What is a Card Machine?

A card machine, also called PDQ machine, is an electronic payment terminal that accepts debit cards, credit cards and mobile wallets through chip and PIN, contactless (NFC) or swipe (magnetic stripe).

Card payment machines come in different types and sizes.

The cheapest ones are card readers that connect with an app on a smartphone or tablet – they are reliant on the mobile device’s internet connectivity.

Traditional card machines with push-buttons come in countertop, portable and mobile variations and work without additional software.

Smart POS terminals with a touchscreen have more features, making them suitable as portable checkouts.

Card Payment Machines For Small Business

Square Reader

Purchase: £19–£149* No monthly fee or lock-in Transaction fee: 1.75% Quick online sign-up

takepaymentsplus

Rental: £7.50 – £25*/mo 1- or 18-month contract Mix of costs Transaction fees: Custom Personalised onboarding

SumUp Solo

Purchase: £49–£139 No monthly fee or lock-in Transaction fee: 1.69% Quick online sign-up

Teya PAX A920Pro

Rental: £0-£20/mo 0- or 12-month contract Transaction fees: 1.38%-1.9% or custom Personalised onboarding

Dojo Go

Rental: Up to £20/mo 12-month contract Monthly min. charge applies Transaction fees: 1.4%-1.99% + 5p Personalised onboarding

Worldpay Ingenico DX8000

Rental: £17.95+/mo 18-month contract Mix of costs Transaction fees: Custom Tailored quote

myPOS Go 2

Purchase: £39–£229 No monthly fee or lock-in Transaction fees: 1.1%-2.85% + 7p Online sign-up with extra checks

Zettle Reader 2

Purchase: £29/£59-£249 No monthly fee or lock-in Transaction fee: 1.75% Quick online sign-up

Barclaycard Smartpay Touch

Rental: £15+/mo 12-18 months’ contract £150 setup fee Transaction fee: 1.6% Online sign-up and quote

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