RFID technology VS barcode technology

RFID tags and barcodes are both data-carrying technologies that can Store product information on the label, but they have completely different functions.

A barcode is a machine-readable code that visually represents data in the form of numbers and solid-color patterns (lines or squares). When a barcode reader, smartphone or even a desktop printer scans the barcode, the item's information can be identified. These barcodes can be made into various shapes and sizes, and the content recognized is not affected by the shape and size of the barcode.

Radio frequency identification (RFID) tags consist of microchips and radio antennas that store unique data and transmit it to an RFID Reader. They use electromagnetic fields to identify and track objects. RFID tags come in two forms, active and passive. Active tags have their own power source to transmit their data. Unlike passive tags, passive tags require a nearby reader to emit electromagnetic waves and receive the energy of the electromagnetic waves to activate the passive tag. Then the passive tag can transfer the stored information to Reader/writer.

advantage

barcode

l Barcodes are universal because stores with barcode readers can process barcodes from elsewhere

l Barcodes are cheaper because they are printed on paper (the ink is the cost)

l Barcode readers are generally cheaper than RFID readers

l Smartphones can also be used to read barcodes

l Barcodes are smaller and lighter than RFID tags

RFID electronic tag

l RFID tags have a long reading distance

l Can read multiple tags at one time, and the data reading speed is fast

l High data security and can be encrypted

l If a fixed reader is set up, RFID tags can be read in large batches at the same time, saving manpower and time costs.

l More durable and can be embedded in objects.

l RFID tags can ensure the authenticity of products and have the function of anti-counterfeiting and traceability.

shortcoming

barcode

l The distance of the barcode is short and must be close to the reader

l Barcodes are directly exposed to the air and are easily abraded and damaged by liquids such as water. Once damaged, the function of the barcode will be ineffective.

l Less data can be stored

l Must be scanned individually, group reading is not supported, and reading efficiency is low

l Easy to be counterfeited, low counterfeiting cost

RFID tag

l RFID tags are more expensive than barcodes, but their durability and larger data capacity make them more valuable in the long run

l More RFID experience and technical knowledge is required to ensure the required read rate is achieved

l RFID signals may be blocked by liquid or metal, thus affecting the accuracy of readings