4G Card Machines UK: Complete Guide to Mobile Payment Solutions
Written by Lee Hart
4G card machines have revolutionised how UK businesses accept payments by providing reliable connectivity anywhere mobile coverage exists.
These portable payment terminals use 4G mobile networks to process card transactions without requiring Wi-Fi connection or phone lines, making them ideal for businesses that operate on the move or in locations with poor internet connectivity.
The best 4G card machines in the UK offer transaction fees starting from 1.1% and can be purchased outright from £29 or rented monthly from £15, depending on the provider and contract terms.
Mobile card machines now feature contactless payments, chip and PIN capabilities, and long battery life that keeps businesses operational throughout busy trading days.
Whether running a food truck, market stall, or providing services at customer locations, 4G mobile card machines eliminate the traditional barriers that prevented small businesses from accepting card payments everywhere.
Modern devices connect seamlessly to payment networks and provide instant transaction processing with robust security features that protect both businesses and customers.
Key Takeaways
- 4G card machines use mobile networks to process payments anywhere without requiring WiFi or fixed internet connections
- Costs range from £29 purchase price with 1.1% transaction fees to monthly rentals starting at £15 with custom rates
- These devices suit mobile businesses like food trucks, market traders, and service providers who need payment flexibility
What Are 4G Card Machines?
4G card machines connect directly to mobile networks without needing Wi-Fi or phone lines.
These mobile card machines use built-in SIM cards to process payments anywhere with mobile signal coverage.
Definition and Core Features
A mobile card machine is a battery-powered terminal with an in-built SIM card and antenna.
It connects straight to mobile networks like EE, O2, Three, and Vodafone.
These devices accept chip-and-PIN, contactless, and mobile wallet payments.
Most models support Apple Pay and Google Pay transactions.
The key feature is independence from fixed internet connections.
Business owners can process payments at customer locations, markets, or outdoor events.
Battery life typically handles 500-800 transactions per charge.
Most card readers include receipt printing capabilities and digital receipt options.
Core features include:
- Built-in 4G SIM connectivity
- Contactless payment acceptance
- Chip-and-PIN processing
- Mobile wallet compatibility
- Rechargeable battery
- Receipt printing
Types of Card Machines with 4G
Standalone mobile terminals operate completely independently.
Models like the SumUp 3G and Dojo Pocket include screens, keypads, and card slots in one device.
Mobile card readers connect via Bluetooth to smartphones or tablets.
These smaller devices rely on apps for transaction processing and receipt generation.
Portable PDQ machines combine countertop features with mobile connectivity.
They work both as fixed terminals and mobile devices when needed.
Type/Best For/Screen Size
Standalone/Market stalls, food trucks/2.8"-4"
Card readers/Tradespeople, delivery/Uses phone screen
Portable PDQ/Restaurants, retail/3"-5"
4G card machines work anywhere with mobile signal coverage.
Wi-Fi models need internet connections and can fail during network outages.
Setup requirements differ significantly.
4G terminals work immediately after activation, while Wi-Fi machines need network passwords and router access.
Running costs vary between connection types.
4G models include SIM costs in monthly fees, while Wi-Fi machines may have lower transaction fees but need separate internet.
Reliability favours 4G connectivity.
Mobile networks provide backup when venue Wi-Fi fails.
Speed differences are minimal for standard transactions.
Both process payments within 3-5 seconds under normal conditions.
Coverage limitations affect both types.
Wi-Fi machines fail without internet access; 4G models struggle in areas with poor mobile signal.
Benefits of 4G Card Machines for UK Businesses
4G card machines provide UK businesses with secure payment processing anywhere, reliable connectivity that outperforms Wi-Fi, and faster access to funds through next-day settlements.
Taking Secure Payments Anywhere
4G connectivity transforms where businesses can accept card payments.
Unlike traditional terminals tied to phone lines or Wi-Fi networks, mobile card machines with built-in 4G work at any location with mobile network coverage.
Market traders can process transactions during busy weekend markets.
Delivery drivers collect payments at customers' doorsteps.
Food truck operators serve customers at festivals and events without hunting for internet connections.
The security remains high despite the mobility.
Chip-and-PIN and contactless transactions use the same encryption standards as fixed terminals.
Digital receipts send automatically via email or SMS, creating proper transaction records.
Battery life supports hundreds of transactions per charge.
Most 4G card machines handle 500-780 transactions before requiring power, making them suitable for full trading days.
Mobile network coverage across the UK means businesses rarely face connectivity issues.
The four major networks (EE, O2, Three, Vodafone) provide extensive coverage in urban and rural areas.
Improved Reliability Over Wi-Fi
4G networks deliver more consistent connectivity than shared Wi-Fi systems.
Public Wi-Fi at events often struggles under heavy usage, causing payment delays and frustrated customers.
Event Wi-Fi frequently becomes unreliable when hundreds of vendors and customers connect simultaneously.
4G card machines bypass these congestion issues by connecting directly to mobile networks with dedicated bandwidth.
Poor internet connections at temporary locations affect many mobile businesses.
Pop-up shops, outdoor markets, and trade shows often have weak or unstable Wi-Fi signals that interrupt payment processing.
4G connectivity eliminates dependence on venue internet infrastructure.
Businesses maintain consistent payment capability regardless of location quality or network sharing with other users.
Some advanced terminals store transactions offline when connectivity drops temporarily.
Certain models queue up to 100 payments for processing once connection returns, though this carries merchant risk.
Next-Day Settlements and Faster Cash Flow
Modern 4G card machines offer rapid fund transfers that improve business cash flow.
Leading providers like Dojo process payments by 7am the following morning, seven days per week including weekends.
Traditional payment processing often delays funds until the next working day, excluding weekends.
Weekend traders particularly benefit from Saturday and Sunday settlement options that get cash into accounts faster.
Same-day settlement becomes available with some providers for an additional fee.
Square offers instant transfers for 1% extra, putting funds in business accounts within hours rather than days.
Transaction data flows directly from 4G terminals to payment processors without delay.
This eliminates the batching delays common with older systems that collect transactions throughout the day.
Small businesses especially value improved cash flow timing.
Faster settlements help cover daily expenses, restock inventory, and manage working capital more effectively than waiting several days for payments to clear.
Leading 4G Card Machine Providers and Devices in the UK
Several established providers dominate the UK's 4G card machine market, offering reliable hardware and competitive pricing structures.
1. Ingenico DX8000 (Worldpay)
Worldpay offers the Ingenico DX8000, a portable touchscreen card machine with dual-band Wi-Fi and 4G connectivity.
This device comes with a 4G SIM card as standard, making it ideal for businesses operating across multiple locations.
2. Dojo
Dojo offers fast, secure, and user-friendly mobile card machines designed specifically for UK small businesses.
The Dojo Go features dual connectivity through Wi-Fi and 4G networks.
Key Features:
- Battery Life: 10+ hours of continuous use
- Connectivity: Seamless switching between Wi-Fi and 4G
- Integration: Compatible with over 400 EPOS systems
- Payment Types: Contactless, chip and PIN, mobile wallets
The device processes payments quickly even in areas with poor Wi-Fi coverage.
Business owners can accept payments anywhere without worrying about connection issues.
Dojo charges transparent monthly fees with no hidden costs.
The pricing structure includes the card machine rental and transaction processing fees.
3. myPOS Go 2
The myPOS Go 2 represents an affordable entry point for businesses seeking basic 4G payment processing.
This compact mobile card reader handles essential payment functions without complex features.
Device Specifications:
- Screen: 2.8-inch colour display
- Connectivity: 4G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Battery: 8-hour operational capacity
- Weight: 280 grams
Small retailers and service providers benefit from its straightforward setup process.
The device connects to the myPOS app for transaction management and reporting.
Monthly costs remain competitive compared to traditional card machine providers.
Businesses receive their payments within 24 hours of processing transactions.
4. Card Saver
Card Saver focuses on cost-effective solutions for price-conscious businesses.
Their 4G mobile card machines offer essential payment processing without premium features.
The provider targets small businesses with low transaction volumes.
Monthly rental fees start from competitive rates with transparent pricing structures.
Service Benefits:
- No long-term contracts required
- 24/7 technical support included
- Free delivery and setup
- Compatible with major card networks
Card Saver's devices handle contactless payments up to £100 and traditional chip and PIN transactions.
The company provides backup support if devices experience technical issues.
5. Other Major Brands
Clover provides portable card machines with 4G LTE roaming SIM cards and fast-charging batteries.
Their devices maintain the same processing speed as countertop models.
Paymentsense delivers mobile card machines with costs depending on usage volume and card types.
They charge per-transaction fees based on debit and credit card processing.
SumUp and Square also compete in the mobile card reader market with compact devices suitable for small-scale operations.
How 4G Card Machines Work
4G card machines use built-in SIM cards to connect directly to mobile networks, allowing businesses to process payments anywhere with cellular coverage.
The payment data travels through encrypted channels to ensure secure transactions whilst maintaining fast processing speeds.
Built-In SIM Cards and Network Coverage
The Ingenico DX8000 machine, available from Worldpay, comes with a 4G SIM card as standard. This ensures reliable connectivity for payment processing anywhere with mobile signal.
4G card machines contain integrated SIM cards that connect directly to mobile networks without requiring Wi-Fi or fixed internet connections.
These SIM cards function similarly to those in mobile phones. They establish data connections through 3G, 4G, or 5G networks depending on availability.
The built-in connectivity means businesses can accept payments at outdoor markets or delivery locations. Temporary events also benefit from this flexibility.
Network coverage determines where the machines will function effectively. Most UK providers ensure their SIM cards work across multiple network operators for maximum coverage.
Key connectivity features:
- No dependency on Wi-Fi networks
- Automatic network selection
- Backup connectivity options (3G when 4G unavailable)
- Real-time connection status displays
Battery life typically supports several hours of continuous use. The machines automatically manage power consumption by optimising network connections when idle.
Payment Processing and Security
When customers present their cards, the machine captures payment details and encrypts the transaction data immediately. This encrypted information travels through the 4G network to the payment processor within seconds.
Mobile card machines use the same security protocols as fixed terminals, including end-to-end encryption and PCI DSS compliance.
The 4G connection provides a secure tunnel for transmitting sensitive card information to banking networks.
Security measures include:
- Point-to-point encryption - Data encrypted from card read to processor
- Tokenisation - Card numbers replaced with secure tokens
- Network security - Mobile data protected by carrier-grade encryption
- Device authentication - Each machine verified before processing
Settlement typically occurs the next business day. The 4G connection enables real-time authorisation whilst batch processing handles the actual fund transfers overnight.
Setting Up and Using a 4G Card Machine
Modern 4G mobile card machines connect directly to cellular networks and work anywhere with signal coverage.
Proper setup ensures reliable payment processing whilst staff training minimises transaction delays.
Connecting to 4G Networks
Most 4G card machines connect automatically to mobile networks without manual setup. The device uses a built-in SIM card provided by the payment processor.
Signal strength affects transaction speed and reliability. Check the signal indicator on the machine's display before processing payments.
Position the PDQ machine near windows or open areas for better reception. Thick walls and basements can weaken 4G signals.
Some machines offer WiFi as a backup connection. Switch to 4G when internet is intermittent to maintain payment processing.
The device automatically switches between 4G and WiFi based on connection quality. This ensures payments continue even if one connection fails.
Network coverage varies by location and provider. Test the machine in different areas of your business premises to identify dead spots.
Battery Life and Portability
Mobile card machines typically run for 6-8 hours on a full charge with regular use. Heavy usage reduces battery life to 4-5 hours.
Charge the device overnight using the provided charging dock or cable. Most machines need 2-3 hours for a complete charge.
Battery indicators show remaining power levels:
- Green: 70-100% charged
- Amber: 30-70% charged
- Red: Below 30% charged
Keep spare charging cables at different locations for convenience. Some businesses use multiple machines to avoid downtime during charging.
The compact design allows easy transport between locations. Most 4G card machines weigh under 300 grams and fit in jacket pockets.
Protective cases prevent damage during transport. Look for cases with screen protection and shock absorption.
Training Staff and Troubleshooting
Train staff on basic operation before using the card machine with customers. Key skills include processing payments, handling declined cards, and issuing receipts.
Common issues and solutions
- No signal - Move to a different location
- Battery dead - Connect to charger
- Card declined - Try different payment method
- Transaction frozen - Restart the machine
Keep the machine's software updated automatically through 4G connections. Updates happen overnight to avoid disrupting business hours.
Contact technical support immediately for persistent connection problems. Most providers offer 24/7 telephone support for urgent issues.
Document common problems and solutions in a quick reference guide. This helps staff resolve issues without calling support every time.
Costs and Fees for 4G Card Machines in the UK
4G card machine costs split into hardware expenses and ongoing transaction fees. Businesses can buy devices outright from £99 or rent monthly from £15, whilst processing fees range from 0.8% to 1.75% per transaction.
Hardware Purchase and Rental Options
Most providers offer both purchase and rental options for mobile card machines. SumUp 3G units cost £99 outright, often reduced to £69 during promotional periods.
Square Terminal devices retail at £149 plus VAT. Monthly rental schemes provide lower upfront costs.
Dojo Pocket machines rent for £20 monthly plus VAT. Worldpay's Verifone V240m costs £25 per month on rental agreements.
Short-term hire suits seasonal businesses. Weekend event rentals start from £15 through specialist hire companies.
This option works well for craft fairs and temporary trading. Purchase makes sense for year-round traders who process regular card payments.
Rental suits businesses testing mobile card acceptance or those wanting latest hardware without large upfront investment.
Transaction Fees and Pricing Models
Transaction fees vary between flat-rate and blended pricing structures. Flat-rate models charge the same percentage regardless of card type.
Square charges 1.75% on every transaction, whilst SumUp applies 1.69% across all card payments.
Blended pricing offers lower rates for higher volumes. Dojo charges 0.8% for debit cards and 1.3% for credit cards plus 5p per transaction.
This model benefits businesses processing over £7,000 monthly. Payment timing affects cash flow.
Dojo provides next-day settlements seven days weekly. SumUp takes 2-3 days for standard payouts.
Square offers instant payments for an additional 1% fee. Transaction data flows through secure networks regardless of pricing model.
Online shop integrations often maintain consistent fee structures across mobile and fixed terminals.
Additional Service Costs
Beyond transaction fees, several additional charges apply to mobile card machine services. Chargeback fees typically cost £15 when customers dispute payments.
PCI compliance charges range from £0 to £9 monthly depending on the provider. Refund processing varies by company.
SumUp processes refunds without additional fees. Other providers may charge 10-25p per refund transaction.
Paper roll replacements cost £2-5 for thermal receipt printers. Battery replacements after 2-3 years cost £20-40 depending on the device model.
Some providers charge monthly minimums or statement fees. Contract exit penalties can reach £300 for early termination.
Month-to-month agreements cost slightly more but avoid lengthy commitments. International usage attracts roaming charges.
EU transactions may incur additional 0.5-1% fees plus network roaming costs for transaction data transmission.
Business Use Cases for 4G Card Machines
Different industries benefit from 4G card machines in unique ways. Restaurants process tableside payments, and delivery drivers accept contactless transactions.
These devices enable secure card payments wherever mobile connectivity reaches.
Retail and Hospitality
Restaurants use portable 4G card machines for tableside service without customers leaving their seats. Staff can process payments directly at the table and offer digital receipts through email or SMS.
Hotels benefit from mobile check-in services using 4G connectivity. Front desk staff can complete transactions anywhere in the lobby or during outdoor events.
Key retail applications include:
- Pop-up shops in shopping centres
- Seasonal retail locations
- Hotel room service payments
- Restaurant table service
- Bar and pub payments
Hospitality businesses often enable tipping through 4G card machines. Customers can add gratuity amounts before completing contactless payments.
Many establishments link their mobile card machine to an online shop system. This creates unified inventory tracking across physical and digital sales channels.
Market Stalls and Events
Market traders rely on 4G connectivity when Wi-Fi isn't available at outdoor locations. Mobile card machines process transactions using cellular networks rather than fixed internet connections.
Event vendors face similar challenges at festivals and trade shows. 4G card machines work in temporary locations without existing payment infrastructure.
Common event applications:
- Food trucks and mobile catering
- Craft fairs and artisan markets
- Music festivals and outdoor events
- Farmers' markets
- Christmas markets
Battery life becomes crucial for all-day trading. Most 4G card machines offer 6-8 hours of continuous use between charges.
Digital receipts help reduce paper waste at outdoor events. Customers receive transaction confirmations via email or text message.
Field Services and Deliveries
Delivery drivers use 4G card machines to accept card payments at customers' doorsteps. This eliminates cash handling and provides instant payment confirmation.
Service engineers benefit from immediate payment collection after completing repairs. 4G connectivity ensures transactions process even in remote locations with poor Wi-Fi.
Field service examples:
Service Type/Payment Timing/4G Benefit
- Home repairs/After completion/No Wi-Fi dependency
- Deliveries/At doorstep/Instant processing
- Installation/On-site/Secure transactions
Tradespeople can invoice and collect payments simultaneously. This improves cash flow compared to traditional invoicing methods.
Digital receipts provide customers with immediate proof of payment. Service records integrate with business accounting systems automatically.
Taxi, Beauty, and Mobile Trades
Taxi drivers process fares using 4G card machines mounted in vehicles. Passengers can pay contactlessly without handling cash or cards.
Mobile beauty therapists bring 4G payment terminals to clients' homes. This professional approach matches salon-standard service delivery.
Mobile trade benefits:
- Personal trainers collecting session fees
- Mobile hairdressers and beauticians
- Taxi and private hire vehicles
- Mobile mechanics and services
Beauty professionals often add tipping options through their 4G card machines. Clients can include gratuity amounts during payment processing.
Vehicle-based businesses mount card machines securely within easy reach. 4G connectivity works while driving between customer locations.
Payment confirmations send automatically to customers' phones. This creates professional service records without additional paperwork.
Frequently Asked Questions
4G card machines offer flexible payment solutions with built-in mobile connectivity. Businesses need clear guidance on features, costs, and integration capabilities.
Security protocols and provider reliability remain key concerns for UK merchants considering these devices.
What features should be considered when selecting a 4G card payment machine for a small business?
The Ingenico DX8000 machine, available from Worldpay, comes with a 4G sim card as standard. This device is highly recommended for businesses seeking reliable mobile connectivity.
Battery life stands as the most critical feature for mobile operations. Most 4G card machines handle 500-780 transactions per charge, making this essential for busy market stalls or trade services.
Built-in SIM connectivity eliminates dependence on Wi-Fi networks. The device connects directly to mobile networks like EE, O2, Three, or Vodafone without requiring additional hardware.
Payment method support determines customer satisfaction. Modern 4G terminals accept contactless cards, chip-and-PIN, and digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Receipt options add professional value. Digital receipts sent via email or SMS reduce paper costs whilst providing customers with convenient transaction records.
Tip functionality can boost revenue for service businesses. Suggested tip percentages display automatically, encouraging higher gratuities for restaurants, taxis, and personal services.
Display size affects usability in bright outdoor conditions. Larger screens with good contrast help staff process transactions efficiently at outdoor events or markets.
How does the cost of ownership for a 4G card machine compare for personal use versus small business use?
Personal use typically involves lower transaction volumes, making flat-rate pricing structures more cost-effective. Providers like Square charge 1.75% per transaction regardless of card type or amount.
Small businesses processing higher volumes benefit from tiered pricing models. Blended rates like 0.8% for debit cards and 1.3% for credit cards reduce costs significantly above £7,000 monthly turnover.
Hardware costs remain similar across user types. Purchase prices range from £69-£149 for outright ownership, whilst rental options start from £15 per weekend for occasional use.
Monthly fees apply differently based on usage patterns. Personal users can choose pay-as-you-go options with zero monthly charges, whilst businesses often accept monthly rental fees for better transaction rates.
Contract terms vary by user category. Personal users typically avoid long-term commitments, whilst small businesses may accept 12-24 month contracts for reduced hardware costs.
What are the security measures implemented in leading 4G card machines available in the UK?
End-to-end encryption protects all payment data from the moment cards are inserted or tapped. This ensures sensitive information remains secure during transmission over 4G networks.
PCI DSS compliance certification validates that devices meet Payment Card Industry security standards. All major UK providers maintain this essential certification for legal operation.
Tokenisation replaces actual card numbers with unique tokens during processing. This prevents sensitive card data from being stored on the device or transmitted in readable format.
Secure authentication requires staff PINs or biometric verification before accessing payment functions. This prevents unauthorised use if devices are lost or stolen.
Regular security updates download automatically over 4G connections. Providers push firmware updates to address new security threats without requiring manual intervention.
EMV chip technology provides superior fraud protection compared to magnetic stripe systems. Chip-and-PIN transactions generate unique codes that cannot be replicated for fraudulent use.
Can mobile 4G card machines integrate easily with various point-of-sale systems?
API connectivity enables integration with most modern POS systems through software interfaces. Popular providers offer ready-made connections to systems like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Sage.
Cloud-based synchronisation ensures transaction data flows automatically between the card machine and POS software. This eliminates manual data entry whilst maintaining accurate inventory and sales records.
Bluetooth pairing allows 4G card machines to work with tablets and smartphones running POS applications. This creates flexible payment solutions for different business setups.
Limited integration exists with older legacy systems. Businesses using outdated POS software may need system upgrades to achieve full integration capabilities.
Real-time reporting synchronises sales data across all platforms instantly. Transaction details, refunds, and daily totals update automatically in connected business management systems.
Third-party middleware sometimes bridges compatibility gaps. Specialist software providers create custom integrations for businesses with unique POS requirements.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of using a 4G card reader compared to traditional payment systems?
Mobility represents the primary advantage of 4G card readers. These devices work anywhere with mobile network coverage without requiring fixed phone lines or broadband connections.
Faster cash flow improves business finances significantly. Next-day payouts, including weekends, provide quicker access to sales revenue compared to traditional three-day bank transfers.
Lower setup costs eliminate expensive installation fees. 4G readers typically require no technical installation, unlike traditional PDQ machines that need phone line connections and engineer visits.
Network dependency creates potential service interruptions. Poor 4G signal strength in certain locations can prevent transaction processing, unlike fixed-line systems with more reliable connectivity.
Higher transaction costs often apply compared to traditional merchant accounts. Mobile payment providers typically charge higher percentages to cover the convenience and flexibility benefits.
Battery management adds operational complexity. Staff must monitor charge levels and carry backup power sources for extended trading periods, unlike mains-powered traditional terminals.
Which providers offer the most reliable 4G card payment solutions for UK-based businesses?
The Ingenico DX8000 from Worldpay comes with a 4G sim card as standard. This device offers robust connectivity for businesses needing reliable mobile payments.
Dojo provides comprehensive mobile payment solutions with 4G connectivity. Their Pocket device offers reliable service with next-day payouts seven days per week.
Square delivers robust 4G card machines with integrated business management tools. The Terminal device combines payment processing with inventory management and customer databases.
SumUp offers budget-friendly 4G solutions ideal for small businesses and seasonal traders. Their 3G device provides reliable connectivity at competitive flat-rate pricing.
Worldpay also supplies enterprise-grade mobile terminals through their Verifone V240m.
About The Author
Lee Hart
