8 Best Credit Card Readers for Small Business (2025)

Why I chose Clover Compact

Clover Compact came out as the best overall standalone credit card reader because it balances powerful features, durability, and ease of use. I like that it offers excellent hardware features while providing reliable payment processing and a good user experience. 

It is the only device on this list that has a built-in tactile PIN pad. Although its screen is smaller than other readers, it is splash- and scratch-proof, and while it lacks full POS functions like inventory management, its all-in-one design with a built-in printer still outperforms smaller, more limited readers.

Unlike the Clover Flex, which is more mobile-focused, the Compact is a sturdier countertop option—ideal for businesses that need a dedicated payment station without taking up too much space. It also supports multiple payment methods, making it a great fit for various industries. After reviewing multiple card readers, I found that Clover Compact strikes the best balance between functionality, durability, and ease of use.

Why I chose Clover Flex

Clover Flex stood out as the best credit card reader with a full POS function because it offers more than just payment processing—it provides a complete POS experience in a handheld device. I like that it includes a built-in receipt printer, barcode scanner, and inventory management tools, making it far more capable than simpler readers like Clover Compact, SumUp Solo, or Zettle Terminal.

Unlike Square Terminal, which is more countertop-focused, Clover Flex offers 4G and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing businesses to accept payments anywhere. The offline mode is also a big plus, ensuring smooth transactions even during internet disruptions.

While it comes at a higher cost than basic card readers, I found that the robust feature set and seamless integration with larger POS systems make it a smart investment for growing businesses that need an all-in-one mobile payment solution.

Why I chose Square Register

Square Register is the only credit card reader on this list with a dual-screen design, making it the best choice for businesses that want a dedicated countertop POS with seamless customer interaction. I like that it provides a professional, all-in-one solution without requiring extra hardware or software subscriptions. Unlike the Clover Flex, which also has full POS functionality and a single screen, Square Register allows customers to review transactions and complete payments independently, speeding up the checkout process.

Compared to Square Terminal, which is more compact and portable, Square Register is better suited for businesses with multiple staff handling transactions at a fixed counter. It offers a fully integrated POS experience with inventory, reporting, and employee management tools—all without monthly software fees. While Clover devices provide similar functionality, they may come with varying pricing structures and may have recurring fees, whereas Square provides a more straightforward, all-in-one system with transparent pricing, no monthly software costs, and no long-term contracts.

For businesses that want a modern, user-friendly, and cost-effective dual-screen POS, Square Register is the best option available.

Why I chose Square Terminal

Square Terminal stands out for its compact design and comprehensive user-friendly ecosystem. It is cost-effective with its low device cost and zero monthly fees, making it the best credit card reader for new businesses. Its all-in-one design includes a built-in receipt printer and robust inventory management capabilities, making it more affordable than full-fledged POS systems like the Square Register and easy for businesses to get started without additional equipment. 

I like that it works effortlessly with other Square hardware and software, allowing businesses to scale up easily as they grow. Plus, with transparent pricing and no monthly software fees, it’s an excellent choice for businesses that need a reliable, cost-effective payment solution without hidden costs.

Why I chose Toast Go

Toast Go stands out as the best handheld POS for restaurants because of its restaurant-specific design and deep integration with a full restaurant management system. Its durability, long battery life, and offline mode make it a reliable choice for fast-paced food service environments.

I find it especially suitable for businesses needing a handheld POS with tableside ordering. While Square and Clover offer restaurant-focused POS plans, Toast Go 2 is built specifically for restaurant operations. Unlike general-purpose mobile POS devices, it’s spill-proof, dust-proof, and drop-proof—essential for high-volume restaurants where accidents are common.

Its fully integrated system, which includes a kitchen display system, online ordering, team management, and inventory tracking, helps streamline operations better than most standalone payment devices. Plus, the pay-as-you-go plan with no upfront hardware cost makes it a budget-friendly option for restaurants looking for flexibility without a major investment.

Why I chose SumUp Solo

SumUp Solo is the best option for businesses that need a simple, ultra-portable card reader without monthly fees. I like that it offers a sleek, modern design with an intuitive touchscreen, making it one of the easiest card readers to use. Unlike more complex systems like Clover and Square, SumUp Solo focuses purely on payment acceptance, making it ideal for small businesses, mobile vendors, and solo entrepreneurs who don’t need a full POS system.

Compared to other readers on this list, SumUp Solo is the most lightweight and compact, making it a great choice for businesses constantly on the move. While the main unit lacks a built-in receipt printer, purchasing the combined dick and printer still makes it cheaper than other readers on this list. It also lacks advanced inventory tools but its affordability and pay-as-you-go pricing model make it a great entry-level option for those who want a no-frills, cost-effective way to accept card payments.

Why I chose PayPal Zettle

The PayPal Zettle Terminal works seamlessly with PayPal and Venmo transactions, making it an excellent choice for businesses already utilizing these platforms. Its low processing fees and the inclusion of a pre-loaded SIM card at no extra cost enhance its value. Although Clover Flex processes PayPal and Venmo payments, it requires a higher Clover paid subscription. 

The terminal’s built-in barcode scanner and optional charging dock with a built-in receipt printer provide essential functionality for retail environments. Among the card readers on this list, the PayPal Zettle Terminal has the lowest flat-rate processing fees. I think this combination of affordability, ease of use, and specialized payment acceptance makes the Zettle Terminal particularly advantageous for businesses looking to streamline their payment processing with PayPal and Venmo.

Why I chose Helcim Smart Terminal

The Helcim Smart Terminal is the only card reader on this list that offers a transparent interchange-plus pricing model, which offers small businesses a clear and competitive fee structure. It is also included in our list of the best mobile credit card processing solutions and the cheapest credit card processing providers. 

Its built-in receipt printer and automatic volume discounts provide added value, particularly for growing businesses. It also has a surcharging option which allows merchants to pass processing fees to customers, reducing costs. 

Additionally, Helcim’s terminal supports inventory tracking and employee log-ins, enhancing operational efficiency. The competitive pricing, combined with zero monthly fees and surcharging options, makes this credit card reader among the most cost-effective for small businesses.