Compare Stripe card readers
Need a new card reader for your business? Could one of the Stripe card readers be the best choice for you?
![Stripe Stripe](https://www.finder.com/niche-builder/639b49b641cd7.png)
Stripe describes itself as a “payment processing platform for the internet”, so, as you’d expect, its main focus is on online payment solutions.
However, for businesses that have a physical point of sale as well (maybe your cupcake delivery service is going so well that you’ve finally opened that bakery you’ve been dreaming about) and need a way to accept in-person payments, it also offers Stripe Terminal, a choice of 2 physical card readers that work with Stripe’s payment software.
Could either or both of them be right for you?
Below are the key features of both Stripe card readers.
Card present:
Card not present (e.g. payment link):
The card readers are available directly from Stripe. If you feel one of the Stripe products is best for your business once you’ve compared all your card reader options, visit the Stripe website. There you can either set up an account or complete the contact form to reach Stripe’s sales team.
Unlike some card reader brands that offer a wide range of products, Stripe keeps it simple. This is partly because it isn’t primarily a card reader brand at all, but an online payments platform. In the UK, Stripe offers one option best suited to a stationary countertop and one that works on the go.
We reckon you’re more likely to find Stripe Terminal the best option for you if you’re already a Stripe customer needing to accept both online and in-person payments. If not, you’re likely to find more cost-effective alternatives elsewhere.
Stripe’s transaction costs are around average for the market, and there are no monthly costs; the upfront price of the BBPOS WisePOS E is higher than for many competitors, although the BBPOS WisePad 3 is very competitively priced. What’s more, the 7-day delay in receiving payouts may be a deal breaker for some customers.
Ultimately, whether you go with Stripe or a different brand depends on the needs of your business. Compare a wide range of card machines with our guide.
Stripe has had more than 10,000 reviews on Trustpilot (updated March 2024). Overall, it’s rated “poor”, with an average of 2.6 out of 5 stars but reviews are very divided between 5-star reviews (46%) and 1-star reviews (43%).
The positive reviews cite ease of set-up, “awesome” customer service and value for money. Most negative reviews appear to be from customers unhappy about closed accounts or disputed payments. Stripe appears to be very zealous when it comes to prohibited business classes and not necessarily the best at communicating with customers when things go wrong.
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