magnetic stripe
type – gift cards
card
type
Gift cards with a magnetic stripe
A gift card with a magnetic stripe compared to a gift card with a barcode is a safer solution while maintaining similar functionality.
Plastic gift cards with a magnetic stripe are a popular choice for gifts. The magnetic stripe on these cards allows you to easily and conveniently record the card value. They are widely accepted in many retail stores and can be used for purchases both in-store and online. These cards provide flexibility and are a practical and versatile gift option.

Magnetic stripe cards – basics
The main difference between a gift card with a magnetic stripe and a card with a barcode is the way the data is read. A special tape is placed on the card, called a magnetic stripe.
A magnetic stripe is a tape on which information can be encoded. Data is read by swiping the card through the reader. This strip allows you to write and read information in digital form multiple times. The design of the magnetic strip allows for encoding more data than on a bar strip.
The data from the gift card is read when the card is swiped through the reader. Then the data is sent to the IT system, and the cashier’s monitor displays the status of available funds. In order for the customer to check on his own how much money he has to use on his card, a number should be printed on the card because the data from the magnetic stripe is not visible to the card user. However, it is worth remembering that the number on the magnetic strip and the printed number should not the same. This simple procedure will minimize the risk of card counterfeiting.
Magnetic gift cards – technical aspects
Magnetic strips come in two versions: HiCo and LoCo, and the strip itself consists of three tracks. Before submitting an inquiry or order, please check which magnetic stripe reader is available in your company. Gift cards with a stripe should be matched to the requirements of the available reader. More information about the technical side of cards with magnetic stripe can be found in the description of magnetic cards.
Please also note that a magnetic stripe card is susceptible to demagnetization. In other words, it will stop working if it is kept close to a cell phone, TV or other electronic devices. This cannot be remedied; if that happens, the only option is to issue a duplicate to the customer or produce a new copy. Or consider ordering cards with a different form of information coding, e.g., a gift cards with barcode.