QR CODES & NFC in metal business cards
Why Add a QR Code to a Metal Business Card?
Digital Connectivity: Links to your website, portfolio, LinkedIn, contact card (vCard), or payment methods.
Clean Design: Keeps the card minimal while still providing access to detailed info.
Trackability: Dynamic QR codes allow you to track when and how often your card is scanned.
Materials and Methods
Since metal isn’t paper, the QR code has to be:
Laser Engraved – High precision; best for durability and visibility.
Etched – Chemically etched for a subtle look.
Printed (UV or Screen) – For full-color cards, though this may wear off over time.
Cut Out (Stencil Style) – Visually striking, but must be precisely done so the code still works.
Best Practices
Test the Code First: Before etching, test that your QR code works on screen and when printed.
Use High Contrast: Dark code on a light metal or vice versa helps with scan reliability.
Choose Static or Dynamic:
Static: Fixed info (e.g., vCard).
Dynamic: Changeable and trackable, useful for marketing or updating links.
Recommended Info to Link
Digital business card (e.g., Linktree, HiHello)
LinkedIn profile
Website or online portfolio
Calendly or scheduling page
vCard download
Why Add NFC to a Metal Business Card?
Tap to Share: Instantly send contact info, social media, portfolio, or payment links by tapping the card on a phone.
Modern & Impressive: Combines physical presence with digital convenience.
Reusable: You don’t give the card away—you just tap it to share your info.
⚠️ Challenges with NFC in Metal
Metal interferes with NFC signals, so manufacturers must work around it:
Cut-out windows in the metal to expose the chip.
NFC chip embedded in a non-metal insert (e.g., plastic or epoxy).
Dual-layer construction: Metal front/back, with a non-metal core housing the chip.
💡 Best Practices
Ensure Compatibility: Most modern smartphones support NFC, but always test it across multiple devices.
Dynamic NFC Links: Choose a platform that allows you to update the destination of the NFC chip (like a mini-website), so your card is always current.
QR Code + NFC Combo: Many premium cards include both, offering options for phones with or without NFC.
🧠 What Can the NFC Chip Do?
You can program it to:
Open your digital business card (e.g., Linktree, HiHello, or a custom URL)
Add your contact as a vCard
Open your Instagram, LinkedIn, or portfolio
Connect to a Wi-Fi network
Send a preset email or message
🧪 Want to Try It?
We can:
Help you design your NFC landing page
Generate your vCard or contact file