Card machines for small business

Card machines for small business come in three shapes: portable, countertop and phone-based. I help London businesses pick the right one from four providers, then set it up for you.

Get my free statement check Or call 0207 428 7554

Last updated 18 October 2026

Which card machine fits your business?

Start with how your customers pay, not with the machine. Where do they stand? How big is a typical sale? Do you ever take payment away from the till?

Once I know that, the choice is short. I work with four providers, Rapyd, Teya, SkyTab and myPOS, and I match you to the one that suits your trade. In most cases your first card machine is free.

Card machines by type

Portable card machinesTake payment at the table, the door or on a job, on wifi or 4G. Countertop card machinesFast payments at the till for shops, takeaways and counters. Contactless card machinesTap payments from cards, phones and watches. Pay by linkGet paid by text, email or WhatsApp without a terminal. Online card paymentsTake card payments on your website. Card fees calculatorSee what card payments cost you now.

The providers I work with

I work with

SkyTab

TeyaBusy local businesses that want fast payouts. myPOSInstant settlement and hardware you can own. RapydAll-round terminals, plus short-term hire. SkyTabOrdering and payment in one system for hospitality.

Compare all four side by side

Card machines by industry

RestaurantsPay at the table, split bills, tips. Pubs and barsSpeed at the bar, tables in the dining room. CafesQuick taps for the morning rush. Hotels and B&BsDeposits, reception and the bar. TakeawaysCounter, phone orders and delivery. Butchers, bakeries and delisReliable at a busy counter. TradesmenGet paid on site or by link. Shops and retailWorks with your till and your online shop.

QUESTIONS

Questions

What is the best card machine for a small business?

The one that fits how you take payments. A cafe with a queue needs speed at the counter, a restaurant needs a machine that walks to the table, and a builder needs one that works on 4G at a customer's door.

Do I need a contract?

Not always. Several of the providers I work with offer terms without a long contract. I'll show you the terms in writing before you sign anything.

Can I take Apple Pay and Google Pay?

Yes. Every machine I recommend takes contactless cards and phone wallets.

Ready to cut your card fees?

Send your statement today and I'll come back to you with what I find.

Get my free statement check