When paper still works
- In formal meetings or industries where handing over a card is part of the etiquette.
- With people who don't have their phone at hand or would rather not scan anything.
- As a physical reminder of a well-kept brand: good design and printing make a good impression.
What digital adds
- Details update without reprinting.
- The contact is saved to the phone with one tap, photo included.
- Calling, messaging on WhatsApp or visiting your website is one tap away.
- It can be shared remotely by link, email or social media.
- You can measure scans, saved contacts and clicks.
The limitations of digital
- It depends on the other person having their phone at hand (the direct vCard QR code doesn't need internet).
- If the card is a web page, it needs a connection to open.
- Details have to be kept up to date; the advantage is that it's done in one place.
Quick comparison
| Paper | Digital | Paper with QR code | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Changing details | Reprint | Instant | Instant (dynamic QR code) |
| Reaches the contacts app | If someone types it in | With one tap | With one tap |
| Shared remotely | No | Yes | Yes |
| Analytics | No | Yes | Yes |
| Handed over in person | Yes | No | Yes |
Frequently asked questions
Do digital business cards replace paper ones?
Not necessarily. The most practical option is to keep handing out a printed card that carries a QR code to the digital card.
Which is cheaper?
It depends on the size of the team and how often details change. With digital you pay a subscription, but you save on reprints for new job titles, phone numbers or addresses.