In today's dynamic business landscape, the options for card machines have expanded dramatically compared to just a few years ago.

Gone are the days when businesses were confined to chunky chip and PIN machines stationed at a counter. Now, small businesses have the opportunity to harness the power of mobile card readers that offer convenience and efficiency like never before.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the realm of contactless payment machines tailored for businesses with monthly card transactions under £40,000.

Whether you're seeking traditional card machines for your till, table-side payments, or mobile use, or are looking for the simplicity and flexibility of mobile card readers, we've got you covered.

Let's explore the top contenders in the UK card machine market, comparing fees, features, and special offers to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Card Machines: A Brief Overview

Before we dive into the specifics of the best card machines available, let's establish a clear understanding of what a card machine is.

A card machine, also known as a card payment terminal or card reader, is a device that allows businesses to accept payments via credit or debit cards.

These machines have evolved significantly, transitioning from traditional countertop models to modern mobile card readers that cater to the needs of various businesses, especially those with smaller transaction volumes.

Exploring the Top Contenders

1. GB Pay: The Affordable Choice

In addition to the existing contenders, we now introduce GB Pay as a standout option for businesses seeking affordability without compromising on functionality.

GB Pay emerges as a cost-effective solution, charging merely a 2% transaction fee without any monthly fees.

This attractive pricing model positions GB Pay as the cheapest option among the available choices. With its emphasis on simplicity and transparency, GB Pay is particularly appealing for businesses conscious of their budget.

2. Square: Seamlessness at Its Best

Square remains a pioneer in the field, offering a range of card machines tailored to businesses of all sizes.

The app-based Square Reader, recently enhanced, and the freestanding Square Terminal with a touchscreen and receipt printer, showcase Square's commitment to seamless transactions.

A distinctive feature of Square is its elimination of monthly fees and contract lock-ins.

A fixed 1.75% transaction fee per transaction simplifies the pricing structure, making Square an attractive choice for businesses seeking an effortless point-of-sale experience.

3. SumUp: Value in Every Transaction

SumUp enters the arena with a value-driven approach, presenting both the SumUp Air and SumUp Solo card readers. The SumUp Air, a sleek card reader connecting to a phone app, and the SumUp Solo with or without an ergonomic receipt printer offer versatility. SumUp boasts the lowest fixed card rate, with a fixed 1.69% transaction fee for chip and contactless payments. With no binding contracts or setup fees, SumUp provides flexibility, catering to businesses seeking a cost-effective solution.

4. Takepayments: Flexibility and Quality Combined

Takepayments continues to be an appealing choice for businesses desiring flexible contracts and quality terminals. Offering both monthly rolling and 18-month contracts, Takepayments adapts to varying business volumes. The Takepaymentsplus plan, featuring the PAX A920Pro smart POS terminal, impresses with its expansive touchscreen and efficient till app. This option is well-suited for businesses with consistent sales volume, and Takepayments' tailored fees add to its appeal.

5. Dojo: Straightforward and Versatile

Dojo, powered by Paymentsense, introduces simplicity to the selection process. The Dojo Go subscription caters to businesses making under £150,000 annually in card payments, offering a 6-month contract and no setup fee. After the initial 6 months, it transforms into a rolling contract. Businesses with higher card turnovers can access customized plans from the outset. Notably, Dojo covers up to £3,000 of exit fees to previous payment providers, enhancing its appeal for businesses looking for ease of transition.

6. Worldpay: Customization and Quality

Worldpay, a significant credit card processor, offers a range of card machine options to cater to various business needs. With choices including countertop, portable, and mobile card machines, Worldpay emphasizes customization. Businesses can opt for fixed transaction rates or customized fee plans based on their turnover. While Worldpay provides quality terminals and 24/7 customer support, users should be mindful of potential hidden fees and the 18-month contract duration.

7. myPOS: Integration and Versatility

myPOS stands out by not only offering card machines but also integrating an online business account with a prepaid Visa card. This integration opens doors for businesses seeking comprehensive financial solutions. The myPOS Go 2 option offers simplicity, while myPOS Pro boasts advanced features like a touchscreen and built-in receipt printer. With transaction fees ranging from 1.1%-2.85% + 7p, myPOS appeals to businesses looking for a versatile integration of financial services.

How to Choose the Perfect Card Machine for Your Business

Selecting the right card machine for your business involves careful consideration of several factors, including transaction volume, pricing structure, features, and the nature of your business operations. Here are some essential steps to guide your decision-making process:

Step 1: Assess Your Transaction Volume

Begin by analysing your business's monthly card transaction volume. This will help you determine whether a fixed transaction fee model or a customized fee plan is more suitable for your needs. Businesses with consistent sales volume might find a fixed fee model more predictable, while those with varying transaction volumes might benefit from tailored fee plans.

Step 2: Consider Your Business Nature

Evaluate the nature of your business and its requirements. Do you need a traditional countertop card machine, a portable option for on-the-go transactions, or a versatile smart POS terminal? Consider factors such as mobility, ease of use, and integration with your existing systems.

Step 3: Compare Pricing Structures

Carefully review the pricing structures of different card machine providers. Pay attention to factors like transaction fees, setup fees, monthly minimum service charges, and any potential hidden fees. Choose a provider that offers transparency and aligns with your budget.

Step 4: Explore Additional Features

Look beyond basic transaction processing and explore additional features offered by card machine providers. These features may include online business accounts, prepaid cards, payment links, and integration with other payment methods like mobile wallets. Opt for a provider that offers features that enhance your business operations.

Step 5: Evaluate Customer Support

Consider the quality of customer support provided by each card machine provider. Round-the-clock customer support can be crucial for addressing any technical issues or concerns that arise during your business operations.

Step 6: Read User Reviews

Research user reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the experiences of other businesses that have used the card machine providers you're considering. Real-world feedback can provide valuable information about the reliability, user-friendliness, and overall satisfaction with the service.

The Verdict: Choosing Your Ideal Card Machine

Selecting the best card machine for your small UK business requires a careful assessment of your needs, priorities, and budget. Whether you're seeking simplicity, value for money, or a comprehensive financial solution, the options highlighted in this guide offer a range of features to suit different business requirements. Remember to consider factors such as transaction volume, pricing structure, additional features, and customer support when making your decision. By taking these factors into account, you can confidently choose a card machine that empowers your business to accept payments efficiently and seamlessly, ultimately contributing to your business's success in the modern marketplace.