Oyster vs Contactless

Oyster and contactless are the two main ways to pay for public transport in London. Both offer the same fares, but each has advantages depending on how long you’re staying and how you travel.

Quick Summary

• Contactless is best for most visitors — no top-ups, automatic caps, works instantly.
• Oyster is useful for children, long stays, or if you don’t have a contactless card.
• Both offer the same fares and daily caps.
• Weekly capping only works on contactless.

Contactless

Contactless cards and mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are the easiest way to travel in London.

• No need to buy or top up a card.
• Same fares as Oyster.
• Daily and weekly caps apply automatically.
• Works on Tube, buses, Overground, DLR, Elizabeth Line and most trains.

Oyster Card

Oyster is a physical smartcard you can top up with credit or Travelcards.

• Useful if you don’t have a contactless card or phone wallet.
• Good for children aged 11–15 with a Zip card (50% off fares).
• Same fares and daily caps as contactless.
• No weekly capping unless you buy a weekly Travelcard.

Which Is Cheaper?

For most travellers, contactless is cheaper because it includes weekly capping. Oyster only caps daily unless you buy a Travelcard.

• Daily cap: Same on both.
• Weekly cap: Contactless only.
• Travelcards: Oyster only.

What About Visitor Oyster?

Visitor Oyster cards are marketed to tourists but offer no fare advantage. A regular Oyster or contactless card is better.

• No fare savings.
• Non-refundable £5 card fee.
• Contactless avoids all fees.

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