In the race toward serialization and within the pharmaceutical industry, the choice of marking technology has become a strategic issue. While RFID has long been seen as the go-to solution for data storage, a new era is dawning. For medium- and large-scale production runs, multi-beam laser marking is now establishing itself as the most cost-effective, reliable, and sustainable alternative.
RFID involves high variable costs: each product requires the purchase of a tag and an antenna. For a production run of 100 million units, the “consumables” budget becomes enormous and recurring.
Multi-beam laser marking represents an initial investment, but its cost of use is virtually zero. According to our TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) analysis, laser marking becomes significantly more cost-effective than RFID as soon as production volumes reach mid-range levels. Laser marking requires neither a chip inventory nor complex supply chain logistics.
Integrating RFID is often a headache: you have to attach the chip, verify that it isn’t defective, and ensure it won’t come loose.
The VULQ1-S system integrates via a simple retrofit on existing production lines.
Marking a Datamatrix in less than 50 ms.
Unlike an RFID chip, which can be damaged or deactivated by electromagnetic waves, laser marking is unalterable and tamper-proof. It accompanies the product from manufacturing through to recycling.
At a time when decarbonization is a priority, RFID’s environmental impact is significant. Producing 100 million chips requires the use of semiconductors, metals, and adhesives that will end up as electronic waste.
The multi-beam laser is the ultimate “Zero Waste” solution:
No consumables: No ink, no chips, no adhesive tapes.
Preserved recyclability: By marking primary packaging directly (glass, polymer, metal), the laser adds no foreign elements, ensuring the product remains 100% recyclable according to circular economy standards.
For companies aiming for high-volume production (up to 100 million units per year), the multi-beam laser is no longer just a technical option it’s an economic necessity. It offers full traceability, Grade A/B reading reliability, and minimal environmental impact.
Optimize your ROI today!
Can’t decide between RFID and laser for your next production line? Our experts have modelled the costs for you.
