For most small businesses, the Square Terminal is the best overall fit among these portable card readers: it combines a built-in screen, payment processing, and receipt printing in one device. The Square Reader for Contactless and Chip is a simpler choice for sellers who already use a compatible phone or tablet, while the SumUp Solo Card Reader with Charging Station suits businesses that want a dedicated reader without a full POS terminal. The main tradeoff is between low-complexity, phone-connected readers and standalone machines with more hardware, setup, and payment tools. This guide compares all 14 options by portability, operating needs, and how well each fits everyday small-business workflows. Read on for the full breakdown and help choosing a reader for your setup.
Get office and shipping supplies delivered free — and shop member deals
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Access to Prime Big Deal Days deals on October 6–7
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
Key Takeaways
- Standalone terminals reduce reliance on a phone. Square Terminal and SumUp Solo bundle payment functions into dedicated hardware, while compact Bluetooth readers need a compatible mobile device.
- A printer changes the portability equation. The P3, SumUp Solo bundle, and several POS terminals can support printed receipts, but added hardware makes them less pocketable than a basic card reader.
- Square Reader for Contactless and Chip is the simplest small-format pick. It keeps the hardware light, but businesses need a separate phone or tablet for the checkout interface.
- The lineup includes several similar Clover Go options. Buyers should verify the exact model and included hardware before ordering rather than assuming every listing has the same reader or setup.
- Choose hardware for the whole checkout, not just card acceptance. Barcode scanning, receipt printing, and touchscreen controls matter most when they reduce extra devices or speed up regular sales.
| P3 Portable Credit Card Terminal with Wi-Fi, 4G LTE, and Receipt Printer |  | Best for Mobile Sellers Who Need Printed Receipts | Connectivity: Wi-Fi and 4G LTE | Battery: Removable 2600mAh lithium polymer | Operating system: Android 11 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Square Reader for Contactless and Chip (2nd Generation) |  | Best for Phone-Based Businesses | Compatible devices: Android and iPhone | Connectivity: Bluetooth | Power source: Battery powered | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SumUp Solo Card Reader and Printer Bundle |  | Best for Printed Receipts and Mobile Data | Model: SumUp Solo | Included items: Card reader and printer | Payment types: Chip, contactless, Google Pay, Apple Pay | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SumUp Plus Bluetooth Card Reader for Smartphones |  | Best for a Minimal Smartphone Setup | Connectivity: Bluetooth | Compatible devices: Smartphones and tablets | Operating systems: iOS and Android | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Square Terminal Credit Card Machine and Mobile POS |  | Best for All-in-One Counter and Floor Checkout | Functions: Accepts payments and prints receipts | Accepted payment methods: Major credit and debit cards | Battery: Built-in; designed to last all day | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 8 Seconds Processing P1 Touchscreen POS Terminal with Receipt Printer |  | Best for Fixed Checkout Counters | Display: 5-inch HD touchscreen | Operating system: Android | Payment methods: Tap, EMV chip, magnetic stripe, and mobile wallets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| P5 Compact Mobile POS Card Reader with Touchscreen and Barcode Scanner |  | Best for Mobile Retail and Inventory | Processor: 2.0 GHz quad-core | Operating system: Android | Memory: 1 GB RAM, 8 GB ROM | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Square Reader for Magstripe (USB-C) |  | Best Lightweight Starter for Magstripe | Connectivity: USB Type-C | Compatible devices: Apple and Android devices with a USB-C connector | Payment method: Magstripe | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Clover Go (3rd Generation) Mobile POS System |  | Best for Smartphone-Based Staff Checkout | Generation: 3rd | Connectivity: Bluetooth | Processing requirement: SwyftPAY | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SumUp Touch POS Terminal with Card Reader and Receipt Printer |  | Best for All-Day Standalone Checkout | Screen: 6.5-inch HD touchscreen with Corning Gorilla Glass | Printer: Built-in 40 mm thermal printer | Connectivity: Wi-Fi and mobile data via included SIM | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Square Handheld Portable POS Payment Terminal |  | Best for Tableside Selling | Device type: Portable POS payment terminal | Functions: Accepts payments, takes orders, and scans barcodes | Design: Slim, pocketable, lightweight, with a comfortable grip | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SumUp Solo Credit Card Reader with Charging Station |  | Best for Standalone Connectivity | Display: OLED touchscreen | Connectivity: Wi-Fi and mobile data | SIM card: Included | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Clover Go Mobile POS System |  | Best for Staff and Tax Controls | Connectivity: Bluetooth | Package dimensions: 5.28 x 4.8 x 1.65 inches | Weight: 5.6 ounces | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Clover Go Contactless Reader – EMV/Chip Ready – No Merchant Account Required |  | Best for Lightweight Tap and Chip Acceptance | Package dimensions: 4.6 x 3.4 x 1.8 inches | Item weight: 4.8 ounces | Manufacturer: Clover | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| portable card readers for small businesse | Connectivity |
|---|---|
| P3 Portable Credit Card Termin | Wi-Fi and 4G LTE |
| Square Reader for Contactless | Bluetooth |
| SumUp Solo Card Reader and Pri | Wi-Fi and mobile data |
| SumUp Plus Bluetooth Card Read | Bluetooth |
| Square Terminal Credit Card Ma | — |
| 8 Seconds Processing P1 Touchs | Ethernet, Wi-Fi, 4G LTE, Bluetooth, and USB |
| P5 Compact Mobile POS Card Rea | 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth |
| Square Reader for Magstripe | USB Type-C |
| Clover Go | Bluetooth |
| SumUp Touch POS Terminal with | Wi-Fi and mobile data via included SIM |
| Square Handheld Portable POS P | — |
| SumUp Solo Credit Card Reader | Wi-Fi and mobile data |
| Clover Go Mobile POS System | Bluetooth |
| Clover Go Contactless Reader | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
P3 Portable Credit Card Terminal with Wi-Fi, 4G LTE, and Receipt Printer
The P3 suits small businesses that need a standalone-feeling payment terminal for stalls, events, or service calls. Its Wi-Fi and 4G LTE give it more connection options than the Square Reader for Contactless and Chip (2nd Generation), which relies on a paired phone or tablet. The P3 also takes chip, tap, magnetic stripe, and mobile wallet payments, then prints receipts from its built-in thermal printer—a useful combination when customers expect paper copies and carrying a separate printer would be inconvenient.
That all-in-one setup comes with tradeoffs: the removable battery is rated at 2600mAh, but no runtime is specified, and LTE use depends on local coverage. Compared with the SumUp Solo Card Reader and Printer Bundle, the P3 integrates its printer into the terminal rather than pairing two devices, but the supplied details do not specify receipt capacity per charge.
Pros:- Accepts tap, chip, magnetic stripe, and mobile wallet payments
- Wi-Fi and 4G LTE offer more connection options for mobile selling
- Built-in thermal printer handles paper receipts without a separate printer
- Combines a touchscreen with a physical keypad
Cons:- Battery runtime is not specified, despite the stated 2600mAh capacity
- 4G LTE connectivity depends on coverage where the business operates
Best for: Market vendors and mobile service businesses that want a single device for card acceptance and printed receipts, with Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity options.
Not ideal for: Businesses that need a documented all-day battery runtime or rely on cellular coverage that may be weak at their selling locations.
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi and 4G LTE
- Battery:Removable 2600mAh lithium polymer
- Operating system:Android 11
- Processor:Quad-core 1.5GHz
- Display:5-inch HD IPS touchscreen
- Printer:Built-in 2-inch thermal printer, 70mm/s
- Payment methods:NFC, EMV chip, magnetic stripe, Apple Pay, Google Wallet, Samsung Pay
- Keypad:Physical keypad
Our verdict“Choose the P3 if you want a single portable terminal with broad payment acceptance and built-in receipt printing, and can work with its unspecified battery runtime.”
Square Reader for Contactless and Chip (2nd Generation)
This reader keeps portable payments simple: pair it over Bluetooth with an Android phone or iPhone and accept contactless or chip payments, including Apple Pay and Google Pay. It is a more compact, phone-dependent approach than the P3 Portable Credit Card Terminal, which has its own touchscreen, keypad, and receipt printer. That makes the Square Reader a better fit for a business that already uses a smartphone at checkout and does not need a dedicated terminal.
Its offline payments for up to 24 hours can help keep sales moving through a temporary connection outage, while the battery-powered design avoids a cable during service. The tradeoff is that the phone remains part of the checkout setup, and this reader does not include a printer. Choose the Square Terminal instead if you want an all-in-one payment and receipt device rather than a small reader paired with a phone.
Pros:- Accepts contactless and chip payments, including Apple Pay and Google Pay
- Bluetooth connection works with compatible Android and iPhone devices
- Supports offline payments for up to 24 hours
- Battery-powered design supports cordless checkout
Cons:- Requires a compatible phone or tablet to operate
- Does not include a receipt printer or a standalone terminal display
Best for: Solo operators and small teams already using an Android phone or iPhone who want a compact reader for chip and contactless transactions.
Not ideal for: Businesses that want a self-contained terminal, printed receipts from the payment device, or checkout without a compatible phone or tablet.
- Compatible devices:Android and iPhone
- Connectivity:Bluetooth
- Power source:Battery powered
- Battery:One included lithium-ion battery
- Offline payments:Up to 24 hours
- Accepted payments:Contactless, chip cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay
Our verdict“Pick this Square Reader if you already have a compatible phone and want a small, cordless way to accept chip and contactless payments.”
SumUp Solo Card Reader and Printer Bundle
The Solo bundle is a strong match for small businesses that want a touchscreen reader and portable receipt printer but prefer a paired setup over an integrated terminal. It accepts chip and contactless payments, including Apple Pay and Google Pay, and connects using Wi-Fi or included mobile data. Its printer can produce up to 800 receipts per charge and double as a battery pack, giving it a clear paper-receipt advantage over the phone-dependent Square Reader for Contactless and Chip (2nd Generation), which has no printer.
The compromise is carrying and managing two pieces of hardware rather than the P3’s single device with an integrated printer. The bundle also requires the SumUp app, and the listed transaction fee means payment costs form part of the ongoing setup. I’d favor the Solo bundle over the SumUp Plus Bluetooth Card Reader when printed receipts and mobile data matter more than keeping the kit minimal.
Pros:- Bundle includes a touchscreen card reader and portable thermal printer
- Wi-Fi and included mobile data provide two connectivity options
- Printer supports up to 800 receipts per charge
- Printer can also function as a battery pack
Cons:- Requires the SumUp app for payment management
- Reader and printer are separate pieces of hardware to carry
- A transaction fee applies to each payment
Best for: Pop-up shops and mobile businesses that regularly issue printed receipts and want Wi-Fi plus mobile data connectivity.
Not ideal for: Sellers who want the smallest possible setup, do not need paper receipts, or would rather avoid using the SumUp app.
- Model:SumUp Solo
- Included items:Card reader and printer
- Payment types:Chip, contactless, Google Pay, Apple Pay
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi and mobile data
- Printer type:Thermal, monochrome
- Printer resolution:203 dpi, black and white
- Receipts per charge:Up to 800
- Printer weight:16 ounces
Our verdict“Choose the Solo bundle if your business needs printed receipts and mobile data in a portable kit, and accepts carrying a separate printer.”
SumUp Plus Bluetooth Card Reader for Smartphones
The SumUp Plus is the leanest choice here for a small business that already has a smartphone or tablet and wants to accept cards on the move. Its Bluetooth connection links the reader to an iOS or Android device running the free SumUp app, avoiding the cost and bulk of a dedicated terminal. Compared with the SumUp Solo Card Reader and Printer Bundle, this model keeps the kit simpler because it does not add a printer; compared with the Square Reader for Contactless and Chip, it offers the same phone-paired approach but belongs to SumUp’s app and payment setup.
That compactness means the phone is essential to taking payments, and there is no built-in receipt printer. The listed per-transaction fee also matters to businesses processing frequent sales. I’d choose this over the P3 when minimizing dedicated hardware matters more than cellular connectivity, a screen, keypad, or printed receipts.
Pros:- Bluetooth pairing supports iOS and Android smartphones and tablets
- Small, phone-based setup is suited to taking payments away from a counter
- Works with the free SumUp app
- No long-term contracts or hidden fees are listed
Cons:- Requires a compatible smartphone or tablet and the SumUp app
- No receipt printer or standalone screen is included
- A fee applies to each in-person transaction
Best for: Independent tradespeople, market sellers, and appointment-based businesses that already carry an iOS or Android phone and want a lightweight card reader.
Not ideal for: Businesses that need a standalone terminal, built-in receipt printing, or payment acceptance without relying on a smartphone or tablet.
- Connectivity:Bluetooth
- Compatible devices:Smartphones and tablets
- Operating systems:iOS and Android
- Weight:142 g
- Items included:One card reader
- Model:SumUp Plus Card Reader
- Color:White
- Transaction fee:2.6% + 10 per in-person transaction
Our verdict“Choose the SumUp Plus if your phone already handles the rest of your mobile checkout and you want to keep dedicated payment hardware to a minimum.”
Square Terminal Credit Card Machine and Mobile POS
The Square Terminal is the most direct choice in this group for a small business that wants to take payments and print receipts from one device. Its built-in battery is designed to last all day, so staff can move it from the counter to a customer elsewhere in the store without staying tethered to a power outlet. Chip transactions process in about two seconds, a practical advantage when a line is forming. Unlike the Square Reader for Contactless and Chip (2nd Generation), it does not depend on a paired phone as the main payment device, and it combines checkout with receipt printing.
The tradeoff is that the supplied information is less specific about its accepted payment types and connectivity than it is for the P3, which lists Wi-Fi, 4G LTE, tap, chip, and magnetic stripe support. The Square Terminal also has a built-in rather than removable battery. I’d favor it for a store needing portable checkout and paper receipts, but choose a compact reader if minimizing equipment is the priority.
Pros:- Combines payment acceptance and receipt printing in one device
- Built-in battery is designed to last all day
- Can be used at a counter or around the store
- Chip card payments process in about two seconds
Cons:- The battery is built in rather than described as removable
- Product details do not specify connectivity options or a detailed list of accepted payment types
Best for: Small retail and food businesses that need a cordless checkout device staff can carry around the store and use to print receipts.
Not ideal for: Businesses that want a small reader paired with a phone, or need detailed confirmation of connectivity and specific payment methods before choosing.
- Functions:Accepts payments and prints receipts
- Accepted payment methods:Major credit and debit cards
- Battery:Built-in; designed to last all day
- Chip card processing:About two seconds
- Fund availability:As soon as the next business day
Our verdict“Choose the Square Terminal if you want one cordless device for in-store payments and printed receipts rather than a phone-paired reader.”
8 Seconds Processing P1 Touchscreen POS Terminal with Receipt Printer
The P1 suits a small business that wants a complete checkout station rather than a pocket-sized reader. Its touchscreen and physical keypad give staff two ways to enter or confirm information, while the built-in thermal printer handles paper receipts without a separate device. Support for tap, chip, magnetic stripe, and mobile wallets covers a broad mix of customer payment habits. Compared with the Square Reader for Magstripe (USB-C), the P1 is far more self-contained, but it is also much less convenient to carry around and requires counter space. Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and 4G LTE offer fallback connection options, though the listing describes it as designed for fixed checkout locations. Choose it for a staffed counter; skip it if you need a genuinely handheld checkout setup.
Pros:- Accepts tap, EMV chip, magnetic stripe, and mobile wallet payments
- Built-in thermal printer produces paper receipts at the counter
- Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and 4G LTE provide several connection choices
- Combines a touchscreen with a physical keypad
Cons:- Countertop-oriented design is less practical for mobile checkout
- No battery-powered operation is listed
- A one-year warranty may be limiting for businesses seeking longer coverage
Best for: Small retailers and service businesses that run checkout from a fixed counter and want an integrated printer, keypad, and multiple payment methods.
Not ideal for: Market vendors, delivery businesses, and staff who need to take payments while moving around; this terminal is designed for countertop use.
- Display:5-inch HD touchscreen
- Operating system:Android
- Payment methods:Tap, EMV chip, magnetic stripe, and mobile wallets
- Connectivity:Ethernet, Wi-Fi, 4G LTE, Bluetooth, and USB
- Printer:Built-in thermal receipt printer
- Weight:408 g
- Dimensions:2 x 4 x 10 in (D x W x H)
- Warranty:1 year
Our verdict“Choose the P1 for a fixed checkout counter that needs broad payment acceptance and an integrated receipt printer, not for roaming sales.”
P5 Compact Mobile POS Card Reader with Touchscreen and Barcode Scanner
The P5 is the most task-focused handheld option here: its barcode scanner adds inventory and item lookup uses to payment taking, which can help small retailers serve customers away from a fixed till. It also combines a touchscreen, keypad, thermal printer, and battery power, so staff can handle a sale without assembling a phone-and-reader setup. Wi-Fi and 4G LTE give it more independent connectivity than the Clover Go (3rd Generation) Mobile POS System, which relies on a smartphone connection. That added capability comes with limits: the P5 has 1 GB of RAM and 8 GB of storage, and it requires a merchant account and payment gateway. It makes most sense when scanning stock is part of daily checkout, rather than for a business that only needs a simple card reader.
Pros:- Integrated barcode scanner supports item lookup and inventory tasks
- Battery-powered handheld design supports checkout away from a counter
- Accepts NFC contactless, EMV chip, and digital wallet payments
- Includes a touchscreen, physical keypad, and thermal printer
Cons:- Requires a merchant account and payment gateway
- 1 GB RAM and 8 GB storage limit available memory and onboard space
- A built-in printer and scanner make it more equipment-heavy than a basic reader
Best for: Small retailers, pop-up shops, and service teams that need to scan items, check out customers away from a counter, and print receipts.
Not ideal for: Businesses seeking a low-complexity reader for occasional payments or those unwilling to arrange a merchant account and payment gateway.
- Processor:2.0 GHz quad-core
- Operating system:Android
- Memory:1 GB RAM, 8 GB ROM
- Connectivity:4G LTE, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth
- Payment methods:NFC contactless, EMV chip cards, and digital wallets
- Built-in features:Barcode scanner, physical keypad, thermal printer, and touchscreen
- Power source:Battery powered
- Weight:408 g
- Warranty:1 year
Our verdict“Pick the P5 if mobile checkout and barcode-based retail tasks belong in the same handheld device.”
Square Reader for Magstripe (USB-C)
This Square reader is a minimal, phone-connected option for businesses that mainly need to take magstripe payments through the Square POS app. At just 6.53 g, it is easy to keep in a pocket or small kit, and the app adds sales tracking, inventory tools, tips, and digital receipts without requiring a larger terminal. The tradeoff is a narrower payment method range: unlike the 8 Seconds Processing P1, it does not list tap, chip, or mobile wallet acceptance. It also depends on a compatible Apple or Android device with a USB-C port, so buyers should check their phone or tablet before choosing it. This is a straightforward fit for Square users whose customers can pay by magnetic stripe, but not for businesses that need broader card acceptance or standalone operation.
Pros:- Very light at 6.53 g and easy to carry with a mobile device
- Works with the Square POS app on compatible Apple and Android devices
- App includes sales tracking, inventory management, tips, and digital receipts
- USB-C connection avoids a separate wireless pairing step
Cons:- Accepts magstripe payments only according to the product description
- Requires an Apple or Android device with a USB-C connector
- Depends on the Square app and a connected device for checkout
Best for: Square-using sole traders and small service businesses with a USB-C phone or tablet that need a lightweight way to accept magstripe payments.
Not ideal for: Businesses that need chip, contactless, or wallet payments, or that want a reader that works without a compatible phone or tablet.
- Connectivity:USB Type-C
- Compatible devices:Apple and Android devices with a USB-C connector
- Payment method:Magstripe
- Operating systems:iOS and Android
- Weight:6.53 g
- Dimensions:4.5 x 0.62 x 4.5 in
- Data transfer rate:1.5 megabits per second
- Warranty:1 year
Our verdict“Choose this reader for lightweight Square-based magstripe checkout, but opt for a chip-and-contactless reader if customers need more payment choices.”
Clover Go (3rd Generation) Mobile POS System
Clover Go makes sense for a small business that already wants its smartphone to run the checkout. The reader connects by Bluetooth, while the listed software features cover custom tips, multiple tax rates, digital receipts, and employee permissions. That staff-management layer sets it apart from the simpler Square Reader for Magstripe (USB-C), which is centered on a direct phone connection and Square app tools. Clover Go’s main limitation is not hardware but payment access: US businesses must process through SwyftPAY, and availability is restricted to the US. The dock is sold separately, adding another item for businesses that want a home base for the reader. Choose it when its processing arrangement and staff features match your operation; skip it if you need provider flexibility or a reader for use outside the US.
Pros:- Connects wirelessly to a smartphone over Bluetooth
- Supports custom tips and multiple tax rates
- Sends receipts by email or text
- Includes employee permission management
Cons:- US-based businesses are required to process through SwyftPAY
- Availability is limited to US-based businesses
- Dock is sold separately
Best for: US-based small teams that already use or are prepared to use SwyftPAY and want smartphone-linked checkout with employee permissions and digital receipts.
Not ideal for: Businesses outside the US, merchants who need to choose a different processing provider, or buyers who want a dock included.
- Generation:3rd
- Connectivity:Bluetooth
- Processing requirement:SwyftPAY
- Availability:US-based businesses only
- Dock:Sold separately
- Receipts:Email or text
- Staff tools:Employee permission management
Our verdict“Choose Clover Go if your US business accepts the SwyftPAY requirement and values staff controls in a smartphone-based checkout setup.”
SumUp Touch POS Terminal with Card Reader and Receipt Printer
The SumUp Touch is suited to small businesses that want a portable terminal with its own screen and receipt printer, rather than a reader that depends on a smartphone. Its 6.5-inch display is larger than the P1’s 5-inch screen, and the listed package includes sales, refund, inventory, and staff tools alongside payment acceptance. A built-in printer can be useful for customers who expect paper receipts, while Wi-Fi and mobile data via an included SIM give the terminal more connection options than the Bluetooth-only Clover Go (3rd Generation) Mobile POS System. Portability has a tradeoff: at 1.79 pounds, it is heavier than a small reader, and it relies on a lithium-ion battery for mobile use. It is a stronger fit for full-shift checkout than for occasional, pocket-sized payment taking.
Pros:- Accepts chip and PIN, contactless, Apple Pay, and Google Pay
- Built-in 40 mm thermal printer produces receipts at checkout
- Wi-Fi and mobile data via included SIM support portable operation
- Includes sales, refund, inventory, and staff management tools
Cons:- At 1.79 pounds, it is heavier than compact phone-connected readers
- Mobile operation depends on its lithium-ion battery
- Larger terminal format may be more equipment than occasional sellers need
Best for: Small shops, food vendors, and mobile service businesses that want a standalone touchscreen terminal, printed receipts, and management tools for a working day.
Not ideal for: Merchants who need a very light pocket reader or prefer a setup that does not depend on battery power.
- Screen:6.5-inch HD touchscreen with Corning Gorilla Glass
- Printer:Built-in 40 mm thermal printer
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi and mobile data via included SIM
- Accepted payments:Chip and PIN, contactless, Apple Pay, and Google Pay
- Battery:Lithium-ion, designed to last a full workday
- Item weight:1.79 pounds
- Package dimensions:8.11 x 5.2 x 3.19 inches
- Management tools:Sales, refunds, inventory, and staff
Our verdict“Choose the SumUp Touch for full-featured portable checkout with printed receipts, and skip it if minimum size and weight matter more.”
Square Handheld Portable POS Payment Terminal
The Square Handheld earns this role by combining payments, order taking, and barcode scanning in one slim, pocketable device. For a small shop that also sells at events, or a food business taking orders at the table, carrying one tool can be simpler than pairing a basic reader with a phone. Its offline payment support also gives businesses a way to keep selling through some internet outages, while splash- and dust-resistance suits busy work areas. Compared with the SumUp Solo, this model emphasizes handheld POS tasks and barcode scanning rather than a touchscreen-led payment station with included mobile data. The tradeoff is that the Square’s battery runtime is unspecified, and a protective case for drop protection is optional, so buyers should plan for those gaps.
Pros:- Combines payments, order taking, and barcode scanning in one handheld device
- Pocketable design supports tableside service and mobile selling
- Offline payment support can help maintain sales during internet outages
- Resists water splashes and dust
Cons:- Battery runtime is not specified, making shift planning harder
- Protective case for accidental drops is optional
Best for: Small retailers and food businesses that need to take orders, scan items, and accept payments while moving around the shop or serving tableside
Not ideal for: Businesses that need confirmed battery runtime or included drop protection, since no runtime details are provided and the protective case is optional
- Device type:Portable POS payment terminal
- Functions:Accepts payments, takes orders, and scans barcodes
- Design:Slim, pocketable, lightweight, with a comfortable grip
- Durability:Resistant to water splashes and dust
- Battery:Long-lasting; runtime not specified
- Offline payments:Supported
- Payment methods:Major credit and debit cards
- Protective case:Optional
Our verdict“Choose the Square Handheld if you need a portable POS for tableside orders and barcode scanning, and can plan around its unspecified battery runtime.”
SumUp Solo Credit Card Reader with Charging Station
The SumUp Solo is a strong fit for small businesses that want a portable reader with its own mobile connection, rather than relying only on a nearby phone. It supports Wi-Fi and included mobile data, while the charging station gives it a natural home base between transactions. Its touchscreen handles payment and sales tasks directly, which can make routine checkout feel less dependent on a separate mobile device. Compared with the Clover Go Mobile POS System, the Solo is presented as a dedicated touchscreen reader with a SIM included; Clover Go pairs with a smartphone over Bluetooth and offers staff permission tools. The Solo’s tradeoffs are that its battery capacity is unspecified and setup requires registration through the SumUp website or app. It also does not list the barcode scanning and order-taking functions found on the Square Handheld.
Pros:- Wi-Fi and included SIM card with mobile data offer two connection options
- Touchscreen supports payment and sales management
- Charging station is included for a convenient charging base
- US-based phone, email, and chat support is available
Cons:- Battery capacity is not specified
- Registration through the SumUp website or mobile app is required
- Product details do not list barcode scanning or order-taking functions
Best for: Market vendors and small service businesses that want a touchscreen reader with Wi-Fi and included mobile data for taking payments away from a fixed checkout
Not ideal for: Businesses that need stated battery capacity, built-in barcode scanning, or a device that can be set up without online or app registration
- Display:OLED touchscreen
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi and mobile data
- SIM card:Included
- Charging:Charging station included
- Portability:Portable
- Setup:Register through the SumUp website or mobile app
- Support:US-based phone, email, and chat support
Our verdict“Pick the SumUp Solo if you want a touchscreen reader with included mobile data and a charging station, and do not need a listed barcode scanner.”
Clover Go Mobile POS System
The Clover Go Mobile POS System makes the most sense for small businesses that already plan to process payments through Powering POS and want staff and checkout settings managed through a phone-connected system. Its Bluetooth smartphone connection keeps the reader portable, while custom tips, multiple tax rates, digital receipts, and employee permissions address everyday service and team needs. Compared with the Clover Go Contactless Reader, this system’s listed strengths reach beyond accepting tap, chip, and swipe payments to include operational controls such as employee permissions. That extra functionality comes with a firm commitment: processing through Powering POS is required, and availability is limited to US-based businesses. Unlike the SumUp Solo’s included mobile data, this model connects through a smartphone, so its usefulness depends on a compatible phone and the required processing arrangement.
Pros:- Connects wirelessly to smartphones via Bluetooth
- Supports custom tip amounts and multiple tax rates
- Can send receipts by email or text
- Includes employee permission management
Cons:- Processing through Powering POS is required
- Available only to US-based businesses
- Requires a compatible smartphone connection
Best for: US-based small shops and service teams that use Powering POS and need employee permissions, adjustable tips, and multiple tax rates
Not ideal for: Businesses outside the US, merchants unwilling to use Powering POS, or operators seeking a standalone reader with its own mobile-data connection
- Connectivity:Bluetooth
- Package dimensions:5.28 x 4.8 x 1.65 inches
- Weight:5.6 ounces
- Model number:GOv3
- Compatibility:Smartphones
- Processing requirement:Powering POS
- Availability:US-based businesses only
Our verdict“Choose Clover Go if your US business already accepts the Powering POS requirement and values staff permissions and flexible checkout settings.”
Clover Go Contactless Reader – EMV/Chip Ready – No Merchant Account Required
The Clover Go Contactless Reader is a straightforward portable option for merchants who want to take chip, swipe, and contactless payments using an iOS or Android device. At 4.8 ounces, it is easy to carry between a counter, a customer’s table, or an off-site appointment. Its support for mobile wallets adds a convenient way for customers to tap, while the included wireless reader, EMV chip, and charging cable provide the core hardware for mobile acceptance. Compared with the Clover Go Mobile POS System, this model is described more narrowly around payment acceptance and cross-platform compatibility, rather than employee permissions, tax settings, and digital receipt features. The main concern is availability: the listing notes limited stock and possible discontinuation, and full functionality may require upgrading to the latest Clover Go version.
Pros:- Accepts swipe, EMV chip, and contactless payments
- Supports Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Android Pay
- Works with both iOS and Android devices
- Wireless reader, EMV chip, and charging cable are included
Cons:- Limited stock and possible discontinuation make availability uncertain
- May require an upgrade to the latest Clover Go version for full functionality
- Product details do not list the employee and tax controls offered by Clover Go Mobile POS System
Best for: Mobile service providers and small retailers with iOS or Android devices who need a lightweight reader for chip, swipe, and wallet payments
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking a clearly current Clover Go model or businesses that need confirmation of full functionality without a version upgrade
- Package dimensions:4.6 x 3.4 x 1.8 inches
- Item weight:4.8 ounces
- Manufacturer:Clover
- Payment methods:Swipe, EMV chip, and contactless
- Mobile wallet support:Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Android Pay
- Device compatibility:iOS and Android
- Included items:Wireless reader, EMV chip, and charging cable
Our verdict“Choose this Clover Go reader if you want a lightweight, cross-platform device for chip and wallet payments and can confirm the version meets your needs.”
How We Picked
I ranked these portable card readers for small businesses by how well each fits a real mobile checkout: ease of setup, dependence on a phone or network, portability, and the amount of useful functionality in the device itself. I also weighed practical hardware differences such as a touchscreen, receipt printer, charging station, and barcode scanner. A compact reader can be a better fit than a feature-rich terminal when a business already owns a phone and needs only to accept payments.
The order favors versatile, easy-to-match setups near the top, followed by products that serve narrower needs or require more equipment. Standalone terminals score well for businesses that want an all-in-one checkout, but their extra size and complexity are tradeoffs. I treated products with similar names as distinct listings and avoided assuming that a similarly named model includes the same accessories, connectivity, or merchant setup. Buyers should confirm current compatibility, processing terms, and included components before choosing.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Portable Card Readers For Small Businesses
Choosing a reader is a workflow decision as much as a hardware decision. Before comparing screens or accessories, map out where payment happens, what else staff need to do at checkout, and what equipment the business already owns.
Decide Whether You Need a Standalone Terminal
A phone-connected reader can keep a mobile checkout light, but it makes your payment process dependent on a compatible phone or tablet. A standalone terminal can be easier to hand to staff and may keep payment, sales, and receipts together. The common mistake is buying a larger unit just because it looks more capable, then carrying features the business rarely uses. Think about who will operate the reader, whether it needs to remain at a counter, and whether staff already carry a business phone. If your phone is also used for calls, scheduling, or stock checks, a dedicated terminal may prevent checkout interruptions. If you mainly take occasional payments at markets or on site, a small reader paired with your existing device may be the more practical setup.
Check Connectivity Where You Actually Sell
Wi-Fi, cellular service, and Bluetooth solve different problems, so match the connection to your sales locations rather than relying on a general claim of portability. A reader that connects to a phone may be fine in a shop or at a market with dependable service, while off-site work may call for a terminal with its own cellular option. Check whether cellular connectivity requires a separate plan or has coverage limits before treating it as a complete solution. Bluetooth also adds a pairing step and another device whose battery must last through the workday. Map your usual sales spots and note weak-signal areas before choosing hardware. No connection type removes the need to check the provider’s rules for handling payments when service is unavailable.
Choose Receipt Handling Before Buying a Printer
Built-in printing can help when customers expect paper receipts or when staff need a physical record, but it adds bulk, paper supplies, and another component to maintain. For many small sellers, offering a digital receipt is simpler and avoids carrying printer paper during mobile work. A mistake is paying for printer hardware without checking how receipts are issued, how paper is replaced, or whether the device needs a specific accessory. Consider your customer base, local record-keeping expectations, and the conditions at your checkout point. A café counter and a mobile repair visit may have very different reasons to print. Choose a printer only when it solves a recurring workflow problem.
Separate Card Acceptance From POS Needs
A card reader takes payments; a POS setup may also support product lists, sales records, staff workflows, or inventory tasks. Businesses that sell a few services may need little beyond payment acceptance, while a retailer with many items can benefit from touchscreen controls or barcode scanning. Avoid assuming that a device’s POS label means it will replace every register or back-office tool. Check which functions are handled on the terminal, which require an app, and which depend on a service plan. Also consider whether the product catalog and transaction records can fit the way your business already tracks sales. Paying for more built-in controls makes sense only if they reduce work or extra equipment.
Compare the Full Setup, Not Just the Reader
The device is only one part of a payment system: compatible phones, charging equipment, receipt supplies, connectivity, and processing terms can all affect day-to-day cost and effort. A low-profile reader may need a phone stand or charging routine, while a larger terminal may include more of the checkout hardware. Before committing, confirm compatibility with your current devices and operating systems, then check what comes in the box. Ask how transactions are processed, what fees apply, and whether funds are deposited on a schedule that works for your cash flow. A common buying error is comparing device features while overlooking account requirements or ongoing operating costs. Judge the complete setup your business will run, not the reader alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I accept payments with a card reader if I do not have a reliable internet connection?
Do not assume a reader can complete payments offline just because it is portable or has cellular hardware. Offline payment support depends on the payment provider, device, and account settings, and delayed transactions may carry added risk if a payment is later declined. Check the provider’s current offline rules and limits before selling in areas with weak service. A device with cellular connectivity may help where Wi-Fi is absent, but only if coverage and any required service are available at your location. If outages are frequent, plan a backup process rather than relying on offline acceptance alone.
Should I choose a reader that prints receipts?
Choose printing when customers regularly request paper receipts or when your staff benefit from handing over a printed record. It can simplify some checkouts, but it adds size, paper restocking, and charging or maintenance needs. A phone-connected reader may be a better fit if digital receipts are acceptable and portability matters most. Check whether the printer is built in or part of a bundle, since listings can differ in included accessories. Your decision should reflect customer expectations and the conditions where you sell, not the assumption that a printer is always more professional.
Are the Clover Go products in this roundup interchangeable?
No. The lineup includes several Clover Go listings with different names and descriptions, including a third-generation mobile POS system and a contactless reader listing. The model name alone does not confirm which payment methods, accessories, or account arrangements are included. Compare the exact product listing, included components, and current merchant requirements before ordering. This matters especially if you want to reuse an existing account or pair the hardware with a device you already own. Confirming these details can prevent buying a reader that does not match your checkout plan.
Is a compact Bluetooth reader enough for a market stall or pop-up?
It can be enough if you already have a compatible phone or tablet, dependable connectivity, and a charging plan for both devices. That setup keeps the reader small, but it also creates more points of failure: pairing, phone battery, app access, and network availability. A standalone terminal may be easier when staff need a dedicated checkout device or when the phone has other jobs. Before an event, check the venue’s signal, test the complete payment setup, and bring a power bank or other suitable charging backup. The best choice depends on how many payments you take and how costly a checkout delay would be.
What should I verify before ordering a card reader for an existing business?
Confirm compatibility with your phone, tablet, operating system, and payment account before focusing on hardware features. Then check the processing terms, transaction fees, deposit timing, and any required plan or service. Verify what the listing includes, especially for charging stations, printers, cables, and other accessories. If staff or customers will use the device, confirm that the checkout flow fits your needs and that receipts can be handled as expected. These checks are especially useful when comparing similarly named models or switching from an existing payment provider.
Conclusion
Best overall: I recommend the Square Terminal for small businesses that want a dedicated checkout with a screen and receipt printing in one device. Best value for a minimal setup: the Square Reader for Contactless and Chip makes more sense when you already own a compatible phone or tablet and do not need a standalone terminal. Best for beginners: the SumUp Solo Credit Card Reader with Charging Station is a straightforward dedicated-reader option for sellers who want less dependence on a phone. Best premium-style setup: the P3 Portable Credit Card Terminal is a better match for buyers seeking a touchscreen terminal with Wi-Fi, cellular connectivity, and a printer. For specific needs, choose the P5 if barcode scanning matters, or a compact Bluetooth option such as the SumUp Plus when light carry matters more than built-in POS tools. Match the device to your checkout routine, then verify compatibility, included hardware, and payment terms before buying.
Fall Picks
fall essentials
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
