Zettle vs SumUp: Comparing Affordable Card Readers

Zettle and SumUp, popular choices for mobile card readers in the UK, have evolved over the years, diversifying their offerings. While both are renowned for their budget-friendly mobile card readers, their services now extend beyond these devices. So, Zettle vs SumUp? 

Exploring Small Business Solutions

The cornerstone of their services in the UK remains their mobile card readers: the Zettle Reader and SumUp Air. These compact terminals, priced under £40 each, seamlessly integrate with smartphone or tablet apps, catering to the needs of small businesses.

Comparing The Options For Zettle Vs Sumup

Beyond Card Readers

But what else do they offer for small businesses, and how do they compare overall?

Zettle by PayPal

  • Terminal Price: £29 – £199 + VAT
  • Transaction Fee: 1.75%
  • Contract: None
  • Monthly Costs: None
  • Payouts: 1-2 working days
  • Website: Link to Zettle

SumUp

  • Terminal Price: £49 – £139 + VAT
  • Transaction Fee: 1.69%
  • Contract: None
  • Monthly Costs: None
  • Payouts: 1-3 working days
  • Website: Link to SumUp

Card Machines: Aesthetic Differences, Similar Functionality

Zettle Reader and SumUp Air, commonly spotted in various businesses, connect via Bluetooth to smartphones or tablets. Both offer complete point-of-sale systems, facilitating transactions over the internet through mobile networks or WiFi.

Expanded Offerings

In addition to their mobile card readers, SumUp offers the SumUp Solo terminal, which operates independently with WiFi or a 4G/3G connection. Zettle boasts its standalone Zettle Terminal, resembling a smartphone, with options for receipt printing and barcode scanning.

Transparent Pricing Models

While their transaction fees are close, SumUp’s slight edge at 1.69% stands out. For low-volume merchants, the difference may be negligible, but both offer competitive rates even for premium cards.

Streamlined Payouts and Reporting

Both platforms ensure prompt payouts, with Zettle offering a slight advantage with its 1-2 working days settlement. However, SumUp’s versatile payment options and simple reporting interface provide users with comprehensive insights into their sales data.

Remote Payment Solutions

SumUp shines with its array of remote payment options, including virtual terminals and payment links, catering to various business needs. Zettle, on the other hand, focuses on integrating with popular website platforms for online payments.

Integration and Support

While Zettle integrates seamlessly with accounting software like Xero and QuickBooks, SumUp falls short in this aspect, relying on manual sales exports. Additionally, Zettle’s limited geographic reach compared to SumUp’s European usability is worth noting.

Final Thoughts

Both Zettle and SumUp offer compelling solutions for small businesses, with competitive pricing and user-friendly interfaces. While SumUp excels in certain areas like remote payments and printing solutions, Zettle’s integration options and advanced terminal functionality make it a strong contender.

Ultimately, the choice between Zettle and SumUp depends on the specific needs and priorities of your business.

FAQ

Are there any monthly fees associated with using Zettle or SumUp?

No, both Zettle and SumUp do not charge any fixed monthly fees. You only pay transaction fees for the actual card transactions processed.

What types of cards do Zettle and SumUp accept?

Both Zettle and SumUp accept Visa, Visa Electron, V Pay, Mastercard, Maestro, American Express, Union Pay, Diners Club, JCB, and Discover cards. Additionally, they support contactless payments via Apple Pay and Google Pay.

How long does it take to receive payouts from Zettle and SumUp?

Zettle typically processes payouts within 1-2 working days, while SumUp takes 1-3 working days. The actual timing may vary depending on your bank’s processing times.

Can I use Zettle or SumUp outside of the UK?

Zettle is primarily available for use in the UK, while SumUp can be used in multiple countries across Europe. However, you may need to inform SumUp’s customer support team if you plan to use it abroad.

Do Zettle and SumUp offer customer support?

Yes, both Zettle and SumUp provide customer support to assist users with any queries or issues they may encounter. You can typically reach out to their support teams via email or phone during business hours.