What is the Difference Between SumUp and Dojo?

By Olivia Johnson - Trusted UK Business Expert

Last Updated 10th of May 2025

4 minute read

Are you confused about which payment system is best for your business? SumUp and Dojo are both popular options, but they serve different needs. We’ll break down the key differences to help you make the right choice. 

The main difference between SumUp and Dojo lies in their target market and features. SumUp focuses on small businesses with simple, easy-to-use payment solutions, while Dojo caters to larger businesses offering more advanced tools and integrated payment systems. 

If you’re a small business owner or managing a larger company, understanding these differences can make a big impact. Read on to find out which system suits your needs best. 

Choosing between SumUp and Dojo? Click below to compare features, pricing, and benefits to find the best fit for your business.

The Difference Between SumUp and Dojo 

When it comes to payment systems for businesses, SumUp and Dojo stand out for their differing approaches. Both offer card payment solutions, but they have distinct target audiences, pricing models, and features. Understanding these differences is key to choosing the right option for your business. 

SumUp is best known for its simplicity. It is widely used by small businesses, freelancers, and those who need a portable and straightforward way to accept payments. SumUp’s card reader is compact, easy to use, and affordable, making it ideal for businesses that are just starting out or don’t require complex payment solutions. SumUp provides a free, simple-to-use app and charges a fixed transaction fee for payments made through its system. 

On the other hand, Dojo is designed for larger businesses that need more robust payment features. It offers advanced tools such as point-of-sale (POS) systems, integrated payment terminals, and reporting features. Dojo also provides a more personalised customer service experience, as they typically work closely with businesses to tailor the system to their needs. The setup process can be more complex, but it offers more advanced options for businesses with higher transaction volumes. 

SumUp is a well-regarded payment solution for small businesses and sole traders. It allows merchants to accept card payments using a mobile app and a card reader that connects via Bluetooth. SumUp’s ease of use is one of its standout features, as there’s minimal setup involved. You don’t need to worry about contracts or hidden fees. SumUp simply charges a fixed percentage for each transaction, which is ideal for businesses with fluctuating sales volumes. 

The primary advantages of SumUp are its affordability and simplicity. Small businesses with low to medium transaction volumes can benefit from the straightforward nature of SumUp, as it allows them to process payments without any complicated processes. SumUp is particularly favoured by pop-up shops, market stalls, and mobile businesses where ease of use and portability are essential. 

Dojo, however, is a much more feature-rich option. It provides businesses with a full suite of tools for managing payments. This includes hardware like the Dojo terminal, which is designed for seamless card payments both in-store and remotely. Businesses that choose Dojo benefit from tailored solutions, allowing for more advanced features like detailed reporting, inventory management, and loyalty programmes. The system is geared towards businesses that need scalability and flexibility as they grow. 

The setup process for Dojo is more involved, and pricing can be based on a monthly subscription model rather than a fixed transaction fee. While this might be ideal for larger businesses with higher transaction volumes, it may not be cost-effective for smaller enterprises or businesses that don’t need all of the advanced tools that Dojo offers. 

Key Differences: 

Target Market: 

• SumUp: Best suited for small businesses, sole traders, and pop-up shops. 
• Dojo: Ideal for medium to large businesses requiring more comprehensive solutions. 

Ease of Use: 

• SumUp: Extremely simple to set up and use, with no long-term contracts. 
• Dojo: More complex setup with advanced features for businesses that need detailed reporting and management tools. 

Pricing: 

• SumUp: Operates on a pay-as-you-go model, charging a flat fee per transaction. 
• Dojo: Typically requires a monthly subscription, which may not be ideal for smaller businesses. 

Features: 

• SumUp: Basic payment features with optional add-ons. 
• Dojo: Full-service POS systems, customisation, and reporting tools. 

Customer Support: 

• SumUp: Offers standard customer support with minimal customisation. 
• Dojo: Provides tailored customer service, often working directly with businesses to ensure the system suits their needs. 

How to Choose Between SumUp and Dojo 

Choosing between SumUp and Dojo depends on the size of your business and the complexity of your needs. If you run a small business with fewer transactions and don’t need a lot of features, SumUp might be the best option. However, if you manage a larger business with higher transaction volumes, or if you need advanced features such as detailed analytics and customisable POS systems, Dojo could be the better choice. 

What Are the Costs for SumUp and Dojo? 

Both systems have different pricing structures. SumUp’s costs are based on a fixed transaction fee, typically around 1.69% for card payments. This is ideal for businesses that have lower monthly sales volumes. There are no setup fees, and you can cancel at any time. 

Dojo, in contrast, operates on a subscription-based model. While pricing depends on the specific services required, businesses can expect monthly fees starting at around £19 per month. However, this includes additional services like custom reporting and tailored customer support. 

Advantages of SumUp for Small Businesses 

• Affordability: No monthly fees and low transaction costs. 
• Simplicity: Quick setup and minimal maintenance. 
• Portability: The card reader is compact and mobile-friendly, ideal for businesses on the go. 
• Flexibility: SumUp works with a wide range of devices, including smartphones and tablets. 

Advantages of Dojo for Larger Businesses 

• Customisation: Dojo offers tailored solutions for businesses with higher needs. 
• Advanced Features: Includes detailed reporting, inventory management, and customer loyalty tools. 
• Scalability: Ideal for businesses looking to grow and expand their payment solutions. 
• Customer Support: Offers personalised support and system configuration. 

If you’re still unsure about which system suits your business best, click the link below for a deeper comparison and further guidance. 

FAQ 

Can SumUp be used for online payments?

Yes, SumUp offers online payment solutions via its website and app, allowing businesses to accept payments for products and services sold online. 

Does Dojo charge a setup fee?

Yes, Dojo may charge a setup fee depending on the solution you choose, but the system offers advanced features that justify the cost for larger businesses. 

Is SumUp suitable for businesses with high sales volume?

While SumUp is great for small businesses, those with higher sales volumes may find Dojo’s subscription-based model more cost-effective, especially with its advanced reporting tools. 

How long does it take to set up Dojo?

Setting up Dojo typically takes longer than SumUp due to the customisation options and the complexity of the system. However, their support team will guide you through the process. 

Can I cancel SumUp at any time?

Yes, SumUp does not require a long-term commitment, so you can cancel at any time without facing penalties.