How is Antigen Rapid Test (ART) different from PCR?

ARTs are point of care tests that look for proteins on the virus surface. ARTs are cheaper and can yield fairly accurate results quickly within 30 mins. They involve using nasal swab from lower part of nose. They have a lower accuracy rate compared to PCR tests.

PCR tests detect the presence of viral genetic material in a sample. The process can take one to two days. This may not be feasible for pre-event testing. It can also be costly, and requires trained personnel and specialised equipment to administer. Swabs are taken from the back of nose, or the back of throat. PCR tests remain the most accurate tests available today.

Source: MOH