Touch 'n Go vs RFID: Which Is Better for Malaysian Highways?

These days, nothing comes for free, including driving along the highways in Malaysia. Drivers have to make toll payments while travelling to and from destinations, especially if the distance is far. With that being said, there are two common ways Malaysian drivers can pay tolls, which are using Touch ‘n Go (TNG) or Touch ‘n Go RFID. These two payment methods make it easier for drivers to quickly pay without using cash. 

However, many drivers get confused between the two. If you’re wondering about the RFID tag and where to buy them, or have asked yourself, ‘Where can I top up Touch n Go?’, don’t worry, we’re here to help! In this article, we’re here to clear any doubts you have and offer some clarity on which one is the best option for you. 

Source: Commons WIkimedia 

What is Touch ‘n Go?

Touch ‘n Go (TNG) is one of the electronic payment cards used for tolls, parking and public transport in Malaysia. It’s a prepaid smart card that offers contactless payments by tapping the card on the reader at tolls or payment terminals. 

These cards are easy to use in Malaysia and offer a convenient way for people to travel around. Besides using them to pay tolls, Malaysians or foreign travellers can also use them when riding any form of public transport, including buses, MRT or LRT. 

What is RFID?

Touch and Go RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is a newer version of the contactless payment, where drivers simply pass through the toll booths without winding down their window or stopping. The TNG RFID tag is a small sticker that contains an electronic chip, which can be attached to the headlamp or windshield of the car. All you need to do is pass through the RFID toll lane for it to detect your tag and automatically deduct the toll fare. 

Which is Better for Highway Tolls in Malaysia?

Both Touch ‘n Go RFID and Touch ‘n Go card offer a convenient way to pay at highway tolls in Malaysia. However, there are several key differences which may contribute to choosing between the two. Below are the pros and cons of each payment:

Touch ‘n Go Card 

Pros: 

• A dedicated prepaid card 
• No installation is required 
• One card can be used for multiple uses

Cons: 

• Requires stopping and tapping at the toll booths
• Slower as it requires stopping
• Not directly linked to the TNG eWallet

RFID

Pros:

• Don’t have to stop or wind down the windows 
• Directly linked to the TNG eWallet
• Simple installation

Cons: 

• The tag can’t be used for other purposes
• Could sometimes cause traffic if it fails to detect your tag
• Not as common as TNG

It’s safe to say that the RFID will be the best option if you travel frequently and prefer convenience, since it doesn’t require your vehicle to stop. The Touch ‘n Go Card would be a better option if you simply want to use the same card for other purposes as well. It also serves as a backup option if your RFID fails to be detected. 

Source: flickr

Do Travellers Need TnG or RFID When Travelling in Malaysia?

Travellers outside of Malaysia require a TNG or RFID card while travelling in Malaysia, only if driving and public transportation is involved. The TNG card will be useful as a traveller for using public transport such as MRT, LRT and buses. 

If you're travelling to drive a car in Malaysia, you need TNG or RFID to pay for tolls, unless you take routes that are toll-free. However, if you plan to park in shopping malls or certain public spaces, you can make payments with TNG. 

Where Can I Use RFID and TNG?

Both payment systems can be used at all highway tolls in Malaysia. However, the TNG card can also be used for public transport, such as LRT, MRT, KTM, and buses. It can also be used at parking lots, such as in shopping malls or public car parks. 

Where Can I Get RFID and Touch ‘n Go in Malaysia?

If you’re keen on purchasing RFID tags but are not sure where to buy them, there are several places you can get them, such as:

• Official TNG RFID website
• Touch ‘n Go eWallet app
• Selected petrol stations (e.g., Petronas, Shell)
• Online shopping platforms such as Shopee or Lazada

As for the Touch ‘n Go cards, you may purchase them at: 

• Convenience stores (e.g., 7-Eleven, MyNews, KK Mart)
• Highway toll plaza offices
• Touch ‘n Go customer service centres
• Public transport stations

RFID and TNG Price

Here’s a comparison of the RFID and TNG prices: 

• Touch ‘n Go Card: RM10 (for the card only)
• RFID: RM35 (one-time fee including installation)

How to Top Up TNG and RFID?

Have you asked yourself, ‘Where can I top up Touch ‘n Go’? Well, we’re here to provide an answer for that! For the TNG cards, you may top up via the following methods: 

• At Tough ‘n Go App
• At Touch ‘n Go kiosks
• At petrol stations (e.g., Petronas, Shell)
• At convenience stores

As for the TNG RFID, you only need to top up your TNG eWallet as it’s directly linked to it. Just be sure to enable the auto-reload if you’re worried about accidentally having insufficient funds while on the road. 

Conclusion 

To conclude, both Touch n’ Go RFID and Touch n’ Go cards are useful for paying tolls at highways in Malaysia. But if you’re looking for the most convenient option, you should go for the TNG RFID. 

On that note, if you’re thinking of exploring Malaysia and don’t have a car, you can always consider renting a car in Malaysia with WAHDAH. We offer a wide range of cars to choose from at affordable rates.