Hikvision IC-S50/FOB MIFARE Classic S50 Contactless Key Fob, 13.56 MHz, 1 KB

Introduction: Meet the Hikvision IC-S50/FOB MIFARE Classic Key Fob

The Hikvision IC-S50/FOB MIFARE Classic S50 contactless key fob is a compact, affordable credential designed for everyday access control. Operating at 13.56 MHz with 1 KB of onboard memory, this small ABS key fob works with ISO/IEC 14443A readers and is commonly used with Hikvision video‑intercoms, AX Pro systems and other compatible access control hardware. Lightweight and durable, it’s intended for installers, property managers and organisations that need a reliable, reusable credential for routine entry management.

Key Features at a Glance

• Technology:MIFARE Classic S50 (13.56 MHz)
• Memory:1 KB (standard sector/block layout; read/write)
• Form factor:Compact ABS key fob — portable and impact resistant
• Typical read range:50–100 mm (reader dependent)
• Operating range:-20 °C to +75 °C; 10%–90% humidity (non‑condensing)
• Compatibility:ISO/IEC 14443A / MIFARE readers; ideal for Hikvision systems

Detailed Specifications and Benefits

The Hikvision IC-S50/FOB uses the widely adopted MIFARE Classic S50 chip which provides a 1 KB memory organized in sectors and blocks. As a read/write credential, it can be programmed with user IDs, access levels or small data payloads (e.g., simple loyalty or locker information) and reused if access privileges change. The ABS plastic enclosure balances robustness and cost-efficiency — it withstands everyday handling on a key ring without adding bulk.

• Frequency:13.56 MHz — standard for proximity smartcards and key fobs.
• Memory:1 KB MIFARE Classic S50 memory layout, suitable for storing multiple user IDs or small data blocks.
• Function:Read/Write capability for flexible programming and reuse.
• Read distance:Typically 50–100 mm; actual range depends on reader antenna and environment.
• Compatibility:Works with ISO/IEC 14443A readers and many Hikvision access products.

• Operating temperature:-20 °C to +75 °C — suitable for most indoor and many outdoor use cases.
• Working humidity:10%–90% (non‑condensing).
• Material:Durable ABS plastic provides impact resistance and long service life under normal conditions.
• Form factor:Key fob shape is convenient for users who prefer credentials on a key ring rather than a card in a wallet.

Additional benefits include low per‑unit cost (suggested retail pricing is modest), easy mass deployment (sold single or in multi‑packs), and broad reader compatibility. These attributes make the IC-S50/FOB a practical choice for large installations where cost-per-credential and ease of distribution matter.

Use Cases and Scenarios Where the IC-S50/FOB Excels

Because it blends affordability, convenience and compatibility, the Hikvision MIFARE S50 key fob is well suited to a variety of access control scenarios:

• Assign fobs to residents for front‑door access, parking gates and shared amenities such as gyms or pools.
• Easy enrolment into Hikvision intercom systems simplifies visitor management and replacement of lost credentials.

• Use fobs for employee access to offices, server rooms (where high security is not mandated) and internal doors.
• Integration with time attendance or basic staff tracking systems is possible where MIFARE S50 memory meets application needs.

• Durable fobs are ideal for students, members and staff to access buildings, lockers and activity areas.
• Low replacement cost and simple programming make mass distribution feasible.

• Short‑term visitor credentials, event access or temporary contractor badges benefit from the inexpensive, reusable nature of the fob.

Note: For high‑security environments (banking, critical infrastructure), consider more secure credential types (see comparison section).

How the IC-S50/FOB Compares to Similar Products

When selecting smart credentials, installers and procurement teams balance cost, compatibility and security. Here’s how the Hikvision MIFARE Classic S50 key fob compares to other common contactless options:

• MIFARE Ultralight and NTAG chips are often used for ticketing and single‑use applications — they can be cheaper but usually offer less memory and different security models. The S50’s 1 KB memory offers more flexibility for multi‑purpose access systems compared with typical Ultralight variants.

• DESFire credentials provide stronger cryptography (AES, 3DES) and are designed for higher‑security applications. They also offer larger memory and sophisticated file structures. The trade‑off is higher cost and sometimes more complex provisioning. The S50 is more cost-effective for general access where advanced security features aren’t required.

• Smartphone-based credentials (via mobile wallets or dedicated apps) offer convenience and advanced security, but require compatible readers and mobile integration. Key fobs remain useful where simplicity, low cost and physical form factor are priorities — especially for non‑smartphone users.

Important security note: MIFARE Classic products use the legacy CRYPTO1 algorithm and have known security vulnerabilities. For facilities requiring robust cryptographic protections, choose DESFire or other modern credential technologies. For many everyday access tasks where reader compatibility and cost are paramount, the S50 remains a practical option.

Customer Feedback and Real‑World Impressions

Official customer testimonials for this specific Hikvision SKU are limited in some reseller listings. However, common feedback themes from integrators and end users working with MIFARE S50 key fobs include:

• "Reliable and inexpensive" — Installers frequently cite the low unit cost and dependable read performance as major positives.
• "Easy to program and replace" — The read/write nature and widespread reader compatibility make provisioning straightforward during installations.
• "Compact and durable" — Users appreciate the small ABS fob format as suitable for everyday carry on key rings.

If public reviews are required for procurement, request sample units from your supplier and test enrolment, read range and environmental resilience in your specific deployment scenario. Verify certification markings (CE / UKCA) where compliance is mandatory for your region.

Pricing, Packaging and Practical Considerations

The Hikvision IC-S50/FOB is positioned as a cost-effective OEM credential. Suggested retail prices are modest, making bulk rollouts affordable. Units are commonly sold singly or in multi‑packs (25‑unit bulk packs are typical from distributors), which can further reduce per‑unit costs for large projects. Note that this SKU typically ships without a manufacturer warranty registered on the unit itself; check reseller terms for return policies and warranty coverage at point of purchase.

Conclusion: Why Choose the Hikvision IC-S50/FOB?

The Hikvision IC-S50/FOB MIFARE Classic S50 key fob is a practical, budget-friendly credential for a wide range of access control applications. Its core strengths are broad reader compatibility (ISO/IEC 14443A), 1 KB read/write memory for flexible programming, compact durable form factor and low cost—making it ideal for residential buildings, SMB offices, community centres and other projects where ease of use and affordability matter more than the highest level of cryptographic security.

Before deploying at scale, verify that the readers in your system fully support MIFARE Classic, assess whether the S50’s security level meets your requirements, and test read distance and enrolment procedures in your environment. For customers who need stronger cryptographic protection, consider shifting to DESFire‑class credentials; for straightforward day‑to‑day access where compatibility and cost are priorities, the Hikvision IC-S50/FOB remains a solid and widely compatible choice.