Understanding the Zebra RFD40 RFID Handheld Models - Standard, Premium, and Premium Plus

Understanding the Zebra RFD40 RFID Handheld Models - Standard, Premium, and Premium Plus

RFID technology has revolutionized inventory management and tracking processes across various industries. Zebra, a leading innovator in this field, offers a range of RFID handheld devices, including the RFD40 series. In this blog post, we'll delve into the key differences between three popular models: Zebra RFD40 Standard, Premium, and Premium Plus, available at RFID4UStore.com.

1. RFD40 Standard Model

Zebra RFD40 Standard UHF RFID Reader

The Standard RFD40 model is a reliable entry-level option that provides essential RFID capabilities. It offers:

Basic RFID Functionality: The Standard model enables users to perform fundamental RFID tasks, such as reading and writing tags, quickly and efficiently.

Unparalleled Efficiency: The RFD40 Sled outperforms the competition with 1,300+ tag reads per second (up to 30% faster than the next leading competitor), a 20+ foot read range and ultra-accurate item-finder mode. With a 7000mAh battery and quick release function that’s accessible without removing the mobile computer, it can keep going hour after hour.

Connectivity: As the RFD40 Standard model does not have Bluetooth connectivity, it can only connect with the new eConnex™ (Electronic 8-Pin Connection) technology that allows for snap-and-go pairing, the sled has the ability to instantly connect to supported Zebra devices including the TC21/26, EC50/55 that come standard with 8-Pin Back I/O Connectors.

2. RFD40 Premium Model

Zebra RFD40 Premium UHF RFID Reader

The Premium RFD40 model takes RFID functionality to the next level with enhanced features:

Wireless Functionality: This model provides additional connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi 6 capability , for seamless integration into existing systems.

RFID Functionality: To perform fundamental RFID tasks, such as reading and writing tags, quickly and efficiently.

Unparalleled Efficiency: The RFD40 Sled outperforms the competition with 1,300+ tag reads per second (up to 30% faster than the next leading competitor), a 20+ foot read range and ultra-accurate item-finder mode. With a 7000mAh battery and quick release function that’s accessible without removing the mobile computer, it can keep going hour after hour.

Next Generation Connectivity: With the new eConnex™ technology that allows for snap-and-go pairing, you can future-proof your workplace with a sled that supports the latest Zebra mobile computers including WWAN-enabled variants. What’s more, the sled has the ability to instantly connect to supported Zebra eConnex™-enabled devices including the TC21/26, EC50/55 that come standard with 8-Pin Back I/O Connectors.

3. RFD40 Premium Plus Model

Zebra RFD40 Premium Plus UHF RFID Reader

The Premium Plus RFD40 model represents the pinnacle of Zebra's RFID handheld technology, offering:

Wireless Functionality: RFD40 Premium and Premium Plus Sleds allows for easy over-the-air (OTA) device management, while Bluetooth 5.3 and NFC tap-to-pair make it easier than ever to connect to current and future Zebra mobile computers and third-party smartphones.

Integrated Barcode Scanner: Available only in the RFD40 Premium Plus Sled, an integrated SE4100 imager provides 1D and 2D scanning functionality for the most challenging barcodes—including poorly printed, damaged, dirty, crinkled, low-contrast, glossy and electronic barcodes on dimly lit mobile phone displays.

Unparalleled Efficiency: The RFD40 Sled outperforms the competition with 1,300+ tag reads per second (up to 30% faster than the next leading competitor), a 20+ foot read range and ultra-accurate item-finder mode. With a 7000mAh battery and quick release function that’s accessible without removing the mobile computer, it can keep going hour after hour.

Next Generation Connectivity: With the new eConnex™ technology that allows for snap-and-go pairing, you can future-proof your workplace with a sled that supports the latest Zebra mobile computers including WWAN-enabled variants. What’s more, the sled has the ability to instantly connect to supported Zebra eConnex™-enabled devices including the TC21/26, EC50/55 that come standard with 8-Pin Back I/O Connectors.


Key Product Features
RFD40 Standard RFD40 Premium RFD40 Premium Plus
Read Rate Industry-leading 1300+ tag reads per second. Industry-leading 1300+ tag reads per second. Industry-leading 1300+ tag reads per second.
Connectivity NA Easy connectivity with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth® 5.3 wireless functionality Bluetooth, NFC and Integrated Wi-Fi 6, which allows for OTA device management.
Econnex Adaptor eConnexTM Adaptors for Supported Zebra Mobile Computers with 8-pin (Zebra eConnex) back I/O connector eConnexTM Adaptors for Supported Zebra Mobile Computers with 8-pin (Zebra eConnex) back I/O connector eConnexTM Adaptors for Supported Zebra Mobile Computers with 8-pin (Zebra eConnex) back I/O connector
Scan Engine NA NA 1D/2D barcode imager

How to Choose the Right Model

When selecting an RFD40 model for your business, consider the following factors:

Consider Communication Protocols:

Wireless Functionality:

Integrated Wi-Fi 6 capability in the RFD40 Premium and Premium Plus Sleds allows for easy over-the-air (OTA) device management, while Bluetooth 5.3 and NFC tap-to-pair make it easier than ever to connect to current and future Zebra mobile computers and third-party smartphones.

Scanning Capabilities: 

Integrated Barcode Scanner Available only in the RFD40 Premium Plus Sled, an integrated SE4100 imager provides 1D and 2D scanning functionality for the most challenging barcodes—including poorly printed, damaged, dirty, crinkled, low-contrast, glossy and electronic barcodes on dimly lit mobile phone displays.

Visit RFID4UStore.com to explore the full range of Zebra RFD40 RFID handheld models and find the perfect solution for your RFID tracking and management needs.

Oct 5th 2023 Viwek Jha

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