Check how transparent the costs involved are, and not just the highlighted rate the provider has advertised. As well as the purchase or rental cost of the hardware, monthly and transaction fees, look for any hidden fees. Hidden fees could include: Chargeback International card usage Refunds Payment Card Industry (PCI) compliance (explained below) Add up the total cost for a typical day of trading to help see the full amount you'll pay.

Check that your card machine is compatible with the point-of-sale (POS) software you have in place or are planning to choose. An integrated system can also link to other tools, including accounting software and transaction reports in real-time.

Pick a machine that is simple for both employees and customers to operate. This will reduce the time it takes to process a transaction and potentially reduce queues and wait times for your customers. Interface: ensure the layout is easy to follow for you and the customer Mobile options: useful if you are on the move and sell at markets or deliveries Accessibility features: these can include audio aids and raised keypads for visually impaired customers Many providers offer a free trial (7-14 days) to help you get accustomed to the machine.

4. Accepted payment types

Analyse what payment methods your customers or clients use and whether the card machine you've chosen accepts them. Payment options include: Chip & PIN (Visa, American Express) Contactless Mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal) Magnetic stripe

5. Security and PCI compliance

Any business that accepts card payments needs to comply with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS). All SMEs will need to use an encryption machine (end-to-end or point-to-point), and most will have to submit a Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ). But larger companies could have to complete a Qualified Security Assessment (QSA). The form you need to complete will depend on how many transactions you take in a year. To meet the requirements, there are costs to consider, including: PCI DSS validation costs Anti-virus software Most providers will offer support to explain what your business needs to comply with data security rules.

6. Support and reliability

Providers offer a varied level of assistance when you need it. It ranges from online helpdesks to 24/7 telephone support, and some will have next-day replacements for faulty machines. The response times of the support included will vary depending on the provider. Other providers will also offer training to staff members to get them up to speed using your machine of choice.

The time it takes for payments to reach your business bank account can range from a few seconds after the transaction with some providers to a few working days with others. Typically, the process will take up to three working days after the transaction to appear in your account. The time it takes for funds to go into your account can affect your cash flow, so consider this when choosing an option.

These are quick and flexible to set up. Simply: Sign up with a provider Pay for the device Provide a delivery address Download the app to start taking payments

Monthly terminals usually require an account application and more checks. You may need to provide: Business address and VAT number (if registered) Personal details and address history for owners or directors Business bank account details Once approved, your provider will send your terminal and connect you to their payment processing service, so you can start accepting card payments in-store or on the go.

What fee structure should I choose?

The cost of card, contactless and digital wallet payments depends on the number of transactions you process and the average value of each sale. Percentage-only and fixed + percentage are the two main types of fee structure.

How do card machines work?

1. Customer presents their card When a customer presents their card or phone, the transaction details are sent to your merchant bank account. This sits aside from your business bank account and holds the funds. 2. Payment request is sent The merchant bank sends the payment request via broadband or a phone line to the customer’s card provider – usually Visa, Mastercard or American Express. 3. Customer's account is contacted The card provider transmits a request for payment authorisation to the customer’s bank or credit card provider. 4. Payment is made, or declined If the card details are all correct and there’s enough money in the account, the transaction will go through. The payment is declined if the card details aren’t correct or the customer doesn’t have enough money to cover the transaction.

How long will it take for the payment to register in my account?

The time it takes for a payment to appear in your account can vary depending on several factors. Typically, payments may take up to three business days to register, especially if the transaction occurs late in the day, over a weekend, or on a bank holiday. Keep in mind that weekends and holidays may cause delays, as payments are processed during business hours on weekdays.

Do I need a new merchant account?

You don’t always need a new account for card payments, but having one could save you money in the long run. When you accept card payments, the payment service provider — like Mastercard, Visa, or American Express — sends the funds to a merchant account. If you already have your own merchant account, you can use that to receive payments, but setting one up may take longer and incur additional fees. However, this option can be more affordable if you process many transactions. Alternatively, some card payment providers offer to manage the account for you, allowing you to set up quickly, but they often come with higher transaction fees. So, while a new account is not strictly necessary, it may be a worthwhile consideration depending on your business's sales volume and transaction costs.

What card issuers are covered?

Most card payment machines accept payments from major card issuers like Visa and Mastercard. However, some machines may not support American Express, so it's important to check this before choosing your payment solution. Additionally, mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are commonly accepted by many modern card machines. To ensure full compatibility, always verify the list of supported card issuers and payment methods for the specific card machine you're considering.

Can UK card payment machines accept foreign cards?

Yes, UK card payment machines can accept foreign cards, as long as the payment provider is supported, such as Visa, Mastercard, or American Express. However, it's important to note that processing foreign card transactions may take longer than domestic ones due to additional verification steps or currency conversion. Always check with your payment provider to ensure compatibility with international cards.

How secure are card payment machines from fraud?

Card payment machines are built with robust security features to protect against fraud. When payments are made using chip and PIN or contactless methods, both debit and credit card transactions are highly secure. In these cases, once the payment is approved, the seller is generally not liable if the card later turns out to be used fraudulently. However, some methods carry greater risk. Manually entering card details, swiping the magnetic stripe, or accepting a signature as verification can expose your business to fraud — and you may be held liable for any losses. To reduce the risk of fraud, always prioritise secure methods such as chip and PIN or contactless payments whenever possible.

Can all card machines accept contactless payments?

Nearly all modern card payment machines support contactless payments. However, be sure to check that your chosen card payment terminal supports this feature.

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Card payment machines

Card machines for small businesses

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Card payment machines at a glance

What types are available?

The main options are mobile card readers (pair with your phone or tablet via Bluetooth, ideal for occasional or low-volume use), portable terminals (all-in-one machines with WiFi or 4G, good for taking payments table-side or on the move), and countertop terminals (sit in a fixed location with a wired connection, built for busy shops, bars and cafés).

How much do card machines cost?

The machine itself can cost £20-£300+ upfront, though some providers throw the reader in for free with a monthly plan. You'll also pay a transaction fee on every sale (around 0.95%-1.75%), while some providers charge a monthly fee of around £10-£30. Pay-as-you-go plans may have no monthly fees, but might charge higher transaction rates. Monthly contracts usually offer lower fees if you process payments regularly.

Do I need to take out a contract?

Not always. Many providers now offer pay-as-you-go card readers with no monthly fee, no contract and no minimum commitment, so you only pay when you take a payment. Contracts (typically 12-48 months) tend to come with lower transaction fees and extra features like reporting or POS integration, which can make them better value if your payment volumes are consistent.

What is a card machine?

A card machine lets businesses accept payments from customers in person, whether they're paying by debit card, credit card, phone or smartwatch. You might also see them called card readers, card terminals, point-of-sale (POS) terminals or PDQ machines.

Machines are designed to be adaptable to the way your customers want to pay, from chip and PIN and contactless to mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay. They accept Visa and Mastercard as standard, and most also take American Express. Once a payment goes through, the money will be sent to your business bank account or merchant account, usually arriving within one to three working days.

Types of card machines

There are five main types of card payment machine:

Countertop terminals: sit at a fixed location, like shops or cafés, plugged directly into an Ethernet line, giving a professional, smooth checkout experience.
Portable machines: connect to smartphones or tablets, via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, ideal for mobile businesses, market stalls, or delivery services.
Mobile card readers: use a built-in SIM card for connection, designed for mobile businesses like courier services or pop-up stalls.
Tap to pay: requires no hardware, and payments are made directly onto a mobile phone, often used by businesses trading at festivals and taxi drivers.
Smart terminals: all-in-one machines, fixed at a till, often used in hospitality and contain features like receipt printing and real-time transaction reporting.

Percentage of debit card transactions that are contactless^[1]

76%

Key things to consider when choosing a card machine

“With card and contactless transactions now the norm, make sure your setup fits your business needs and lets customers pay quickly and easily using their preferred method.”

Joe Phelan

Small business expert

How much do card machines cost?

It can help to add up the different costs involved when finding the right payment solution for your business.

Hardware costs

The upfront cost for the machine itself. Depending on the equipment and your payment plan, this can range from £0 to several hundred pounds.

Transaction fees

The percentage you pay on each sale. For example, a 1.75% fee means you pay £1.75 for every £100 in sales. Rates often vary based on your annual transaction volume.

Monthly fee

As well as transaction fees, you can sign up to a monthly contract. Pay-as-you-go options are available too, but generally come with higher transaction charges.

Chargeback fees

Fees charged by your provider when a customer disputes a transaction with your business with their bank. These are usually non-refundable even if you successfully challenge the disputed transaction.

Other charges

On top of operating costs, there can also be additional charges for things like customer refunds, PCI compliance and extra software.

Prices and fees are subject to change. Always verify the current rates from the card machine provider before signing up

What’s the best card machine for my small business?

How to get a card payment machine for your business

To get a card payment machine, you’ll need a business bank account and a card terminal provider. Then choose either a pay-as-you-go or contract plan.

Card payment machines must be linked to a business bank account or merchant account so you can receive customer payments.

Is it worth switching payment providers?

There could be some benefits to switching your card machine provider. These include:

Lower transaction fees
More payment methods for your customers
Flexible contracts
Better reporting services

Before switching, check if there are any cancellation fees in your contract, so you're not charged unexpectedly.

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Card machine FAQs

About the author

Joe Phelan

Joe joined the money.co.uk team in 2024, where he helps small business owners navigate the often confusing world of business finance. His role is to cut through the jargon and create clear, actionable content that empowers entrepreneurs to make confident financial decisions.

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References

1.UK Finance: 2026 UK Finance card spending statistics

*Based on a survey by money.co.uk of 500 SMEs (21/04/26-28/04/26). In response to the question: "How much have you saved/do you think you could save, per month, by switching card payment system providers [if anything]?"

Card machines for small businesses

Find the best card machine for your business

An easier way to get the right card machine

Partners you can count on

Card payment machines at a glance

What types are available?

How much do card machines cost?

Do I need to take out a contract?

What is a card machine?

Types of card machines

Key things to consider when choosing a card machine

1. Cost and fees

2. Integration

3. Ease of use

4. Accepted payment types

5. Security and PCI compliance

6. Support and reliability

7. Settlement time

How much do card machines cost?

Hardware costs

Transaction fees

Monthly fee

Chargeback fees

Other charges

What’s the best card machine for my small business?

Pop-ups, stalls and stands

Regular stalls, stands, pitches and more

Fixed shops, bars, cafes and restaurants

If you're regularly taking payments while out and about

How to get a card payment machine for your business

Pay-as-you-go

Contract

Is it worth switching payment providers?

Why compare with money.co.uk?

Tailored for your business

Business experts

Built for you

Card machine FAQs

What fee structure should I choose?

How do card machines work?

How long will it take for the payment to register in my account?

Do I need a new merchant account?

What card issuers are covered?

Can UK card payment machines accept foreign cards?

How secure are card payment machines from fraud?

Can all card machines accept contactless payments?

Keep learning about card machines

About the author

Customer Reviews

We’ve been featured in

References