Top 12 Card Machine for Small Business in the UK
As the UK shifts toward a cashless society, small businesses must adapt by offering seamless card payment solutions.
Whether you run a retail shop, café, market stall, or service-based business, having the right card machine is essential for increasing sales and improving customer experience.
With many options available, it can be challenging to determine the best card machine for small business. This guide examines 12 of the top card readers for small businesses in the UK, comparing features, transaction fees, and overall value.
What to Consider When Choosing a Card Machine?
Selecting the right card machine requires evaluating key factors that impact both operational efficiency and costs.
- Transaction Fees and Processing Costs: Some providers charge a flat percentage per transaction, while others offer custom pricing based on business size and turnover.
- Payment Method Compatibility: Ensure the device supports chip & PIN, contactless payments, and mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay.
- Portability and Ease of Use: Mobile card readers are ideal for businesses that operate on the go, such as food trucks or market stalls.
- Connectivity Options: Some card machines require a WiFi or Bluetooth connection, while others have built-in 3G/4G connectivity.
- Security and Compliance: Choosing a provider that meets PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) requirements is crucial for fraud protection and data security.
With these considerations in mind, here are the top 12 card machine for small businesses in the UK.
Top 12 Card Machine for Small Business in the UK
1. SumUp Air
SumUp Air is an affordable and straightforward card machine designed for small businesses and startups. It connects via Bluetooth to a smartphone or tablet and works through the SumUp app.
- Price: £34 (one-off cost)
- Transaction Fee: 1.69% per transaction
- Monthly Fees: None
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, WiFi
- Battery Life: Can process over 500 transactions on a single charge
- Accepted Payments: Chip & PIN, contactless, mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay)
This device is ideal for mobile traders, freelancers, and small business owners looking for a cost-effective card reader with no fixed monthly costs.
2. Zettle by PayPal
Zettle by PayPal is a smart and versatile card reader designed to integrate seamlessly with PayPal Business accounts. It offers a touchscreen interface and multiple connectivity options.
- Price: From £29
- Transaction Fee: 1.75% per transaction
- Monthly Fees: None
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB-C
- Accepted Payments: Contactless, Chip & PIN, mobile wallets
- Features: POS system integration, fast access to funds, optional Tap to Pay via smartphone
Zettle is suitable for market traders, cafes, and pop-up shops that require seamless PayPal transactions and advanced payment tracking.
3. Square Reader
Square Reader is a compact and pay-as-you-go card machine ideal for small businesses that want simple pricing and no monthly fees.
- Price: First reader free, additional readers £10
- Transaction Fee: 2.6% + 10p per transaction
- Monthly Fees: None
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, WiFi
- Accepted Payments: Chip & PIN, contactless, mobile wallets
- Features: Offline mode, integration with Square POS, digital receipts
This card reader is perfect for retail stores, coffee shops, and service providers looking for an easy-to-use solution with no long-term commitments.
4. myPOS Go 2
myPOS Go 2 is a standalone portable card reader that does not require a smartphone connection. It comes with a free pre-installed 4G SIM card for mobile payments.
- Price: £39 (excluding VAT)
- Transaction Fee: From 1.10% + £0.07 per transaction
- Monthly Fees: None
- Connectivity: 4G SIM card, WiFi
- Accepted Payments: Chip & PIN, contactless, magstripe
- Features: Instant settlement, free business VISA card, digital receipts
myPOS Go 2 is ideal for mobile businesses, market traders, and service professionals who need a standalone card machine with fast access to funds.
5. Worldpay Reader
Worldpay offers a customisable card reader solution with flexible pricing plans. It is widely used by UK businesses that require scalable payment processing.
- Price: Custom pricing
- Transaction Fee: Varies based on business volume
- Monthly Fees: Custom plans available
- Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth
- Accepted Payments: All major debit and credit cards, mobile wallets
- Features: EPOS integration, detailed analytics, custom pricing
Worldpay Reader is best suited for growing businesses that need scalable payment processing with personalised pricing options.
6. Barclaycard Anywhere
Barclaycard Anywhere is a pay-as-you-go card machine with low transaction fees and no monthly costs.
- Price: £29 + VAT (one-off)
- Transaction Fee: 1.6% per transaction
- Monthly Fees: None
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, WiFi
- Accepted Payments: Contactless, Chip & PIN, mobile wallets
- Features: Next-day payouts, free business tools
This card machine is ideal for small retailers, service providers, and sole traders who want secure, bank-backed payment processing with no monthly costs.
7. Takepayments Plus
Takepayments Plus is a feature-rich card machine with live reporting, product management tools, and a dedicated management portal.
- Price: Custom pricing
- Transaction Fee: Varies
- Monthly Fees: Custom plans available
- Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth
- Accepted Payments: Contactless, Chip & PIN, mobile wallets
- Features: Live reporting, product tracking, no long-term contracts
Takepayments Plus is designed for retail businesses and hospitality venues that require detailed transaction reporting and advanced POS features.
8. Revolut Reader
Revolut Reader is a lightweight, mobile-friendly card reader designed for businesses using Revolut Business accounts.
- Price: £49 (one-time cost)
- Transaction Fee: 0.8% + £0.02 per transaction
- Monthly Fees: None
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, WiFi
- Accepted Payments: Contactless, Chip & PIN, mobile wallets
- Features: 24-hour payouts, no subscription, integrated analytics
This card machine is perfect for freelancers and mobile businesses looking for fast payments and low transaction fees.
9. Clover Flex
Clover Flex is a smart POS system with a built-in receipt printer, barcode scanner, and full integration with EPOS software.
- Price: £649 or £40/month
- Transaction Fee: From 2.6% + 10p per transaction
- Monthly Fees: Optional plans for advanced features
- Connectivity: WiFi, 4G
- Accepted Payments: Contactless, Chip & PIN, swipe payments
- Features: Touchscreen interface, receipt printing, advanced reporting
Clover Flex is a high-end solution ideal for retail stores, restaurants, and businesses needing a full POS system.
10. Tyl by NatWest
Tyl by NatWest is a secure, bank-backed payment processor offering transparent pricing and EPOS integration.
- Price: Varies
- Transaction Fee: From 1.2%
- Monthly Fees: Custom pricing available
- Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth
- Accepted Payments: Contactless, Chip & PIN, mobile wallets
- Features: Fast setup, 24/7 customer support
Tyl is suitable for small and medium-sized businesses looking for secure and reliable payment processing from a trusted bank.
11. Dojo Go
Dojo Go is a portable card machine with high-speed transactions and advanced security features.
- Price: From £179 or £15/month
- Transaction Fee: 1.2%
- Monthly Fees: Optional pricing plans
- Connectivity: WiFi, 4G
- Accepted Payments: Contactless, Chip & PIN, mobile wallets
- Features: Built-in receipt printer, EPOS integration, secure payments
Dojo Go is perfect for high-volume businesses that require fast transactions and enhanced security features.
12. PAX A920
The PAX A920 is a modern Android-based smart terminal with a touchscreen and integrated printer.
- Price: Custom pricing
- Transaction Fee: Varies
- Monthly Fees: Custom plans available
- Connectivity: WiFi, 4G
- Accepted Payments: Contactless, Chip & PIN, swipe payments
- Features: 5” touchscreen, PCI DSS compliance, high-speed transactions
PAX A920 is designed for restaurants, retail stores, and businesses looking for an advanced payment terminal.
How to Choose the Best Card Machine for Your Business?
Selecting the right card machine for your small business depends on various factors, including cost, features, and business needs. Here are key considerations when making your decision:
Transaction Fees and Costs
- Card machines come with different pricing models, including flat-rate fees, percentage-based fees, or custom pricing.
- Businesses with high transaction volumes should look for lower per-transaction fees, while startups may prefer pay-as-you-go options with no monthly costs.
Payment Methods Supported
- Ensure the card machine accepts all major credit and debit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
- It should also support contactless payments and mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Connectivity and Portability
- Mobile businesses (e.g., market stalls, tradespeople) should choose wireless and 4G-enabled machines for on-the-go payments.
- Retail shops and cafes may prefer WiFi-connected devices with EPOS integration.
Speed and Security
- A fast processing speed ensures customers can pay quickly without delays.
- Look for machines with strong security features such as PCI DSS compliance, encryption, and fraud protection.
Additional Features
- Some machines offer built-in receipt printers, analytics dashboards, and business management tools.
- If you need detailed reporting and EPOS integration, choose a system that can track sales and manage inventory.
Customer Support and Reliability
- Choose a provider with 24/7 customer support to resolve any issues quickly.
- Bank-backed solutions like Tyl by NatWest and Barclaycard Anywhere may offer better security and reliability.
Business Type and Growth Plans
- Freelancers & Startups: SumUp Air, Square Reader (low-cost, no monthly fees)
- Retail & Hospitality: Clover Flex, Dojo Go (advanced features, EPOS integration)
- Mobile & On-the-Go Businesses: myPOS Go 2, Revolut Reader (portable, standalone options)
- High-Volume Businesses: Worldpay, PAX A920 (custom pricing, enterprise-level solutions)
Conclusion
Choosing the best card machine for your small business depends on factors like cost, transaction fees, payment methods, and additional features.
If you are looking for an affordable, easy-to-use option, SumUp Air or Square Reader are excellent choices. For businesses needing EPOS integration and advanced reporting, Clover Flex and Dojo Go provide premium features.
Investing in the right payment solution ensures smooth transactions, improves customer experience, and supports your business growth.
Before making a decision, compare pricing, features, and long-term benefits to find the perfect card machine for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest card machine for small businesses?
The SumUp Air and myPOS Go 2 are among the most affordable options, with low transaction fees and no monthly costs.
Can I get a card machine without a bank account?
Yes, providers like Square, SumUp, and myPOS allow businesses to receive payments without a traditional business bank account. Funds are deposited into their digital wallets or linked accounts.
What are the typical transaction fees for card machines?
Transaction fees vary by provider, typically ranging from 0.8% to 2.6% per transaction. Some providers offer custom pricing for businesses with high transaction volumes.
Do I need WiFi to use a card machine?
Not always. Some devices, like myPOS Go 2 and Dojo Go, offer 4G connectivity for businesses that operate on the move. Others, like Zettle and Square Reader, require a Bluetooth or WiFi connection.
Which card machine is best for restaurants?
The Clover Flex and PAX A920 are excellent for restaurants as they include touchscreen interfaces, EPOS integration, and built-in receipt printers.
Are there any hidden fees with card readers?
Some providers charge extra fees for refunds, chargebacks, or payout transfers. Always check the terms and conditions before signing up.
How long does it take to receive card payments?
Payout times vary. Revolut Reader and myPOS Go 2 offer instant payouts, while providers like Square, SumUp, and Zettle typically process payments within 1–3 business days.
