What is a payment terminal? How card machines work
By SendPay Business · · 2 min read
A payment terminal, or card machine, is the device a customer taps, inserts or swipes their card on to pay in person. It reads the card securely and sends the payment for approval.
The main types
- Countertop terminals connected to a till or the internet.
- Portable terminals that move around a shop or restaurant.
- Mobile card readers that pair with a phone or tablet.
- Tap to pay apps that turn a phone into a reader.
How a payment goes through
The terminal reads the card, asks the card issuer to approve the payment through the card scheme, and shows the result in seconds. The money reaches the business later, when the payment settles.
What they cost
Costs can include buying or renting the device, a fee on each payment, and sometimes a monthly charge. Compare the total over a year, not just the headline rate.
Where SendPay fits
SendPay does not sell card machines. For businesses that don't need one, SendPay platforms include payment links and invoicing under your own brand, powered by licensed partners.
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How do I compare card machine deals?
Put both deals and your takings into the free calculator to see the yearly cost.
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This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. SendPay Business is a technology company, not a bank, and does not take deposits; regulated services on the platforms are provided by licensed partners. PayPal, Patreon and Substack are named as reference points only and are not affiliated with SendPay Business.