RFID Frequency Bands

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is a technology that uses radio waves to uniquely identify tagged objects. RFID Technology operates in four main frequency bands. 

• Low Frequency (LF): 125 and 135 KHz 

• High Frequency (HF): 13.56 MHz (1.75 MHz to 13.56 MHz) 

• Ultra-High Frequency (UHF): 860-960 MHz (Vary based on Region / Country - See table below)

• Microwave or SHF (Super High Frequency): 2.45 GHz and 5.8 GHz

The LF, HF and SHF bands are standard for all countries. However, the allocated UHF frequency band for RFID varies from country to country based on regulations. Key UHF frequencies bands used by key countries are listed in the table below: 

UHF RFID Frequency Bands by Region / Country

Click here to see the complete list of UHF RFID Frequency allocations.

The different RFID frequency bands (LF, HF, UHF and SHF) have different advantages & disadvantages that affect not only the performance and size of the tag but also the price of the tags and readers.

Lower frequency bands have low energy, which means they transmit less data, have lower read rates and have limited range. The Tag and antenna size for LF RFID solutions is also quite large. However, even though they have a smaller range than higher frequencies RFID solutions they are more tolerant of obstacles that might come in the way of the tag and reader. They are also less impacted by metal objects.

High frequency bands have more energy and can be used for long-range applications. However, they transmit energy in narrow beams making them more directional in nature compared to omni-directional LF bands that are often required in generic RFID solutions. High Frequency signals in general do not propagate as well and thus they can be easily blocked by objects that come in between a tag and reader. The narrow beams make them ideal for locating an RFID tag in three dimensions.

Table: RFID Frequency Band Summary