Compare Card Machines

While card machines and card readers might appear to be the same device, there are subtle differences. A card machine is a device that allows you to process card payments independently of any other device (although some card machines do require a degree of integration). Conversely, card readers are smaller devices that only read a card or payment method, requiring an additional device, such as a smartphone, to process a payment. These devices tend to be used by sole traders and those operating mobile shops or restaurants, but any business can use them.

To take card payments, you will need a merchant account and a card payment terminal, a payment gateway, a mobile card payment solution, or an integrated payment service. If you are taking payments in person, you will need a physical card payment terminal. However, if your business is mainly online, a payment gateway or mobile card payment solution is possible. Some providers offer an integrated payment service, including a merchant account, credit card machine and payment processing solution.

In most situations, you will need an internet connection to use a credit card machine, as most transactions require a mobile network connection or landline WiFi. However, not all connections are reliable, and some traditional credit card machines offer offline functionality. These machines will hold transactions in a pending state until the machine connects to the merchant bank account via an internet connection.

Yes, you can switch providers. Whether you are looking for a better service, improved features or a lower price, switching is quick and straightforward. There are a variety of factors which you will need to consider, such as contract end dates and early exit fees. However, many credit card machines are available on a pay-as-you-go basis, so you may be free to switch without any charges. Alternatively, a more competitive deal may outweigh the cost of switching.

The main differences between a PDQ, ePOS, EFTPOS and Chip and PIN card machine will be how they process card payments. For example, a traditional PDQ machine will likely be situated next to a till point and connected via an ethernet cable. In contrast, a modern ePOS-linked machine may be portable and offer useful integration features.

Card machines utilise strict PCI DSS regulations that govern the payment card industry to ensure both businesses and their customers are protected from data theft and fraud. Your business will potentially handle sensitive financial data, so you should ensure that you implement the latest security features.

Card machines feature technology designed to combat card payment fraud, such as Chip and PIN payment codes and encrypted data transfer. In addition, if you use a virtual terminal to take payments when a customer is not physically present, you can use security checks such as an address verification system and the card verification value. These ensure that the cardholder is the legitimate owner of the card.

Yes, it is possible to process both credit and debit cards. Most credit card machines accept both card types, with some also accepting contactless mobile app payments. Some card machine providers charge different rates for processing either debit or credit cards, so it is always worth comparing these fees before choosing the ideal provider. In most situations, if the rate differs, credit card transactions are likely to cost more than debit card payments.

Yes, you can get a card machine for a small business. Many card machine providers specialise in offering flexible, low-cost solutions to small businesses, such as PayPal, Worldpay, Barclaycard, Elavon, Square, SumUp and iZettle.

The cheapest card machines include a low-cost credit card machine and low ongoing card payment processing fees. Generally, the cheapest credit card machine is the SumUp reader, although other providers will often offer discounts or free machines for certain plans. PayPal typically offers the cheapest payment processing fee. However, the charge will vary depending on the transaction type and your volume of transactions. The average fee charged by the various card machine providers is between 1.5% and 1.75%.

Every business is different, and the ideal card machine for one business may not be the best option for another. At BusinessComparison, our team can help you compare the best professional and modern options so you can find the most suitable credit card machine available. To compare options and find the best deal, click any of the compare buttons on this page.

Finding the best card machine depends on your business requirements. Although each card machine may offer similar features, there will be features unique to each machine that make that machine the best for your business.

Please read our '10 Best Card Machines for Small Business' guide to learn about the best card machines.