Proximity card vs mifare card both are contactless smart cards used for access control, identification, and payment systems, but they differ significantly in terms of technology, security, and use cases.
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Proximity Card
- Technology: 125 kHz (Low Frequency)
- Type: Read-only
- Memory: Limited – just a unique ID number
- Security: Low — can be easily cloned with inexpensive hardware
- Communication: Passive; only sends a serial number when within range of a reader
- Use Cases: Basic door access systems, older building entry systems
- HID ProxCard
MIFARE Card
- Technology: 13.56 MHz (High Frequency, based on ISO/IEC 14443)
- Type: Read/write (smart card)
- Memory: From 1 KB to 4 KB and beyond
- Security: Higher — includes authentication, encryption (e.g., MIFARE DESFire uses AES encryption)
- Communication: Two-way communication; can store and update data (like balance or access logs)
- Use Cases: Public transport cards, secure building access, contactless payments
- Examples of :
- MIFARE Classic: Older, still common but less secure
- MIFARE DESFire: More secure, supports encryption
- MIFARE Ultralight: Cheaper, limited memory, often used in single-use tickets
Summary
Feature | Proximity Card | MIFARE Card |
---|---|---|
Frequency | 125 kHz | 13.56 MHz |
Data Capability | Serial number only | Read/write, multiple data blocks |
Security | Low | Medium to high |
Usage | Simple access control | Transit, payments, secure ID |
Communication | One-way | Two-way |
- Proximity card and mifare card both serve purposes such as access control, ticketing, and attendance, yet they offer distinct advantages. Proximity cards lack memory, whereas MIFARE cards are equipped with memory and a microchip, enabling them to store data.
- What is HID proximity card?