In short: To choose a UK card machine, compare transaction fees, any monthly or rental costs, and whether you are tied to a contract. Check payout speed, the hardware type (countertop, portable or mobile), and features like refunds, tipping and reporting. Match the machine to where and how you take payments.
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.
FAQs
What should I look for in a card machine contract?
Check the contract length, any early exit fees, and whether the rate is fixed or can rise. Watch for separate charges like PCI DSS compliance, terminal rental and minimum monthly fees. No-contract providers avoid most of this but may charge a higher transaction rate.
Which card machine is best for a mobile business?
For mobile traders, a portable card reader that connects over mobile data or a phone hotspot works best, as it takes payments anywhere with signal. Look for long battery life, contactless and Apple Pay or Google Pay support, and pay-as-you-go pricing with no fixed contract.
Do card machines need wifi or a SIM?
It depends on the type. Many small readers connect through your phone's app over wifi or mobile data. Standalone portable terminals often include a SIM or use wifi directly. Countertop machines usually plug into broadband. Check the connection method suits where you trade.
Reviewed by Nathan Keeble - Founder, The POS
Independent UK payments research. We research the pricing, read the small print and write it up in plain English.