What is a 3D Printed NFC Token?
3D printed Near Field Communication (NFC) tokens are rigid, waterproof NFC tags made from ASA filament with the NFC chip and antenna fully enclosed inside a 3D-printed shell. They are manufactured in-house using filament-based additive manufacturing to encase in-stock NFC inlays or on-metal NFC stickers. The printing process fully encapsulates the NFC components, creating a sealed, impact-resistant design without post-processing assembly. Compared to heavy duty NFC tokens, 3D printed NFC tokens provide more color and configuration choices with shorter lead times and lower minimum order quantities (MOQs) while maintaining waterproofing and mechanical durability.
3D printed NFC tokens are used when a durable, rigid NFC tag is required in smaller quantities than molded alternatives. Branded tokens with preset logos are often used by content creators, influencers, and businesses to link physical items to social media profiles, streaming channels, or payment services, serving as proxies for online identities. Custom logo tokens extend this use case to organizations that want their own branding printed directly on the token for consistent identity and engagement. Unbranded tokens are typically used in operational or asset-related applications as replacements for traditional heavy duty NFC tokens, acting as proxies for equipment, locations, inventory, or access points.
How to Choose a 3D Printed NFC Token
- Token Style: Choose between preset branded tokens, unbranded tokens in circular, square, or polygon shapes from 30–60 mm, or custom logo tokens available with an approved SVG file.
- Metal Performance: Standard 3D printed NFC tokens function on non-metal surfaces. NFC tokens with ferrite layers improve scan performance on or near metal surfaces by shielding the antenna from electromagnetic interference.
- Availability: Made to order with typical lead times of 5–7 business days. Pricing decreases with higher quantities. No setup fees for standard configurations. Custom logo printing requires a setup fee.
- NFC Chip Type: Standard models use NXP NTAG213 for broad compatibility. Alternate NFC chip types may be available depending on compatible inlay or on-metal sticker inventory.
Customizing a 3D Printed NFC Token
- Available Options: Customers can choose from preset ASA filament colors and from predefined shapes, sizes, and hole configurations.
- Logos and Text: Company logos can be 3D printed with an approved SVG file. Text can also be added to topside or underside surfaces.
- Backside Options: 3M 9448A adhesive backing and ferrite layers are available add-ons. Other mounting options, such as magnet or hook-and-loop backing, may be quoted for special projects but are not stocked or standard.
- Encoding: GoToTags can encode 3D printed NFC tokens at purchase, or customers can self-encode using the GoToTags Desktop App.
Recommendations
- Choose 3D printed NFC tokens as an alternative to molded heavy duty NFC tokens.
- Use ferrite-backed tokens only when mounting on or near metal.
- NTAG213 is recommended for the widest device compatibility.
- Consider token size for scan distance and space for graphics.
- ASA filament is the default for durability in all environments.
