A Google review card is a small card that sends a customer straight to your Google review form. The customer taps the card on their phone, or scans a QR code printed on it. There is no app to install and no need to search for your business.
This guide explains how the cards work, which phones suit them, how to set one up, what can go wrong, and what to check before you buy. It is written for UK business owners who want more honest reviews without chasing customers.
Written by the SmarPlaque team. Last updated 4 October 2026.
In short
- A card holds a link to your Google review page. Tapping (NFC) and scanning (QR) both open that same link.
- Most recent iPhones and Android phones can read NFC. A QR code covers phones that cannot.
- You still have to ask the customer. The card only makes the next step easy.
- Before buying, check who controls the link, whether there is a subscription, and whether the card also has a QR code.
What a Google review card is
A review card has two ways in. An NFC chip inside the card stores your review link and opens it when a phone is held close. A QR code printed on the card opens the same link when scanned with the phone camera.
Both open your Google review form. The card does not collect reviews by itself, and it cannot make anyone leave one.
How tapping and scanning work
- Tap (NFC): hold the top of the phone against the card for a second. The phone offers to open the link.
- Scan (QR): open the phone camera, point it at the code and tap the link that appears.
- Both need an internet connection on the customer's phone.
Which phones work
NFC reading is built into most recent iPhones and Android phones. Older or budget handsets may not support it, and on some Android phones NFC has to be switched on in settings. Because of this, every card should also carry a QR code. Anyone whose phone cannot tap can still scan.
If you are unsure whether a particular phone works, test it on the card before you hand cards out. Our how it works page explains phone requirements and setup.
How to set one up
- Find your Google review link in your Google Business Profile. Google describes where to find it in its guide, Tips to get more reviews.
- Open that link yourself and check that it lands on the review form for the right business and address.
- Give the link to your card supplier, or write it to the chip yourself if you buy blank cards.
- Test the finished card on an iPhone and an Android phone before handing any out.
- Keep a note of which link each card holds.
Where cards work best
- At the till or counter, when a customer says something kind.
- With a receipt, appointment card or invoice.
- After a job, left with the customer by a tradesperson.
Cards suit staff who hand them over. Plates and stands suit places where customers serve themselves, such as reception desks and tables. See our review stands and review plates.
Asking for reviews the right way
- Ask every customer, not only the ones who seem happy. Asking only happy customers is called review gating, and it is not a good practice.
- Do not offer discounts or gifts in return for reviews. Google lists incentives as prohibited.
- Do not ask staff to write reviews, and do not review your own business.
- Reply to reviews, good and bad. Replies show future customers that you are paying attention.
- A card makes the step easier. It does not guarantee more reviews or better rankings.
Common problems and fixes
- The card opens nothing: check that NFC is switched on (Android) and try the other side of the phone. Use the QR code as a fallback.
- It opens the wrong page: the link was entered wrongly. Ask the supplier to correct it.
- The link stopped working: your Business Profile may have changed. Get a fresh link and update the card.
- Metal or thick cases: these can block NFC. Move the card away from metal and try the phone without a thick case.
- The QR code will not scan: check the printed size and contrast.
What to check before you buy
| Question | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Can the link be changed later? | If your profile link changes, a fixed link means reprinting. SmarPlaque offers free lifetime link changes. |
| Is there a subscription? | Some sellers charge monthly. SmarPlaque has no subscription. |
| Does the card have a QR code as well as NFC? | It covers phones without NFC. SmarPlaque offers double-sided cards with a QR code. |
| Who sets up the link, and is it tested? | A wrong link wastes the whole batch. |
| Can your logo go on it? | Branded cards look more credible at the till. |
| Where is it made, and how long does it take? | SmarPlaque cards are made in the UK. Production takes 3 to 10 business days. |
What SmarPlaque cards cost
Prices below were checked on 4 October 2026. See the review cards page for current prices and options.
| Quantity | Single-sided with logo | Double-sided with logo and QR |
|---|---|---|
| 1 card | £12.40 | £14.00 |
| 5 cards | £44.80 | £48.80 |
| 10 cards | £56.80 | £60.80 |
| 25 cards | £122.90 | £134.30 |
Cards, plates or stands?
- Cards: best for staff to hand out. Low cost and portable.
- Plates: fixed to a wall, counter or table. Good for self-service spots.
- Stands: free-standing at a till or reception.
Many businesses use a mix. Our comparison of NFC cards and QR stands goes into more detail.
Frequently asked questions
Do Google review cards need an app?
No. Customers use their phone's built-in NFC reader or camera.
Do they work on iPhone and Android?
Most recent models of both can read NFC. Keep the QR code as a fallback.
Do I pay every month?
Not with SmarPlaque. Check this with any supplier you compare.
Can I change the link later?
With SmarPlaque, yes, and it is free for life. Check this with any supplier.
Will cards improve my Google ranking?
Reviews are one of several things Google looks at for local results. No card can promise a ranking.
Are Google review cards allowed?
Yes, when you ask honestly and do not gate or reward reviews. Read Google's guidance on getting reviews.
Ready to order?
Browse our personalised NFC Google review cards, made in the UK from £12.40. For bulk or multi-location orders, contact us.