The market is full of point-of-sale payment terminal options. Here’s how some of the most popular and capable models in the UK stack up
Whether you’re a small business owner or a large retailer, the right payment terminal can make all the difference in streamlining your transactions and enhancing the customer experience. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best one for your needs? In this guide, we’ll delve into the key considerations and provide a comparative overview of some of the top card payment terminals in the market.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Payment Terminal
Security: The terminal needs to be compliant with the latest security standards, such as a PCI PTS 5.0 certification to ensure that your customers’ card details are protected.
Mobility: Depending on your business type, you might need a terminal that supports on-the-go payments via mobile data or wifi, especially if you’re in the delivery, event or transportation sector.
Costs: While it’s essential to invest in a quality terminal, it’s equally important to ensure that the costs align with your budget. The cost of payment processing should also be considered.
Connectivity: Look for terminals that offer multiple connectivity options like 4G, 3G, WiFi, and Bluetooth to ensure uninterrupted transactions.
Battery Life: For businesses that can’t remain stationary or businesses that want a reliable battery backup in the event of a power outage, a terminal with a long-lasting battery is crucial.
Supported Payment Methods: A modern terminal must support alternative payment methods alongside credit and debit card payments. Alternatives like real-time bank transfers, Apple Pay, Google Pay and other eWallets give more customers the ability to buy from you and improve customer experiences. Look for a terminal that supports NFC payments, EMV Chip & PIN, magstripe and digital wallets.
Rapyd’s Comparison of the UK’s Best Payment Terminals
Ingenico Move/3500
Overview: A hyper-connected terminal with a well-rounded feature set that can meet the needs of businesses that require a mobile solution without sacrificing features. The Ingenico Move 3500 is a well-rounded portable terminal that’s forward-compatible with future security standards.
Pros:
- Robust support for alternative payment methods
- Seamless NFC payment experience
- Compact and portable design
- 3.2’’ color touchscreen with an ergonomic interface
- Long-lasting battery, up to 2900mAh.
- Pocket-sized and easy to carry
Cons:
- Battery life is shorter than larger models
- Small size can make it difficult to use in fixed settings
- Small screen compared to other models
Specs
- 3.2’’ color touchscreen and ergonomic
- interface
- Payment anywhere and anytime
- 4G, 3G, GPRS, Dual SIM, Bluetooth and WiFi
- Multiple alternative payment methods
- supported
- EMV Chip & PIN, contactless, magstripe or
- digital wallets
- Fast integrated printer
- Long-lasting battery for the lengthy working day
- (up to 2900mAh)
- PCI PTS compliance
PAX A50
Overview: A compact payment smartphone designed for various industries, including fashion and retail, food and beverage, and transportation.
The A50 is a slim and sleek mobile payment solution. At just 12mm thick, it comfortably fits in your pocket and can be easily carried all day. Weighing just 163g, the A50 delivers a full-featured and secure Android-powered payment terminal in a lightweight, and sophisticated package that elevates the look of any establishment.
Pros
- Lightweight and sleek design
- Powered by Android 8.1 or 10
- 4.5-inch IPS colour display
- Multiple connectivity options
- Inbuilt GPS and optional camera features
- Rear and optional front camera
Cons:
- Battery capacity might be lower than other models
- Touch screen only
Specs
- Powered by Android 8.1 or 10
- Cortex-A53, 1,4GHZ
- 3.8V, 2500 mAh battery
- 4.5-inch IPS colour display
- 4G + WiFi + Bluetooth 4.2
- 2MP fixed focus rear camera (optional 8MP)
- Optional front 2MP camera
- Inbuilt GPS
- PCI PTS 5.x (Android 8.1) or 6.x (Android 10) SRED
PAX A77
Overview: A stylish payment smartphone with a professional barcode scanner. The A77 is sleek and powerful and with an optional bar code scanner, long-lasting battery, large screen and support for the latest payment methods, including QR codes, it’s a great all around option for any business that needs a full-featured payment terminal.
Pros:
- Large 5.5-inch color touchscreen
- Dual cameras for versatile use
- Ergonomic design for easy handling
- Powerful battery life with 5250mAh capacity
- Optional professional scanner
Cons:
- Might be heavier than some other models
- Touch screen only
Specs
- Android 8.1 OS
- 4G + WiFi + Bluetooth
- Contactless + Chip & PIN + magstripe
- 5.5-inch color touchscreen
- 3.8V/5250mAh rechargeable battery
- 2MP front & 5MP rear camera with option to upgrade
- Optional professional scanner
- USB type-C charging port
- Optional docking station
- PCI PTS 5.x. SRED
A920Pro
Overview: The PAX A920 Pro is an upgraded version of the popular PAX A920 terminal, boasting a sleek and ergonomic design. This mobile device is versatile, allowing users to swipe, dip, or tap cards and accept alternative payment methods. It offers wireless connectivity options, including 4G, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. The device also features a large screen, front and rear-facing cameras, and is powered by Android. The PAX A920 Pro terminal is more than just a payment device. It’s capable of providing a comprehensive point-of-sale solution for businesses, especially those that require mobility.
Pros:
- The Pro version has a larger screen, faster performance, long-lasting battery and an optional professional infrared barcode scanner
- The device offers a large screen and intuitive interface for customers
- Comes with both front and rear-facing cameras
- Despite its compact size, it can function as a complete Point of Sale system, printing out inventory products, generating reports, and more
Cons:
- Cost more compared to standard desktop terminals but offers more features
- Touch screen only
Specs
- Powered by Android 8.1 or 10
- Cortex A53 processor
- 5.5″ capacitive touchscreen
- 4G + WiFi + Bluetooth
- Contactless + chip & PIN + magstripe
- PIN on glass technology
- 5MP front + 8MP rear camera
- Professional scanner
- 5150mAh / 3.7V long-lasting battery
- Fast-speed printer
- PCI PTS 5.x (Android 8.1) or 6.x (Android 10) SRED
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