

For proprietary systems, you’ll regularlyĭo you need a basic credit card terminal or a Point-of-Sale terminal? Credit card terminals are small devices with few features. Non-universal machines, the FD and Clover lines (both work with First Data Other popular brands include Dejavoo, PAX, and Hypercom.

Manufacturers, but the most popular universal terminals are Verifone and Program them, no company can reprogram them once they’ve been set up. Once you purchase a Clover from a specific processor, they will work only with the company that set it up for you. They are First Data terminals that any processing company on the First Data platform can use, but they can’t be reprogrammed. Technically speaking, these terminals aren’t universal (as they can only be used with companies affiliated with First Data), but there are many companies that run on First Data’s platform and could reprogram FD terminals, so they’re not as limited as true proprietary options.Ĭhosen Payments also offers the popular Clover Station and smaller Clover terminals. Any processing company that runs on First Data’s platform can sell you FD terminals and can reprogram them if you already own one. Verifone offer universal terminals that you can use with any processor.Ĭhosen Payments offers the FD (First Data) line of processing equipment. Equipment manufacturers like Ingenico and ProcessingĬompanies like Square offer proprietary terminals – you can only use those It is likely to be limited for use with your current processor. The equipment is made by a processing company or carries your processor’s logo, Universal or proprietary, you can call the manufacturer and ask. If you have a universal terminal, a new processor can reprogram it remotely. If you purchase a proprietary terminal and want to switch credit card processors in the future, you will need a new terminal. Proprietary machines work with one or only a handful of processors. Universal terminals are not restricted to a particular processor.
#Best credit card terminal full#
Display screens come in full color or monochrome and can be touchscreen or traditional key entry.Ĭredit card terminals come in two flavors: universal and proprietary. Some models are WiFi-enabled or have built-in cell phone service. Avoid those that require a separate printer. Most models have a built-in receipt printer. Some models may have an “offline” mode where you can accept cards when your connection is down and the terminal will forward them for processing when your connection returns. You can use the terminal to void transactions and process refunds and returns. Most terminals will produce a limited sales reports. Some terminals may still let you take magstripe, EMV chipped card,Īnd NFC (contactless) payments while others terminals may only accept EMV cards. You to take credit and debit cards and may have built-in PIN pads for debit card If you desire those functions, you will want to consider a Point-of-Sale system.

They do not offer features such as recurring payments, inventory management, or restaurant table management.

You may also want to research reviews of various terminals to gain a better idea of whether it will satisfy your specific needs.ĭifferent terminal models offer different features, but in general, credit card machines provide a limited function of accepting credit cards. Make sure you check the model with your processor BEFORE you buy online. You can buy, lease, or rent from your processor, or you can buy directly online as long as the terminal is compatible with your processor. Most credit card processors have access to all of the popular brands. The best terminal depends on your needs and budget. Use this guide to learn about brands, features, and compatibility. There are so many credit card terminals on the market today that you may wonder which one is the best for your business. By Derek Maxwell credit card processor December 26, 2018
