Do RFID tags need batteries?
- 10/11/25 | Asked by Kathy Y.
Do RFID Tags Need Batteries?
Most RFID tags do not need batteries.
The majority of RFID systems use passive RFID tags, which are powered by the signal emitted from the RFID reader itself.
How Passive RFID Tags Work
Passive RFID tags have no internal power source. When a reader sends out a radio signal, the tag captures a small amount of that energy, powers up momentarily, and transmits its data back to the reader. This happens almost instantly and can be repeated millions of times over the life of the tag.
Why this matters:
- No batteries to replace
- Lower tag cost
- Long lifespan (often 10+ years)
- Ideal for high-volume items like inventory, apparel, cases, and pallets
What About Battery-Powered RFID Tags?
Some RFID tags do include batteries, but these are used for specific scenarios:
- Active RFID tags – Battery-powered, long read ranges (often 100+ feet), used for tracking high-value assets, vehicles, or equipment over large areas
- Battery-assisted passive (BAP) tags – Use a battery to boost performance or support sensors, while still relying on a reader to communicate
Because battery-powered tags are larger, more expensive, and require maintenance, they’re typically reserved for niche use cases—not everyday inventory tracking.
💡 Quick tip: Most RFID deployments use passive tags, which don’t require batteries or maintenance—making them ideal for high-volume inventory and long-term tracking.
Which Type Is Right for Most Operations?
For most warehouse, manufacturing, retail, and supply-chain applications, passive UHF RFID tags are the standard. They deliver reliable performance without the cost, complexity, or upkeep of batteries.
#MakeRFIDEasy
The RFID revolution is here. And CYBRA is at the forefront, ready to make the technology easier and more accessible than ever before.
Bottom Line
If you’re worried about changing batteries or ongoing maintenance, you can relax. Most RFID tags are battery-free, making RFID a low-maintenance, scalable solution for real-time visibility and automation.
Ready to Explore RFID?
Ready to move beyond one-at-a-time scanning? Talk to CYBRA about scaling RFID across your operation. Our team can help you evaluate read performance, design a pilot, and build a rollout plan that fits your environment.