How Much Does a Zettle Card Reader Cost?

By Olivia Johnson - Trusted UK Business Expert

Last Updated 2nd of November 2025

4 minute read

If you’re setting up your business to take card payments, you’re likely looking for a solution that’s simple and affordable. Zettle (by PayPal) is a popular choice in the UK, especially for small businesses and start-ups. We’ll break down the cost for you so you can make the right decision.

The standard price for a Zettle card reader is £59 + VAT. However, new users often pay a discounted rate of £29 + VAT for their first reader. There are no monthly fees, but each transaction incurs a 1.75% fee.

That’s just the starting point! We’ve got all the details about other Zettle reader models, accessories, and long-term payment costs. Keep reading to find out what’s best for your budget and business type.

Get Started with Zettle – Click the button below to learn about the Zettle card reader cost and how it can benefit your business.

How much does a Zettle card reader cost?

Zettle offers one of the most accessible and low-risk ways to start taking card payments in the UK. Their card readers are compact, mobile, and user-friendly. But more importantly, they are priced fairly for small business owners who are just starting out or want a reliable backup device.

Zettle Reader 2 – Base Price

The Zettle Reader 2 is their main device. Here’s what you need to know:

Zettle often runs promotions for new customers, reducing the upfront price to just £29 + VAT for your first card reader. You can connect it to your smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth and start accepting payments right away.

No Subscription Costs

Zettle doesn’t charge a monthly subscription. That means you only pay for what you use. After the initial purchase of the card reader, your costs come from:

• Transaction fee: 1.75% per card payment
• Refunds: Free to issue, but the transaction fee is not refunded
• Chargebacks: £20 chargeback fee applies if a payment is disputed and reversed

This pay-as-you-go pricing structure is great for seasonal businesses or those just getting off the ground.

What about other Zettle hardware options?

If you’re building out your full POS (Point of Sale) system, Zettle has a few more items you might need. Here’s a quick breakdown:

These extras are optional. You can start with just the Reader 2 and grow your setup as your business grows.

What are the hidden costs of using Zettle?

Zettle is known for transparency. But to help you plan your finances, here are the potential extras:

• Shipping fee: Usually free with new account promotions, otherwise £6.50
• Device replacement: Accidental damage is not covered unless under warranty
• POS app integration: Free for most users, but complex integrations may have extra costs

The good news? There are no contracts, no minimum sales, and no cancellation fees.

Is Zettle good value for small businesses?

For many UK microbusinesses, Zettle is one of the best low-barrier options available. Here’s why:

Pros:

• Affordable start-up cost
• No monthly fees
• Simple setup and use
• Backed by PayPal’s trust and infrastructure
• Portable and mobile-first

Cons:

• Basic functionality unless paired with extra devices
• Transaction fees may add up with high volumes
• Limited offline mode – you need Wi-Fi or mobile data

If you only process a few transactions per day, Zettle’s simple pricing structure can save you money compared to traditional merchant services.

What alternatives should I compare Zettle with?

Here’s how Zettle compares to other UK card readers:

Zettle sits in the middle in terms of fees and features. It’s best for small shops, market traders, mobile service providers, and cafes.

Zettle Reader 2: Setup and Use

Setting up the Zettle Reader 2 is easy:

1. Order online from the Zettle website.
2. Download the Zettle app (iOS/Android).
3. Pair the reader via Bluetooth.
4. Set up your business profile.
5. Start accepting payments.

Funds are typically transferred to your bank account within 1–2 business days, and all transactions are recorded in the app.

Many users say the simplicity of Zettle’s app and strong reporting tools help them manage their business better.

Who should buy a Zettle card reader?

Zettle is ideal if you:

• Run a food truck, salon, market stall, or café
• Need a reliable backup payment method
• Want a clear, upfront pricing structure
• Prefer no contracts or fixed fees

It’s not the best fit if you need advanced retail inventory systems or sell hundreds of products per day – those businesses may need a full-scale POS.

Final Thoughts

Zettle card readers are priced to help small businesses get going without big financial commitments. For just £29 + VAT, you can start accepting card payments. With no monthly charges and a clear fee per transaction, Zettle is a smart choice for UK entrepreneurs.

Ready to get started with Zettle? Click the link below to grab your reader and start taking payments today.

👉 Order your Zettle Reader now

FAQ

Can I get a Zettle reader without being VAT registered?

Yes. The price will still include VAT, even if you can’t reclaim it.

Does Zettle support Apple Pay and Google Pay?

Yes. The reader accepts contactless payments including mobile wallets and smartwatches.

How long does the Zettle Reader battery last?

Up to 8 hours or 100 transactions per full charge.

Is Zettle app free to use?

Yes. The app is free to download and use for all Zettle merchants.

Can I use Zettle with my existing tablet or phone?

Yes. Zettle Reader 2 connects to iOS and Android devices via Bluetooth.