Best card machines for small businesses in the UK (2026)Choosing the right card machine can save a small business hundreds of pounds a year in fees while improving the customer checkout experience. The best option depends on your monthly transaction volume, whether you trade from a fixed location or on the move, and whether you want a simple pay-as-you-go reader or an integrated payments solution. Most small businesses will find a Zettle, SumUp, or Square reader covers all their needs — no monthly fees, next-day payouts, and transaction rates of 1.0–1.75%. Top card machines for small businesses 2026
SumUp vs Zettle vs Square: which is cheapest?For most small businesses taking under £5,000/month, the difference in transaction fees between SumUp (1.69%), Zettle (1.75%), and Square (1.75%) is small. SumUp wins on the rate; Zettle wins on hardware cost (£29 vs £39); Square wins on the free point-of-sale app. All three offer next-day payouts and no contracts. Pay-as-you-go vs monthly subscription readers
What features to look for
Do card machines work with all business bank accounts?Most portable card machines are account-agnostic — your takings are paid into whichever UK business bank account you specify. You don't need to switch banks. However, some providers (e.g. Square, PayPal/Zettle) pay into their own e-money account first, and you then transfer to your bank — check payout terms before signing up. Verdict SumUp or Zettle for most small businesses Both offer low-cost, contract-free card acceptance for small UK businesses. SumUp has a slightly lower transaction rate; Zettle has a cheaper reader. Only consider a subscription provider (Dojo, Worldpay) once monthly turnover exceeds £5,000–£8,000. Frequently asked questionsDo card machines need a Wi-Fi connection? Most modern card readers use Bluetooth to connect to your phone, which provides the internet connection. Some, like the Dojo Go, have their own built-in 4G SIM so they work independently. SumUp and Zettle both work via your phone's mobile data. Can I use a card machine without a business bank account? Yes — you can use a personal bank account with most PAYG providers. However, for tax purposes and to look professional, a dedicated business account is recommended. Are card machine fees tax deductible? Yes. Card machine hardware costs and transaction fees are allowable business expenses for UK tax purposes. Keep records and include them in your Self Assessment or company accounts. What is PCI compliance for card machines? PCI DSS compliance means your card payment processes meet security standards. Reputable providers handle compliance for you — you should never store card details yourself. Check your provider's PCI documentation if unsure. |
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