The Contactless Dilemma: Does Tap-to-Pay Work on Metal?

We believe in total transparency at MetalCards.in. When you upgrade to a solid stainless steel card, there is usually one trade-off: Contactless (NFC) payments.

The Faraday Cage Effect

Physics is stubborn. Metal blocks radio waves. This is known as a "Faraday Cage." Because the antenna for Tap-to-Pay is embedded inside your plastic card, and you are effectively covering it with a steel shield, the signal often cannot get out.

Does this mean I can't use Tap-to-Pay?

With the physical card? Usually, no. Unless you are an advanced modder who can transplant the copper antenna loop (which is very difficult), your new metal card will primarily be for "Dipping" (inserting the chip) or Swiping.

The Modern Solution: The "Hybrid" Wallet

Most of our customers use a simple, effective system:

• For Speed (Metro/Coffee): Use Apple Pay / Google Pay on your phone. It is faster anyway.
• For Status (Dinner/Business): Pull out the Metal Card. The "Dip" is where the card gets seen and admired.

By splitting your payments this way, you get the convenience of digital and the luxury of metal.