We couldn’t be more thrilled to share some incredible news about our inspace AI-Driven Workplace Platform!
We couldn’t be more thrilled to share some incredible news about our inspace AI-Driven Workplace Platform!
inspace patented devices using NCF technology are more secure and long lasting than QR code stickers

What is Better for Offices:

NFC or QR Codes?

Both NFC and QR have been used for years to direct customers to websites, share photos and videos, leave reviews, and even check attendees into events.
Checking into a inspace device with the inspace app
Both QR codes and NFC have their benefits and drawbacks in certain situations.
Since neither NFC nor QR codes can cover every situation, a thorough breakdown of the pros and cons should be considered to choose the right technology for the application.

What’s the difference between QR codes and NFC?


Quick Response (QR) Codes are intended for exactly as the name suggests: Fast access to information. In today’s world, QR codes are easily recognizable by almost everyone. Smartphones can recognize the barcode and provide a more interactive approach to a physical item.

On the other hand, near-field communication (NFC) is an existing wireless communication technology operating in a short range. In effect, it allows smartphones to be even smarter. NFC creates a better user experience with its simple tap and go method – rather than needing to open the phone, get into the camera app, and then scan the QR code to access the information it contains.

Because NFC offers two-way communication, people can interact with the technology by sending and receiving information.
Both QR codes and NFC have their benefits and drawbacks in certain situations.

What’s the difference between QR codes and NFC?

Since neither NFC nor QR codes can cover every situation, a thorough breakdown of the pros and cons should be considered to choose the right technology for the application.

Quick Response (QR) Codes are intended for exactly as the name suggests: Fast access to information. In today’s world, QR codes are easily recognizable by almost everyone. Smartphones can recognize the barcode and provide a more interactive approach to a physical item.

On the other hand, near-field communication (NFC) is an existing wireless communication technology operating in a short range. In effect, it allows smartphones to be even smarter. NFC creates a better user experience with its simple tap and go method – rather than needing to open the phone, get into the camera app, and then scan the QR code to access the information it contains.

Because NFC offers two-way communication, people can interact with the technology by sending and receiving information.

When should I use QR rather than NFC?

Since QR codes are printed on labels, flyers, signs, and products themselves, they often align with purchases of physical items. With QR, customers can learn more about products, follow a company on social media, or even find assembly and care instructions for an item.

QR codes are best in places that won’t need to be updated frequently. For static event registration and sales pages, QR can make an experience more interesting and interactive.

When should I use NFC instead of QR codes?

Companies use embedded NFC chips to add value to their products even after customers have purchased them. They use this technology to create a connection from customers to the brand, allowing companies to understand customer journeys better, upsell other products, and push additional company information. Large-scale in-person events have also started to sway more towards NFC tags to streamline registration and check-in and keep attendees engaged as they enjoy the conference. NFC is often the way to go for branded content and materials in general.
Round black inspace patented device using NFC technology
Round white inspace patented device using NFC technology
Square black inspace patented device using NFC technology
Square white inspace patented device using NFC technology

Why do office management software programs tend to use NFC?

NFC tends to win out when debating between using a QR system versus an NFC system for office management software.

While they both offer onsite check-ins and contactless booking, that is where the similarities end. More accurate reporting and data encryption (which isn’t a functionality of QR codes) mean companies can get the best use out of their office space! NFC has the potential to provide auto cancellations/check-ins, search functions, intelligent prevention of overbooking, and better control over specific employee use.

While QR codes work for restaurants and tickets, they don’t work for offices,

and here is why

inspace patented device in use on a desktop

1. Security (you can take a picture of QR code and never have to physically check in into an office)


2. More steps (with QR codes you have to open the camera first then click on the link then two-four other steps, with QR codes you just tap your smartphone like when you pay for coffee at Starbucks).


3. Replacing a QR code means you have to remove it and print a new one which can be a hassle.


4. And lastly, well, QR codes don’t look as great as sleek branded NFC devices.

1. Security (you can take a picture of QR code and never have to physically check in into an office)


2. More steps (with QR codes you have to open the camera first then click on the link then two-four other steps, with QR codes you just tap your smartphone like when you pay for coffee at Starbucks).


3. Replacing a QR code means you have to remove it and print a new one which can be a hassle.


4. And lastly, well, QR codes don’t look as great as sleek branded NFC devices.

inspace branded workplace booking devices

Ready to see what inspace can do for you?

With inspace, you don’t have to worry about a lengthy, complicated installation process. Instead, anyone in your organization can install the entire NFC booking management system with the bonus ability to mount to any surface. You can even blend the inspace hardware seamlessly into your office with customized colors and branding!


Rather than working with a clunky multi-step QR code, use a simple, frictionless NFC booking system with inspace to make reserving a desk space easy for every employee! To see what your NFC desk management system will look like for your office space, schedule a free trial with the inspace team today.

The inspace platform streamlines workspace management, optimizes space utilization, and enhances the employee experience, making your workplace work for you like never before.

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