What's the Difference Between NFC Cards and Digital Business Card Apps?

When people say digital business card, they might mean different things. There are app-based solutions and there are physical NFC cards. They both live in the digital space but the experience they deliver is very different.

Digital Business Card Apps

Apps like HiHello, Blinq, and Haystack let you create a digital profile and share it by showing your phone screen, sending a link via WhatsApp or email, or generating a QR code in the app. The experience requires the person sharing the card to have the app open and ready.

NFC Business Cards

An NFC card is a physical object. It does not require you to open an app, unlock your phone, or do anything other than hand it over. The receiving person taps their phone against it and your profile opens. No app required on either side.

Which Should You Choose?

For professionals who regularly meet people in person, an NFC card is the stronger choice. The physical presence of the card means it can be handed over, displayed, and tapped on someone else's terms and timeline. Tappio cards start at R349 and require no app on either side.