RFID Tag Performance Comparison: LF vs. HF/NFC vs. UHF

There are three types of RFID tags. Do you know the difference between them?

In modern laundry, warehousing and logistics, RFID tags are like an “invisible ID card” that can automatically help us identify and track the location of items. But you may not know that these tags are not all the same. They are divided into three different “frequency families”: low frequency (LF), high frequency (HF/NFC) and ultra-high frequency (UHF). Each has its own characteristics and usage. Only when you choose the right one can you use it smoothly.

1. Low-frequency RFID tag (LF)

This is a “big brother” tag with an operating frequency between 30kHz and 300kHz, the most common of which is 125kHz or 134.2kHz. Its ability is:

Strong anti-interference: not easily interfered by other electrical appliances, and can work normally in noisy environments.

Short reading distance: generally only within 50 cm, and at most more than 1 meter after the equipment is adjusted.

Slow speed: data transmission is not fast, suitable for scenarios where you only need to “swipe your identity”.

▶ What is it suitable for?
Access cards, parking cards, pet trackers, etc., do not need to be fast, but must be stable.

2. High-frequency RFID tags (HF / NFC)

The operating frequency of this type of tag is 13.56MHz, which belongs to the high-frequency range and is also the most common type in our lives. If you use your mobile phone to swipe the subway, induction access control, or register the library books as soon as you put them, then this type of tag is basically helping.

Medium reading distance: generally within 10 cm, but good equipment can read more than 1 meter away.

Moderate speed: data transmission is faster than low frequency, and can support some complex interactions.

Compatible with NFC mobile phones: Many mobile phones can directly read this type of tag, which is very convenient.

▶ What is it suitable for?
Bus cards, access cards, library borrowing cards, product traceability, laundry tags, etc.

Recommended product: PPS 13.56MHz NFC RFID laundry tag
This tag is a representative of high-frequency NFC tags. It uses a strong PPS material that can withstand high temperature and high pressure, is not afraid of water or washing, and is particularly suitable for repeated washing environments such as hotels, hospitals, and laundry factories. It is safe to sew on fabrics or hide inside clothing.

3. Ultra-high frequency RFID tag (UHF)

The UHF tag has the “farthest vision” among the three brothers. The operating frequency is between 860MHz-960MHz. It transmits data through electromagnetic waves and can identify dozens or hundreds of tags at a time.

Long reading distance: from a few centimeters to more than 10 meters.

Fast transmission speed: can quickly read a large amount of data, which is very suitable for batch operations.

Easily interfered: in the presence of metal, water or human body, the signal may weaken.

Why Waterproof UHF fabric RFID Tags Are Essential for Your Laundry

Comparative Analysis of LF, HF/NFC, and UHF RFID Tags