MIFARE Classic 1K is the best-known 13.56MHz smart card. Unlike a basic proximity card, it has memory you can write to, so one card can open doors and also carry data for other uses. Here is what it offers and what to watch out for.
What is a MIFARE Classic 1K card?
It is a high-frequency contactless smart card that follows the ISO 14443 Type A standard. The chip holds 1 kilobyte of memory, split into 16 sectors, each protected by its own pair of keys. The NFC MIFARE Classic 1K RFID Smart Cards 13.56MHz sold by Patsec are white PVC cards of standard credit-card size.
Features
- Frequency: 13.56MHz, high frequency
- Chip: MIFARE Classic 1K with 1 KB of read and write memory
- 16 sectors, each with its own access keys
- Unique serial number on every card
- Size: 85.6 mm x 53.98 mm, 0.89 mm thick
- Short reading distance, so the card is tapped on the reader
- No battery: the reader powers the card
Pros
- Stores data. The card can hold user details, access rights or a balance, not just an ID number.
- One card, several uses. Separate sectors let the same card serve door access, attendance, parking and cashless payment.
- Harder to copy than 125kHz. Data is protected by keys, so a basic 125kHz copier will not clone it.
- Widely supported. Many access terminals, hotel locks and card printers work with it.
- Affordable. It costs only a little more than a basic proximity card.
Cons
- Older encryption. Its Crypto-1 security has been broken, and a determined attacker with the right tools can copy a card. For high-security sites, choose MIFARE DESFire instead.
- Needs a 13.56MHz reader. It does not work on 125kHz readers.
- Limited memory. 1 KB is enough for access and simple wallets, but not for large applications.
- Patchy phone support. Some NFC phones can read it and others cannot.
When to choose it
Choose MIFARE Classic 1K when you want better protection than a 125kHz card, or when the card must store data: hotels, membership clubs, canteens, parking and offices with several systems on one card.
Before you buy, confirm that your reader supports 13.56MHz MIFARE. You can order NFC MIFARE Classic 1K RFID Smart Cards 13.56MHz from the Patsec store.
