> fast

What are y'all comparing it with?

I’ve tried to find videos online but they all seem… normal?

Probably compared to widespread MIFARE cards or more complex Calypso cards, which are noticeably slower (not a dealbreaker though imo).

It's normal speed for a transit card. in that you can tap and walk without slowing down.

But it's really quite fast compared to more general balance card services like NFC/tap to pay, etc.