Choosing a card machine in 2025 isn’t as simple as picking the cheapest reader. For small businesses, the wrong choice can mean higher transaction costs, slow payouts, clunky setups, or systems that don’t meet your needs. With customers expecting fast, seamless payments, whether by chip, contactless, or mobile wallet, you need a tool that works as hard as you do.
In this guide, we cut through the noise by comparing ten of the UK’s leading providers, including Square, Tide, Revolut, SumUp, and Dojo Go. We break down pricing, key features, and real-world pros and cons so you can find a cost-effective card machine that is simple to set up, reliable in daily use, and capable of supporting your business as it grows.
Square Reader (2nd Generation)
SumUp Solo Card Reader
Tide Card Reader
What’s the Best Card Payment Machine? – Our Verdict
For most UK small businesses in 2025, Square is the standout choice. Its transparent 1.75% transaction fee, quick setup, and wide integration options make it ideal for retailers, cafés, and service providers needing in-person and online payment capabilities. The only drawback is that some of its more advanced POS features come as paid add-ons, which may increase costs for larger operations.
SumUp is the best low-cost alternative for budget-conscious or mobile-first businesses. With a £29 one-off device cost, a 1.69% flat transaction fee, and no monthly charges, it suits sole traders, market stalls, and pop-ups. However, its basic reporting tools may limit those relying heavily on detailed sales analytics.
Revolut is a strong contender for businesses handling frequent international transactions thanks to its multi-currency accounts and competitive exchange rates. Its in-person payment hardware is less varied than some rivals, and customer support can be inconsistent, but for globally minded ventures, the trade-off may be worth it.
Focusing on these top three providers ensures you get a payment tool that is cost-effective, reliable, and tailored to your operating style without paying for unnecessary extras.
The Best Card Machines At A Glance
Below is a quick comparison table of the leading card machine providers:
| Card Machine | Standout Features | Best For | Pricing | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Square Reader | Integrated POS system, robust analytics | Small retailers needing a full POS solution | £19 + VAT for hardware, 1.75% per transaction | Visit Square |
| Tide Reader | Mobile app integration, business banking features | Businesses using Tide for banking | £59 + VAT for hardware, base transaction rate of 1.39% + 5p | Visit Tide |
| SumUp | Portable card readers, flexible contracts | Micro-businesses and market traders | Hardware from £19 + VAT, 1.69% per transaction, or 0.99% for SumUp One members | Visit SumUp |
| Revolut Reader | Multi-currency support, app-based management | Businesses with international sales | Hardware from £49 + VAT monthly fees starting at £10, transaction fees from 0.8% + 2p | Visit Revolut |
| Lightspeed | Advanced inventory management, eCommerce integration | Retailers needing in-depth inventory tracking | Hardware cost on request. Around 2.6% + 10p per transaction. Monthly fees start at £69. | Visit Lightspeed |
| Tyl by NatWest | Customisable solutions, UK-based support | Established businesses seeking custom solutions | Rented hardware from £13.99 + VAT. Transaction rates from 1.39% + 5p | Visit Tyl by NatWest |
| PayPal POS | User-friendly interface, seamless PayPal integration | Small businesses using PayPal | From £29 + VAT. 1.75% per transaction | Visit PayPal POS |
| Worldpay | Diverse payment options, global reach | Larger businesses with varied payment needs | Rented hardware with monthly fees from £10 + VAT. Custom transaction rates. | Visit Worldpay |
| Dojo | Fast payment processing, next-day settlement | Restaurants, fast-paced retail | From £179 for hardware, £39.99 monthly fee, rates from 1% per transaction | Visit Dojo Go |
| Smartpay Anywhere (by Barclaycard) | Contactless payments, mobile compatibility | Businesses needing flexible mobile payments | £29 + VAT hardware cost, no monthly fee, customised transaction fees | Visit Smartpay |
The 10 Best Card Machines for Small Businesses Reviewed
Our Methodology for Testing Business Card Readers
The Business Expert team aims to go above and beyond in reviewing and comparing business products to make your life easier.
Our technical assessment began with the ease of setup and user interface, measuring the time required for installation and gauging software intuitiveness. We then performed a series of transactions to test speed and reliability across different payment methods and network conditions.
Security compliance with PCI DSS (the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) was verified, and we engaged with customer support teams to assess their responsiveness and expertise. Finally, we consulted with business owners and industry experts for insights into long-term performance and scalability.
Square Reader: Best Business Card Reader with No Contract
Why We Picked It: Square’s all-in-one tool appeals to various UK business sizes. Its flexible approach integrates online and in-person payments at transparent rates, making it a reliable choice for small enterprises seeking to streamline operations.
Key Features
- Quick setup with minimal training
- Accepts major cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay
- Integrated POS for sales, inventory, and customer data
- Real-time analytics and reporting
- Offline mode for up to 24 hours
- End-to-end encryption and PCI DSS Level 1 compliance
- Customisable digital receipts
- Free POS app for smartphones and tablets
- Pay-as-you-go pricing, no long-term contracts
- Optional hardware accessories like stands and docks
Pros & Cons
- Low upfront hardware cost (£19) and no monthly fees
- Quick setup with minimal training required
- Integrated POS with real-time analytics
- Offline mode for up to 24 hours ensures continuity
- PCI DSS Level 1 compliance and strong encryption
- Flat 1.75% fee can be costly for high-volume businesses
- Some advanced POS features require paid add-ons
- Limited direct third-party integrations outside the Square ecosystem
Pricing
Get 25% off using code SEP2025 before 25/10/25*
| Feature/Service | Cost Details |
|---|---|
| Card Reader | From £19 + VAT |
| Transaction Fee | 1.75% per transaction |
| Monthly Fee | £0 (pay-as-you-go) |
| Additional Hardware | Optional accessories at extra cost |
| Advanced POS Features | Charged monthly for certain add-ons |
*Offer commences 04/09/2025 at 5pm and expires 25/10/2025 at 5:00pm UK time or while supplies last, whichever comes first. Offer is for 25% off total cost of Square Terminal and Reader excluding VAT. Limited to 3 devices per person. Each code is limited to one redemption per account holder. Valid for Square customers located in the UK only. Offer not valid with guest checkout. Square reserves the right to modify, revoke or cancel the offer at any time. Offer cannot be combined with any other coupon. Void where prohibited, not redeemable for cash, and non-transferable.
Tide Reader: Best 4G Card Reader with Business Account
Why We Picked It: Tide stands out for integrating card processing with its small-business banking platform. This combined approach simplifies tracking transactions, balances, and cash flow—all within one ecosystem.
Key Features
- Works exclusively with Tide business bank accounts
- Two models: portable standard and robust Plus with printer
- Accepts contactless, chip & PIN, and mobile wallet payments
- Built-in Wi-Fi and lifetime free 4G connectivity
- Battery life is designed for full-day use
- Email receipts (standard) or printed/email (Plus)
- Competitive transaction fees on subscription plans
- Next-day settlement boost available
- Tamper-proof security verification on delivery
- Integrated with the Tide app for payments and account management
Pros & Cons
- Choice of two models, including a robust printer-equipped option
- Built-in Wi-Fi and lifetime free 4G connectivity
- Competitive transaction fees on subscription plans
- Integrated with Tide business banking for seamless account management
- PCI PTS-approved secure card reader
- Only works with Tide business bank accounts
- Higher fees on Pay As You Go plan (1.39% + 5p)
- Additional cost for next-day settlement boost
Pricing
| Feature/Service | Cost/Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Fee | £0 |
| Transaction Fee | Base rate is 1.39% + 5p |
| Card Machine Cost | £59 + VAT for the Tide Reader, or £79 + VAT for the Tide Reader Plus |
| Setup Fee | £0 |
| Contract Length | No long-term contracts |
Exclusive Offer: Purchase your Tide Reader by 02/02/2026 using code ZEROFEES to get no transaction fees for domestic card payments under £10 for 3 months. You’ll also get a £200 cash reward if you accept at least £1000 in payments within the first 90 days of becoming a member.
SumUp
Why We Picked It: SumUp’s no-monthly-fee structure and simple, portable card readers benefit small traders and mobile businesses. Its Bluetooth-connected devices allow seamless payments on the go.
Key Features
- Multiple models: Tap to Pay, Air, Solo, Terminal
- Accepts major cards and mobile wallets
- No monthly fees with pay-as-you-go option
- All-day battery life
- Portable and lightweight designs
- Built-in printer on the Terminal model
- Free SumUp app with reporting tools
- Quick and easy setup
- PCI DSS-approved and encrypted transactions
- REST API for custom integrations
Pros & Cons
- Wide range of hardware options, including free Tap to Pay
- No binding contracts; flexible pay-as-you-go pricing
- Competitive transaction fees, especially with the Payments Plus plan
- All-day battery life on devices
- PCI DSS-approved with strong encryption
- £19/month fee required for the lowest transaction rates
- Customer support is not as detailed or accessible as some competitors ‘
- Limited explicit third-party software integrations
Pricing
| Feature/Service | Cost/Details |
|---|---|
| Card Reader | Hardware from 19 + VAT for the SumUp Air Reader |
| Transaction Fee | From 1.69% per transaction, or 0.99% for SumUp One members |
| Monthly Fee | £19 per month for SumUp One membership (optional) |
| Setup Fee | £0 |
Revolut Reader: Best Card Machine for Cheapest Transaction Fees
Why We Picked It: Revolut appeals to UK businesses dealing with multiple currencies and digital banking needs. Its real-time analytics, seamless app integration, and currency exchange rates suit modern, tech-minded ventures.
Key Features
- Portable single-model reader
- Accepts contactless, chip & PIN, and mobile wallets
- Payments processed in under 3 seconds
- Competitive transaction fees from 0.8% + 2p
- Digital tipping functionality
- Custom, colour-coded product catalogue on device
- All-day battery life
- Free next-day settlement, even on weekends
- In-app controls for permissions and limits
- Integrates with the Revolut POS iPad app
Pros & Cons
- Very competitive fees (from 0.8% + £0.02)
- Fast payment processing (under 3 seconds)
- Free next-day settlement, even on weekends
- Customisable product catalogue on device
- Strong fraud protection with AI and biometric security
- Only one hardware model is available
- Limited integrations beyond the Revolut POS iPad app
- Customer support is primarily through in-app chat
Pricing
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | Requires a Revolut account, starting at £10 per month |
| Hardware | £49 + VAT |
| Transaction Rate | 0.8% + 2p per transaction |
Lightspeed POS: Best Business Card Machines for Well-Established Retail, Restaurant, and Golf Businesses
Why We Picked It: Lightspeed’s tool blends POS, inventory, and analytics, which is especially beneficial for retail and hospitality. Its in-depth tracking and broad integrations cater to businesses handling large product ranges.
Key Features
- Wide range of hardware for retail and hospitality
- Accepts tap, chip, and swipe payments
- Integrated with Lightspeed Retail and Restaurant POS
- Advanced inventory management
- CRM and customer data tools
- Employee scheduling and performance tracking
- Omnichannel sales capabilities
- Built-in printers on select models
- 24/7 phone and chat support with onboarding
- Extensive third-party integrations (e.g., Xero, Shopify)
Pros & Cons
- Extensive hardware range for retail and hospitality
- Deep integration with accounting, inventory, and e-commerce platforms
- 24/7 customer support and onboarding assistance
- Advanced inventory and CRM tools
- Strong security with PCI DSS compliance and GDPR adherence
- High monthly POS subscription fees (£75–£109+)
- Higher upfront or rental hardware costs
- The setup process is more complex than that of standalone devices
Pricing
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Monthly Fees | Plans start at £75 per month for Retail POS and £69 for Restaurant POS. |
| Hardware | Device pricing available on request |
| Transaction Rates | Varies depending on setup and industry |
PayPal POS Reader: Best Card Machine for Beginner Sellers
Why We Picked It: PayPal POS, formerly Zettle, caters to small businesses wanting a fast setup and integration. Retailers and hospitality operators often choose PayPal POS because of its portability and transparent fees.
Key Features
- Compact Bluetooth reader
- Accepts major cards and mobile wallets
- Pairs with a smartphone or tablet
- Up to 12 hours battery life (48 hours standby)
- Fast transaction times (contactless ~5 seconds)
- PayPal integration
- Product library and inventory tools via the app
- Colour touch display with PIN pad
- Durable, scratch-resistant design
- PCI DSS compliance with end-to-end encryption
Pros & Cons
- Affordable one-off cost (£29) and no monthly fees
- Quick setup and portable design
- PayPal integration for seamless online/offline payments
- Fast transaction times (contactless in ~5 seconds)
- Broad acceptance of cards and mobile wallets
- Transaction fees (1.75%) can add up for high volumes
- Limited hardware options
- Some advanced POS features require extra integrations
Pricing:
| Item | Cost Details |
|---|---|
| Card Reader | £29 + VAT one-time cost, £69 per additional reader |
| Transaction Fee | 1.75% per transaction |
| Monthly Fee | £0 |
| Chargeback Fee | £15 per chargeback |
Worldpay: Best Card Machine for High Volumes
Why We Picked It: A global name in payment processing, Worldpay delivers varied solutions for businesses demanding a trusted provider and multiple terminal options.
Key Features
- Multiple terminals: countertop, portable, mobile
- Accepts global payment methods
- Dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity on the DX8000 model
- Built-in printer
- Large touchscreen with Android navigation
- PCI DSS-compliant security
- 24/7 customer support
- One-stop online account management portal
- Flexible contracts
- Strong brand recognition and trust
Pros & Cons
- Wide choice of terminal types (countertop, portable, mobile)
- Global reach with multiple payment options
- 24/7 customer support
- Strong brand reputation and reliability
- PCI DSS-compliant security measures
- Complex pricing structure
- Monthly fees may be high for smaller businesses
- Potential additional charges for PCI compliance or chargebacks
Pricing
| Fee Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Fee | Varies per plan, may include terminal rental. Monthly rental fees range from £10+ VAT; contracts typically require a 12-month minimum |
| Transaction Fees | Custom rates. Usually starts at around 1.5% but depends on volume and plan |
| Setup Fee | May apply depending on contract |
| Additional Costs | Potential PCI compliance, chargeback fees |
Tyl (by Natwest) Ingenico Move 3500 Card Machine
Why We Picked It: Tyl by NatWest offers tailored solutions backed by a prominent UK bank. Its customer service and next-day settlement are particularly appealing for businesses seeking reliable, quick payouts.
Key Features
- PAX A920 Pro intelligent terminal
- Accepts contactless, chip & PIN, and online payments
- Next-day settlements
- UK-based customer support
- Integrates with FreeAgent accounting
- Customisable payment solutions
- Free Tyl Portal for sales tracking
- PCI-compliant with fraud prevention tools
- Tap to Pay on iPhone support
- App marketplace for additional POS functions
Pros & Cons
- Next-day settlements improve cash flow
- UK-based customer support
- Integrates with FreeAgent accounting software
- Customisable payment solutions
- PCI-compliant with built-in fraud prevention
- Primarily focused on the UK market
- Limited details on the hardware range beyond PAX A920 Pro
- It may be less cost-effective for very low-volume merchants
Pricing
| Feature/Plan | Cost Details |
|---|---|
| Transaction Rate | From 1.39% + 5p per transaction |
| Terminal Rental | From £13.99 + VAT |
| Setup Fee | £0 |
| Additional Services | Custom pricing for advanced needs |
Dojo Go Card Machine
Why We Picked It: Dojo Go serves UK businesses seeking speed and next-day settlements. It emphasises fast connectivity and simplified user interfaces, appealing to restaurants and high-turnover retailers.
Key Features
- Portable PAX A920 model with 5-inch HD touchscreen
- Built-in fast thermal printer
- Accepts major cards, mobile wallets, chip & PIN, and magstripe
- High-speed payments (58% faster than average)
- Wi-Fi and 4G connectivity
- Next-day payouts as standard
- 10-hour battery life
- Bill-splitting and tipping features
- Integrates with 600+ EPOS systems
- Simple setup with included accessories
Pros & Cons
- High-speed transactions (58% faster than the market average)
- Next-day payouts as standard
- Wi-Fi and 4G connectivity for flexible use
- Built-in printer and long battery life
- Integrates with 600+ EPOS systems
- Hardware cost can be high for very small businesses
- Limited customisation features
- Requires a contract for some pricing plans
Pricing:
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Transaction Fees | Varies on plan and volume, starting at 1% per transaction |
| Device Cost | From £15 per month, or £179 upfront |
| Monthly Fee | About £39.99, depending on plan |
| Additional Fees | Transparent pricing, no hidden costs |
Barclaycard Smartpay Anywhere Card Machine
Why We Picked It: Smartpay Anywhere provides a flexible and mobile-friendly card machine tool, making it ideal for business owners who frequently operate off-site or need agile payment methods.
Key Features
- Pocket-sized mobile reader
- Accepts contactless, chip & PIN, and mobile wallets
- Supports PayPal, Alipay, and major cards
- Connects via mobile data or Wi-Fi
- Next working day settlement
- Multi-user support for staff and drivers
- Real-time sales data in the app and online portal
- FreshBooks integration for accounting
- Customisable product listings and discounts
- No contract, pay-as-you-go flexibility
Pros & Cons
- Pocket-sized, mobile-friendly design
- Accepts a wide range of cards and alternative payments
- Pay-as-you-go with no contract
- Real-time sales data via app and portal
- Integration with FreshBooks for accounting
- No built-in printer (email receipts only)
- Requires an internet connection for transactions
- Support may not be 24/7
Pricing:
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Hardware | £29 + VAT |
| Monthly Fee | £0 |
| Transaction Rate | Customised rates |
Reduced costs: The regulations are designed to make card reader services more competitive, which could lead to lower costs for businesses.
More flexibility: The shorter contract lengths and reduced early termination fees give businesses more flexibility to switch to a different provider if they find a better deal.
Improved customer service: The regulations require providers to be more responsive to customer inquiries and to resolve any issues quickly and efficiently.
How to Choose the Right Card Machine Provider
- Ease of Use
Choose a device with an intuitive interface that staff can pick up in minutes. A true plug-and-play setup saves time and avoids costly training delays. - Pricing Transparency
Understand exactly how you’ll be charged—flat rate or percentage per transaction—and watch for hidden extras like monthly minimums, PCI fees, or early-termination charges. - Reliable Support
If you trade evenings or weekends, 24/7 customer support is essential. Check independent reviews to see how quickly and effectively issues are resolved. - Features That Matter
Match features to your operations. Retailers may prioritise inventory tracking, while cafés might value loyalty programme integration. Ensure compatibility with your POS or eCommerce platform. - Room to Grow
Opt for a provider that can scale with you, whether handling more transactions, adding extra devices, or upgrading to a full POS system as your business expands. Trial periods are a useful way to test fit before committing.
Typical Costs of Card Machines for UK Businesses
Understanding the true cost of a card machine means looking beyond the sticker price. Here’s what to factor in when budgeting:
- Purchase or Rental – Buying a reader outright typically costs £20–£300, while rental plans range from £10–£30 per month.
- Monthly Service Charges—Depending on the features included, expect £5–£25 per month in addition to transaction costs.
- Transaction Fees—They are usually 1%–3% per transaction, sometimes with an added fixed fee of 10p–20p.
- Setup Fees – Some providers charge £50–£100 to get started, although many waive this as part of a promotion.
- Cancellation Fees – Ending a contract early can trigger significant charges, especially with long-term rentals.
- PCI Compliance – Annual fees of £30–£100 may apply to meet security standards, unless covered by the provider.
Considering and calculating these costs against your expected transaction volume will help you choose the most cost-effective option for your business.
What to Look for in a Card Machine Provider
- Reliability – A device that works first time, every time, keeps queues moving and sales flowing.
- Security – End-to-end encryption and PCI DSS compliance protect sensitive customer data and safeguard your reputation.
- Payment Flexibility—Support for contactless, chip and PIN, and mobile wallets ensures that you never have to turn a customer away.
- Scalability – Choose a provider that can handle higher volumes, extra devices, or full POS upgrades as your business grows.
- Ease of Use – An intuitive interface means staff can start taking payments with minimal training.
- Responsive Support – A proven track record for fast, effective problem resolution can save hours of lost sales.
Business Card Machine FAQs
What matters most when choosing a card machine?
Focus on transaction fees, setup simplicity, and customer support. If needed, look for features such as analytics and accounting integration.
Which offers better rates, Square or SumUp?
Both have transparent fees. Square typically charges 1.75%, while SumUp’s flat rate is 1.69%. Check each site for the latest details.
Do PayPal POS and Dojo Go charge monthly fees?
PayPal POS does not have a monthly fee, whereas Dojo Go commonly charges around £20 per month. Both offer next-day payouts and enhanced support.
Is Revolut useful for online-only businesses?
Yes. Revolut integrates well with e-commerce platforms and supports multi-currency transactions, which is ideal for digital ventures.
Can Lightspeed integrate with existing POS setups?
Lightspeed works with many systems, especially in retail and hospitality. Before committing, confirm the compatibility of third-party apps.
What support options does Worldpay provide?
Worldpay has 24/7 assistance via phone and online resources, handy for resolving technical or account-related issues.
Why might someone pick Tyl by NatWest?
Tyl offers next-day settlements, custom payment plans, and direct integration with NatWest, making it a solid choice for the bank’s existing customers.
Who benefits most from Smartpay Anywhere?
It’s perfect for mobile businesses or those frequently on the move. Its flexible reader suits pop-ups, events, and delivery-based operations.
Is Tide’s card machine suitable for a startup?
Yes. Tide’s integration with its business banking simplifies cash flow tracking and fee management, which is particularly helpful for new ventures.
Are international transactions supported by these brands?
Providers like Square, Worldpay, and Revolut handle international payments. Be mindful of varying currency conversion rates.
Should I choose a fixed terminal or a mobile reader?
Fixed terminals suit stationary checkouts (e.g., retail counters). Mobile readers are better for businesses that move around or have multiple sales points.
How do I avoid hidden fees?
Read contract terms thoroughly and clarify extra charges like setup, cancellation, or PCI compliance. Always verify total costs before signing up.
