Take the free 60-second quiz
ThePOS.co.uk

No-Contract Card Machines in the UK

Last updated: 4 min read

Not everyone wants to sign a multi-year deal to take a card. Here are the genuinely no-contract options, and when a contract might actually save you money.

The no-contract, no-monthly-fee options

These let you buy a reader and pay only per transaction:

  • SumUp
  • Square
  • PayPal Zettle
  • myPOS (entry plans)

When a contract is worth it

If you're high-volume, a quote-based provider (Dojo, Worldpay, Barclaycard) might offer a low enough rate that even with a monthly fee and contract, you come out ahead. Just make sure the maths works and the exit terms are reasonable.

TP

The POS editorial team

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

Last updated:
The POS

Related guides

Fees7 min

Card Machine Fees Explained (UK)

Transaction fees, monthly fees, hardware costs, payout charges and the sneaky extras — every card machine fee, explained in plain English.

Read guide
Choosing6 min

How to Choose a Card Machine (UK Checklist)

A practical checklist for choosing a UK card machine: fees, contracts, payouts, hardware and features.

Read guide
Fees5 min

Hidden Card Machine Fees to Watch For

The card machine fees that don't make the homepage — chargebacks, PCI, authorisation and exit fees.

Read guide

Not sure what you need?

Tell us how your business takes payments and we'll point you towards providers that actually fit — not just the one with the loudest sales team.

Get My POS MatchesTake the 60-second quiz