Which card terminal is right for your business?

Every business – even those trading within the same sector - operates differently. It’s the reason why there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to card terminals. A fixed countertop terminal might be ideal for one clothes retailer, but it might be wholly unsuitable for another.

However, with a range of available devices, it can be difficult to know which is right for your business. No matter if you have a physical store or work on the go, this guide can help you. It will show you which card terminal is best for your needs.

Some things are universal

All Clear Business terminals accept major credit and debit cards. This includes Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. They also accept Android and Apple Pay. This makes payments easier for you.

Each terminal has a PIN shield and a fast receipt printer. This helps your customers feel safer when paying for your products or services.

From here, each card terminal is different and offers different features. Let’s look at each one and see which is best placed to help your business process customer payments most efficiently. 

Countertop card terminals

Prefer to keep your terminal in a fixed position? Our standard countertop device sits at your checkout. It connects through your phone or broadband line, making it a reliable choice.

This is ideal for busy retail stores. It helps them take payments from one place. It is also good for service businesses. This includes salons and car garages. They usually take most payments in person.

Ideal for: Businesses operating from a fixed checkout, e.g. retail businesses, mechanics, and beauty salons.

Portable card terminals

Do you have premises where there’s no fixed transaction area? Do you want the flexibility of using your terminal in any part of your premises?

If the answer to both of these questions is yes, then the portable terminal is the best fit for you. Portable terminals use Bluetooth, broadband, or Wi-Fi. This allows you to move around your store. You can accept payments from customers anywhere.

Ideal for: The hospitality sector, including restaurants, pubs, and cafés. Portable terminals let you take payments at the table. This saves customers from waiting in line at the bar and reception areas.

Mobile GPRS card terminals

What if your business isn't run from fixed premises at all? What if much of your work is mobile, or you regularly attend trade shows and corporate events? We’ve got you covered.

Our mobile GPRS terminals allow you to take your business to wherever your customers are in the country. The GPRS SIM card fits the terminal, enabling you to accept payments anywhere within the UK. It has a built-in rechargeable battery. You won't need to worry about it running out while you are travelling.

Remember, using mobile GPRS for card payments can be difficult if you're in an area with weak or no mobile signal. If you plan to trade often from one location, check the signal strength first. This is important before using a mobile GPRS terminal.

Ideal for: On-the-go businesses, such as tradespeople, food trucks, and mobile vendors.

All card terminals require an internet connection. Suppose you want to upgrade your card terminals or start using card payments for the first time but are worried your broadband might not be up to the job. We offer superfast full fibre business broadband. This ensures your internet connection is reliable and efficient, just like your payment processing.