QR Codes Versus Near Field Communications NFC
The first rule of Fight Club is…that’s right, we’re talking about it!
In today’s highly competitive world of technology, fierce debates are always brewing about which “new kid on the block” is the fastest, hottest, most efficient, most effective, or – simply put – packs the hardest punch. The latest contenders: QR Codes versus Near Field Communications NFC.
Oh yeah, we’re weighing in.
NFC and QR codes (quick response barcodes) are increasingly compared to determine which technology is more advanced in effectively bridging our real and virtual worlds. Which offers the easiest application, and which is the most user-friendly for customers and prospects?
While proponents of both wireless technologies have plenty to rave about, it would be far too hasty to believe that NFC will make QR codes unnecessary, or even knock them out. Each technology offers a very distinct user experience that presents a much clearer picture of the overall value it lends to a mobile marketing campaign.
QR Codes Versus Near Field Communications NFC
What they are:
QR codes are highly-functioning, two-dimensional barcodes designed to easily share information. Upon scanning a code with your smartphone or other mobile device, you are taken to customized content, such as a website, landing page, promotional offer, networking site, photo album, etc. A code can be placed on anything from brochures and t-shirts to signage and rooftops…and, even you! Print them. Tattoo them. Be as creative as you like!
NFC is a chip technology that enables non-contact communication between electronic devices – typically within only a few centimeters between the devices. It shares a core technology with RFID (radio-frequency identification) tags, which can be embedded into a wide variety of consumer products. Just wave your NFC-enabled smartphone in front of a tag to upload customized content.
Seem similar? Not so much. Both NFC and QR codes can be powerful extensions of your brand. They are undeniably flexible, mobile business tools that can be applied in countless extraordinary ways. When it comes to marketing strategy and the return on your investment, however, a few distinct differences should be noted:
- QR codes offer free access. NFC requires the purchase of chip hardware
- Embedding an NFC chip raises a product’s cost. QR code application does not
- NFC tags cannot simply be printed. QR codes can
- QR codes can be placed high and at a distance – ineffective for NFC tags
- NFC technology can create security and identity theft issues. QR codes do not
- QR codes can be easily mass-tested for reliability. NFC chips should be individually tested
- Most new mobile phones include a free QR code reader. Today’s NFC technology likely requires a new handset
- A QR code can be incorporated into more marketing materials than an NFC chip can be embedded
- QR codes can be scanned from a distance. NFC requires a distance of less than 10 centimeters. (For best results, users should touch the tag with their device.)
- A QR code can sustain some damage and still be functional. Damage renders an NFC tag useless
It remains to be seen as to whether or not Near Field Communications is going to live up to the buzz it currently enjoys. As with any technology, progress is a process of trial and error, especially when bringing a concept into the mainstream. Meanwhile, QR codes are tried and true.
Confused? Don’t be. At myQRad.com, we’ll get you into the mobile marketing arena in less than sixty seconds. So, what are you waiting for?
If this is your first night at Fight Club, you HAVE to fight. BAM!
