The Deutschlandticket comes in two formats: digital on your phone or as a physical chip card. Both have clear pros and cons. Here are the key points at a glance:
Advantages of the Mobile Ticket:
- Always at hand: Your smartphone is always with you, no risk of losing it.
- Instant activation: Usable immediately after purchase.
- Flexible management: Subscription can be paused at any time.
- Additional benefits: 50 free minutes for e-bikes/scooters, 10 free unlocks.
- Eco-friendly: No plastic consumption.
Advantages of the Chip Card:
- Tech-independent: No battery or mobile reception needed.
- Durable: Weatherproof and long-lasting.
- Easy to use: Ideal for those less familiar with technology, e.g. seniors.
Quick Comparison:
| Feature | Mobile Ticket | Chip Card |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Instantly usable | Delivery time by mail |
| Tech dependency | Battery and reception required | Independent of technology |
| Flexibility | Monthly cancelable, pausable | No pause function |
| Additional services | Sharing services integrated | None |
| Target group | Smartphone users | Less tech-savvy users, outdoor workers |
Whether digital or classic -- choose the option that best fits your daily routine.
Advantages of Mobile Tickets
Convenient Access
You always have your smartphone with you -- and with it, your digital ticket. No risk of losing it.
Easy Purchase and Instant Activation
With TicketPlus+, you can buy the Deutschlandticket instantly and start using it right away. Payment? Simple via Apple Pay or Google Pay.
These features complement the sharing services mentioned above, giving you maximum mobility.
Flexible Management
Unlike the classic card, you can pause your ticket with TicketPlus+. Perfect for holidays or work-from-home days.
Integrated Services
As mentioned, TicketPlus+ offers additional benefits:
- 50 free minutes for e-bikes or scooters per month
- 10 free unlocks with providers like Bolt, dott or TIER
These extras are already included in the ticket price.
Environmentally Friendly Travel
With the digital ticket, you contribute to environmental protection. You avoid the plastic of a chip card and opt for a more sustainable solution.
Advantages of the Chip Card
Reliability Without Technical Issues
The chip card is always ready to use -- no dead battery, no poor reception. This makes it perfect for longer journeys or areas with weak mobile networks. Let's take a closer look at the benefits:
Easy to Use, Especially for the Less Tech-Savvy
For anyone who finds smartphones or apps challenging, the chip card is an ideal solution. Simply hold the card to the reader -- it works intuitively and without any technical knowledge. Older people in particular appreciate this simple and straightforward usage.
Durable and Practical for Certain User Groups
Beyond ease of use, the card also impresses with its robust build:
The physical card is sturdier and more resistant than a smartphone screen. This makes it especially practical for:
- Older individuals who prefer to avoid digital alternatives
- People who work in outdoor professions
- Those who are frequently out in bad weather such as rain or cold
Thanks to these advantages, the chip card ensures less stress in daily life and is the preferred choice for many when using public transport.
eTicket Deutschland: Chip Card or Smartphone
Comparison Table
Here is a clear overview to help you choose between the mobile ticket and the chip card. The table compares the key features of both options based on the details discussed above:
| Feature | Mobile Ticket (TicketPlus+) | Chip Card |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Instantly usable after digital purchase | Delivery time for the physical card (by mail) |
| Dependencies | Requires battery and mobile reception | Works independently of technology |
| Flexibility | Monthly cancelable | Cannot be paused |
| Additional services | Sharing services integrated | No additional services included |
| Payment | Apple/Google Pay and more options | Usually only SEPA direct debit available |
| Customer bonus | €20 for new customers and switchers | No bonuses offered |
| Target group | Smartphone users and frequent travelers | Less tech-savvy users or outdoor workers |
| Environmental aspect | Digital and resource-efficient | Additional material consumption from card |
| Durability | Depends on condition of the smartphone | Weatherproof and long-lasting |
Both options have their merits: the mobile ticket excels with digital features, while the chip card scores with classic reliability. Which choice suits you best is covered in the next section, where we provide recommendations for different user groups.
Recommendations for Different User Groups
For Tech-Savvy Users
The mobile ticket via TicketPlus+ is perfect for anyone who likes to stay digital. It offers:
- Instant use after purchase with Apple/Google Pay
- Integration of sharing services, including 50 free minutes for e-bikes and scooters
- Pause function to flexibly pause the ticket when not in use
For Occasional Travelers
The mobile ticket stands out here through:
- No postal delivery -- the ticket is available immediately
- Instant readiness after purchase
For Families and Seniors
These groups benefit from different solutions:
For Seniors:
- The chip card is ideal when handling smartphones feels unfamiliar
- No dependency on battery or mobile reception
- Robust and weatherproof -- perfect for everyday use
- Simple usage without technical know-how
For Families:
- For children: The robust chip card is a safe and practical choice
- For parents: Digital benefits like sharing options via TicketPlus+ make the mobile ticket attractive
Conclusion
The Deutschlandticket on your phone via TicketPlus+ is a modern and practical choice. The digital version impresses with:
Advantages at a Glance:
- Instant use & easy management: Immediately activatable with a pause function up to 24 hours before month-end.
- Bonus offers: €20 new customer bonus or €20 switch bonus with TicketPlus+.
- Additional mobility services: For more flexibility in everyday life.
The chip card remains a sensible alternative for:
- People who do not want to use a smartphone.
- Those with reservations about technology.
- Situations where technical independence is crucial.
Our analysis shows that the digital version offers clear advantages. Especially for users who value flexibility and digital extras, the mobile ticket is ideal.
With TicketPlus+, you get not just the ticket, but also practical mobility services -- digital, straightforward, and fit for everyday life.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions about usage:
Can I save the Deutschlandticket in Google Wallet?
Yes, you can. With TicketPlus+, you can save your Deutschlandticket directly in Google Wallet -- regardless of whether it is a QR code or a dynamic ticket. This way, you always have your ticket quickly at hand.
How can I download the Deutschlandticket?
With TicketPlus+, it takes just two simple steps:
- Sign in with your order email
- Your ticket is automatically displayed in the app
Note: Activation takes only a few minutes.
Can I pause my Deutschlandticket subscription?
Yes, this is possible. As described under "Flexible Management," TicketPlus+ offers you the option to temporarily pause your subscription. This is especially helpful when you are on holiday or temporarily don't need the ticket.