How to Choose the Right Credit Card Machine For Your Small Business?

28 minutes read

Choosing the right credit card machine for your small business is a crucial decision that can greatly impact your operations and customer satisfaction. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting the right credit card machine:

  1. Payment Types: Determine the most common payment types your business accepts. Besides traditional debit and credit cards, consider whether your customers frequently use mobile payments such as Apple Pay or Google Wallet. Ensure that the credit card machine you choose supports these payment methods.
  2. Connectivity Options: Evaluate the available connectivity options based on your business needs. Some credit card machines can connect via telephone landlines, while others use Wi-Fi or cellular networks. Consider the reliability and speed of the available options in your area, as well as any associated costs.
  3. Security Features: Pay special attention to the security features offered by the credit card machine. Look for EMV chip card readers that provide encryption and tokenization to enhance the security of customer transactions. Also, ensure that the machine is PCI-compliant to avoid any potential legal or financial risks.
  4. Cost: Different credit card machines have various pricing structures. Consider both the upfront costs and ongoing fees associated with each option. Evaluate factors such as card processing rates, equipment leasing costs, and transaction fees to choose a solution that suits your budget.
  5. Integration with Software: If your business uses point-of-sale (POS) or accounting software, check if the credit card machine integrates seamlessly with these systems. Integration can streamline your operations, reduce human error, and provide better reporting capabilities.
  6. Customer Support: Look for a credit card machine provider that offers reliable and accessible customer support. A machine malfunction can significantly impact your business, so consider their support hours, availability of technical assistance, and response times.
  7. Scalability: Consider your future growth plans when selecting a credit card machine. If you plan to expand your business or add new locations, choose a solution that can easily scale with your needs without requiring significant changes or upgrades.
  8. User Friendliness: Ensure that the credit card machine you choose is user-friendly and easy to operate for both you and your customers. Complicated or outdated machines can slow down transactions, frustrate customers, and even lead to errors.


Overall, take your time to research and compare different credit card machines available in the market. Consider your specific business requirements, budget, and long-term goals to make an informed decision that will benefit your small business in the long run.

Best Credit Card Machine For Small Business in 2024

1
Shopify POS Go - Mobile Point of Sale Machine & System for Retail, Small Business - All-in-One Credit Card Reader, Terminal, Barcode Scanner, POS Software Device

Rating is 5 out of 5

Shopify POS Go - Mobile Point of Sale Machine & System for Retail, Small Business - All-in-One Credit Card Reader, Terminal, Barcode Scanner, POS Software Device

  • ALL-IN-ONE DEVICE – Designed for efficient, quick, user-friendly in-store transactions, this compact device acts as a complete POS terminal, barcode scanner, and card reader. Accept all payment types including cash, credit or debit cards, and digital wallets.
  • MOBILE CHECKOUTS - Close sales anywhere with this mobile wireless machine. Get everything you need to check out customers in the palm of your hand from the built-in barcode scanner to card reader, WiFi connectivity, and long battery life.
  • USER-FRIENDLY FEATURES - The touchscreen is easy to use and read, with a 5.5" HD display using strong Gorilla Glass 5. The barcode scanner and tap, chip, and swipe card reader functions are intuitive and powerful for quick, smooth operation.
  • SMART BUSINESS MANAGEMENT - Access your entire business from a single device. With this hand-held POS machine you can monitor sales, check inventory levels, update customer profiles, and view analytics.
  • REQUIRES SHOPIFY ACCOUNT - To use the Shopify POS Go, you need to have a Shopify account. New users can sign up for Shopify at shopify.com. Existing Shopify users can start using the Shopify POS Go right away by simply connecting it to your account.
2
Square Register - Powered by Square POS

Rating is 4.9 out of 5

Square Register - Powered by Square POS

  • Start selling right out of the box with payments processing, POS software and powerful hardware designed by Square. No extra tablet, apps or payment terminal required.
  • Accept all major cards at 2.6% + $0.10 per tap, dip, or swipe and get funds in your bank account as fast as the next business day. Plus, with Offline Mode, you can still take payments, even when your Wi-Fi is down.
  • Get expert phone support, protection from eligible chargebacks, and a 2-year limited warranty.
  • Customize your setup with two touchscreen displays: one for you and one for your customers
  • Grow your business with constantly improving point-of-sale software, including the Square Point of Sale app, Square Appointments, Square for Retail, and Square for Restaurants.
  • Plug in optional cash drawers, receipt printers, order ticket printers, or bar code scanners and get up and running instantly.
3
Square Terminal - Credit Card Machine to Accept All Payments | Mobile POS

Rating is 4.8 out of 5

Square Terminal - Credit Card Machine to Accept All Payments | Mobile POS

  • With Square Terminal, you can ring up sales, accept payments, and print receipts, all with one device. Use it at the counter or ring up customers anywhere in your store.
  • Accept all major credit and debit cards and pay one low rate with no hidden fees and no long-term contracts.
  • Process chip cards in just two seconds.
  • Get your money as soon as the next business day.
  • Use it cordlessly with the built-in battery, designed to last all day.
4
SumUp Solo + Printer Bundle - Credit Card Payment Card Reader. Full Touch-Screen Interface with Free SIM Card and Mobile Data (SumUp Solo + Printer)

Rating is 4.7 out of 5

SumUp Solo + Printer Bundle - Credit Card Payment Card Reader. Full Touch-Screen Interface with Free SIM Card and Mobile Data (SumUp Solo + Printer)

  • Issue receipts on-the-go with the lightweight pocket-sized device, and benefit from fast and fully thermal inkless printing with 800 receipts on a single charge.
  • Use the printer as a battery pack to kick in when your Solo’s running out of power. Both the reader and the printer stay ready to go with double fast charging and optimal power distribution.
  • Accept all major payment types from chip and contactless to Google Pay and Apple Pay.
  • View your transaction history, issue refunds and enable smart tipping directly on the device
  • Connect to Wi-Fi or use the free, unlimited data service and enjoy automatic software updates to make sure you’re always ready to take payments
5
Swivel Stand for Pax A35 Credit Card Machine Terminal Pin pad - Complete Kit - Sturdy and Durable - 4.7" Tall, Swivels and Tilts

Rating is 4.6 out of 5

Swivel Stand for Pax A35 Credit Card Machine Terminal Pin pad - Complete Kit - Sturdy and Durable - 4.7" Tall, Swivels and Tilts

  • SWIVEL & TILT FLEXIBILITY: The Stand swivels (Left and Right Turns) 330 degree and Tilts (up and down) 50 degree. Swivel gives the cashier flexibility to turn the device towards him/her to help the customers when needed without going to customer side. The tilt feature will adjust the correct angle to hold the Device based on counter height.
  • PACKAGE INCLUDES: This is a complete kit. The package includes the Base Stand with Back Plate to attach the credit card machine (pre assembled), Mounting Screws, Allen Key and Wrench (tools), Adhesive Glue Pad. You can either screw down on counter surface or use Adhesive Glue Pad where Screw is NOT possible, exable - glass counter.
  • PERFECT HEIGHT: The stand if perfect height of 4.7" for all counter level. It has enough clearance for Card Insert from button which can also be adjusted by tilt feature. Once you have the correct tilt position set, you can use the allen Key and Wrench to tight the screw so it won't tilt down anymore.
  • ADHESIVE GLUE PAD: A adhesive Glue Pad is included in each stand as an option to glue down the stand if the surface cannot use the screw (examble glass or marble). The glue pad is very strong to hold the stand as this is made for this purpose. If you ever need to remove the glue pad in the futire, simple slowly heat up the area (with hair dryer) and use a string/thread to workout to remove.
  • DURABILITY: The Stand is made out of robust mild steel with durable powder coated finish. It is very sturdy and durable.
6
Verifone VX520 Dual Comm Credit Card Machine- with Smart Card Reader

Rating is 4.5 out of 5

Verifone VX520 Dual Comm Credit Card Machine- with Smart Card Reader

  • Combines an ergonomic design, small footprint and unique cable management system
  • VX520 DC w/SC 128/32 MB (Dial/ ETH 128 / 32 MB STK) (non contactless) EMV
  • Part Number: M252-753-03-NAA-3
7
First Data FD150 EMV CTLS Credit Card Terminal with Wells 350 Encryption

Rating is 4.4 out of 5

First Data FD150 EMV CTLS Credit Card Terminal with Wells 350 Encryption

  • Chip Card / EMV / NFC Compatible
8
VeriFone Vx520 EMV CLTS 32MB Credit Card Terminal

Rating is 4.3 out of 5

VeriFone Vx520 EMV CLTS 32MB Credit Card Terminal

  • NO ENCRYPTION FOR DEBIT. NEED PIN PAD TO ATTACH WITH THE DEVICE TO WORK FOR DEBI
  • Verifone VX520 terminal with EMV reader, contactless reader, and dual com modem.
  • PCI COMPLIANT
9
Clover Mini POS System for Small Business, Credit Card Reader Anywhere Machine, Built in Printer - Requires Processing Account Through Advantage POS Store

Rating is 4.2 out of 5

Clover Mini POS System for Small Business, Credit Card Reader Anywhere Machine, Built in Printer - Requires Processing Account Through Advantage POS Store

  • A SMALL, POWERFUL POS FOR TIGHT SPACES: Run your business with the sleek and powerful Mini, a POS that fits in any space. Everything you need is right on the device.
  • LARGER TOUCH SCREEN: The upsized 8" touch screen has plenty of room to confirm orders, complete payments, and manage everything to run your business.
  • ACCEPT POPULAR PAYMENT TYPES: The Clover Mini makes it easy for customers to pay with swipe, dip, or tap. Credit or debit. And contactless payments like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal/Venmo.
  • START SMALL AND EXPAND AS YOU NEED TO: The Clover Mini works with all other Clover devices and can expand with accessories to build a complete system so your system can grow as your business grows.
  • Payments: Accepts chip, swipe, and contactless payments Screen: 8" LCD color touch screen Receipt printer: Built-in thermal dot receipt printer Security: Clover Security end-to-end encryption Connectivity: Wi-Fi, ethernet, and LTE connectivity Cash drawer: Optional add-on
  • READY OUT OF THE BOX: Comes with a receipt printer — all you need to get to work..-(note) Requires new processing account through Advantage POS Store for this package. Rate match guarantee with current credit card payment processor or flat rate of 2.6% and .10 cents a transaction.
10
symcode New POS PDA Thermal Receipt Printer 5.99" High Resolution and Clear Touch Screen Handheld PDA Printer Mobile POS Machine Terminal Printer Android 8.1 OS Built-in Google Play and NFC

Rating is 4.1 out of 5

symcode New POS PDA Thermal Receipt Printer 5.99" High Resolution and Clear Touch Screen Handheld PDA Printer Mobile POS Machine Terminal Printer Android 8.1 OS Built-in Google Play and NFC

  • Symcode New POS PDA Thermal Receipt Printer,5.99" High Resolution and Clear Touch Screen, 5MP camera and Wifi 5G/4G/3G/2G/GPS connectivity.40MM Diameter Paper Roll Capacity, Support Nano SIM+TF , With NFC card recognition.
  • 58mm POS Thermal Receipt Printer Android 8.1 OS,Usb: Support USB OTG.support developers to debug and use .Deca-core/10 cores MTK.
  • [ Control of Inventory ] This thermal receipt printer helps you keep better control of inventory, sales and profits, deliver tickets to your customers, create users, discounts, products by name, code or barcode and much more!
  • POS PDA Compatible with 99% of Android Apps, e.g. Loyverse(For Retail/Clothing), iREAP(For Retail/Inventory), CasierStock(For Shopping/Inventory Management), Kyte(For Mobile Sales), Pozool(Restaurant/Coffee Shop), allow accept order and print receipt in one POS.
  • Handheld PDA printer comes with Google Play and supports the following software, Shopify, Google Chrome, PDF, Loyverse, iREAP, and Kyte, Support Google Play software download.No need for secondary development.which allows accepting the order and print receipt in one POS , 90mm/s boosts 20% working efficiency.
  • POS Receipt Printer inside 3200mAh 7.6V battery lasts the whole day even in the most demanding situations.Work with android app, make bill printing, mobile payment, ordering, takeaway, queue control, marketing management, make all-in-one POS.
  • Terminal printer POS is portable, 0.7in body, 0.9lb weight , also with a 5.5-inch touch screen, also can scan 1D/2D.QR barcodes by the camera.(The camera mainly decodes 2D codes.and the ability to decode 1D codes is relatively weak) It is a combination of Bluetooth thermal printer and mobile phone, so that you can save your money and space, Widely used in food trucks, cafes, drink & food, pizza, bakery, restaurant, grocery store, fashion & boutique, convenience store, jewelry, carwash.


What is the significance of considering pricing plans (flat rate, interchange-plus, tiered) offered by credit card machine providers?

Considering the pricing plans offered by credit card machine providers is significant as it determines the cost structure and overall expenses associated with accepting credit card payments. The different pricing plans include:

  1. Flat rate: With a flat rate pricing plan, the provider charges a fixed percentage or fee per transaction. This simplifies pricing and makes it easier to understand and predict the costs. It is particularly beneficial for small businesses with low transaction volumes or irregular sales patterns.
  2. Interchange-plus: Interchange-plus pricing consists of two components – the interchange fee (set by the card networks) and the markup charged by the provider. This plan offers transparency as it separates the actual interchange fee from the provider's profit margin. It is suitable for businesses with high transaction volumes or larger average transaction sizes, as it can potentially result in lower costs compared to flat rate or tiered plans.
  3. Tiered pricing: Tiered pricing categorizes transactions into different fee tiers based on various factors such as card type (credit, debit), transaction mode (swiped, keyed), and risk level (qualified, mid-qualified, non-qualified). Each tier has different rates, often with a qualified tier having the lowest rates. However, tiered pricing can lack transparency, making it challenging to determine the exact cost per transaction.


Considering these pricing plans is significant because it helps businesses assess which option aligns with their transaction patterns, volume, and budget. The right pricing plan can optimize costs, offer transparency, and ensure compatibility with the business's specific needs. It is advisable to carefully compare and analyze the pricing structures offered by different providers to choose the one that offers the most cost-effective solution.


How to evaluate credit card processing fees associated with different machines?

To evaluate credit card processing fees associated with different machines, you can follow these steps:

  1. Understand the different types of credit card processing machines available in the market, such as countertop terminals, mobile card readers, POS systems, virtual terminals, etc.
  2. Research different payment processors or merchant service providers that offer credit card processing services. Look for reputable companies that have competitive pricing and a range of processing options suitable for your business needs.
  3. Compare the fees and charges associated with each machine and provider. Some common fees include transaction fees (per-transaction cost), interchange fees (cost to process each payment card brand), monthly service fees, setup fees, hardware costs, chargeback fees, and any additional fees specific to the provider or machine.
  4. Consider the transaction volume and average ticket size of your business. Providers may offer different pricing structures based on these factors. For example, some processors offer lower transaction fees for businesses with higher volumes or offer customized plans based on your specific needs.
  5. Pay attention to the processing contract terms and duration. Evaluate any cancellation or early termination fees, as well as other contractual obligations. Ensure that the provider offers transparent and flexible terms that suit your business requirements.
  6. Read reviews and seek recommendations from other businesses in your industry or network who have used the same or similar credit card processing machines. Their experiences and insights can provide valuable information about the reliability, functionality, and support offered by different providers and machines.
  7. Analyze the features and capabilities of the machines. Consider whether they support your business requirements, such as accepting various payment methods (credit cards, debit cards, mobile payments), integrating with your existing hardware or software systems, providing reliable connectivity, and offering robust security measures to protect customer data.
  8. Take into account the additional services and benefits provided by the credit card processing provider. Some may offer reporting and analytics tools, inventory management features, customer relationship management (CRM) integration, or other value-added services that can enhance your business operations.
  9. Calculate the potential cost savings or benefits associated with each machine and provider. This may involve projecting your expected transaction volume and comparing the fees, rates, and benefits to determine the most cost-effective and efficient option for your business.
  10. Finally, contact the shortlisted providers to clarify any doubts or questions regarding their pricing structure, contractual terms, customer support, and any other relevant information before making a decision.


By following these steps, you can evaluate and compare credit card processing fees associated with different machines to find the most suitable and cost-effective solution for your business.


What is the significance of scalability when choosing a credit card machine for a growing small business?

Scalability is crucial when choosing a credit card machine for a growing small business because it ensures that the machine can handle the increasing demands and requirements of the business's expanding operations. Here are a few key reasons why scalability is significant:

  1. Handling Growing Transaction Volumes: As a small business grows, the number of transactions it processes increases. A scalable credit card machine can effectively handle higher transaction volumes without slowdowns or performance issues, ensuring smooth payment processing even during peak times.
  2. Accommodating Diverse Payment Types: With business growth, there might be a need to accept various payment options such as contactless cards, mobile payments, and digital wallets. A scalable credit card machine allows for the integration of new payment technologies and software updates, ensuring compatibility with evolving customer payment preferences.
  3. Supporting Multiple Locations: If a business expands its operations to multiple locations or establishes an online presence, scalability becomes essential. The credit card machine should offer multi-store or multi-merchant capabilities, allowing the business to manage and process payments from various sources in a centralized manner.
  4. Integrating with Business Systems: As a small business grows, it often requires integration of its credit card machine with other systems like point-of-sale (POS) software, inventory management, or accounting systems. Scalability ensures that the credit card machine has the capability to integrate with these systems, streamlining operations, and reducing manual effort.
  5. Flexibility for Future Expansion: Scalable credit card machines are designed to adapt to changing business needs and can accommodate future expansion plans. Whether the business expands its product offerings, enters new markets, or increases its customer base, a scalable solution can easily adjust to these changes.


In summary, scalability in credit card machine selection for a growing small business is crucial for handling increased transaction volumes, accommodating diverse payment types, supporting multiple locations, integrating with business systems, and providing flexibility for future growth.


What is the importance of considering any additional costs like setup fees and monthly service fees from credit card machine providers?

Considering additional costs like setup fees and monthly service fees from credit card machine providers is important for several reasons:

  1. Budgeting: By understanding and accounting for all additional costs, businesses can accurately budget for their expenses. Including setup fees and monthly service fees in your financial planning ensures that there are no surprises when it comes to paying for credit card processing services.
  2. Cost comparison: Different credit card machine providers may have different fee structures. Considering additional costs allows you to compare these costs between various providers and choose the one that offers the best value for your business.
  3. Profit margins: Depending on the size of your business and the volume of credit card transactions, the additional costs can significantly impact your profit margins. Considering these costs helps you evaluate the potential impact on your bottom line.
  4. Return on investment (ROI): When investing in credit card processing equipment, it is important to assess the ROI. Understanding all the costs involved, including setup fees and monthly service fees, allows businesses to determine how long it will take to recoup the initial investment and start profiting from the card transactions.
  5. Contract terms: Additional costs are often associated with specific contract terms and conditions. Considering these costs helps you make informed decisions when negotiating or selecting a credit card machine provider. It allows you to understand the contractual obligations and assess whether the terms align with your business needs and goals.


In summary, considering additional costs like setup fees and monthly service fees is vital for financial planning, cost comparison, profitability analysis, and making informed decisions while selecting a credit card machine provider.


What is the importance of considering the physical size and aesthetics of a credit card machine?

Considering the physical size and aesthetics of a credit card machine is important for several reasons:

  1. Space utilization: The physical size of a credit card machine determines how much space it will occupy on a counter or point of sale (POS) area. It is crucial to ensure that the machine does not take up excessive space or create clutter, especially in small spaces. A compact and well-designed machine allows for better space utilization and can make the checkout process more efficient.
  2. Customer perception: The aesthetics of a credit card machine, including its design, appearance, and overall look, can create a positive impression on customers. A visually pleasing and modern-looking machine can convey professionalism and trustworthiness to customers, enhancing their experience and perception of the business.
  3. Brand image: Credit card machines often have branding elements, such as logos or colors, that align with the business's brand image. Ensuring that the machine reflects the brand's values and identity helps in maintaining consistency and reinforcing the brand image in the minds of customers.
  4. User experience: The physical design of a credit card machine can impact the overall user experience for both customers and employees. Ergonomics and ease of use are essential factors to consider. For customers, a machine with clear instructions, user-friendly buttons, and intuitive interface can make the payment process faster and more convenient. For employees, a machine with ergonomic design features, such as adjustable screens or keypads, can reduce fatigue and improve efficiency during prolonged use.
  5. Integration with existing setup: In many cases, credit card machines need to be integrated with other systems like cash registers or POS software. Considering the physical size and design of the machine ensures compatibility and smooth integration within the existing setup, reducing potential disruptions and downtime.


Overall, paying attention to the physical size and aesthetics of a credit card machine is crucial for optimizing space, creating a positive impression, maintaining brand consistency, enhancing user experience, and ensuring compatibility with existing systems.


What is the significance of customer support in selecting a credit card machine provider?

Customer support is highly significant when selecting a credit card machine provider for several reasons:

  1. Assistance and guidance: A credit card machine is a crucial tool for businesses that accept card payments. Any technical issues or difficulties can significantly impact the business's operations. A provider with excellent customer support ensures that businesses receive timely assistance and guidance in case of any problems, reducing downtime and ensuring uninterrupted payment processing.
  2. Training and onboarding: When adopting a new credit card machine, businesses and their staff may require training and support to understand its operation and features. A provider with good customer support will offer comprehensive training materials, tutorials, or even personalized training sessions to ensure that businesses can make the most of the machine's capabilities.
  3. Troubleshooting and maintenance: Credit card machines can encounter various issues, ranging from connectivity problems to software glitches. Timely troubleshooting and maintenance are essential to minimize disruptions. A provider with reliable customer support can diagnose and resolve issues efficiently, reducing downtime for businesses.
  4. Upgrades and software updates: The credit card processing industry often undergoes changes and updates, such as new payment technologies or security requirements. A provider with robust customer support will inform and guide businesses through these upgrades or software updates to ensure their machines remain up to date and compliant with industry standards.
  5. Security and fraud prevention: Credit card fraud is a significant concern for both businesses and customers. A credit card machine provider with strong customer support will prioritize security measures and assist businesses in implementing best practices for fraud prevention. In case of any security breaches or fraud incidents, a reliable support team can guide businesses through the necessary steps to resolve the issue promptly.


Overall, customer support plays a vital role in ensuring a smooth and efficient credit card processing experience, resolving technical issues promptly, and providing businesses with the necessary guidance and assistance to utilize their credit card machines effectively.

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