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Card Machines for UK Businesses: Compare the Best Options
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Card Machines for UK Businesses: Compare the Best Options
Last updated 22/01/2026
What Is a Card Machine?
A card machine is a device that allows businesses to accept digital payments from debit and credit cards, as well as contactless and mobile wallet transactions. They securely read customers’ cards, send the payment details to the provider for authorisation, and once the payment is approved, the funds are then settled to the business account. Typically, funds are settled within one to three business days.
Choosing the right machine directly impacts your business expenses, cash flow, and reliability, as each provider offers varying transaction fees, contract terms, and settlement speeds, which influence how much you pay and how quickly you can access your money.
Types of Card Machines for UK Businesses
Portable Card Machines
Wireless, battery-powered terminals that connect via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, allowing payments anywhere within your premises.
Mobile Card Readers (mPOS)
Small readers that pair with a smartphone or tablet and use mobile internet to process payments.
Smart Terminals
All-in-one touchscreen devices with built-in internet and app integration for POS, inventory, and reporting.
Integrated POS Systems
Complete point-of-sale setups combining payment processing with inventory, reporting, and hardware like tills and screens.
Virtual Terminals
Browser-based systems that allow manual card entry for remote or phone payments.
Tap to Pay on Smartphones
Turns a compatible smartphone into a contactless payment terminal using NFC, with no extra hardware required.
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Business Card Machine Costs Explained
| Type of Fee | What Does This Mean? | Typical Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Blended Fees | A single flat rate that combines interchange, network, and processor costs into one simple charge per transaction. | ~1.5%–3.4% per transaction |
| Upfront Hardware Cost | One-off cost to buy a card machine outright instead of renting it. | £50–£300+ (one-off) |
| Transaction Fees | Charged on every card payment, usually as a percentage but sometimes a fixed amount. | ~1.5%–3.4% per transaction |
| Interchange Fees | Fees set by card networks and paid to the card issuer for processing the transaction. | Up to 0.3% per transaction |
| Authorisation Fees | Small charge each time a payment is verified and approved. | ~2p per transaction |
| Assessment / Network Fees | Fees charged by card networks to maintain payment infrastructure. Often bundled into pricing. | Usually included |
| Payment Gateway Fees | Fees for securely processing online or virtual payments through a gateway. | £20+ per month |
| Terminal Rental Fees | A monthly cost for leasing a card machine rather than buying it outright. | £15–£35 per month |
| Merchant Account Fees | Fees for setting up and maintaining an account to process card payments. | £0–£15+ per month |
| Monthly Minimum Fees | Minimum monthly charge applied if transaction fees fall below a set threshold. | £20–£40 per month |
| PCI Compliance Fees | Fees related to meeting card industry security standards. | ~£3 per month or £0–£250 per year |
| PCI Non-Compliance Fees | Penalties are charged if PCI compliance requirements are not met. | ~£9.99 per month |
| Payout / Settlement Fees | Charges are applied when funds are paid into the business bank account. | £0–£1.50 per payout |
| Reporting & Statement Fees | Fees for paper statements, advanced reports, or exporting transaction data. | £0–£5+ per month |
| Terminal Servicing / Replacement Fees | Costs for repairs, urgent replacements, or out-of-warranty servicing. | £0–£150 per instance |
| Early Termination Fees | Charges apply if a merchant exits a contract before the agreed term ends. | £0–£1,200 |
Card Machine Comparison UK: What to Look For
Transaction Fees & Fee Structures:
How are you being charged? Is it blended or flat rate pricing? Some providers will bundle interchange, authorisation, and gateway costs differently, so make sure you know how these fees are structured and what you are expected to pay.
Equipment Costs & Lease vs Purchase:
Assess whether you want to purchase or rent the card machine. Both options have their own unique pros and cons that will be better suited to your needs.
Contract Terms & Hidden Costs:
How long is your contract, and will you be expected to pay any early termination fees if you want to leave before it’s up? Look for other hidden fees, including support fees, software updates, paper rolls, security, or compliance charges.
Integration With Current Systems:
If you already use other systems, EPOS, inventory, accounting, etc., then find a device that can seamlessly integrate with these. This creates a synchronised ecosystem, streamlined workflows, and reduces administrative burdens.
Security & Compliance Capabilities:
Keeping your customers’ payment data safe is essential. Factor in security features and how the solution supports PCI DSS compliance with built-in security to keep your customers’ data (and your reputation) safe.
Connectivity Options:
Evaluate where and how the machine connects and whether this meets your business model. If you’re a physical location, then a fixed machine with an Ethernet connection is fine. If you’re on the go, then you’ll need to find one that offers mobile connectivity.
Provider Reputation & Support:
Look for Google Reviews, Trustpilot scores, and even Reddit threads to see what real-world customers are saying about the service they’re receiving.
Accepted Payment Methods:
Ensure the solution accepts all relevant payment types your customers use (contactless, chip & PIN, mobile wallets), as limited acceptance can reduce sales and indirectly increase cost per transaction.
Settlement Speed:
Find a provider that pays you fast. Quicker settlements improve cash flow, which is particularly useful for smaller businesses managing tighter budgets.
Ease of Setup & Use:
Choose a terminal that is quick to set up and simple to use so you can get the most out of the device, reduce errors, and save time.
Which Card Machine Is Right for Your Business?
| Business Type | Best-Fit Card Machine Type | Why This Machine? |
|---|---|---|
| Retail (shops, stores) | Countertop terminals or smart terminals | - Fixed checkout locations - Reliable machines that process high transaction volumes quickly - Integrate with POS or inventory systems |
| Hospitality (restaurants, pubs, cafés) | Portable card machines or smart terminals | - Table service ready - Split payment features - Fast checkout |
| Trades & Mobile Services | Mobile card readers (phone-paired) | - Mobile payments - Lightweight devices - Use an already established internet connection - Relatively affordable |
| Startups & Sole Traders | Mobile card readers or smartphone-based terminals | - Low upfront costs - Simple setup - Favourable contact terms suit lower volume or seasonal fluctuations |
| Market Stalls & Pop-Ups | Mobile card readers or portable terminals | - Extremely portable - Work reliably without a fixed broadband connection |
| Food Trucks | Smart terminals or portable card machines | - Standalone devices with built-in connectivity - Receipt handling - Supports fast service in mobile environments |
| Remote / Phone-Based Businesses | Virtual terminals | - Payments are taken without the need for face-to-face interaction |
| eCommerce Businesses | Smart terminals | - Support online payments - Integrate with payment platforms - Manage multi-channel sales through a single system |
Common Card Machine Mistakes to Avoid
Understand the Total Costs, Not Headline Rates:
Don’t focus just on the advertised transaction rate. Always make sure you’re aware of these to avoid any nasty surprises when it comes to paying your bill.
Ignoring Settlement Cut-Off Times:
Settlement cut-offs are a designated time when transactions are processed for payout. Accepting payments after this time can cause cash flow problems, and although some providers may offer earlier settlements, this could come at an extra cost.
Over-Committing to Long Contracts:
Long contracts allow you to focus on other areas of your business, but stop you from finding a deal and more advanced hardware elsewhere. Unfavourable rates can also eat into your profits and require you to pay an early termination fee to exit before the contract is up.
Underestimating Connectivity Requirements:
Poor connectivity means your card machine won’t be able to correctly process transactions, leading to missed sales. If you operate in rural areas, basements, or outdoor areas with limited connectivity, strong coverage is essential.
Choosing the Wrong Machine for the Business Model:
If you run a food truck, you need to find a device that has 4G/5G or offline capabilities. Understand the environment you operate in, then find a machine that matches these needs.
Overlooking Support and Reliability:
Poor customer support can quickly turn a minor issue into an entire day of missed sales. Understand what level of support you’ll receive when things don’t go as planned, including hours, replacement policies, response times, and any compensation you’re owed if they don’t meet these.
Should I Buy or Rent a Card Machine
Renting a Card Machine: Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| If you buy a card machine, the one-time fee covers the device, allowing you to avoid rental fees | At some point, the fees and rental costs will become more expensive than buying outright |
| Long-term savings when compared to rental fees | Long contracts (often 12–36 months) limit flexibility and will often require a fee to cancel before the contract is up |
| Full ownership allows you to switch payment processors whenever you like | Tied merchant accounts can prevent switching to cheaper processors |
| No long-term contracts or early exit penalties | Some providers will not allow you to use your own terminal |
How We Compare Card Machines at Commercial Experts
We pride ourselves on delivering objective comparisons that cut out the fluff and personal bias. We use a neutral, criteria-led methodology focused on real-world business needs so you get the information you need to make the right decision for your business.
We assess practical factors like costs, suitability to business types, and highlight the nuances of using a business card machine day to day, allowing for fair comparisons and transparent recommendations.
Compare Card Machines for Your Business Today!
Instead of Googling “card machine near me,” why not compare the best card machines for your business today? All you have to do is tap the CTA BUTTON below and answer a few questions about your business. Then, based on your responses, you will receive a range of quotes tailored to your specific needs.
All quotes are 100% free and non-committal, so just tap the button below and compare card machines now!
FAQs
What is the best card machine in the UK?
The best card machine in the UK depends on your business needs, but popular options include SumUp, Zettle, and Square.
SumUp is best for mobile sellers, market stalls, sole traders, and very small businesses.
Zettle is best for small retailers and businesses that use PayPal.
Square is best for retail and hospitality businesses.
Should I buy or rent a card machine?
Buying a card machine offers long-term savings and no ongoing fees, but higher upfront costs. Renting has lower initial costs, includes support, and can be upgraded easily. It’s better for short-term use or startups, while buying suits a more established business that is ready for a one-time investment.
What are the costs of a card machine for small businesses?
Costs for small businesses include machine purchase or rental, transaction fees (typically 1.5%–2.5%), and possible monthly fees. Providers like SumUp and Zettle offer no monthly charges and flat transaction rates, making them budget-friendly for smaller operations with lower sales volumes.
Do I need a contract for a card machine?
Some providers offer contract-free card machines, while others require monthly agreements. Contracts often include hardware, support, and service fees. Carefully review terms, especially early exit fees and renewal clauses, to avoid unexpected costs and ensure the contract fits your business needs.
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