While both systems use contactless payment technology, there are a number of key differences:
| Pay as you go with contactless | Oyster |
|---|---|
| Cost of journey taken from associated bank account | Cost of journey taken from balance stored on card |
| No set-up required | Need to add money before use |
| Cannot add discount cards (eg. Railcards) | Can add discount cards (eg. Railcards after 09:30) |
| Valid across London, the c2c route and many other train operators (some stations near London may accept Oyster, however we strongly recommend checking before you travel) | Valid only in London fare zone (at the following c2c stations):
|
| Any contactless device can be used – card, phone, watch etc | Only a valid Oyster card can be used |
| Costs may be taken up to 48 hours after conclusion of journey | Gatelines will calculate the full value of the trip upon touch-out |
| Cannot store pre-purchased tickets | Can store London Travelcards |
| Misuse may result in suspension from the entire network | Misuse may result in suspension from the entire network |
| Can be used on Tube, National Rail, buses and more across London and beyond | Can be used on Tube, National Rail (within London) and more across London |
| Must tap in and out during train journeys | Must tap in and out during train journeys |
| Fare-capping available within London | Fare-capping available within London |
| All travelers will need individual cards | All travelers will need individual cards |
| Journey history available following registration with contactless.tfl.gov.uk | Journey history available following registration with contactless.tfl.gov.uk |