Credit card machines are the hardware every business needs to accept and process electronic payment methods, such as mobile wallets and credit or debit cards.
The machine captures card information and authenticates the payment method before sending the data to the processor. It will decline payments from any nonworking or expired debit or credit cards.
Here are some of the features your chosen credit card machine solution should come with:
- EMV chip reader. An EMV reader uses Europay, MasterCard, and Visa (EMV) technology to process transactions regardless of whether the customer swiped, tapped, or inserted their physical or digital card.
- PIN pad. Those who choose to insert or swipe their card rather than tap it must enter their PIN to authorize the payment.
- Display screen. The machine’s screen will display the transaction total and whether the payment is accepted or declined.
- Network connection. Your card machine must be connected to a 3G, 4G, 5G, or Wi-Fi network to send payment data to the processor to begin the authorization process.
- Printer. Many credit card terminals have built-in receipt printers, whilst others connect to external printers.
Most payment service providers offer a range of card machine solutions that differ in price, capabilities, processing speeds, and portability. This article will explore some of the best credit card machine solutions for 2025.
Best Credit Card Machine Solutions For 2025
Traditional credit card machines
If you have ever paid with a debit or credit card at a checkout counter, you have most likely encountered a traditional card machine. These machines are wired directly to your phone line or internet connection and can be connected to your point-of-sale (POS) software.
A traditional card machine may look slightly different depending on which provider/brand you get it from. However, the basic features will be the same, including an EMV chip reader, a magnetic stripe reader, a keypad, and a small screen.
In addition, modern traditional card machines will support near-field communication (NFC), so customers can make contactless transactions.
Traditional card machines are best for businesses that take customer payments in person or over the phone, such as a retail store or takeaway.
Wireless credit card machines
Wireless credit card machines are portable card readers, similar to a basic countertop machine, but without wires. They are built to process payments whilst on the go, anywhere within the range of a Wi-Fi, wireless cellular, or wired ethernet network.
Most wireless credit card machines support chip, swipe, and contactless payments. Some will feature built-in printers and POS features, while others must be connected to wireless printers and POS software.
Wireless card machines are best for businesses that take customer payments curbside or at the table, such as a food truck or restaurant.
POS systems with a card reader
Modern POS systems come with a wireless card reader, as well as a display screen, printer, cash drawer, and barcode scanner. This is great for businesses looking for an all-in-one solution.
POS hardware combines payment processing with software features, such as inventory management, sales tracking, employee management, customer management, and more.
In addition, some providers, such as Epos Now, offer all-in-one solutions with industry-specific features, like floor plan management and ingredient tracking for restaurants.
Mobile credit card readers
Mobile credit card readers, or mobile POS (mPOS), are small machines that are attached to smartphones or tablets, turning the device into a compact, portable credit card machine.
Businesses can use a mobile app to accept and process payments, whilst customers can still tap, swipe, or insert their credit card into the small machine attached to the back of the smartphone or tablet.
Mobile credit card readers are best for on-the-go businesses or those on a budget, such as market or event vendors and small businesses.
(Image Source: Vitag)
Ready To Choose The Best Credit Card Machine Solution For Your Business?
This article explored four credit card machine solutions you can choose from, but knowing which is best for your business size and type is essential. Here are some features you should consider:
- Portability. Consider a mobile or wireless solution if you need to accept payments around your store or outside it for events or markets.
- Cost. Consider the credit card machine’s upfront costs and ongoing transaction fees or monthly service charges.
- POS software. If you don’t opt for an all-in-one POS solution, then ensure your chosen credit card machine will integrate with your existing POS software.
With the customer experience becoming more important than ever, investing in a credit card machine solution that allows customers to pay using their favored payment method and one that will quickly process these payments is essential.
