Take payments on card reader, mobile softpos & EPOS systems
Accept card payments with confidence — whether you need a countertop terminal, mobile softPOS, or a full EPOS system.
At Northern Payments, we help UK and EU businesses find the best in-store payment solutions from trusted acquirers. Our expert advice ensures you choose a card machine that fits your needs, without the hassle of speaking to multiple providers.
Card readers, softPOS & EPOS systems – flexible pricing for UK & EU businesses
Portable card reader for chip & pin and contactless payments – ideal for small UK businesses
SoftPOS mobile payment solution – turn your smartphone into a card machine
All-in-one touchscreen EPOS till system for sales, payments, and inventory management
PDQ Machine
Which card reader is right for my business?
With so many card machines on the market, it can be hard to decide which one is right for your business. Do you choose based on appearance, features, or cost — or a combination of all three?
At Northern Payments, we partner with a wide range of trusted card payment providers across the UK and Europe — so you’re never limited to a single option. We make your decision easy with clear, jargon-free comparisons, all completely free.
What’s more, we help you negotiate the best rates and preferential terms, so you keep more of your hard-earned money.
Important points to consider when making your decision
Do you prefer the flexibility of a rolling contract — even if it may cost more — or the security of fixed monthly pricing you can budget for long term?
Will you need a mobile PDQ machine for taking payments away from your business premises? Check whether it runs on Wi-Fi or requires a strong GPRS signal.
How reliable is the device? What kind of warranty or aftercare support is included if it breaks down?
What payment types does the device support — Apple Pay, Google Pay, contactless, or card-not-present transactions like phone payments?
EPOS System
All-in-One EPOS System for UK Businesses | Process Payments, Track Stock & Grow
Serve customers, take payments, and run your entire business from a single EPOS system.
- Smart POS machine that processes transactions and auto-updates stock using integrated software.
- WiFi, Bluetooth and ethernet-enabled POS systems.
- Offers stock control and loyalty programs to help manage your inventory and incentivize your customers by offering discounts and rewarding repeat customers.
- Hardware integrations with majority of main UK acquirers, offering ultimate choice in placing you with the right product match.
- Tailored EPOS packages to fit your budget and business needs, with flexible pricing and advanced features.
- Personalised training offered, with tech demos and after care services included.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is point of sale or PDQ machine?
Point of sale and PDQ share the same meaning, they are card readers that provide businesses with a means of taking payments both in store and over the phone. Several different models are available with the main key differences being countertop ethernet connections, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth portable devices with supplied docking stations, or fully mobile GPRS units for taking remote from business premises.
What is EPOS system?
An all in one till system, that provides UK businesses with a means of taking payments through a connected card machine, monitor and till draw, while also assisting with stock control and inventory management. Mostly used in the retail and hospitality sectors to help with taking orders by streamlining the payment process. Offers additional bolt on services such as loyalty programs and links to accountancy software, payroll and CRM management.
How much is a card machine?
The monthly rental or upfront fees on card machines can vary significantly by UK acquiring bank, ranging from £10-30 per month or £100-500 for buyout options. It can also depend on the device itself and its functionality and contract length. At Northern Payments we work with you to provide the most competitive offers from each acquirer, based on your specific requirements.
What are PDQ machine charges?
The main fees incurred from taking a payment in store is per transaction, this amount depends on your % rates that can be anywhere from 0.30% to over 2% based on your nature of industry and trading history. Additional fees also can apply for customer not present transactions taken over the phone or international payments taken from outside the UK due to higher card scheme fees.
How to use a card machine?
When a card machine is delivered, usually the card machines are pre-coded with your business bank details for settlement already setup. Once charged they can be used immediately. Most acquirers provide instructions with the device, or you can visit their self-help site for guidance. Get in touch with us if you need any further assistance.
