The Best Small Card Machines in the UK for 2026

Here is our complete guide on the best small card machines in the UK, ideal for businesses on the move. We give you all the info you need, a fair comparison and rand how to get a FREE one on us.

Why Small Card Machines Matter

Portability and flexibility are crucial in 2026, especially for UK businesses that operate outside of traditional retail environments. Customers expect contactless payments, mobile wallet support and instant receipts wherever they go. A small, lightweight card machine that works wherever you are trading is no longer a luxury, it’s an absolute necessity.

The smallest portable card machines now offer features once reserved for high-end systems. You can manage refunds, access transaction reports, and switch between WiFi, 4G and even Bluetooth connectivity in seconds. These devices are increasingly used in sectors such as mobile grooming, event catering, food markets, home repair services, and more.

Businesses that adopt the latest technology not only stay compliant with evolving payment regulations but also appear more professional and trustworthy to customers. This is why selecting the right portable card reader is critical in 2026.

Tips For Connectivity & Mobile Coverage

Choosing a portable card machine is not just about hardware. It is also about staying connected no matter where your business takes you. Here are some useful connectivity tips:

Opt for a device that supports multi network roaming SIMs. These SIMs switch automatically to the strongest available signal whether you’re in a city centre or a rural field.
Make sure your device includes fallback options. This could be Bluetooth tethering or offline mode so you can still take payments and store them until connectivity resumes.
Consider using a 4G terminal with built-in data, especially if you operate at events, markets or customer homes.
Some advanced terminals also support WiFi and hotspot mode from your mobile phone if required, giving you multiple routes to stay online.

So Lets Start With The Best Small Card machines We Have Found For 2026

Shift4 SkyTab Solo

The Shift4 SkyTab Solo is one of the most advanced mobile card terminals available. It is a standalone device with its own built-in 4G SIM, making it perfect for food trucks, market stalls and mobile businesses who need to take payments anywhere in the UK.

Unlike other devices that rely on smartphones, this terminal is completely independent and includes a touchscreen, built-in printer, and extended battery life. Its flat rate of 1.25% per transaction with no other fees which makes it one of the most competitively priced for small businesses, with no hidden fees.

With the SkyTab Solo, Payments World can offer your first terminal completely free of charge, subject to terms. This offer is ideal for startups or businesses that want to avoid high upfront costs while still accessing enterprise-grade hardware.

Example: If you take £1,000 your fee will be £12.50

Our Rating: 9/10

Square Card Reader

The Square card reader remains one of the most recognisable compact payment devices. Known for its minimalist design, this reader is ideal for businesses looking for simplicity and ease of use. It connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth and works with the free Square app.

Its pricing is straightforward, with a flat rate of 1.75% per transaction. While the Square reader must be bought outright, it is often available for around £19, making it one of the most affordable entry points into mobile payments.

Although it relies on your smartphone for connectivity, it remains a solid option for sole traders and mobile professionals. It supports contactless, chip and PIN, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.

Example: If you take £1,000 your fee will be £17.50

Our Rating: 7/10

Sum Up Air

The SumUp Air has built a loyal following across the UK. It connects to your phone via Bluetooth and supports payments through contactless, chip and PIN and mobile wallets. It is battery-powered and extremely lightweight, which makes it well suited to micro-businesses and startups.

SumUp charges 1.69% per transaction, and the device itself usually costs around £29-£49. It does not support built-in 4G, so you’ll need a reliable smartphone with data to process transactions.

This device is best suited for indoor setups or urban areas where WiFi or mobile data is strong. For event vendors or rural traders, the lack of independent connectivity could be a drawback. However, for low-volume sellers, it remains an attractive solution due to its simplicity and price.

Example: If you take £1,000 your fee will be £16.90

Our Rating: 8/10

MyPos Go

The MyPOS Go is a highly portable terminal designed for on the go businesses. With a built-in 4G SIM, it does not require a smartphone or app to operate. MyPOS offers low transaction rates starting from 0.99%, but charges can increase depending on transfer preferences. The main downside is that MyPOS balances must be spent via their own prepaid card, or transferred out for a fee.

Despite that, MyPOS Go is great for couriers, taxi drivers, or freelance workers who value independence. The terminal includes a small screen, responsive keypad, and battery life suitable for an entire trading day.

Its all-in-one approach and competitive pricing make it a worthy consideration for cost-conscious businesses that still want full functionality.

Example: If you take £1,000 your fee will be £9.90* However be aware of transfer fees from their debit card to yours which is currently £1.50.

Our Rating: 7/10

Pax A77

The PAX A77 is a fully mobile, Android-based card machine that combines advanced functionality with compact design. With a sleek touchscreen, built in 4G and support for WiFi and Bluetooth, it performs like a smartphone but functions as a payment terminal.

Used by many of the UK’s top acquiring banks, including Barclays and Elavon, the A77 can achieve rates from 0.3% on debit card transactions depending on volume and provider. This device is perfect for salons, events and mobile professionals who want a premium terminal that fits in the palm of their hand.

Its Android operating system allows custom apps, live reporting, and deeper business integration, great for growing businesses with more complex needs.

Example: If you take £1,000 your fee could be as low as £3.00* However also factor in a monthly rental for the terminal which starts at about £15 or purchasing it outright for around £350.

Our Rating: 9/10

Clover Flex

The Clover Flex is more than a card machine it is a portable point of sale system in the palm of your hand. With SIM connectivity, WiFi support and mobile data access, you can trade almost anywhere in the UK (about 99% of it to be exact). The device includes a touchscreen, receipt printer and supports all major payment methods.

Beyond payments the Clover Flex offers features like inventory tracking, employee login, tip tracking and sales analytics. For food truck businesses that want to scale, manage staff, and track performance beyond just payments, this terminal delivers. The user interface is intuitive even for team members unfamiliar with card systems. Its versatility& mobility make it a smart investment for branded food trucks or multi location operations, again this machine has a battery life of around 8 hours too which makes it a solid choice for anyone out and about.

Example: If you take £1,000 your fee could be as low as £3.50* However also factor in a monthly rental for the terminal on a 36 month contract from around £15 per month or purchasing the device outright.

Our Rating: 9/10

Real World Uses For Small Card Machines

Taxi drivers benefit from portable terminals with built-in SIMs because they can take payments mid-journey. Food trucks operating at festivals need terminals that roam between different mobile networks. Tradespeople working in customer homes require reliable WiFi fallback or offline mode to ensure payment is not missed. Personal trainers, mobile beauticians, and local delivery drivers also rely on compact, dependable payment technology.

Each of the machines reviewed serves different types of traders, so choosing the right one depends on your location, connectivity, budget and how your customers prefer to pay.

Fee Comparison Table

Terminal	Card Rate	Cost	Connectivity	Needs App	SIM Support	Printer
Square Reader	1.75%	£19-£39	Bluetooth/Smartphone	Yes	No	No
SumUp Air	1.69%	£29-£49	Bluetooth/Smartphone	Yes	No	No
SkyTab Solo	1.25%	Free*	4G/WiFi	No	Yes	Yes
MyPOS Go	0.99% + transfers fees	£19-£49	4G	No	Yes	No
PAX A77	From 0.3%	From £15/month	4G/WiFi/Bluetooth	No	Yes	No

*SkyTab Solo available free for qualifying businesses via Payments World.

Why Choose Payments World for Mobile Card Machines

At Payments World, we understand that small businesses need more than just card machines, they need tailored support, low fees and flexibility. That is why we work with a wide range of acquiring banks to ensure you access the best rates and latest technology.

We do not lock you into one provider. Instead, we compare multiple offers based on your business type, turnover, and connectivity needs. This allows us to offer machines like the SkyTab Solo at no cost, or negotiate lower rates for terminals like the PAX A77 through trusted partners like Elavon or Barclays.

We offer hands on support with onboarding, setup, compliance, and growth strategy. Our clients get access to real time reporting, fast settlements, and the assurance that they are always on the best available terms.

And Finally..

Small businesses in 2026 need card machines that are fast, mobile, and built for how modern businesses operate. From taking payments in a car park to a pop up event or customer’s home, the ability to process card payments instantly and securely is no longer optional.

The five machines we covered are among the best available in the UK right now. Each offers a unique set of benefits, price points, and connectivity features. By choosing the right machine and working with Payments World, you ensure your business stays ahead of the curve.

Our mission is to make card payments simple, accessible and cost effective, no matter your size or sector. Get in touch with us today and find out which small card machine suits your business best.

Like this article? Why not check out our articles on The Best Card Machines For Food Trucks or How To Reduce Your Card Fees For Your Business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Card Machine Without a Phone?

Yes, devices like the SkyTab Solo, MyPOS Go and PAX A77 operate independently and are connected to 4G/5G with a SIM card covering over 99% of the UK.

Can I Get a Free Card Machine?

Yes, Payments World offers free SkyTab Solo terminals to qualifying businesses.

Do I Need a Merchant Account?

Not for all devices. Some like Square and SumUp are PayFacs and do their own acquiring but also have their own rules, we believe a merchant account through Payments World is ideal as we can set you up with your most suited payment processor to ensure smooth operation.

What Is The best Card Machine For Taxi Drivers

At Payments World We Believe either The Shift 4 SkyTab Solo or The PAX A77 are ideal, offering 4G connectivity and compact design. Drop us a message for our rates.

The Best Small Card Machines in the UK for 2026

Why Small Card Machines Matter

Tips For Connectivity & Mobile Coverage