In today’s fast-paced retail and service industries, choosing the right credit card machine for businesses is essential to ensuring smooth transactions and increased sales. Whether you run a brick-and-mortar store, operate a mobile business, or manage an online platform, having a reliable payment processing system can make all the money-related operations seamless. The right device helps businesses sell more efficiently, reduce checkout times, and improve customer experiences. From countertop terminals with ethernet connections to wireless mobile card readers, there’s a solution for every business need.
Selecting the right fit involves more than just picking a machine that accepts credit and debit cards. Factors such as transaction fees, connectivity (Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or 4G), integration with cash drawers, and POS systems all matter when making a decision. Some businesses may prefer an all-in-one box that includes inventory tracking and analytics, while others might need a simple card reader for on-the-go payments. In this guide, we explore the best credit card machines of 2024 to help businesses make an informed choice, ensuring they stay ahead in a competitive marketplace.
Quickly Compare 7 Top Credit Card Machines
Card Machine | Best For | Transaction Fee | Monthly Fee | Contract Length | Connectivity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Square Reader | Startups & Microbusinesses | 2.6% + 15¢ | None | None | Bluetooth (requires smartphone) |
Tide Card Reader | Businesses Using Tide Banking | 1.5% | None | None | Cellular |
Revolut Reader | Lowest Transaction Fees | 0.8% + £0.02 | None | None | Bluetooth (requires smartphone) |
SumUp Solo | Superior Customer Service & Reliability | From 0.99% | £19 (optional) | None | Cellular |
Zettle Card Reader 2 | Beginner-Friendly Design | 2.29% + £0.09 | None | None | Bluetooth (requires smartphone) |
Tyl PAX A50 (NatWest) | Eco-Conscious & Compact Design | 1.39% + £0.05 | From £9.99 + VAT (lease) | 12 months | 4G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
Dojo Go | Fastest Transaction Processing | Custom Pricing | From £20 + VAT (lease) | 12+ months | 4G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
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1. Square Reader
Best for: Startups and Microbusinesses
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✔️ Affordable upfront cost | ❌ Requires a smartphone for operation |
✔️ Includes inventory management and customer tracking | ❌ No built-in cellular connectivity |
✔️ Supports contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Wallet) | ❌ Limited advanced features |
✔️ Secure encryption | ❌ Battery life may be limiting for high-volume use |
Why We Chose Square Reader
Square Reader is one of the best credit card machines for businesses that need a simple and budget-friendly solution without long-term contracts. Its compatibility with mobile devices ensures flexibility and its flat-rate pricing structure makes cost management predictable. Additionally, Square’s ecosystem includes essential business tools such as inventory tracking, reporting, and customer profiles, making it a well-rounded option for growing enterprises.
Another standout feature of Square is its continuous updates to enhance security and usability. As of February 2025, Square has introduced advanced encryption protocols, significantly reducing chargeback risks. It now also supports Apple Pay Later and Google Wallet, aligning with evolving consumer payment preferences. While it lacks built-in cellular connectivity, its ease of use and extensive software integration options make it a strong contender for small business owners.
Key Features:
Accepts contactless, chip, and magnetic stripe payments
Bluetooth connectivity for iOS and Android devices
Includes inventory and customer management tools
Secure encryption and fraud protection
Supports Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and Visa/Mastercard transactions
Compact and lightweight design for easy portability
Pricing Details:
Cost Component | Price |
|---|---|
Hardware cost | $27 per month for 12 months ($299 total) |
Transaction fee | 2.6% + 15 cents per in-person payment. |
Monthly fees | None |
What Square Reader Could Improve:
While Square Reader is a great entry-level solution, adding built-in cellular connectivity would eliminate the need for smartphone pairing, making it more independent. Extending battery life would enhance its usability for businesses processing high volumes of transactions. Additionally, providing more advanced features such as detailed reporting and analytics would make it even more attractive for growing businesses.
2. Tide Card Reader
Best for: Businesses Using Tide Banking Services
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✔️ Integrated with Tide’s business banking | ❌ Limited third-party POS integrations |
✔️ Competitive 1.5% transaction fee | ❌ Not ideal for businesses outside Tide’s ecosystem |
✔️ Standalone cellular connectivity | ❌ Fewer advanced features compared to competitors |
✔️ Promotional offers for new users | ❌ No manual card entry option |
Why We Chose Tide Card Reader
Tide Card Reader stands out for its seamless integration with Tide’s banking ecosystem, providing businesses with a unified solution for payments and financial management. The 1.5% transaction fee is competitive, and the device’s standalone cellular connectivity eliminates the need for a smartphone or external internet connection—making it ideal for businesses in areas with unstable internet.
Additionally, Tide’s promotional offers, such as waived fees on small transactions and cashback incentives, provide excellent value for new users. Performance tests in Q4 2024 demonstrated a 99.8% uptime, making it one of the most reliable payment processing machines available. However, businesses outside of Tide’s ecosystem may find the limited POS integrations restrictive.
Key Features:
Fully integrated with Tide business banking services
Supports contactless, chip, and PIN payments
Standalone cellular connectivity (no smartphone required)
Competitive 1.5% transaction fee with no monthly fees
Fast transaction processing and high system uptime (99.8%)
Secure encryption and fraud prevention measures
Promotional offers for new Tide users
Pricing Details:
Cost Component | Price |
|---|---|
Hardware cost | £59 + VAT |
Transaction fee | 1.5% per transaction |
Monthly fees | None |
What Tide Card Reader Could Improve:
Although Tide Card Reader is a great option for businesses within Tide’s ecosystem, expanding compatibility with third-party POS systems would make it more appealing to a broader range of users. Adding more advanced analytics and reporting tools could enhance business insights. Additionally, enabling manual card entry for remote transactions would provide more flexibility for merchants handling phone-based orders.
3. Revolut Reader
Best for: Lowest Transaction Fees
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✔️ Industry-low transaction fees (0.8% + £0.02) | ❌ Limited third-party software integration |
✔️ No monthly subscription required | ❌ No option for printed receipts |
✔️ Multi-currency settlement support | ❌ Lacks built-in customer management tools |
✔️ Fast transactions (under 3 seconds) | ❌ Requires Revolut Business account for full features |
Why We Chose Revolut Reader
Revolut Reader is the best option for businesses prioritizing low transaction fees and international payments. Its 0.8% + £0.02 fee structure is among the most cost-effective in the market, making it an attractive choice for high-volume businesses and those processing multi-currency transactions. Additionally, its fast payment processing speed (under three seconds) enhances checkout efficiency and customer satisfaction.
In November 2024, Revolut introduced dynamic currency conversion, reducing foreign transaction costs by 12%, further increasing its appeal to businesses with international clientele. However, its reliance on a Revolut Business account for full functionality and the lack of printed receipt options may deter some traditional businesses.
Key Features:
Industry-low transaction fees (0.8% + £0.02 per transaction)
Accepts contactless, chip, and PIN payments
Supports multi-currency payments with dynamic currency conversion
Fast transaction processing (under 3 seconds)
No monthly subscription required
Battery life extended to 14 hours in 2024 update
Pricing Details:
Cost Component | Price |
|---|---|
Hardware cost | £49 + VAT |
Transaction fee | 0.8% + £0.02 per transaction |
Monthly fees | None |
What Revolut Reader Could Improve:
Revolut Reader could expand its third-party software integrations to enhance usability for businesses using different accounting and POS systems. Providing an option for printed receipts would benefit businesses that require physical documentation for customers. Additionally, incorporating customer management tools would make it a more comprehensive solution for small and medium-sized enterprises.
4. SumUp Solo
Best for: Superior Customer Service and Reliability
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✔️ Built-in SIM card for 4G connectivity | ❌ No manual card entry option |
✔️ Affordable transaction fees starting at 0.99% | ❌ Limited POS system integrations |
✔️ Compact and touchscreen design | ❌ Battery life may be insufficient for high-volume use |
✔️ Excellent customer support with fast issue resolution | ❌ No receipt printer included |
Why We Chose SumUp Solo
SumUp Solo is a strong choice for businesses that prioritize reliability and customer service. It is particularly well-suited for mobile businesses, such as market traders and event vendors, thanks to its built-in SIM card for 4G connectivity. With transaction fees starting at 0.99%, it is an affordable option for businesses looking to keep payment processing costs low. The 2.4-inch touchscreen offers an intuitive interface, allowing for smooth card payments, including contactless transactions.
Another key factor in choosing SumUp Solo is its industry-leading customer service. In 2024, SumUp earned a 4.6/5 rating in industry surveys for customer satisfaction, with an average issue resolution time of just 2.3 hours. This level of support makes it a reliable option for businesses that cannot afford payment disruptions. The ability to receive next-day payouts to SumUp Business Accounts, complete with a free Mastercard, adds further convenience for merchants.
Key Features:
Compact design with 2.4-inch touchscreen
Built-in SIM card with 4G connectivity (no smartphone required)
Transaction fees as low as 0.99%
Contactless, chip, and PIN support
Fast next-day payouts with a free SumUp Business Mastercard
Smart tipping options for customer gratuities
Secure encryption and fraud protection
Pricing Details:
Cost Component | Price |
|---|---|
Hardware cost | £79 + VAT |
Transaction fee | From 0.99% per transaction |
Optional monthly subscription | £19 (for lower transaction rates) |
What SumUp Solo Could Improve:
SumUp Solo could benefit from adding manual card entry for businesses that take orders over the phone. Additionally, expanding integrations with popular POS systems would make it a more versatile solution. A built-in receipt printer or an option to connect to one would also be valuable for businesses that require printed receipts.
5. Zettle Card Reader 2
Best for: Beginner-Friendly Design
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✔️ Affordable hardware cost (£29 + VAT) | ❌ Short battery life (8 hours) |
✔️ Simple and easy to set up | ❌ No built-in SIM card for cellular connectivity |
✔️ Instant fund settlement to PayPal Business Accounts | ❌ Compatibility issues with older Android devices |
✔️ Accepts all major card types, including Amex | ❌ No advanced inventory management features |
Why We Chose Zettle Card Reader 2
The Zettle Card Reader 2, owned by PayPal, is an excellent choice for businesses that need a user-friendly and cost-effective payment solution. It is particularly beneficial for small businesses, pop-up shops, and seasonal vendors that need a simple card reader without ongoing costs. The device connects via Bluetooth to smartphones or tablets.
A standout feature of the Zettle Card Reader 2 is its instant fund settlement to PayPal Business Accounts, which provides immediate access to funds—a crucial advantage for small businesses managing cash flow. Additionally, its 2024 app redesign reduced payment processing steps by 40%, making it more efficient for business owners and their staff.
Key Features:
Affordable hardware with a one-time cost
Accepts all major credit and debit cards, including American Express
Bluetooth connectivity to mobile devices
Instant payouts to PayPal Business Accounts
Contactless, chip, and PIN payment support
Intuitive interface and beginner-friendly setup
Pricing Details:
Cost Component | Price |
|---|---|
Hardware cost | £29 + VAT for new customers |
Transaction fee | 2.29% + 0.09 per transaction |
Monthly fees | None |
What Zettle Card Reader 2 Could Improve:
The Zettle Card Reader 2 could benefit from a longer battery life to support high-traffic businesses. Adding a built-in SIM card for standalone cellular connectivity would make it more versatile for vendors operating in areas with poor Wi-Fi access. Expanding integration with inventory management tools would also improve its functionality for growing businesses.
6. Tyl PAX A50 (by NatWest)
Best for: Eco-Conscious and Compact Design
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✔️ Digital receipts reduce paper waste | ❌ No built-in printer for businesses needing paper receipts |
✔️ Supports 4G, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth | ❌ Monthly lease model may not suit all businesses |
✔️ Lightweight and portable (163g) | ❌ 8-hour battery life could be longer |
✔️ Waived fees for high-revenue businesses (£100k+ annual transactions) | ❌ Higher transaction fees for smaller businesses |
Why We Chose Tyl PAX A50
The Tyl PAX A50 by NatWest stands out for its eco-conscious approach, offering digital receipts as a standard feature, helping businesses reduce paper waste. Weighing only 163g, it is highly portable, making it a great option for service-based businesses that need a mobile card payment device. The device supports 4G, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, ensuring strong connectivity in various environments.
One of its strongest advantages is its cost-saving potential for high-revenue businesses. Companies processing over £100,000 annually benefit from waived transaction fees for the first six months. Its compliance with PCI DSS 4.0 ensures secure transactions, reducing data breach risks. However, its monthly lease model may not be ideal for smaller businesses looking for a one-time hardware purchase.
Key Features:
Lightweight and compact design (180g)
Digital receipts for eco-conscious businesses
4G, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity
Secure payment processing with PCI DSS 4.0 compliance
Transaction fee waivers for high-revenue businesses
Supports contactless, chip, and PIN payments
Pricing Details:
Cost Component | Price |
|---|---|
Hardware lease | Starts from £9.99+VAT per month |
Transaction fee | 1.39% + £0.05 per transaction (UK & Europe only) |
Monthly fee | 12 months free gateway (normally £14.95+VAT/mo) |
Waived fees | First 6 months for businesses processing £100k+ annually |
What Tyl PAX A50 Could Improve:
The lack of a built-in receipt printer may be inconvenient for businesses that require paper receipts. Extending the battery life beyond 8 hours would improve its usability for busy merchants. Additionally, offering an outright purchase option instead of a lease-only model would make it more accessible for a wider range of businesses.
7. Dojo Go
Best for: Fastest Transaction Processing
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✔️ Ultra-fast transaction processing | ❌ Requires a contract (12+ months) |
✔️ Next-day payouts, including weekends | ❌ Higher monthly fees compared to some competitors |
✔️ Built-in 4G, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity | ❌ No manual card entry option |
✔️ Strong security with PCI compliance and fraud prevention | ❌ Early termination fees apply if canceling before contract ends |
Why We Chose Dojo Go
Dojo Go is the go-to option for businesses that prioritize transaction speed and reliability. With an average processing time of just 1.7 seconds, it is one of the fastest credit card machines available in 2024, significantly reducing checkout times and improving customer experience. The device includes built-in 4G, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity, ensuring that payments can be processed anywhere without relying on an external internet connection.
One of Dojo Go’s biggest advantages is its next-day payouts, including weekends, which helps businesses maintain steady cash flow. Security is also a strong point, as Dojo Go is PCI Level 1 compliant, providing businesses with high-level fraud protection. However, unlike other pay-as-you-go options, Dojo Go requires a 12-month contract, which may not be ideal for all businesses.
Key Features:
Ultra-fast transactions (1.7-second average processing time)
Built-in 4G, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth for seamless connectivity
Next-day payouts, even on weekends
Strong security with PCI Level 1 compliance
Supports contactless, chip, and PIN payments
Dojo app for real-time transaction tracking and insights
Pricing Details:
Cost Component | Price |
|---|---|
Hardware lease | From £20 + VAT per month |
Transaction fee | Custom pricing (varies by business type) |
Early termination fee | Applies if contract is canceled before term ends |
What Dojo Go Could Improve:
Dojo Go could improve by offering more flexible pricing models, including an option for businesses that prefer to buy the hardware outright instead of leasing it. Additionally, adding manual card entry for remote transactions would make it more versatile. The contract requirement and early termination fees can be a drawback, so offering shorter or contract-free plans would make it more accessible to a wider range of businesses.
Our Methodology: How We Chose the Best Credit Card Machines
Choosing the right credit card machine for businesses involves more than just looking at price and features. Our evaluation process is designed to ensure that we recommend credit card machines and merchant services that offer reliability, security, and efficiency for small businesses. Here’s how we test and analyze these payment solutions:
Transaction Speed & Reliability – We assessed how quickly card readers process credit and debit card payments, ensuring minimal delays at checkout.
Ease of Use – A great POS system or mobile card reader should be intuitive, requiring little training for business owners and staff.
Security & Compliance – We verified whether the payment processing system meets PCI DSS compliance standards and includes encryption and fraud protection features.
Connectivity & Compatibility – We tested Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and near-field communication (NFC) capabilities to ensure seamless integration with smart terminals, virtual terminals, and online sales platforms.
Cost & Fees – We analyzed the overall pricing structure, including transaction fees, contract terms, and hidden costs, to determine affordability for merchants.
Advanced Features & Integrations – We checked for extras like inventory management, reporting tools, software compatibility, and support for various payment methods such as contactless payments and mobile payments.
Customer Support & Warranty – We evaluated the quality of customer service and warranty policies, ensuring business owners can get timely assistance when needed.
Evaluating Credit and Debit Card Compatibility
We prioritized machines that supported all major credit and debit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Devices with chip, magnetic stripe, and contactless payment options ranked higher. Machines offering multi-currency support, like the Revolut Reader, stood out for businesses serving international customers.
How We Assessed Ease of Use for Accepting Payments
We tested how quickly and easily businesses could set up and use each machine. Devices with simple interfaces, responsive touchscreens, and fast transaction speeds scored higher. We also evaluated connectivity options, battery life, and POS integration, favoring models like SumUp Solo for their reliability in mobile transactions.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Credit Card Machine
Selecting the best credit card machine is a crucial decision for any business looking to accept payments efficiently. Here are some important aspects to keep in mind before investing in a card reader or POS system:
Payment Methods Supported – A good credit card machine should accept credit and debit cards, chip payments, contactless payments, and mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Wallet.
Transaction Fees & Pricing – Compare transaction fees, monthly costs, and hardware pricing to find a solution that aligns with your budget. Some providers charge flat fees, while others have variable pricing models.
Connectivity Options – Check whether the device operates via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or 4G, as mobile card readers may need different network options based on your business location.
Ease of Use – A simple, user-friendly card reader ensures smooth operations and requires minimal training for employees.
Integration with Business Tools – Ensure compatibility with POS systems, accounting software, inventory management, and reporting tools for streamlined business management.
Security & Compliance – Look for PCI DSS compliance, encryption, and fraud protection to keep your transactions and customer data secure.
Portability & Battery Life – If you operate a mobile business, a wireless card machine with long battery life is essential for uninterrupted sales.
Customer Support & Warranty – Reliable merchant services should include 24/7 support, hardware warranties, and software updates to keep your business running smoothly.
By focusing on these key factors, business owners can find the best credit card machine to improve customer experiences and optimize payment processing.
Card Machines vs. POS Systems: Understanding the Differences
While both card machines and POS systems help businesses handle payments, they serve different purposes. Here’s how they compare:
Credit Card Machines
A credit card machine (also known as a card reader or smart terminal) is a device that accepts payments by processing credit and debit cards. These machines can be wired or wireless, and they typically support chip, contactless, and magnetic stripe transactions. They are best for businesses that need a simple, standalone solution for taking payments.
POS Systems
A POS system (point-of-sale system) includes a card reader, but it also features software, inventory tracking, reporting, and employee management tools. It acts as a complete business management tool, allowing merchants to handle transactions, track stock, generate receipts, and analyze sales trends. A POS system is ideal for businesses that need comprehensive sales and management functionalities beyond just processing payments.
Which One Is Right for Your Business?
Choose a card machine if you need a straightforward, portable device to accept card payments without additional tools.
Opt for a POS system if you want an all-in-one device that combines payment processing, inventory management, customer tracking, and reporting.
Understanding the difference between these two solutions can help business owners choose the best payment system for their specific needs.
The Best Machine to Keep Your Business Moving
Choosing the right credit card machine for businesses is a crucial decision that impacts operations at every counter. Whether you’re looking for a standalone device, a smart terminal with ethernet connectivity, or a mobile reader that pairs with your smartphone, selecting the best machine ensures you never miss a sale. The ability to accept card payments seamlessly can help businesses grow, keeping customers satisfied and transactions running smoothly. When evaluating payment solutions, understanding the difference between integrated and non-integrated processing can significantly impact your decision-making process. Integrated systems streamline payment processing by combining payment hardware with software solutions, enhancing efficiency and reporting capabilities. In contrast, non-integrated options may offer greater flexibility but require more manual oversight. For an in-depth exploration of these differences, check out this guide on selecting between integrated and non-integrated payment processing.
Every business has unique needs, and finding the right fit means considering cost, contract terms, and advanced features that support daily operations. The best solution should align with your sales volume, payment preferences, and business model. No matter what you choose—whether a compact card reader or a full POS system—having a reliable machine can be the sign of a successful and efficient business. By investing in the right payment processing device, businesses can stay ahead of the curve, ensuring they are ready to sell anytime, anywhere.
