RFID readers are responsible for converting the signal received by antennas into readable format. These readers are used to interrogate RFID tags and read the information encoded in tags for the end users. There is a whole suite of RFID scanners that you can choose from, some come relatively cheap, while others are unbelievably expensive. There is a good reason why there is such a big price difference between RFID readers.
That’s why, today we will do an analysis of RFID Reader Prices.
Understanding RFID Readers
There are diverse classifications of readers that are developed by manufacturers. The reason for such different classifications is application. Some of the basic classifications of readers are – Fixed, Handheld, Integrated, USB Readers, Wi-Fi Readers, UHF Readers, HF/LF Readers, and NFC Readers.
(A). Fixed readers as the name suggests are stationary and affixed to a surface. Fixed readers like the Zebra FX9600 have an external detachable antenna that you can connect with cables. These allow the reader to have a good range, as it can support multiple antennae.
(B). Handheld readers only have a single antenna; they are made to be mobile and ergonomic. These readers usually operate on high frequency & ultra-high frequency. They operate using an internal battery and can read tags 20 to 30 feet away.
(C). Integrated readers are the same as fixed readers, however, they have an additional internal antenna. Much like fixed readers, they can also support additional external antennae, but not as many as fixed readers. This makes them easy to set up but decreases their range significantly.
(D). USB Readers are small and meant to be portable. They are named as such because you can directly plug them into a computer or laptop using a USB connection. They also have an integrated antenna and cannot support external ones. USB readers have a very small range and are usually used for programming RFID tags.
(E). Wi-Fi Readers are much the same as fixed readers, however, in addition to radio signals; they also communicate using Wi-Fi signals. They are usually used in large spaces due to their ability to be used in big spaces. As long as they are connected to a Wi-Fi network, they can transmit their data to every system on the connection.
UHF RFID Reader Prices in India
UHF (Ultra High Frequency) RFID readers are noted for their long read ranges (up to 15 meters), making them excellent for use in inventory management, logistics, and supply chain. Prices for UHF readers vary depending on various factors such as read range, data processing capability, and other features. Entry-level Fixed UHF readers in India start at INR 30,000, and UHF handheld RFID readers Chainway C72 priced at approx. 55,000 INR, while advanced versions with increased features may cost more than INR 10,00,000. You can also get UHF-integrated RFID readers that are slightly cheaper and the price starts at approximately INR 11,000.
UHF RFID Reader example - C66 UHF Handheld RFID Reader (Android 11/9), UHF RFID USB Desktop Reader/Writer
Chainway C66 UHF RFID Reader
The C66 UHF RFID Reader by Chainway has a high-performance quad-core processor for smooth operation and fast data processing. The C66 UHF Handheld RFID Reader uses the Android 11/9 operating system. With a wide and colorful touchscreen display, users can interact with the device in a simple way. Its UHF RFID features enable long-range tag recognition, making it perfect for inventory management, asset tracking, and logistics. The C66 UHF RFID reader by Chainway may cost you approx. INR 55,000 in India.
Chainway C72 UHF Handheld RFID Reader
The Chainway C72 UHF Handheld RFID Reader, powered by the Android 11 operating system, is a versatile and advanced gadget built for effective RFID data capture in a mobile form factor. The Android 11 platform provides a user-friendly and customizable interface, allowing for smooth integration with a variety of applications. Its connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, provide versatility by allowing easy communication with other devices and networks. The C72 Handheld UHF RFID reader by Chainway may cost you approx. INR 51,000 in India.
UHF RFID USB Desktop Reader/Writer
UHF RFID USB Desktop Reader/Writer has a compact desktop reader that includes a USB port for simple connection to PCs and other devices. Its UHF frequency range enables longer scan ranges (up to 15 meters), making it ideal for applications like inventory management, logistics, and access control. The reader has sophisticated antenna designs and high read rates, ensuring fast and precise recognition of UHF RFID tags. The UHF USB readers are the most cost-effective and can be purchased from EnCstore.com with a starting price of INR 5,000.
NFC/HF/LF RFID Reader Prices in India
NFC Readers
NFC (Near Field Communication) readers allow for short-range communication (4 centimeters or less) and are widely used in applications such as contactless payments, access control, and mobile device interactions.
NFC readers, which are small and optimized for short-range applications, are frequently priced between INR 300 and INR 20,000, depending on the features and integration capabilities.
NFC Reader examples: 1251 NFC Contactless Smart Card Reader
1251 NFC Contactless Smart Card Reader
1251 NFC Contactless Smart Card Reader is one of the top USB Smart Card Reader Writers, also known as OTG RFID Card Reader and contactless card reader writer. The USB can be readily integrated into any computer or workstation. The 1251 smart card reader is suitable for all contactless smart card applications, including personal identity, access control, cashless transactions, and internet banking. It is also appropriate for non-traditional NFC applications due to its increased NFC capabilities. Smart posters, for example, can be used for marketing, branding, and communication. This highly efficient NFC reader can be
HF/LF Readers
HF (High Frequency) and LF (Low Frequency) RFID readers are used for access control, asset tracking, and identity cards. The read range of LF RFID readers is approximately 1 meter and HF (High Frequency) has mid-range read capabilities, which typically run from 1 to 3 meters. In general, HF/LF readers are less expensive than UHF readers. Basic HF/LF readers cost between INR 500 going up to INR 20,000, depending on specifications and functionality.
HF/LF RFID Reader examples: HF Universal Plug & Play Desktop RFID Reader, 13.56MHZ Wireless Bluetooth HF RFID Reader
HF Universal Plug & Play Desktop RFID Reader
The HF universal plug-and-play desktop RFID scanner has dual frequency technology (125 KHz low frequency + 13.56MHz high frequency), which allows it to read a variety of RFID tags. The RFID reader is simple to use, plug and play, USB-HID (Human Interface computer) based, and keyboard-like. It is wrapped in plastic and connects to any USB human interface compatible computer such as Windows, Linux, Mac OS, and Android via a plug-and-play USB cable. No drivers or software are required.
13.56 MHZ Wireless Bluetooth HF RFID Readers
A 13.56 MHz Wireless Bluetooth HF RFID Reader is a versatile and modern solution that allows for seamless and mobile HF (High Frequency) RFID data gathering. The reader, which operates at the commonly used HF frequency, provides efficient and secure identification and tracking capabilities for a wide range of applications. With wireless Bluetooth connectivity, it can connect to a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and PCs, allowing for a convenient and cord-free RFID data collection experience. The reader normally supports high-frequency RFID standards such as ISO 14443A/B and ISO 15693, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of RFID tags and cards. Its tiny and portable form makes it ideal for mobile applications including asset tracking, inventory management, and access control.
RFID Reader Prices from Different Brands
As we discussed above, RFID readers can vary in price greatly, depending on several factors. So, to give you an idea, we’ve mentioned the average low ranges & high ranges of prices, for different types of readers.
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Type of RFID Reader
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Low Range
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High Range
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Fixed Mount RFID Reader
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₹30,000
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₹1,80,000
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Handheld RFID Reader
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₹35,000
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₹1,75,000
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Integrated RFID Reader
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₹11,000
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₹2,02,000
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USB Reader
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₹5,000
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₹15,000
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Wi-Fi Reader
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₹30,000
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₹27,000
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Due to the diverse variety of RFID readers available in the market, you need to know exactly which one to choose for your needs. Several factors govern this, and we’ll discuss some of them here.
Factors Affecting RFID Reader Prices
Operational Frequency
RFID systems work by communicating data using radio signals of different frequencies. Based on the communication frequency, we can divide readers into three classes. Low Frequency (LF) readers, these readers usually operate between 30 KHz to 300 KHz, High Frequency (HF) readers that operate between 3 MHz to 30 MHz, and Ultra-High Frequency (UHF) readers operate between 300 MHz to 3 GHz. LF readers have the lowest read range and the slowest read speed, but they are also most resistant to distortion from metal surfaces. On the other hand, UHF readers have the longest operating range and are capable of reading 1000s of tags in a second, but they are also extremely prone to detuning from metal surfaces.
Type of RFID Reader Chip
Another factor that affects the RFID reader price is the kind of RFID reader chip being used. RFID microchips are costly and there are various RFID IC manufacturing companies such as Impinj Inc., Alien Technology, and NXP semiconductors to name a few. Depending upon the RFID chip being used in the RFID reader, the cost of the reader varies as well.
Read Range
RFID readers can have different read ranges, depending on operational frequency, type of reader, number of antennas, power input, etc. UHF readers usually have the largest read range & LF or NFC readers have the lowest. Usually, readers with larger ranges tend to be more expensive but also give the fastest performance.
Type of Antenna
The type of antenna has a significant effect on the price of the reader. Antennae are responsible for broadcasting and receiving radio signals, therefore, they come in a variety of types. NFC, Far-Field, Circular Polarized, Linear Polarized, UHF, and LF, are some types of RFID antennae available. Depending on factors like material, power requirement, and range, the price of the reader may differ.
Additional Features
As technology advances, some readers are now coming with additional features & technology built into them. For example, some handheld RFID readers come with a built-in area-imagine sensor. The inclusion of additional technology or features increases the cost.
Factors to keep in mind before choosing an RFID Reader
RFID Application in Business
Firstly, you need to keep in mind what you are planning to use the RFID system for. For example, you can use these systems for billing, asset tracking, warehousing, display counter security, etc. Based on these things, you’ll be better off choosing different types of readers. For billing, it’d best to use NFC or low-frequency fixed readers. For warehousing, you best choose handheld readers, since they are portable and can read out-of-reach items.
Size of Facility
Another factor that determines the right type of reader is the size of the facility, more precisely, the read range of the reader.
If you’re planning to implement it in a small retail store, then an integrated reader will be ideal. However, in big warehouses or manufacturing facilities, you will need to implement a UHF fixed reader with multiple antennae.
Read Speed
When choosing an RFID reader, a key factor to consider is read speed. The read speed of an RFID reader relates to how quickly it can identify and process RFID tags within a particular timeframe. Read speed is especially important in applications that require rapid and efficient collecting of data, such as high-throughput situations in logistics, inventory management, and supply chain operations. A higher read speed guarantees that RFID tags are identified quickly, which improves the overall efficiency and productivity of the RFID system.
Communication Interface
Readers can communicate with the system/database and antennae using different means like – Cables, Bluetooth, LAN, and Wi-Fi. Cables are the most robust and cheapest type of connection, but they are also severely limited in range and are hard to implement. Wi-Fi on the other hand is expensive but offers a significantly large range.
Power Consumption
Lastly, you need to see the power requirement by the reader and the subsequent antennae, and if you can afford and support it within your facility.
Read Range
Determining the optimum read range is essential when selecting an RFID reader because it has a direct impact on your RFID system's performance and efficiency. Consider the read range needed for your application. Determine whether short, medium, or long-range capabilities are required.
To conclude, RFID readers are an essential component of radio frequency identification, there are a lot of different types of readers all varying in prices. You must select the right reader for your business, based on factors mentioned above.
Frequently Asked Questions on RFID Reader Price
Q1. How much does an RFID reader cost?
Ans: An RFID reader price can vary depending on a variety of factors like operating frequency, power requirement, type of reader, type of antenna, etc. On average, a reader can range from ₹450 to ₹2 lakhs.
Q2. Why are RFID readers so expensive?
Ans: There are a couple of reasons for the high cost of RFID readers. Firstly, the raw materials required to make the microchip and other components often require rare earth elements to manufacture. Secondly, due to the constant development in technology, the manufacturer is launching newer & more advanced readers, making it difficult to cover the research & design costs, due to the low volume of demand.
Q3. Is RFID more expensive?
Ans: Compared to other AIDC technologies like barcode, RFID tends to be more expensive, roughly 10 times more. However, the benefit of RFID is that it is more accurate, can store more data, and has additional features like real-time asset tracking, security, etc., offering higher ROI in the long term.
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