If you run a small business, you know how important it is to offer your customers a variety of payment options. More and more people are opting for cashless payments, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. According to a report by Square, 79% of UK consumers prefer to pay by card or contactless, and 64% say they would avoid businesses that only accept cash.

But how do you choose the best card payment app or machine for your small business?

There are many factors to consider, such as the type of terminal, the transaction fees, the monthly costs, the security, and the customer service. In this article, we will help you compare the pros and cons of different card payment apps and machines, and give you some tips on how to make the best decision for your business.

What is a Card Payment App?

A card payment app is a software application that allows you to accept card payments using your smartphone or tablet. You usually need a card reader that connects to your device via Bluetooth or USB, and an internet connection. Some card payment apps also work with contactless payments, such as Apple Pay or Google Pay.

Card payment apps are popular among small businesses because they are convenient, affordable, and easy to use. You don't need a fixed till point or a landline connection, and you can take payments anywhere you go. You also don’t have to sign a long-term contract or pay monthly fees.

You only pay a fixed percentage per transaction, which is usually lower than traditional card machines.

What is a Card Payment Machine?

A card payment machine is a hardware device that allows you to accept card payments using a countertop terminal, a portable terminal, or a mobile terminal. You usually need a merchant account with a card payment provider, who will process your transactions and charge you fees.

Card payment machines are more suitable for businesses that have higher volumes of transactions, need more features and functionality, or want more security and reliability. However, they also come with higher costs and longer contracts.

Some of the most popular card payment machines in the UK are:

• Worldpay: Worldpay is one of the largest card payment providers in the world, offering a range of card machines for different needs. You can choose from countertop terminals (£17.50+ per month), portable terminals (£22.50+ per month), or mobile terminals (£27.50+ per month). You also have to pay a setup fee (£150), a minimum monthly service charge (£15), and transaction fees (variable depending on your turnover).
• Barclaycard: Barclaycard is another leading card payment provider in the UK, offering three types of card machines: countertop terminals (£10+ per month), portable terminals (£15+ per month), or mobile terminals (£20+ per month). You also have to pay a setup fee (£150), a minimum monthly service charge (£20), and transaction fees (variable depending on your turnover).
• Dojo: Dojo is a new card payment provider that aims to offer transparent pricing and flexible contracts. You can choose from countertop terminals (£15 per month), portable terminals (£17 per month), or mobile terminals (£20 per month). You also have to pay transaction fees (1.4%-1.8% + 5p per transaction), and a minimum monthly charge (£10). You can choose from a one-month or a six-month contract.

Popular Card Payment Apps in the UK

What is a Card Payment Machine?

A card payment machine is a hardware device that allows you to accept card payments using a countertop terminal, a portable terminal, or a mobile terminal. You usually need a merchant account with a card payment provider, who will process your transactions and charge you fees.

Card payment machines are more suitable for businesses that have higher volumes of transactions, need more features and functionality, or want more security and reliability. However, they also come with higher costs and longer contracts.

Some of the most popular card payment machines in the UK are:

• Worldpay: Worldpay is one of the largest card payment providers in the world, offering a range of card machines for different needs. You can choose from countertop terminals (£17.50+ per month), portable terminals (£22.50+ per month), or mobile terminals (£27.50+ per month). You also have to pay a setup fee (£150), a minimum monthly service charge (£15), and transaction fees (variable depending on your turnover)⁵.
• Barclaycard: Barclaycard is another leading card payment provider in the UK, offering three types of card machines: countertop terminals (£10+ per month), portable terminals (£15+ per month), or mobile terminals (£20+ per month). You also have to pay a setup fee (£150), a minimum monthly service charge (£20), and transaction fees (variable depending on your turnover)⁶.
• Dojo: Dojo is a new card payment provider that aims to offer transparent pricing and flexible contracts. You can choose from countertop terminals (£15 per month), portable terminals (£17 per month), or mobile terminals (£20 per month). You also have to pay transaction fees (1.4%-1.8% + 5p per transaction), and a minimum monthly charge (£10). You can choose from a one-month or a six-month contract⁷.

How to Choose the Best Card Payment App or Machine

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as different businesses have different needs and preferences. However, here are some factors to consider when comparing different card payment apps and machines: