Hotel Key Cards

Present your guests with high-quality key cards that are beautifully branded and work without a hitch. We offer both magnetic stripe and RFID key cards. Customize in a variety of materials and finishes including PVC, Wood, cork, and recycled plastic, with industry-leading turnaround times.

Magnetic / Magstripe Hotel Key Cards

Magnetic Key Cards have a dark magnetic strip on the back. To open doors, the key needs to be swiped through a card reader.

RFID Hotel Key Cards

RFID Key Cards are “contactless” keys. To open doors, the card needs to be held near the receiver on the door.

What Type of Key Card Does My Hotel Use?

RFID key cards are the keys you wave in front of the lock. The technology lives inside the card, and so there is no visible stripe on the back.

Magnetic stripe, or “magstripe” key cards are the keys you insert into the lock. Magnetic key cards come in three types: LoCo, MedCo and HiCo. If you’re not sure which type your hotel uses, try a side-by-side color comparison with one of your credit cards. LoCo magnetic stripes will normally appear brownish, while HiCo magnetic stripes will appear as a dark black, comparable to the high-security stripe on a debit or credit card.

As a leading hotel key card maker, we offer custom key card and generic key card options with both magnetic and RFID technology to help you maximize both your budget and your brand. You’ll be in good hands no matter which type you choose.

We Ensure Key Card Compatibility with Your System

Modern hotel key card technology offers opportunities to integrate with your current hotel systems and improve your overall operations. We work with all major lock brands. Front Desk Supply has more than 50 years of hospitality supply experience and can provide expert guidance and support for ensuring lock system compatibility with your existing hotel systems, every step of the way.

Request a Free Test Card Before Ordering

For added peace of mind, we offer test cards to ensure compatibility with your system before committing to a bulk key card order. Get in touch with a Front Desk Supply account manager to get started.

Hotel Key Card FAQs

Which hotel key card do I need: magnetic stripe or RFID?

When choosing between magnetic stripe and RFID hotel key cards, consider your priorities. Magnetic stripe cards are a more affordable option but are less durable than RFID cards. RFID cards offer enhanced security, faster access, and the ability to store additional information. However, they come with a higher initial cost and require RFID-enabled readers. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your hotel’s specific security needs, budget, and desired level of convenience. We’re happy to provide consultation so you can make the right choice.

Can you help us design our hotel key cards?

Absolutely! Our design team has designed thousands of keys and can work with you to create a unique and memorable design that reflects your hotel’s brand identity. We can incorporate your logo, color scheme, and any other design elements you desire.

How long does it take to manufacture the hotel key cards?

We know time is of the essence, and we work with a reliable network of manufacturers to create and ship your key cards ASAP. In most cases, orders are completed 2-3 weeks after you’ve approved the final product proof, with 3-5 business days for ground shipping. If you need key cards right away, you can order our “Hot Off the Press” key cards to hold you over until your big shipment arrives.

How often do I need to replace my hotel key cards?

Our magnetic key cards have a shelf life of around 3 years and a few thousand uses (swipes, encoding, etc.), but HiCo key cards generally have a longer lifespan than LoCo models. Likewise, RFID key cards typically have a longer shelf life than magnetic key cards. Keep in mind that you may need to order replacements more frequently if your guests take home or lose their key cards. At Front Desk Supply, you can schedule regular shipments of replacement key cards so you’re never out of stock.

I’m worried about my key cards demagnetizing. What can I do to prevent this?

The first and easiest way to help prevent demagnetization of your hotel key cards is by using key cardholders property-wide. The next is to consider the type of magnetic card technology you will use. LoCo magnetic key cards can be demagnetized by cell phones or other types of magnetic devices. HiCo cards are much more resistant to demagnetization, and we can provide consultation on how to make this upgrade. RFID key cards generally provide the best user experience because they have internal chips that cannot be demagnetized. However, your property needs to be equipped with RFID technology. If you’re in the process of making this upgrade on your property, we’re happy to advise you.

Should I also order key cardholders?

Definitely! Key cardholders add polish to the room key-handoff, help prevent key card demagnetization, and provide space for helpful information about your property. When you order room keys from Front Desk Supply, we can help you design a key card holder that beautifully complements the design of your room keys. We offer a variety of key sleeves and key holders, with economy, premium, and luxury options.