When you decide to make it easier for customers to leave Google reviews, you quickly meet two technologies: NFC tap and QR code scan. Both send a customer's phone to your Google review page. They work differently, cost different amounts to produce and suit different situations. Here is a plain comparison so you can choose with confidence.
How each one works
QR codes are printed patterns. The customer opens their phone camera, points it at the code and taps the link that appears. QR codes need light, a clear view and a steady hand, but they work on virtually every smartphone made in the last several years.
NFC tags are tiny chips. The customer holds the top of their phone against the tag and the link opens automatically. There is no camera framing and no tapping a pop-up. It feels instant, and it is very easy for customers who dislike scanning.
Where NFC wins
- Speed and ease. One tap, and the review page opens.
- Works in poor light. A dim bar, a candlelit table or an evening service does not matter.
- Looks modern. Customers are used to tapping to pay, so tapping to review feels natural.
- Nothing to line up. Ideal for older customers or anyone who finds cameras fiddly.
Where QR codes win
- Universal support. Every phone with a camera can scan a code, including older handsets that lack NFC.
- Works at a distance and in print. A QR code can sit on a poster, window sticker, menu, flyer or receipt.
- Low cost. Printing a code costs almost nothing.
- Easy to spot. People recognise the pattern immediately.
The honest answer: use both
Neither is perfect on its own. Some phones do not read NFC, some customers never open their camera, and some environments suit one method better than the other. That is why the sensible option for most businesses is a product that carries both, so the customer picks whichever they prefer. Every TruePoint stand and card includes both an NFC chip and a QR code, programmed to the same Google review link.
Stands or cards?
Counter and table stands are best where customers stay in one place: a till, a reception desk, a bar, a treatment room, a waiting area or a table. They are always visible and need no action from staff beyond a friendly reminder.
Cards are portable. They can be handed to a customer, tucked into a bag or box, left on a table or carried by staff who work away from a counter, such as mobile therapists, tradespeople and delivery drivers.
Many businesses use a stand at the point of sale and cards for everything else. That is exactly what our bundles are designed for.
Which suits your type of business?
- Cafés, restaurants and takeaways: a stand on the counter or table, plus a card in each takeaway bag.
- Salons, barbers and beauty clinics: a stand at reception and one in each treatment area or at the mirror.
- Care homes and clinics: a stand at reception for visiting families, plus a card in welcome packs.
- Trades and mobile services: cards to hand over on completion of a job.
For more ideas on positioning, see our guide to where to place a Google review stand.
What about the review link itself?
Whichever method you use, the destination matters most. It should open your Google review form directly, so the customer sees the star rating straight away. If it sends people to a search page or a general profile, many will give up. New to the topic? Start with what an NFC review stand is or our full guide to getting more Google reviews.
Choose your setup
Not sure which combination is right? Look at the Google Review Bundle, which includes a stand and a portable card, browse the full range, or message us and we will recommend a setup for your business in Bangor, Belfast or anywhere across Northern Ireland.