5 Best Card Machines for Small Businesses in the UK

In today’s fast-paced, digital world, having the right payment solution is not just a luxury it’s a necessity. If you’re running a small business in the UK, offering flexible payment options is key to staying competitive.

Did you know that debit card payments now account for over 50% of all transactions in the UK? And this trend is only set to accelerate. UK Finance estimates that card payments will hit over 30 billion transactions by 2033, with almost half of them being contactless.

This data is clear: accepting card payments isn’t optional anymore it’s critical for your business’s success. Whether you’re a brick-and-mortar store or a mobile service provider, the right card payment machine can boost your sales, simplify transactions, and improve customer satisfaction.

In this guide, we’ll break down the 5 best card machines for small UK businesses in 2025. You’ll get an inside look at each machine’s key features, benefits, and pricing so you can make an informed decision for your business. Let’s jump in!

1. Paymentsave Card Machines

Best for: Transparent pricing and fast transaction processing.

Paymentsave card machines are known for their flexibility and transparent pricing, with no hidden fees. Whether you’re running a mobile or fixed-location business, Paymentsave offers multiple device options, all featuring fast transaction processing and seamless integration.

Key Features & Benefits:

  • No hidden fees and clear, upfront pricing.
  • Supports chip and pin, contactless, and mobile payments.
  • Quick setup and integration into your existing systems.
  • Fast processing for smooth customer transactions.

Pricing:

  • Device Cost: From £15 + VAT
  • Transaction Fee: From 2.75% per transaction (CNP fee).

Why Choose Paymentsave?

  • Digital receipts via email or SMS.
  • Instant access to funds with no additional fees.
  • Accepts all major payment types, including Google Pay, Apple Pay, and Amex.

2. Square Reader

Best for: Low-cost, portable solution with no monthly fees.

Square Reader is an ideal option for small businesses needing an affordable, easy-to-use card payment machine. With no monthly fees, it’s a pay-as-you-go system that allows you to accept all major cards, including contactless payments and mobile wallets.

Key Features & Benefits:

  • No monthly fees or long-term contracts.
  • Accepts debit and credit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
  • Seamlessly integrates with Square’s free app for sales insights.
  • Fast and reliable payment processing.

Pricing:

  • Device Cost: From £19 + VAT
  • Transaction Fee: 1.75% per in-person transaction.

Why Choose Square?

  • Simple setup and user-friendly.
  • Real-time sales insights and business management tools.
  • No hidden costs, so you only pay per transaction.

3. SumUp Air

Best for: A compact, budget-friendly card reader for mobile businesses.

SumUp Air is a sleek, portable card machine that connects via Bluetooth to your smartphone or tablet. This is a great option for businesses that need an easy mobile payment solution. The device is compact and offers competitive transaction fees, making it a cost-effective choice for small businesses.

Key Features & Benefits:

  • No monthly fees—only pay per transaction.
  • Bluetooth connectivity to your smartphone or tablet.
  • Accepts all major cards and mobile wallets.
  • Free app for easy transaction management and invoicing.

Pricing:

  • Device Cost: £29 + VAT
  • Transaction Fee: 1.69% per transaction.

Why Choose SumUp?

  • Ideal for mobile and on-the-go businesses.
  • Simple, no-fuss setup with a free app.
  • Competitive fees, making it affordable for small businesses.

4. Zettle Reader 2

Best for: A user-friendly card reader with detailed business insights.

Zettle Reader 2 is a versatile and easy-to-use card machine for small businesses. It offers a sleek, portable design with no monthly fees and low transaction costs. Zettle integrates well with its app, allowing you to manage your sales and track business performance in real-time.

Key Features & Benefits:

  • Compact, lightweight design that’s easy to carry.
  • Integrates with the Zettle app for sales insights and reporting.
  • Accepts all major cards, contactless payments, and mobile wallets.
  • No monthly fees, only pay per transaction.

Pricing:

  • Device Cost: £29 + VAT
  • Transaction Fee: 1.75% per transaction.

Why Choose Zettle?

  • Real-time sales and performance insights.
  • Simple, fast setup with the Zettle app.
  • No hidden fees, so you only pay for what you use.

5. MyPOS Go

Best for: A portable, all-in-one solution with fast access to funds.

MyPOS Go is an all-in-one portable card machine that’s perfect for small businesses and pop-up shops. It allows you to accept payments anywhere with 3G, 4G, or Wi-Fi, and it offers next-day settlement, ensuring you get fast access to your funds.

Key Features & Benefits:

  • Portable, lightweight design for easy mobility.
  • Accept payments via 3G, 4G, or Wi-Fi.
  • No monthly fees or hidden charges.
  • Next-day settlement for quick access to funds.

Pricing:

  • Device Cost: £49.90 + VAT
  • Transaction Fee: From 1.75% per transaction.

Why Choose MyPOS?

  • Built-in receipt printer for convenience.
  • Instant access to funds with next-day settlement.
  • No monthly fees or long-term contracts.

Conclusion

Choosing the right card payment machine for your small business is essential for staying competitive in today’s digital-first world. Whether you prioritize transparent pricing, mobility, or detailed business insights, the five machines we’ve covered here Paymentsave, Square, SumUp, Zettle, and MyPOS offer excellent options for businesses of all sizes.

When selecting the best card machine for your business, consider factors like pricing, ease of use, and the ability to integrate with your existing systems. With the right payment solution in place, you can streamline transactions, improve customer satisfaction, and position your business for long-term success.

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