Card Machines for Sole Traders UK 2026 | Best Cheap & Mobile Options Quick answer
The best card machines for sole traders in the UK are low-cost, portable, and contract-free, with options starting from £19 upfront and no monthly fees, and we think top providers include SumUp, Square, and PayPal POS, offering simple, flexible payment solutions.
No contract required
Low upfront cost
Easy setup
Accept payments anywhere
Need a card machine for your business?
This quote service is best for UK businesses that want to take card payments in person using a card reader, countertop terminal, portable PDQ machine or merchant account.
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Authored by: Ally Cox (Business Technology & B2B Services Specialist 10+ Years’ Experience)
Reviewed by: James Ward (Telecoms Specialist, 12+ Years Experience)
Last Updated: July 2026
Contents
Best Cheap Card Readers
Costs For Sole Traders
Best Options for Sole Traders
Who Needs a Card Machine as a Sole Trader?
Card Readers vs Tap to Pay (Phone Payments)
Key Takeaways
Sole traders benefit from low-cost, flexible payment solutions
Transaction fees typically 1.69%-1.75%
Most options have no monthly fees
Portable card readers are the most popular choice
Setup takes minutes
Comparing providers helps reduce costs
Card Machine Fees Calculator UK Estimate your monthly and annual card processing costs in seconds. Adjust the fields below to see how much your current setup could be costing you.
Pricing model Flat rate Custom / Merchant account
Your Estimated Costs
Estimated monthly fees
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Estimated annual fees
£0.00
Estimated monthly transactions
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Potential monthly saving
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You could save money by switching to a lower-fee provider.
This calculator is an estimate only. Actual card machine costs vary by provider, pricing structure, card mix, sector and contract terms.
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Best Cheap Card Readers 2026
Provider Upfront Cost Transaction Fees Best For Benefits
SumUp Air £19–£39
~1.69%
Sole traders
Square Reader £19–£59
~1.75%
Freelancers
No contract
PayPal POS £0–£59
~1.75%
Mobile businesses
Dojo Go £0 (contract)
0.4%–1.5%
Growing traders
Tyl by NatWest £0–£19
0.35%–1.5%
Scaling businesses
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✔ Start accepting payments instantly
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Costs For Sole Traders
Cost Type Typical Price
Device cost
£19-£59
Monthly fee
£0
Transaction fees
1.69% -1.75%
Setup fee
£0
Best Options for Sole Traders If you’re after… the lowest cost option
✔ No monthly fees
✔ Simple pricing
If you want… the most flexible option
✔ Works with apps
✔ Mobile-friendly
What is… best for growing sole traders
✔ Lower transaction fees
✔ Better long-term value
👉 Choose based on how often you take payments
Who Needs a Card Machine as a Sole Trader?
Freelancers
Tradespeople
Consultants
Market traders
Mobile businesses
👉 If you take in-person payments, a card machine is essential
Card Readers vs Tap to Pay (Phone Payments)
Option Pros Cons
Card reader
Reliable, professional
Small upfront cost
Tap to Pay
No hardware
Slightly higher fees
How to Choose the Right Option Ask yourself:
How often do I take payments?
What fees can I afford?
Do I need mobility?
Do I need reporting features?
👉 The best option depends on your business model
Why Compare With Us?
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Save up to 40%
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FAQs – Card Machines for Sole Traders UK Do I need a card machine as a sole trader?
Yes, if you accept in-person payments, it improves convenience and sales.
What is the cheapest option?
SumUp and Square are among the cheapest, with low upfront costs and no monthly fees.
Can I use a personal bank account?
Some providers allow it, but a business account is recommended.
Are there no contract options?
Yes, many providers offer pay-as-you-go pricing.
How much are transaction fees?
Typically 1.69%-1.75% per transaction.
Can I take payments on my phone?
Yes, Tap to Pay allows you to accept payments without a card reader.
Is it worth it for low volume?
Yes, especially with no monthly fee options.
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Hi, I’m Ally Cox , a senior copywriter and blogger at CompareYourBusinessCosts.co.uk, the UK’s trusted platform for comparing business services.over a decade of experience in the B2B sector, I specialise in simplifying complex topics like leased lines, VoIP, business energy, HR and payroll solutions, accounting software, and EPOS systems .HR, copywriting, and business operations- from clocking-in systems to card machines and office technology .informed, confident decisions when choosing products and services that improve efficiency and save money.
