When it comes to ID and access cards, magnetic stripe cards remain a popular and dependable option. But not all mag stripe cards are the same—understanding the difference between LoCo (Low Coercivity) and HiCo (High Coercivity) magnetic stripe PVC cards is key to selecting the right one for your application.
Whether you’re printing employee badges, gift cards, or hotel key cards, choosing the correct type ensures proper performance, durability, and compatibility with your card readers.
What Is a Magnetic Stripe Card?
Magnetic stripe (mag stripe) cards have a black or brown stripe on the back that stores encoded data. When swiped or inserted into a reader, this data is transmitted to verify identity, grant access, or complete a transaction.
The key difference between LoCo and HiCo cards lies in the strength of the magnetic field required to encode and retain data.
What Are LoCo Magnetic Stripe Cards?
LoCo (Low Coercivity) magnetic stripe cards are encoded using a lower magnetic strength, typically around 300 Oersted.
Key Characteristics:
- Easier to encode and erase
- More susceptible to demagnetization from magnetic fields, wear, or heat
- Lower cost per card
Best For:
- Short-term or temporary use cards
- Hotel room keys
- Event passes or visitor badges
- Gift or loyalty cards with frequent re-encoding
Because LoCo cards are inexpensive and easy to produce, they’re ideal for businesses that frequently reissue or replace cards.
What Are HiCo Magnetic Stripe Cards?
HiCo (High Coercivity) magnetic stripe cards, on the other hand, use a stronger magnetic field, generally around 4000 Oersted or higher. This makes the encoded data much more durable and resistant to demagnetization.
Key Characteristics:
- Greater data retention and durability
- Resistant to magnetic damage and environmental wear
- Typically black magnetic stripe (vs. brown on LoCo cards)
- Slightly higher cost
Best For:
- Employee ID cards
- Access control badges
- Bank or credit cards
- Transit passes
HiCo cards are designed for long-term use in environments where cards are handled frequently or exposed to potential magnetic interference.
LoCo vs. HiCo: Quick Comparison
| Feature | LoCo Cards | HiCo Cards |
|---|---|---|
| Magnetic Strength | ~300 Oersted | ~4000 Oersted |
| Durability | Moderate | High |
| Cost | Lower | Slightly higher |
| Reusability | Ideal for short-term use | Ideal for long-term use |
| Common Uses | Hotel keys, gift cards | Employee IDs, access badges |
| Risk of Data Loss | Higher | Lower |
Which Should You Choose?
The right card type depends on how the card will be used:
- If your cards are used briefly or reissued often, LoCo cards offer great value.
- If your cards are expected to last years or handle daily use, HiCo cards are the more reliable choice.
Ultimately, the choice between LoCo and HiCo cards comes down to balancing cost, durability, and data security.
Printing and Encoding with Evolis Printers
Evolis printers—such as the Primacy 2, Zenius 2, and Agilia—are compatible with both LoCo and HiCo magnetic stripe cards, making it easy to encode the right card for any application.
With Evolis encoding options, users can seamlessly integrate mag stripe encoding into their ID card workflows—ensuring consistent, high-quality results every time.
Final Thoughts
Whether you need durable access badges or quick-turn hotel keys, understanding the difference between LoCo and HiCo magnetic stripe PVC cards helps ensure your cards perform reliably in the field.
Evolis Printer offers a wide selection of LoCo and HiCo magnetic stripe cards compatible with all major Evolis printers—perfect for creating professional, secure, and long-lasting ID solutions. If you’re unsure which card type is right for your application, don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re here to help you choose the best option for your needs.