng's smart card solution! Solve all problems with one card, making high-end not just about "being expensive", but more about "being considerate".