The Best Cheap Card Payment Machine in the UK

By Olivia Johnson - Trusted UK Business Expert

Last Updated 20th of March 2025

4 minute read

Finding a cheap card payment machine in the UK can be tricky, but we’re here to help you navigate the options available. Whether you’re a small business or just looking to save money, we’ve got the information you need to make the best choice. 

The best cheap card payment machine in the UK offers low transaction fees, easy setup, and reliable service. Several options cater to small businesses looking for affordability without sacrificing performance, such as Square and SumUp. 

To make sure you choose the right one for your needs, let’s explore the key features, costs, and benefits of the top cheap card payment machines available in the UK. Keep reading to find the best option for your business. 

Card payment machines have become essential for many businesses, both large and small, to process payments quickly and securely. In the UK, the best cheap card payment machine will offer you an affordable solution that is both functional and simple to use. 

Find the most affordable card payment machine today. Click below to compare the best budget-friendly options in the UK.

What to Look for in a Cheap Card Payment Machine? 

When looking for the best cheap card payment machine in the UK, there are a few key features to consider: 

• Transaction Fees: The main ongoing cost to watch out for, as it can impact your profit margins. 
• Setup Costs: Some machines may charge a fee for setting up the device or for installation. 
• Compatibility: Ensure the machine works with the payment methods you want to accept, such as contactless, chip and pin, or mobile payments. 
• User-Friendly Interface: The machine should be easy for both you and your customers to use. 
• Customer Support: It’s important to have good customer service to solve any potential issues. 

The Best Cheap Card Payment Machine in the UK 

There are several card payment machines on the market in the UK, and many of them are both affordable and reliable. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best options available for small businesses: 

1. Square Terminal: Square offers a terminal that allows businesses to accept card payments with no monthly fees. Its simple flat-rate fee structure makes it one of the most affordable options. Square is known for its ease of use and great customer support, making it ideal for small businesses or startups. It also supports contactless payments and works with both chip and pin cards.
2. SumUp Air: SumUp is another top choice for a cheap card payment machine in the UK. It’s one of the most affordable options on the market, with no monthly fees, and it supports a wide range of cards and payment methods. The SumUp Air is small, portable, and connects via Bluetooth to your smartphone or tablet, which makes it great for mobile businesses. Its transaction fees are competitive, starting at around 1.69% per transaction.
3. iZettle Reader 2: The iZettle Reader 2 is a popular option for small businesses in the UK. It offers both chip and contactless card payments and has no monthly fee. The iZettle app is easy to use, and the machine itself is sleek and portable. You’ll pay a small fee per transaction, but the overall cost is still quite reasonable for the functionality you get.
4. PayPal Here: PayPal Here is another good option for small businesses that want a cheap card payment machine. With competitive fees and the ability to accept a wide variety of payment methods, PayPal Here is a great choice for those who are already using PayPal for their online transactions. It’s easy to set up and use, and PayPal offers a range of card readers, including portable and countertop models.
5. Clover Flex: While a little pricier than some of the other options listed here, the Clover Flex offers an all-in-one solution for businesses that need more than just a basic card payment machine. It features a touchscreen, the ability to print receipts, and works with other Clover software tools. It’s a great option for businesses that are looking to grow and need more advanced features.

How to Choose the Best Cheap Card Payment Machine for Your Business 

When choosing the best cheap card payment machine, consider the following factors: 

• Understand Your Needs: Think about whether you need a portable device for on-the-go payments or a countertop solution for a physical store. 
• Look at Fees: Compare transaction fees to understand which option will be the most cost-effective in the long run. Some devices offer a flat-rate fee per transaction, while others may charge a percentage. 
• Assess Customer Support: If something goes wrong with the machine, it’s important to know that you can easily get help from the provider. Look for businesses with a solid reputation for customer service. 
• Consider Integrations: If you use other business tools, such as accounting or inventory software, make sure the machine integrates smoothly with them. 

Other Considerations When Choosing a Cheap Card Payment Machine 

While cost is an important factor, don’t overlook other considerations such as the user interface and setup process. Some machines are more complicated to set up than others, and you might want to go for something with an easy-to-navigate app or interface. Keep in mind how many people in your team will use the machine—if it’s just you, a simple setup might work best, but if you have several employees, you’ll want something that’s easy for everyone to use. 

Comparing Top Card Payment Machines: