What are the differences between QR code and NFC?

Barcode Banking & Finance Artificial Intelligence

Let us understand the concepts of QR code and Near Field Communication (NFC).

QR Codes

QR code is called "Quick Response", it allows us to encode or store over 4500 characters in a two-dimensional bar code.These codes are the "square barcodes" that were initially developed and used in Japan.

The main aim of the QR code is to store the information in such a way that the machine (scanner) can be able to read the data present in the code.

Uses of QR codes

QR codes can be used for storing data like −

Simple text
Phone numbers
Online conferences via zoom app
Online one time passwords(OTP)
Online accounts authentication and many more

Advantages

The advantages of QR Code are as follows −

Versatility
We can scan anywhere using mobile
Reduce paper usage
Free and inexpensive
Quick response
Benefit for customer and business people

Disadvantages

The disadvantages of QR Code are as follows −

People are not familiar
Requires mobile with camera feature to scan
Sometimes QR code cannot read properly
Interface issue

Given below is the sample image of QR code −

Near Field Communication (NFC)

NFC operates within a radius of about 4 cm and also provides a wireless connection between your device and another device. It allows for two-way communication, with both devices involved and is able to send and receive information. This NFC connection does not depend on Wi-Fi, 3G, LTE or otherwise, and it doesn't cost anything to use.

With the help of a credit card which is linked to the device it is helpful to make payments by simply holding your device near an NFC-enabled payment machine. There are many other uses for NFC as well. Examples include: Paying a fare on public transit, such as a bus or train

Advantages

The advantages of NFC are as follows −

Safety
Versatility
Convenience
Used for multiple applications
More security when compared to other technology
Compatibility with RFID technology

Disadvantages

The disadvantages of NFC are as follows −

Company agreement is required to Use
Works for shorter distance
Slow data transfer rate
Not advantage for users
Power consumption is more

Given below is the sample image of NFC −

Differences

The major differences between QR code and NFC are as follows −

NFC	QR Code
NFC code was created and developed by Franz and Philippian the year 2002.	QR code was created and developed by Masahiro Hara in 1994.
NFC is one type.	QR Code is one type.
NFC is used for identity cards, contact less payments, mobile payments etc.	QR code is a two dimensional printed representation of data used to scan and retrieval of data
The technology used by NFC is inductive coupling between antennas of the connecting devices.	QR code is based on Morse code.
NFC storage capacity is up to 8 kilobytes	QR code storage capacity is 2 kilobytes
NFC is not cost effective.	QR code is more cost effective but it is easily to deploy
Only one NFC can be processed at a time.	At a time only one QR code can be read.
NFC popularity is moderate when compared to QR code.	QR code is more popular
NFC is a two way communication.	It is one way communication.
NFC requires more storage when compared to Fastag , QR code and Barcode	QR code requires less storage when compared to NFC and Fastag.
NFC is used for identity cards, contact less payments, mobile payments etc.	QR code used at super markets and different stores to track all purchased products and also used in hospitals, cinema halls etc.