Mobile card readers
Compact readers that pair with a phone or tablet — the lowest-cost way to start accepting cards in person.
A reader is cheap; the question is whether it is yours to keep when you change processor.
Small hardware, real card-present rates
A pocket reader gives you the same card-present transaction treatment as a full countertop terminal, which is the point. It suits low volume, seasonal trading, market stalls and businesses testing whether card acceptance changes their average sale before committing to fixed hardware.
How the setup works for your account
Bluetooth pairing
Connects to an iOS or Android device running the payment app.
Chip and contactless
Dipped chip cards and tapped cards and wallets, on a device that fits in an apron pocket.
Multi-day battery
Typical readers last through several trading days on a charge, depending on volume.
Low entry cost
Hardware cost is minimal compared with a full terminal or POS system.
Where readers work well
Markets and events
Short trading windows, no fixed counter, no power outlet.
Mobile trades
Plumbers, groomers, technicians — take the card before leaving the job.
Second till
Add a reader for overflow at busy periods rather than buying another terminal.
Common questions
The reader uses your phone's connection, so yes — the phone needs mobile data or Wi-Fi.
Not because it is a reader. Rates depend on how the card is presented, and a dipped or tapped card on a reader is still card-present.
Most readers send digital receipts. A small Bluetooth printer can be added if you need paper.
See what your processing should actually cost
Send a recent statement, or your monthly volume and average ticket. You get a written breakdown back — no commitment.