The 9 best card machines for small businesses in the UK

Whether you run a bustling café, a boutique shop, or a mobile service, offering seamless and secure payment options is essential.

With a wide range of card payment machines for small businesses available, choosing the best one for your needs can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled a guide to the best card readers for small businesses. From cost-effective solutions to all-in-one POS systems, each option is designed to simplify payments while catering to your unique business requirements.

In this article, we provide detailed profiles of some of the best card payment machines for small businesses, covering their key features, pros and cons, and what makes them stand out. Whether you’re looking for portability, advanced functionality, or value for money, we’ve got you covered.

The best card readers for UK small businesses

Our 9 best card readers for 2026 are:

Worldpay
Zeller
Takepayments
Tide Card Reader
Square Reader
SumUp Solo Lite
PayPal Reader
Tyl by Natwest
Barclaycard Smartpay Anywhere

Worldpay

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Worldpay provides a range of payment services, including card readers, for everyone from small to growing businesses. Its signature card machine is the DX8000, a lightweight but powerful device that accepts all major card and payment types and comes with a large colour touchscreen.

You can choose from multiple transaction rate tariffs, including the Simplicity tariff, which charges a flat transaction rate of 1.5% and £22 per month device rental. Or, if your monthly turnover exceeds £75k, you can access tailored rates and a lower monthly terminal fee of £15. All plans offer next-day settlement and terminal replacement.

Worldpay runs regular promotions. Until 30 September 2026, the rental price of its mobile card reader is £0 per month for your first year when you take out an 18-month contract (the minimum term for any plan).

Worldpay reader costs

Device cost	From £15 to £22 per month
Transaction fee	1.50% on Simplicity tariff or customised
CNP fee	Varies

Key Features

No minimum monthly service charge
Low transaction fee: Custom or a flat rate of 1.50%
Multiple plans: Find a solution that works for your business
Next-day settlement: On all plans
Next-day terminal replacement: So you can get back up and running quickly
Lightweight mobile card terminal: Easy to use with its large colour touchscreen

Zeller

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Zeller card reader costs

Device cost	Custom pricing
Transaction fee	Custom pricing
CNP fee	Custom pricing

Key Features

Wide range of devices: Choose from basic to advanced touchscreen models
Secure transactions: Accepts chip and PIN, contactless, Apple Pay, and Google Pay
Next-day settlement: Quick access to funds for most transactions*
Customised pricing plans: Tailored quotes based on business needs
Portable options: Machines like the A920 Pro feature built-in 4G SIM and long battery life
Advanced features: DX8000 offers receipt printing and 4G/WiFi connectivity
Real-time reporting: Track transactions easily on select devices
Easy setup: Welcome Team ensures smooth onboarding
Contactless payments: Supports transactions up to £100 with a simple tap
7-day customer support: UK-based team available for assistance all week

Zeller

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Zeller offers two standalone card machines aimed at businesses that want transparent, pay-as-you-go pricing without a rental agreement. The compact Zeller Terminal 1x costs £99 + VAT, while the larger Terminal 2 costs £149 + VAT and includes a 6.5-inch HD touchscreen. Both can take payments without being paired with a smartphone.

Domestic Visa and Mastercard payments are charged at 1.3%, while American Express, business and international cards cost 1.99%. There are no monthly rental, account, setup or PCI compliance fees, and no lock-in contract. Zeller also includes built-in point-of-sale tools for managing products, tips, split payments and receipts, making it suitable for cafés, retailers, mobile traders and other small businesses that want more than a basic reader.

Zeller costs

Device cost	£99 + VAT for Terminal 1x; £149 + VAT for Terminal 2
Transaction fee	1.3% for domestic Visa and Mastercard; 1.99% for Amex and other cards
CNP fee	1.5% for domestic Visa and Mastercard; 2.4% for other cards

Key features

No monthly fees: Purchase the terminal outright and pay only when you accept a payment
No lock-in contract: There is no fixed-term terminal rental agreement
Standalone operation: Take payments without connecting the terminal to a smartphone
Flexible connectivity: Connect using Wi-Fi, 4G or Ethernet
Built-in POS tools: Create an item library, manage products and track sales
Multiple payment options: Accept chip and PIN, contactless cards and digital wallets
Tipping and split payments: Useful for hospitality businesses and venues
Customisable receipts: Add your business branding to digital and printed receipts
Remote payments: Manually enter card details to accept payments over the phone
24/7 support: Assistance is available by phone, email and SMS

Takepayments

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Takepayments offers a range of card machines tailored to meet the needs of UK small businesses, from traditional terminals to advanced touchscreen models. These machines enable secure acceptance of credit cards, contactless payments, and Apple and Google Pay, with next-day settlement to keep your cash flow smooth. The Takepayments Welcome Team assists businesses in setup, while their UK-based customer support is available 7 days a week.

Takepayments provides personalised pricing plans based on your turnover, payment preferences, and machine choice. With options like the A920 Pro for portable payments or the DX8000 for advanced receipt printing, Takepayments ensures every business type can find the perfect solution.

Takepayments card reader costs

Device cost	Custom pricing
Transaction fee	Custom pricing
CNP fee	Custom pricing

Key Features

Wide range of devices: Choose from basic to advanced touchscreen models
Secure transactions: Accepts chip and PIN, contactless, Apple Pay, and Google Pay
Next-day settlement: Quick access to funds for most transactions*
Customised pricing plans: Tailored quotes based on business needs
Portable options: Machines like the A920 Pro feature built-in 4G SIM and long battery life
Advanced features: DX8000 offers receipt printing and 4G/WiFi connectivity
Real-time reporting: Track transactions easily on select devices
Easy setup: Welcome Team ensures smooth onboarding
Contactless payments: Supports transactions up to £100 with a simple tap
7-day customer support: UK-based team available for assistance all week

Tide Card Reader

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The Tide Card Reader is an affordable, user-friendly solution for UK small businesses looking to take payments on the go. It offers a lightweight, portable device and competitive transaction rates.

With features like lifetime free 4G connectivity, compatibility with a variety of payment methods, and quick setup via the Tide app, it ensures seamless payment processing. Security is robust, with PCI PTS-approved encryption for transactions. However, it requires a Tide business bank account, and the standard version lacks a printer. For higher-volume needs, the Tide Card Reader Plus offers integrated receipt printing.

Tide card reader costs

Price type	Pay As You Go / Sell In-Person
Device cost	From £159 + VAT / £99 upfront and then £17.99 per month
Transaction fee	1.5% + 5p / 0.89% + 3p (domestic debit cards when you buy the reader outright)
CNP fee	n/a

Key Features

No monthly fees: Pay only per transaction
Low transaction fee: Leading rate of 0.89% + 3p for domestic debit cards when you buy the card reader outright
Fee-free small transactions: No fees for payments under £10 (first 3 months)
Portable and lightweight: Ideal for mobile businesses
Lifetime free 4G connectivity: Includes a SIM card with free data
Fast payouts: Payments clear in 3 business days (or in 1 day if with £2.99 per month next day settlement boost)
Secure: PCI PTS-approved and tamper-proof design
Accepts multiple payment types: Chip + PIN, contactless, digital wallets (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, etc.)
Easy setup: Integrates with the Tide app for fast installation
Durable options: Choice of standard or premium device with added features like receipt printing

Square Reader

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The Square Reader is a compact, affordable, and professional solution for small businesses in the UK. Designed to accept chip and PIN, contactless cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay, it provides secure transactions with a flat fee of 1.75% per payment. The device features a powerful battery, enabling 20% more transactions per charge than its predecessor, and supports offline payments (chip-and-PIN) for up to 24 hours without internet access. But don’t forget to reconnect within the day, or the payments will be declined.

With its sleek design, Bluetooth connectivity, and compatibility with a range of accessories, the Square Reader transforms into a complete mobile or countertop point-of-sale system. Setup is quick and simple, allowing business owners to start accepting payments and receive funds in their bank accounts as soon as the next day.

Square Reader 2 costs

Device cost	£19 + VAT
Transaction fee	1.75%
CNP fee	2.5%

Key Features

Affordable pricing: £19 + VAT for the device with no hidden costs
Flat transaction fee: 1.75% per in-person payment
Secure payments: Includes data security, fraud prevention, and dispute management
Compatibility: Works with Android and iOS devices
Bluetooth enabled: Features BLE 5.3 for stable and seamless pairing
Offline payments: Keeps processing transactions for up to 24 hours without internet
Powerful battery: Handles 20% more transactions per charge compared to the 1st generation
Custom POS options: Works with Square Point of Sale and other specialised Square apps
Two-year warranty: Peace of mind with a limited warranty on hardware issues
Wide accessory range: Easily integrates into mobile or countertop POS setups

SumUp Solo Lite

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The SumUp Solo Lite card reader is an excellent option for small businesses looking for an affordable, portable, and efficient payment solution. Priced at just £30 (including VAT), the device charges no monthly fees and offers a competitive transaction fee of 1.69%. You could also opt for the £19 per month subscription plan, Payments Plus, which drops transaction fees to 0.99%. Compatible with all major credit and debit cards, the Air card reader processes payments via chip and PIN or contactless methods. It connects seamlessly to your smartphone through the free SumUp app, enabling you to accept payments right away.

With a long-lasting battery capable of handling over 500 transactions on a single charge, the SumUp Air is ideal for businesses on the move. Pair it with the SumUp Business Account to unlock more functionality, including next-day payment settlements.

SumUp Air costs

Device cost	£30 (£42 with charging dock, or £19 per month with subscription)
Transaction fee	0.99% (subscription) 1.69% (pay-as-you-go)
CNP fee	2.5%

Key Features

Affordable pricing: £34 with no monthly fees or hidden costs
Low transaction fee: Competitive rate of 1.69% per transaction
Portability: Lightweight design and long-lasting battery for on-the-go use
Smartphone connection: Works via the free SumUp app for quick setup and operation
Payment methods: Accepts chip and PIN, contactless, Apple Pay, and Google Pay
Broad compatibility: Supports all major credit and debit cards
Fast payouts: Funds settle the next day, even on weekends and holidays, with a SumUp Business Account
Charging station bundle: Includes a charging dock that doubles as a display stand for £44
No contracts: Fully contract-free with no paperwork required
User-friendly setup: Easy 4-step process to start accepting payments in minutes

PayPal Reader

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The PayPal Reader is a lightweight device that pairs with your Apple or Android smartphone and allows you to start taking payments within minutes using the PayPal POS app.

The reader accepts all major debit and credit cards and has a 9-hour battery life (in power-saving mode), though you can pair it with the Dock to keep it constantly charged and secure. Its compact size and lightweight design make it portable, while no monthly fees and a flat transaction fee keep costs predictable. We also like that PayPal will support you if you spot a suspicious charge, covering up to £250 in chargebacks per month.

PayPal Reader costs

Device cost	£29 + VAT (£58 with Dock 2 )
Transaction fee	1.75%
CNP fee	From 2.5%

Key Features

Affordable pricing: Starts at £29 (excl. VAT), with no monthly fees
Fast transactions: Contactless payments in around 5 seconds, chip and PIN in 10 seconds
Bluetooth connectivity: Easily pairs with the PayPal app on smartphones or tablets
Battery life: Up to 48 hours on standby or 9 hours of use in power saving mode
Dock compatibility: Secure the reader in place with constant charging
Integrated app support: Manage sales, inventory, and product libraries seamlessly
Compact design: Lightweight and portable for on-the-go businesses
Free support and returns: 30-day satisfaction guarantee and free customer support
Multiple payment methods: Accepts chip and PIN, contactless, Apple Pay, and Google Pay
Printer integration: Connects with supported printers for receipt printing

Tyl by NatWest

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Tyl by NatWest offers a range of card readers starting from £13.99 per month. There’s the pocket-sized AX A50 mobile terminal with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and 4G. Or for something a little more substantial, try the PAX A920 Pro, which offers a larger touchscreen and both in-store and on-the-go payments. Offering much more than just card payment processing, Tyl allows you to track sales, settlements, and transaction data through the Tyl Portal. With the ability to accept payments via Wi-Fi or 4G, it ensures uninterrupted service, even when your connection is poor.

Transaction fees start from 1.39% + 5p for UK and European personal cards, with higher rates for other card types. Designed to simplify operations and enhance customer experiences, Tyl card readers are ideal for SMEs seeking versatility and control.

Tyl card reader costs

Device cost	From £13.99 + VAT monthly
Transaction fee	1.39%-1.99% + 5p dependent on sales volume
CNP fee	n/a

Key Features

Multi-functional POS system: Combines payments, inventory, and customer management
Long battery life: Up to 8 hours on a single charge with quick base charging
Broad payment acceptance: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and contactless
Wi-Fi and 4G connectivity: Reliable payment options even in areas with weak Wi-Fi
Tyl portal access: Free tool to track sales, settlements, and transaction data
Next-day settlement: Fast access to funds for better cash flow management
Receipt printing: Built-in feature with included receipt paper roll
Easy setup: Quick-start guide for seamless onboarding in minutes

Barclaycard Smartpay Anywhere

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The Barclaycard Smartpay Anywhere card reader offers a straightforward and affordable solution for UK small businesses seeking a reliable, portable payment system. With a one-off cost of £29 (plus VAT) and custom transaction fees, it operates on a pay-as-you-go model with no monthly fees or contracts, making it ideal for businesses of all sizes. The Smartpay Anywhere app allows businesses to take contactless payments, track sales, and send email receipts. Funds are settled as early as the next day, helping with cash flow.

Its compatibility with Amex, Apple Pay, and digital wallets ensures customers have diverse payment options. The device pairs with a smartphone or tablet to simplify admin tasks and track sales in real-time. Backed by 24/7 customer support and a user-friendly online portal, the Smartpay Anywhere card reader is a cost-effective, accessible choice for growing businesses.

Barclaycard Smartpay Anywhere costs

Device cost	£29 + VAT
Transaction fee	Customised for each business
CNP fee	n/a

Key Features

Affordable pricing: £29 (plus VAT) with no recurring fees
Pay-as-you-go: Custom transaction fees
Accepts multiple payment methods: Contactless, Amex, Apple Pay, and digital wallets
Next-day settlement: Funds received quickly for improved cash flow
Free FreshBooks account: Simplifies accounting and tax returns
Customisable app: Add products, apply discounts, and send email receipts
Real-time sales tracking: View reports through the app and online portal
24/7 customer support: Comprehensive help available any time
Portable design: Small and lightweight with USB charging
Personalised pricing plans: Options for businesses with high turnover

FAQs

1. What is the best card reader for small businesses in the UK?
The best card reader depends on your business needs. Options like Worldpa, Zeller and Tide all offer affordability, flexibility over plans, and loads of additional support and features that make them ideal for most small businesses.

2. Do I need a contract to use a card reader?
Not all card readers require a contract. Providers like Tide and SumUp offer pay-as-you-go models with no long-term commitments, as well as subscription options.

3. What are the transaction fees for card readers?
Transaction fees vary depending on :