With cash usage continuing to decline and contactless payments becoming the norm, having the right card machine is now essential for any small business in the UK.
Whether you run a retail shop, cafΓ©, salon, market stall, or service business, choosing the right payment terminal can save you money, reduce admin time, and improve your customer experience.
In this blog, Scalex Technology explores the best card machines for small businesses in 2025, comparing features, fees, and functionality.
Why Your Business Needs a Card Machine in 2025
π³ 90% of UK consumers now prefer card or mobile payments
π² Contactless, Apple Pay & Google Pay are expected
π Reduced cash handling = lower risk and admin
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Improved customer satisfaction and sales speed
Top 5 Card Machines for UK Small Businesses in 2025
Here are the leading contenders, based on ease of use, fees, support, and features:
1. SumUp Air β Best for Startups & Sole Traders
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Low upfront cost
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No monthly fees
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1.69% per transaction
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Works with your smartphone via Bluetooth
πΌ Perfect for: Mobile tradespeople, market stalls, pop-ups
π· Cost: Β£39 one-time purchase

2. Zettle by PayPal β Best All-Rounder
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1.75% per transaction
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Easy app for sales, invoicing, inventory
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Fast deposits to PayPal or bank
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Robust design with optional dock
πΌ Great for: CafΓ©s, barbers, beauty salons
π· Cost: Β£29βΒ£59 for the reader
3. Square Terminal β Best for Shops & Restaurants
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Built-in printer & screen
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Accepts chip & pin, contactless, mobile
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1.75% flat rate
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Free POS software and invoicing tools
πΌ Ideal for: Retail stores, takeaway counters
π· Cost: Β£149 (no monthly fee)
4. Dojo Go β Best for Fast Payments & Support
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Same-day payouts
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Excellent UK-based customer support
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Real-time reporting dashboard
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Free terminal, but monthly contract applies
πΌ Best for: SMEs wanting reliable support and speed
π· Cost: ~Β£20βΒ£30/month + custom transaction rate
5. TakePayments β Best for High-Volume Sales
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Tailored rates for volume-based businesses
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Terminal options for mobile, countertop & portable
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Free setup & no upfront hardware cost
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Monthly contract required
πΌ Good for: Established shops, multi-terminal setups
π· Cost: Varies by usage β best for those processing Β£5k+/month
Key Features to Look For in a Card Reader (2025)
- π PCI-compliant & secure
- πΆ Reliable Wi-Fi/4G connectivity
- π² Accepts contactless, chip & PIN, and mobile wallets
- π Built-in analytics or integration with accounting software
- π οΈ Good customer service & replacement policy
- π³ Transparent fees (no hidden charges)
Which Card Machine Is Right for You?
Business Type | Best Machine | Why |
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Market Stall | SumUp Air | Simple, no monthly fees |
Salon or CafΓ© | Zettle by PayPal | Full POS system with low setup cost |
Retail Shop | Square Terminal | All-in-one device, great UI |
Established SME | Dojo Go | Fast payouts, premium support |
High Turnover Store | TakePayments | Lower fees for higher volume |

Final Thoughts
Choosing the right card machine can make a real difference to your cash flow, customer experience, and operational efficiency. In 2025, your customers expect fast, easy paymentsβso donβt let an outdated system hold you back.
π‘ Pro Tip from Scalex Technology: Look beyond just transaction fees. Consider contract terms, support quality, and extra tools like invoicing, reporting, and integrations.
Need Help With Business Utilities or Card Systems?
Scalex Technology supports UK businesses with tailored advice on energy, water, telecoms, and now payment solutions. Letβs help you reduce your running costs across the board.
π Get a free consultation with one of our specialists today.