Zettle is a top choice for small and medium-sized businesses like yours that need simple, reliable payment solutions. Whether you’re running a café, retail store, or online shop, Zettle’s tools make accepting payments straightforward, both in person and online.
With so many businesses relying on integrations to simplify operations, I think Zettle stands out with its clear pricing and user-friendly approach.
In this review, I’ll cover Zettle’s key features, pricing, and the pros and cons of its services. From its mobile card reader to its POS system and online payment tools, I’ll help you decide if Zettle is the right fit for your business.
Let’s get started and see what Zettle has to offer!
Zettle at a Glance
Zettle offers a comprehensive, user-friendly payment solution tailored for small to medium-sized businesses. Its transparent pricing, ease of use, and robust features make it an attractive option for those seeking to streamline their payment processes without long-term commitments. However, larger enterprises with more complex needs might find Zettle’s offerings less suitable.
| Who Should Use | Ideal for small to medium-sized businesses such as cafés, retail stores, and pop-up shops seeking flexible, low-commitment payment solutions. Not recommended for large enterprises requiring advanced, customised payment systems. |
| Products and Features | – Mobile Card Reader: Accepts chip, PIN, contactless payments, and mobile wallets. – Free POS App: Manages sales, inventory, and customer insights. – Online Payments: Offers payment links, invoicing, and e-commerce integrations. – Third-Party Integrations: Compatible with accounting software like QuickBooks and Xero. |
| Pricing | – Monthly Fee: £0 – Card Reader Cost: £29 (excluding VAT) for the first reader; £59 for additional readers – Transaction Fees: 1.75% per in-person transaction; 2.5% per online transaction |
| Ease of Use | User-friendly interface with quick setup, allowing businesses to start accepting payments within minutes. |
| Account Access | Accessible via the Zettle app on smartphones and tablets, with integration capabilities for seamless management. |
| Safety/Security Aspects | PCI DSS compliant with robust encryption, fraud prevention measures, and optional two-factor authentication to ensure secure transactions. |
| Customer Support | Available from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekdays, offering assistance through various channels. |
| Reviews | – Trustpilot: 4.6/5 from over 3,000 reviews – Apple App Store: 4.8/5 – Google Play Store: 4.7/5 |
| Eligibility Criteria | Businesses must be registered in the UK. Applicants need to provide proof of identity, address, and business registration documents during the application process. |
Pros & Cons
- Transparent, pay-as-you-go pricing with no monthly fees
- Quick and easy setup with a user-friendly interface
- Comprehensive features including a free POS app and online payment options
- Strong security measures ensure safe transactions
- Positive customer reviews indicating high satisfaction
- Higher transaction fees for online payments compared to in-person transactions
- Limited customer support hours
- May not meet the advanced needs of larger enterprises
Who Are Zettle?
Zettle, formerly iZettle, is a Swedish fintech company founded in 2010 by Jacob de Geer and Magnus Nilsson. They gained recognition for their innovative mini chip card reader and software, making it simple and affordable for small businesses to accept card payments. In 2018, Zettle joined the PayPal family, expanding its reach across Europe, the U.S., and Latin America.
Today, Zettle provides small to medium-sized businesses with tools like mobile card readers, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and online payment solutions. Their mission is to empower small businesses to compete effectively, offering accessible, innovative payment solutions tailored to their needs. Merchants using Zettle often see a 20% boost in sales when moving away from cash-only systems, showcasing the transformative impact of their technology.
Security is a top priority, with all transactions being PCI DSS compliant and encrypted to protect both businesses and their customers. By combining simplicity, affordability, and reliability, Zettle has become a trusted partner for small businesses looking to thrive in a competitive market.
Zettle’s Products and Features
Standard Features Across All Accounts
Zettle’s standard tools cover everything you need to start accepting payments and managing sales:
Mobile Card Reader: Accepts chip, PIN, contactless, and swipe payments, as well as mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Compact and portable, it connects to your smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth.
POS (Point of Sale) App: Tracks sales, manages inventory with automatic updates, and offers customer insights. You can customise your product library with images and categories for easy navigation.
Online Payment Solutions: Generate secure payment links, send professional invoices, and integrate seamlessly with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce.
Third-Party Integrations: Syncs with tools like QuickBooks and Xero for accounting. It also integrates with CRM and email marketing platforms to boost customer engagement.
Analytics and Reporting: Offers daily sales summaries, product insights, customer trends, and profit margin tracking, with the option to export reports for deeper analysis.
Add-Ons and Premium Features
Zettle’s premium features build on the basics, offering enhanced tools for growing businesses:
POS Hardware: Standard users can add basic tools like receipt printers and barcode scanners. Premium users can access more advanced setups for larger operations.
E-commerce Integration: All accounts integrate with Shopify and WooCommerce, but premium options include advanced inventory syncing, real-time product management, and deeper sales tracking.
Advanced Analytics: Standard accounts get basic reports, while premium users unlock predictive insights, detailed dashboards, and customisable reporting.
Multi-User Management: Basic user roles come with all accounts, while premium features include detailed staff activity tracking, advanced permissions, and tools for managing multiple locations.
Zettle Pricing
Card Reader Pricing
First Card Reader: £29 (excluding VAT) for new eligible business users.
Additional Card Readers: £59 each (excluding VAT).
Transaction Fees
Card and Contactless Payments: 1.75% per transaction, applicable to all major credit and debit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
Online Payments and Invoicing: 2.5% per transaction for payments received via online invoices or payment links.
Zettle Terminal Pricing
Zettle Terminal (without barcode scanner): £149 (excluding VAT).
Zettle Terminal with Barcode Scanner: £199 (excluding VAT).
Zettle Terminal + Printer & Dock: £199 (excluding VAT) when purchased together.
Zettle Terminal with Barcode Scanner + Printer & Dock: £249 (excluding VAT) when purchased together.
Additional Costs
Delivery Fees: Apply to hardware purchases, with delivery typically within 1 to 2 business days.
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Optional Accessories: Items like docks, receipt printers, and barcode scanners are sold separately.
How Do Zettle’s Payment Solutions Work?
Zettle makes it easy for small and medium-sized businesses to accept payments and manage sales. Setup is quick—simply connect the Zettle Reader to your smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth, and you’re ready to go.
The system supports chip, PIN, contactless cards, and mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay, ensuring a smooth experience for your customers.
The Zettle POS app keeps everything organised, letting you track sales, manage inventory, and customise your product library—all with real-time insights to help you make smarter business decisions.
For added flexibility, Zettle integrates with platforms like QuickBooks for accounting and Shopify for e-commerce. You can also add hardware like receipt printers or cash drawers to tailor your setup.
Whether you’re just starting or upgrading your payment system, Zettle’s simple, intuitive tools are designed to make running your business easier.
Safety and Security with Zettle
Zettle takes security seriously, offering a range of features to protect businesses and their customers.
First, Zettle complies with PCI DSS, ensuring all card transactions are handled securely and meet stringent industry standards. Their card readers are tamper-proof, and any attempt to meddle with the device triggers a self-destruct mechanism to protect sensitive data.
All transactions processed through Zettle are encrypted, safeguarding information during transmission and storage. The system also actively monitors for unusual or suspicious activity, helping to detect and prevent fraud. In the event of misuse, Zettle can block and terminate accounts to maintain security.
Zettle develops its software with strict security practices in mind, regularly updating devices with the latest security patches to keep everything safe and up to date. For added protection, users can enable multi-factor authentication to secure their accounts further.
These measures ensure that businesses can trust Zettle to process payments safely, giving them and their customers peace of mind.
How to Get Started with Zettle
Sign Up for a Zettle Account: Visit the Zettle website or download the Zettle app. Create your account by entering your business details and verifying your identity. Be ready to provide documents like proof of identity, business registration information, and bank account details.
Order Your Zettle Card Reader: Purchase your Zettle Reader 2 from the official website or an authorised reseller. New users can get their first reader at a discounted price of £29 (excluding VAT), while additional readers cost £59.
Set Up Your Hardware: When your Zettle Reader arrives, pair it with your smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth. Make sure the Zettle app is installed on your device, then test the connection by running a quick test transaction.
Customise Your POS App
Log in to the Zettle POS app and start setting up your product library. Add your items, images, and categories. Configure other settings like tax rates, discounts, and payment options to suit your business needs.Start Accepting Payments: Begin processing payments using your Zettle Reader for in-person transactions or the Zettle app for online payments. You can also use features like payment links or invoicing for remote transactions.
Explore Add-Ons and Integrations: Upgrade your setup with optional hardware like receipt printers or cash drawers. Integrate Zettle with third-party tools like QuickBooks for accounting or Shopify for e-commerce to streamline your operations.
Alternatives to Zettle
| Feature | Zettle by PayPal | SumUp | Square | MyGuava | Shopify POS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hardware | Zettle Reader (£29) | SumUp Air Reader (£39 + VAT); Solo (£79 + VAT); Solo & Printer (£139 + VAT) | Square Reader (£19 + VAT); Square Terminal (£149 + VAT) | MyGuava POS Terminal (pricing via dashboard) | Shopify Card Reader (£49 + VAT); integrates with various hardware options |
| Payment Processing Rates | 1.75% in-person, 2.5% online | 1.69% per in-person transaction; 2.5% for online payments | 1.75% per in-person transaction; 2.5% for online payments | 0.60%–1.10% UK, 1.50%–1.90% international; £10 monthly fee | 1.5%–2.2% per transaction, depending on the plan |
| POS Features | Mobile POS, inventory management, sales analytics | Inventory management, invoicing, Tap to Pay on mobile devices | Inventory tracking, invoicing, payroll integration, free POS app | Full POS for in-store, hybrid solutions, CRM | Multi-channel sales, inventory synchronisation, customer profiles, loyalty programs |
| Pricing | Card reader £29; POS app free with transaction fees | No monthly fees for basic services; POS Pro at £49/month + VAT | No monthly fees for basic services; optional add-ons available | POS monthly fee: £10; 30-day rolling contract | POS Lite at £9/month; POS Pro at £89/month |
| Best For | Mobile-focused small retailers | Small to medium-sized businesses across various sectors | Small businesses needing flexible, scalable solutions | UK-based businesses with broad currency options | E-commerce and retail businesses seeking integrated online and offline sales |
| Link | Visit Site | Visit Site | Visit Site | Visit Site | Visit Site |
Zettle FAQs
Zettle’s card reader requires an internet connection to process transactions. While it does not support offline payments, you can use the app to record transactions manually, which can then be processed once you’re back online.
Yes, Zettle supports refunds for both in-person and online transactions. Refunds can be processed directly through the Zettle app or online portal. However, transaction fees from the original payment are not refunded.
Yes, Zettle allows you to customise digital receipts by adding your business logo and contact details. This is managed through the app or your Zettle account settings.
If your Zettle card reader encounters issues, you can troubleshoot through their online support or contact customer service for assistance. If the device is defective, Zettle may offer a replacement under warranty.
Zettle doesn’t offer a built-in loyalty program, but it can integrate with third-party CRM or loyalty platforms via its API or through supported integrations.
