NTAG 424 DNA vs ST25TA02KB

Compare NXP NTAG 424 DNA (416-byte, SUN authentication) with ST25TA02KB (256-byte, dual I2C/RF, EAL5+). Security features, memory, and interface differences.

Side-by-side specs

Frequency
NTAG 424 DNA
13.56 MHz
ST25TA02KB
13.56 MHz
Protocol
NTAG 424 DNA
ISO/IEC 14443-A Type 4, NFC Forum Type 4 Tag
ST25TA02KB
ISO/IEC 14443-A, NFC Forum Type 4
Memory
NTAG 424 DNA
416 bytes user memory
ST25TA02KB
2 Kbit EEPROM (256 bytes)
Interface
NTAG 424 DNA
RF (contactless)
ST25TA02KB
RF (contactless), I2C
Temp Range
NTAG 424 DNA
-25°C to +85°C
ST25TA02KB
-25°C to +85°C
Form Factor
NTAG 424 DNA
Wafer, HVSON8 package
ST25TA02KB
MO-146 (SO8), MO-229 (TSSOP8), Wafer
Security
NTAG 424 DNA
AES-128 encryption, SUN message authentication, Secure Unique NFC (SUN), originality signature, encrypted file access, mutual authentication
ST25TA02KB
AES-128, 3DES, ECC P-256, secure channel (SCP), common criteria EAL5+

Verdict

Choose NTAG 424 DNA if you need higher user memory capacity and SUN (Secure Unique NFC) message authentication for brand protection or anti-counterfeiting applications. With 416 bytes of user memory compared to 256 bytes on the ST25TA02KB, the NTAG 424 DNA provides 62.5% more storage for application data. It operates on ISO/IEC 14443-A Type 4 protocol at 13.56 MHz and offers AES-128 encryption with SUN message authentication that generates tamper-proof dynamic URLs for each tap. The originality signature and encrypted file access with mutual authentication make it well-suited for secure product authentication, loyalty programs, and connected packaging where RF-only contactless operation is sufficient. The SUN feature specifically enables server-side verification without requiring cryptographic operations on the reader side, simplifying deployment in mobile marketing and supply chain tracking scenarios. Choose ST25TA02KB if you require dual-interface capability with both RF (contactless) and I2C connectivity, or need Common Criteria EAL5+ certified security for high-assurance applications. While offering 256 bytes of EEPROM user memory, the ST25TA02KB functions as a true secure element with broader cryptographic support including AES-128, 3DES, and ECC P-256 algorithms. The I2C interface allows direct wired communication from a host microcontroller in addition to 13.56 MHz NFC contactless operation over ISO/IEC 14443-A and NFC Forum Type 4 protocols. The secure channel protocol (SCP) and EAL5+ certification make it appropriate for payment terminals, secure access control, government ID documents, and other applications requiring certified tamper-resistant key storage. The dual-interface architecture is particularly valuable in devices that need both embedded secure storage and NFC communication capability simultaneously.

FAQ

What is the memory difference between NTAG 424 DNA and ST25TA02KB?

NTAG 424 DNA provides 416 bytes of user memory, while ST25TA02KB offers 256 bytes (2 Kbit EEPROM). The NTAG 424 DNA has 62.5% more storage capacity for application data.

Does ST25TA02KB support I2C interface like NTAG 424 DNA?

ST25TA02KB supports both RF (contactless) and I2C interfaces, enabling wired communication with host microcontrollers. NTAG 424 DNA only supports RF contactless interface at 13.56 MHz.

Which chip has stronger security certification for payment applications?

ST25TA02KB has Common Criteria EAL5+ certification and supports AES-128, 3DES, and ECC P-256 cryptography, making it suitable for high-assurance applications. NTAG 424 DNA focuses on AES-128 with SUN authentication for brand protection rather than certified secure element functionality.

Sourcing NTAG 424 DNA or ST25TA02KB in volume?

Roxtron builds custom RFID and NFC products around both NTAG 424 DNA and ST25TA02KB. Tell us your project — quantities, form factor, timeline — and we'll come back within 24 hours with pricing and lead times.