Tap-to-unlock is one of the most convenient ways to open a smart lock — but you will see three terms: NFC, RFID, and IC card. What is the difference, and which matters for your door? Covlor® demystifies the NFC smart lock versus RFID and IC card technologies.
What Is RFID?
RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) is the umbrella technology behind contactless cards. A reader powers a small chip in the card wirelessly and reads its ID to grant access. Read more about RFID.
What Is an IC Card?
An IC (Integrated Circuit) card is a type of RFID card with a smart chip, commonly the 13.56 MHz Mifare cards used in most modern smart locks. They are fast, cheap to add, and easy to deactivate if lost.
What Is NFC?
NFC (Near-Field Communication) is a short-range subset of RFID at 13.56 MHz — the same tech in your phone’s tap-to-pay. An NFC-capable lock can read compatible cards or, on some models, a phone. Learn about NFC.
NFC vs RFID vs IC Card: Comparison
| Aspect | RFID (general) | IC Card | NFC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frequency | Low/high (125 kHz–13.56 MHz) | 13.56 MHz | 13.56 MHz |
| Range | Up to several cm | A few cm | Very short (~4 cm) |
| Phone support | No | No | Yes (some locks) |
| Security | Varies | Encrypted (Mifare) | Encrypted |
| Common use | Access cards | Smart lock cards | Card or phone tap |
Which Should You Choose?
For most homes and offices, an IC/RFID card lock is perfect — issue cards to family or staff and deactivate lost ones instantly. Choose NFC if you want the option of phone-tap access. Many Covlor® locks combine card access with fingerprint, face, PIN and app, so you are never limited to one method. See the shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between NFC and RFID?
NFC is a short-range type of RFID at 13.56 MHz. All NFC is RFID, but not all RFID is NFC — NFC works only at very close range and can involve phones.
Are IC card locks secure?
Yes. Modern IC (Mifare) cards are encrypted, and lost cards can be deactivated instantly without changing the lock.
Can I unlock with my phone?
On NFC-enabled locks, some phones can tap to unlock. Otherwise, use the app over Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
What if I lose my access card?
Simply delete it in the lock or app and issue a new one — the lost card stops working immediately.
Tap, scan, or type — your choice
Explore multi-access Covlor® Smart AI Door Locks with card, fingerprint, face and app — backed by a 2-year warranty.
