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ThePOS.co.uk

How to Choose a Card Machine (UK Checklist)

Last updated: 6 min read

Cut through the sales pitch with this checklist. Score each provider against the points that actually affect your business, not the ones with the loudest marketing.

The checklist

Run any provider through these questions before you commit:

  • What's the all-in cost at my real monthly volume? (Use our calculator.)
  • Is there a monthly fee or contract — and an exit fee?
  • How fast do I get paid, and does instant payout cost extra?
  • Do I need a standalone (SIM) device or is phone-paired fine?
  • Do I need POS software (stock, tables, appointments) or just payments?
  • What's the support like if it breaks mid-service?

Match it to your business

Low-volume or mobile? Prioritise no monthly fee and portability. Busy hospitality? Prioritise reliability and fast payouts. Retail with stock? Prioritise inventory and online sync.

TP

The POS editorial team

Independent UK payments research. We test, read the small print and write it up in plain English.

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