Can I Buy My Own Card Machine?

By Olivia Johnson - Trusted UK Business Expert

Last Updated 1st of June 2026

6 minute read

Many businesses want a simple way to take card payments. You may wonder if you can buy your own card machine instead of renting one. The good news is that we can help you understand how it works and what your options are.

Yes, you can buy your own card machine. Many payment providers sell card terminals that businesses can own rather than rent. However, you still need a payment processor or merchant account to handle transactions, fees, and card network connections.

Buying your own card machine can save money and give your business more control. But there are important things to understand before you choose one. Read on to learn how card machines work, what they cost, and how to pick the best option.

Want to get the best deal on an Own Card Machine? Click the link below to compare top options, save money, and choose the right solution for your business today.

Can I Buy My Own Card Machine?

Yes, businesses can buy their own card machine. In the past, most companies had to rent a card terminal from a payment provider. Today, technology has changed. Many modern payment companies now sell card machines that businesses can own.

A card machine is also called a card terminal, POS terminal, or payment terminal. It allows customers to pay with debit cards, credit cards, contactless cards, or mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay.

When a customer taps or inserts their card, the machine sends the payment request to the payment network. The network checks the bank account and confirms if the payment is approved. This process takes only a few seconds.

Even if you buy your own card machine, you still need a payment processing service. The machine collects the payment details, but the payment provider handles the transaction between the customer’s bank and your business bank account.

This means owning a card machine is possible, but it still works together with a payment provider.

Buying your own card machine is becoming more common, especially for small businesses, cafés, retailers, and mobile traders. Many companies prefer this option because it can reduce long-term costs and provide flexibility.

However, there are a few key things to understand before buying a terminal.

How Card Machines Work

A card machine performs several tasks during a payment:

• Reads the customer’s card (chip, tap, or swipe)
• Sends payment information to a payment gateway
• Checks approval from the customer’s bank
• Confirms the payment
• Transfers funds to your business account

The machine itself is only part of the payment system. The rest of the process relies on payment networks like:

• Visa
• Mastercard
• American Express
• Payment gateways
• Merchant accounts

Because of this, even if you own the hardware, transaction fees will still apply.

Buying vs Renting a Card Machine

Many businesses compare buying and renting before choosing a payment terminal. You can read a full guide on whether to buy or rent a card machine to help you decide.

Here is a simple comparison.

For small businesses, buying can be cheaper over time. Renting may be easier if you want support, upgrades, and maintenance included.

Types of Card Machines You Can Buy

If you decide to buy a card terminal, you will find several types available. Each one suits different business needs.

Countertop Card Machines

These machines stay in one place and connect using broadband or phone lines.

They are common in:

• Retail shops
• Restaurants
• Reception desks

They are reliable but not portable.

Portable Card Machines

Portable machines work within a location using WiFi or Bluetooth.

These are popular in:

• Restaurants
• Bars
• Cafés

Staff can bring the terminal directly to the customer.

Mobile Card Machines

Mobile card machines use SIM cards or mobile networks. This allows payments anywhere.

These are ideal for:

• Market traders
• Delivery drivers
• Mobile services
• Events

Many small businesses prefer mobile card readers because they are simple and affordable. You can learn more about the best mobile card machines for UK businesses.

Average Cost of Buying a Card Machine

The price of a card machine depends on the features and provider. You can also explore the card machine cost per month in the UK.

Typical price ranges include:

Some providers also offer bundles that include software and POS systems.

Even after buying a machine, businesses usually pay transaction fees.

Typical fees include:

• 1% – 2.5% per transaction
• Monthly payment gateway fees (sometimes)
• Chargeback fees if disputes occur

The best choice depends on your business size and payment volume. You can also use this card payment machine comparison checklist to choose the right option.

What Do You Need to Use Your Own Card Machine?

Buying the machine is only one part of accepting card payments.

To process payments, you also need several key services.

Payment Processor

A payment processor handles the movement of money from the customer’s bank to your business bank account.

Examples include:

• Square
• SumUp
• Zettle
• Worldpay
• Stripe

These companies connect your card machine to the payment network.

Merchant Account

Some providers require a merchant account.

A merchant account temporarily holds customer payments before they are transferred to your business account.

Many modern providers now combine the merchant account and processor into one service.

Internet or Network Connection

Card machines must connect to the internet to approve payments.

Connections can include:

• Broadband
• WiFi
• 4G or 5G mobile networks
• Bluetooth (through a smartphone)

Without connectivity, the payment cannot be authorised.

Payment Software

Many card machines now include POS software.

This can help businesses:

• Track sales
• Manage stock
• Print receipts
• Create reports
• Accept tips

For some businesses, this makes card machines part of a full payment system rather than just a simple terminal.

Is Buying a Card Machine Better for Small Businesses?

For many small businesses, owning a card machine can be a smart choice. You can also explore a card machine for a small business guide.

Here are some reasons why.

Lower Long-Term Costs

Rental contracts can last several years. Monthly rental fees add up over time.

Buying a card machine may cost more upfront but can reduce ongoing costs.

For example:

• Rental terminal: £20–£40 per month
• Owned card reader: one-time purchase

Over two or three years, owning the machine can save money.

Flexible Payment Options

Owned card machines often allow businesses to change payment providers easily.

Rental machines may lock businesses into long contracts.

Flexibility is important for businesses that want to:

• Switch providers
• Compare transaction fees
• Upgrade systems

Faster Setup

Many modern card machines are plug-and-play.

This means businesses can start taking payments quickly.

Typical setup steps include:

• Buy the machine
• Create a payment account
• Connect to WiFi or mobile network
• Start accepting payments

Some setups take less than 10 minutes.

Ideal for Mobile Businesses

Mobile businesses often prefer owning their payment device.

Examples include:

• Food trucks
• Market traders
• Electricians
• Taxi drivers
• Delivery services

Owning the machine means they can accept payments anywhere.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Card Machine

Before purchasing a terminal, businesses should review a few key factors.

Transaction Fees

Even if you own the machine, transaction fees still apply.

Always check:

• Card transaction rate
• Refund fees
• Chargeback fees

These costs can affect your profit.

Connectivity

Some card machines rely on smartphones.

Others include built-in SIM cards.

Choose the option that works best for your business environment.

Security and Compliance

Payment terminals must follow PCI DSS security standards.

This protects cardholder data and prevents fraud.

Most reputable providers include built-in security protection.

Customer Payment Preferences

Modern customers expect flexible payment options.

Most card machines now accept:

• Contactless cards
• Chip and PIN
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay

Choosing a machine with these features improves customer experience.

Finding the right card machine can make payments easier and help your business grow. If you want to explore the best card machine options for your business, click the link below to compare top payment solutions today.

FAQ

Can I use any card machine with any bank?

No. Card machines must connect to a payment processor or merchant account. Some machines only work with specific providers.

Do I still pay fees if I buy a card machine?

Yes. Buying the machine removes rental costs, but payment providers still charge transaction fees for each payment.

Are card machines safe to use?

Yes. Modern card machines use encrypted payment technology and follow strict security standards to protect customer data.

Can I use a card machine without WiFi?

Yes. Some mobile card machines use SIM cards and mobile networks instead of WiFi.

What is the cheapest card machine option?

Basic card readers are usually the cheapest option. These connect to a smartphone and cost much less than traditional payment terminals.

A card machine is now one of the most important tools for modern businesses. Customers expect quick, secure, and flexible payment options. Buying your own card machine can give your business greater control, lower long-term costs, and the freedom to accept payments anywhere.

Understanding how payment processing works helps you make the right choice. With the right terminal and provider, your business can deliver a smoother checkout experience and keep customers coming back.