The world's most widely used physical credential for access control
MIFARE 1K Classic is the most common physical credential in access control. The technology is widely used in gyms, offices and public spaces worldwide.
Delivered as cards, key fobs and wristbands — printed and numbered to your order, shipped in any batch size internationally.
Originally developed by NXP, today offered by multiple manufacturers. Gatech only ships products tested against the agreed specification.
Description
Memory & core technology
MIFARE 1K Classic is an RFID credential built for access control. 1 KB of memory is enough for typical access control and a little extra metadata. If you plan to combine the tag with face recognition or store additional payloads, verify the memory requirement up front. Originally an NXP standard, today offered by multiple manufacturers — Gatech only ships products tested against the agreed specification.
Compatibility
Works with most access control systems on the market. The exceptions are systems using their own proprietary encryption keys; Gatech can verify compatibility for you when needed. Priced more affordably than higher-security alternatives such as DESFire — the right choice when budget matters and the use case does not require advanced encryption.
Deployment & programming
Programming and rollout into existing systems is fast — tags are ready for typical access control out of the box. Printing and numbering are produced to your order so credentials arrive in the right sequence for distribution to members or employees on day one.
Physical durability
In active use across multiple security operators and gym chains. Products are tested in real-world conditions — cards in pockets, key fobs on keychains, wristbands in changing rooms and pool environments.
Security
MIFARE Classic 1K is a low-security credential and is technically possible to clone. The real-world risk depends on the use case. For higher-security environments we recommend MIFARE DESFire — multiple variants with 2K, 4K and 8K memory, with printing and logos available on request. Encryption keys for DESFire can be produced in Finland.
Form factors & ordering
Available as cards, key fobs and wristbands. Printing and numbering to your order — any batch size, international shipping. Important: MIFARE 1K Classic tags exist in both 4-byte and 7-byte UID versions. Identifying the right byte length up front is essential, because the wrong byte length may not work with your system. Gatech specialists can help you determine which version your installation needs.
Technical Specifications
