Are large NFC tags better than small ones?
Determining the optimum size for NFC tags is not always that easy. The influence of the sizes is explained in more detail here.
Large NFC tags are not always automatically better than small ones. The optimum size depends on many factors, such as the reader or the intended use.
As a rule of thumb, however, it can be said that NFC tags in the size range of 20 - 50 mm work best when using typical NFC-enabled smartphones.
What influences the size?
The size of the NFC tag is influenced by the size of the antenna. This is because the antenna's conductor tracks require space and are usually round and arranged in several tracks around the NFC chip.
An NFC chip does not affect the size of an NFC tag. Therefore, the size of the antenna also determines the size of the entire unit in which the chip and antenna are either integrated or attached. NFC tags can be stickers that are only slightly larger than the antenna and chip combination or, for example, a larger card in which only part of the surface is occupied.
The space required for the antenna should be selected so that the reading area (radio field) of the active transmitter (e.g. the smartphone) harmonizes well with the matching tag. Here too, antennas in the size range of 20-50mm provide the best performance. With significantly smaller antennas, such as those used for micro NFC tags, reading can be more difficult. Particular attention must be paid here to the position of the smartphone.
Readout can be more difficult with larger antennas. This is because it is less obvious where it is located in an object. For example: An NFC tag is contained in a soft toy. The NFC tag is quite large due to its large antenna. It is not clear where exactly the soft toy needs to be scanned in order to read information. If the NFC tag is smaller, the position on the soft toy can be marked more easily and found quickly. This makes it immediately clear where you need to scan the soft toy.
In summary, larger NFC tags are not automatically better than smaller ones. For the best possible user-friendliness, the NFC tag should be within the recommended range. Marking the optimum position can make it even easier to use.
First published: 19.12.2023 / Updated: 19.12.2023 2023-12-19 2023-12-19