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What’s the Difference Between Handheld RFID Scanners and Fixed Readers?
293Explore the differences between handheld RFID scanners and fixed readers. Learn how Cykeo’s solutions optimize inventory tracking for mobility or automation.
MoreWhich is More Expensive: RFID or Barcode? The Real Cost Breakdown
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Which is More Expensive: RFID or Barcode? Let’s Settle This
If you’re choosing between RFID and barcode tech for inventory tracking, cost is likely your top concern. The short answer? RFID is 10-50x more expensive upfront than barcodes. But the real story involves hidden savings, scalability, and use-case tradeoffs. Let’s cut through the noise.
Upfront Costs: Barcodes Win Easily
- Barcode Expenses
- Labels: $0.01–$0.05 per unit (paper/plastic)
- Scanners: $50–$300 (basic laser models)
- Software: Free–$500/month (cloud-based systems)
*Example: Cykeo’s entry-level barcode kit starts under $200 for 500 labels + a handheld scanner.*
- RFID Expenses
- RFID Tags: $0.10–$5 per tag (passive UHF tags average $0.20–$5)
- Handheld RFID Reader: $200–$700 (handheld/fixed models)
- Software/Integration: $1,000–$10,000+
*Example: Cykeo’s mid-range RFID bundle (reader + 500 tags) starts around $1,500.*
Why the gap? RFID tags embed microchips/antennas; barcodes are printed patterns.
Hidden Costs & Long-Term Value
- Barcodes: Low entry cost, but labor-intensive. Employees must scan items line-of-sight. Bulk scanning? Impossible. Human errors add 1–3% loss in high-volume operations.
- RFID: High initial spend, but scans 100+ items/second through barriers (boxes, pallets). Reduces counting errors by ~80% and cuts labor hours. ROI tip: Warehouses moving >5,000 items/day often recoup RFID costs in 12–18 months.
When RFID’s Price Makes Sense
RFID shines if you need:
✅ High-speed automation (e.g., shipping docks)
✅ Real-time inventory accuracy
✅ Durable tags (survives weather/rough handling)
Barcodes suffice for:
✅ Small businesses with manual processes
✅ Static environments (retail shelves, documents)
✅ Budgets under $1,000
Cykeo’s clients typically use RFID for warehouse logistics and barcodes for POS checkout lanes.
The Verdict
- Barcodes are cheaper short-term: Ideal for limited-scope, low-volume tasks.
- RFID pays off long-term: Worth the premium for automation-driven scalability.
Final Tip: Calculate your item volume and error tolerance. For 500+ daily scans, RFID’s efficiency often justifies its cost.
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