What is mPOS? Taking card payments with a phone and a small reader
By SendPay Business · · 2 min read
mPOS stands for mobile point of sale. It means taking card payments with a phone or tablet, usually paired over Bluetooth with a small, pocket-sized card reader. Providers such as SumUp, Square and Zettle made it popular with market traders, tradespeople and pop-up shops.
How it works
- You download the provider's app and sign up for a merchant account with them.
- You pair the card reader with your phone or tablet.
- You type the amount into the app and the customer taps, inserts or swipes their card.
- The money is paid out to your bank account, usually within a few working days.
Who it suits
mPOS suits businesses that move around or take a modest number of card payments, because readers are cheap to buy and there is often no monthly fee. Busier shops and restaurants often move to a full till system with stock and staff tools.
Costs to compare
- The price of the reader.
- The fee on each payment, often a percentage.
- Any monthly fee or minimum.
- How quickly payouts reach your bank.
Where SendPay fits
SendPay doesn't offer card machines or acquiring. SendPay platforms let you get paid with payment links, invoices and subscriptions, alongside GBP, EUR and USD accounts and branded Visa cards, powered by licensed partners.
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Build my platform →Questions people ask
Is a mobile card reader cheaper than a terminal for me?
Put both deals and your takings into the free calculator to see the yearly cost.
Card machine cost calculator →What is a payment terminal?
A device that reads cards and sends payments for approval.
Payment terminals →How do contactless payments work?
A card or phone sends payment details to a reader by short-range radio.
Contactless payments →Read next
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.