NXP MIFARE DESFire EV2 RFID Card

As contactless technology becomes the backbone of modern access control, transportation, and secure identification systems, the demand for high-security, multi-application RFID cards continues to grow. Among all contactless smart card technologies, the NXP MIFARE DESFire RFID card stands out as one of the most secure, flexible, and future-proof solutions available today.

Designed by NXP Semiconductors, a global leader in RFID and NFC technology, the MIFARE DESFire family is widely adopted in applications that require fast transaction speed, advanced cryptographic security, and interoperability with existing contactless infrastructure.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of NXP MIFARE DESFire EV1 and EV2 RFID cards, their technical specifications, security architecture, application scenarios, and why they are the preferred choice for large-scale, mission-critical systems.

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What Is an NXP MIFARE DESFire RFID Card?

The NXP MIFARE DESFire RFID card is a 13.56 MHz high-frequency (HF) contactless smart card compliant with ISO/IEC 14443 Type A standards. It is designed for secure multi-application environments, allowing multiple services to coexist on a single card with independent security keys and memory structures.

Unlike basic RFID cards that store limited data, MIFARE DESFire cards function as true microcontroller-based smart cards, offering:

• Advanced encryption (DES, 3DES, AES)

• Flexible file and application structure

• Fast and secure data transmission

• Long service life and high reliability

These features make DESFire cards ideal for access control, public transport ticketing, identification systems, loyalty programs, and micro-payment solutions.

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Overview of the MIFARE DESFire Product Family

The MIFARE DESFire family currently consists of two major generations:

• MIFARE DESFire EV1

• MIFARE DESFire EV2

Both generations are fully backward compatible with existing DESFire infrastructures, while EV2 introduces enhanced performance, stronger security certification, and improved flexibility.

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NXP MIFARE DESFire EV1 RFID Card

Certified Security You Can Trust

The MIFARE DESFire EV1 RFID card is Common Criteria EAL4+ certified, covering both hardware and software implementation. This certification level is widely accepted in government, transportation, and enterprise security projects.

Memory Options

DESFire EV1 is available in multiple memory sizes to suit different system requirements:

• 2K

• 4K

• 8K

Each card supports:

• Up to 28 independent applications

• Up to 32 files per application

This allows a single card to support multiple services such as access control, attendance tracking, and payment, all securely separated.

Key Features of DESFire EV1

• Mutual three-pass authentication

• On-chip backup management system

• Flexible file types (standard data files, backup files, value files)

• High-speed transaction processing

• Excellent printing compatibility with standard card printers

Physical Formats

DESFire EV1 cards are typically produced in:

• PVC or PET

• White blank glossy cards

• Pre-printed cards

• Optional HiCo 2750 Oe magnetic stripe

They can be customized for long service life in demanding environments.

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NXP MIFARE DESFire EV2 RFID Card

Next-Generation Performance and Security

The MIFARE DESFire EV2 (MF3D(H)x2) is the latest evolution of the DESFire family. It is Common Criteria EAL5+ certified, offering an even higher level of security assurance.

EV2 is designed for service providers and system operators who require:

• Faster transactions

• Stronger cryptographic protection

• Greater flexibility for future service expansion

Memory Options

Like EV1, DESFire EV2 is available in:

• 2K

• 4K

• 8K

Enhanced Capabilities

• Improved transaction speed for better user experience

• Optimized RF performance for longer read distance

• 70 pF antenna option for small or specialized card form factors

• Full NFC compatibility for smartphones and NFC-enabled devices

• Better cost-efficiency at scale

Future-Proof Design

The open platform architecture of DESFire EV2 allows it to be used not only in traditional cards, but also in:

• Smart paper tickets

• RFID key fobs

• NFC tags

• Mobile-based NFC solutions

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Security Architecture of MIFARE DESFire Cards

Security is the defining strength of the MIFARE DESFire platform.

Cryptographic Support

Depending on configuration, DESFire cards support:

• DES

• 2K3DES

• 3K3DES

• AES-128

Application-Level Security

Each application on a DESFire card:

• Has its own cryptographic keys

• Operates independently

• Can be updated or revoked without affecting other applications

This is essential for multi-tenant systems, such as transport cards used across multiple service providers.

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Technical Specifications

General Card Specifications

• Operating Frequency: 13.56 MHz

• Protocol: ISO/IEC 14443 Type A

• Material: PVC / ABS / PET

• Standard Size: 85.5 × 54 mm (credit card size)

• Thickness: 0.84 mm (customizable)

• Operating Mode: Passive (no battery)

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Printing and Personalization Options

MIFARE DESFire RFID cards support extensive customization, making them suitable for branding, security, and operational needs.

Printing Methods

• CMYK offset printing

• Silk-screen printing

• Laser printing

Surface Finishes

• Glossy

• Matte

• Frosted

Advanced Personalization

• Protection film on both sides

• UV coating

• Signature panel

• Scratch-off panel

• Thermal printing (black or silver)

• Laser engraving (numbers, logos)

• Metallic printing (gold or silver background)

• Embossed letters or numbers

• Barcodes (QR, Code 128, Code 39, etc.)

• Magnetic stripe (LoCo or HiCo)

Cards can also be produced as key fobs or snap-off formats for added convenience.

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Available 13.56 MHz Chip Options

In addition to DESFire EV1 and EV2, compatible HF chips include:

• MIFARE Classic 1K / 4K

• MIFARE Ultralight

• NTAG203

• ICODE SLI / SLI-X / SLI-S

• MIFARE Plus 2K / 4K / 8K

• MIFARE Plus SE (7-byte UID)

This allows system designers to select the right chip based on security and budget requirements.

RFID Card General Specifications

Printing & Surface Finishing Options

Personalization & Special Craft Options

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Available 13.56MHz RFID / NFC Chip Options

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Primary Applications of NXP MIFARE DESFire RFID Cards

Access Control Systems

Used in:

• Office buildings

• Industrial parks

• Data centers

• Residential communities

DESFire cards provide encrypted authentication and flexible permission management.

Attendance and Time Tracking

Ideal for:

• Enterprises

• Schools

• Factories

Ensures tamper-resistant identity verification.

Public Transportation and Ticketing

Widely deployed in:

• Metro systems

• Buses

• Trains

• Multi-modal transport networks

Fast transaction speed reduces congestion during peak hours.

Identification and Membership Cards

Used for:

• Government IDs

• Corporate badges

• Clubs and associations

Loyalty and Micro-Payment Systems

Secure value files enable:

• Stored-value cards

• Closed-loop payment systems

• Campus and canteen payments

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Why Choose a Professional DESFire Card Manufacturer in China?

Working with an experienced RFID manufacturer offers clear advantages:

• Original NXP ICs

• Large-scale production capacity

• Consistent quality control

• Flexible OEM and customization services

• Competitive factory pricing

• Global export experience

As a long-term partner of NXP Semiconductors, professional manufacturers ensure authentic chips, stable supply, and full technical support.

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Conclusion

The NXP MIFARE DESFire EV1 and EV2 RFID cards represent the gold standard in secure contactless smart card technology. With advanced encryption, flexible multi-application support, and proven reliability, they are trusted worldwide in access control, transportation, identification, and payment systems.

For system integrators, service providers, and B2B buyers seeking high security, scalability, and long-term stability, MIFARE DESFire RFID cards offer a future-ready solution that balances performance, security, and cost efficiency.