Sum Up Air Explained: Features, Benefits and How It Works

Sum Up Air is a compact, portable card reader designed to make accepting payments simple and fast. It connects easily to a smartphone or tablet and allows businesses to take contactless and chip card payments anywhere. It works without fixed costs or long contracts, making it accessible for small businesses and freelancers.

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The device supports payments from credit and debit cards as well as Apple Pay and Google Pay. It stays charged throughout the day using its charging station, which also serves as a neat display stand. Its ease of use and mobile nature helps businesses stay flexible while offering customers multiple payment options.

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Many users appreciate its low fees and reliable security measures, making it a smart choice for those starting or growing their business. Sum Up Air also comes with good customer support and straightforward setup through the SumUp app.

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Key Takeaways

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• Sum Up Air is easy to set up and use for mobile payments.
• It offers affordable pricing with no ongoing fees.
• The device accepts various payment methods securely.

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What Is Sum Up Air?

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Sum Up Air is a small, portable device designed to help businesses accept payments easily. It works by connecting to a smartphone or tablet, allowing users to take card payments on the go. The device supports various payment methods and offers simple features tailored to different business needs.

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Overview of Sum Up Air

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Sum Up Air is a compact card reader that pairs with a mobile app. It is battery-powered and lightweight, making it ideal for traders, market stalls, and small shops. The device connects via Bluetooth to a smartphone or tablet, enabling payments anywhere with an internet connection or mobile data.

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The Sum Up app is free to download and set up. After linking the device, users can begin taking payments immediately. The reader works smoothly without needing extra equipment, which lowers start-up costs for businesses. It is designed for ease of use, requiring minimal technical knowledge.

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Key Features of Sum Up Air

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Key features of Sum Up Air include fast contactless payments and chip & PIN transactions. The device supports secure encryption, protecting sensitive information during transactions. It also automatically updates software via the app to ensure reliable performance.

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The device is portable and durable, suitable for indoor and outdoor use. It works with Android and iOS devices. Businesses can track sales and access reports through the Sum Up app, making it easier to manage transactions and keep records.

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Supported Payment Methods

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Sum Up Air accepts payments from all major debit and credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. It also supports contactless payments through Apple Pay and Google Pay, offering customers multiple convenient options.

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Customers can pay by tapping cards or smartphones on the device or by inserting cards for chip & PIN transactions. This flexibility allows merchants to serve customers quickly and meet different payment preferences. The device does not require contactless limits to be set by the user, as all transactions comply with current bank standards.

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Sum Up Air Card Reader overview explains these features in detail.

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How Sum Up Air Works

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The Sum Up Air card reader connects wirelessly to mobile devices and allows businesses to accept card payments quickly. It works with the Sum Up app, which handles transactions and offers features like item management and tipping. The device is also designed to link with other sales systems to streamline payments.

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Device Setup and Installation

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Setting up the Sum Up Air is simple. The user first downloads the Sum Up app and logs in with an email and password.

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Next, they turn on the Air card reader and pair it with their smartphone or tablet using Bluetooth. This connection enables the device to communicate wirelessly with the app.

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The app prompts the user to perform a test transaction, such as entering an amount and pressing “Charge.” This confirms the reader is working.

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Sum Up Air does not require additional cables or complex hardware. The user just keeps the reader charged using a USB cable when needed.

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Step-by-Step Payment Process

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To take a payment, the user opens the Sum Up app and enters the sale amount on the keypad.

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They then ask the customer to tap, insert, or swipe their card on the Air reader. Contactless payments work with cards or devices like smartphones.

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Once the payment is authorised, the app confirms the transaction and can print or send a digital receipt.

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The user can also add a tip or select predefined items from their product list to speed up the sale process.

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Transactions are encrypted to keep customer data secure during the process.

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Integration With POS Systems

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Sum Up Air works with many third-party Point of Sale (POS) systems to improve sales management.

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It can sync product catalogues, prices, and sales data between the Sum Up app and POS software.

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This integration allows users to manage inventory, track sales in one place, and generate reports easily.

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Businesses using POS systems benefit from the Air reader’s portability while keeping their existing sales setup intact.

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The wireless connection and compatibility with other devices make it a flexible option for various retail or service environments.

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Learn more about setting up and using the device on the official Sum Up Air support page.

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Benefits of Using Sum Up Air

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Sum Up Air offers features that suit a variety of business needs. It combines convenience, cost-effectiveness, and ease of use in a compact device. Many businesses find these qualities important when choosing a card reader.

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Mobility and Portability

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Sum Up Air is small and lightweight, making it easy to carry between locations. Its portability suits mobile businesses, market stalls, and pop-up shops well. The device connects wirelessly to smartphones or tablets via Bluetooth, removing the need for fixed installations.

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The battery life supports over 500 transactions on a single charge. This allows for long working hours without frequent charging interruptions. The compact design fits into pockets or small bags, which adds to its mobility and ease of storage.

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Affordability Compared to Competitors

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Sum Up Air offers no monthly fees or fixed contract costs. Businesses pay a simple transaction fee per sale, which helps control expenses. This pricing makes it cost-effective, especially for small businesses and startups.

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It costs less upfront than many other card readers with similar features. The low cost and pay-as-you-go model reduce financial risks linked to unused services or commitments. This design appeals to those who want to keep card payments affordable and flexible.

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User-Friendliness for Businesses

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The Sum Up Air works with the free Sum Up app, which has a simple interface. Setting up and using the device requires minimal effort, allowing staff to start taking payments quickly.

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It accepts a wide range of payments, including contactless cards, Apple Pay, Android Pay, Chip & PIN, and swiped cards. This versatility covers most customer preferences and improves the payment experience.

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The app also provides instant sales reports and payment history, helping businesses keep track of transactions with ease. This feature supports smooth day-to-day operations without extra tools.

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Pricing and Costs

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SumUp Air has clear and straightforward pricing. It requires an upfront purchase of the card reader and charges a fixed fee per transaction. There are no hidden charges or contracts to worry about.

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Device Purchase Options

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The SumUp Air card reader costs around £39 plus VAT. If a charger is needed, the price rises to about £49 plus VAT.

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It is a one-time payment with no subscription fees or monthly costs. Delivery is usually included in the price.

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The device is simple to set up and use. There are often special offers or discounts available on the official SumUp website, which could lower the initial cost.

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Transaction Fees

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SumUp charges a flat rate of 1.69% per transaction on all card payments. This percentage fee applies every time the device processes a payment.

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There are no extra fees beyond this transaction cost. SumUp does not require a contract, so users can stop using the service anytime without penalties.

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This clear fee structure makes it easy to predict costs and manage expenses for small businesses. For more details, visit the SumUp pricing page.

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Security Features of Sum Up Air

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Sum Up Air uses advanced technology to protect payment data and stops unauthorised transactions. It ensures sensitive information is safe during every step of the payment process.

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Data Encryption Standards

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Sum Up Air encrypts all transaction data immediately after a card is used. This means the details are scrambled so no one can read them while they travel to Sum Up’s secure server.

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The device uses security that meets the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). It also has a PCI PTS-certified card reader, which means the PIN is safely processed on the device itself.

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No sensitive data, such as full card numbers or PINs, is stored on the device or Sum Up’s servers. This reduces the risk of data breaches.

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Fraud Prevention Measures

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Sum Up Air includes built-in fraud prevention to protect businesses and customers. It supports multi-factor authentication (MFA) for account access. This adds an extra security step if someone tries to log in from an unknown device.

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The device also checks for suspicious activity during transactions. Transactions are monitored to spot patterns that could indicate fraud.

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Additionally, it supports secure payment methods like chip and contactless cards, which have built-in protections against copying or skimming.

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Comparing Sum Up Air With Other Card Readers

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The Sum Up Air card reader offers a simple Bluetooth connection and a fixed transaction fee. While it handles basic payment needs well, other models provide added features like standalone use or different connection options. Pricing and ease of use vary between devices, which could affect a business’s choice.

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Sum Up Air vs. SumUp Solo

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Sum Up Air connects via Bluetooth to a smartphone or tablet and requires the free app to accept payments. It costs less upfront but depends on another device to operate.

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SumUp Solo, on the other hand, is a standalone device with a built-in SIM card. It does not need a phone or Wi-Fi to work and has its own screen and keypad. This makes it more flexible for mobile use but it comes at a higher price.

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Both charge around 1.69% per transaction. Air is better for businesses with frequent phone/tablet use, while Solo suits those wanting a ready-to-go terminal.

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Sum Up Air vs. iZettle Reader

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The iZettle reader uses a fixed 1.75% fee, very close to Sum Up Air’s 1.69%.

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iZettle supports multiple connection options, including Bluetooth and USB. It also integrates with more detailed sales and inventory tools.

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Sum Up Air’s strength lies in its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. It focuses on basic card payments with minimal setup.

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For users needing stronger business analytics or more versatile hardware, iZettle could be more suitable. For basic card payments with low fees, Sum Up Air remains a solid choice.

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More comparison details are available at Zettle vs SumUp.

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Customer Support and Resources

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SumUp provides multiple ways to get help with the Air card reader. Users can contact the support team directly or use online guides to solve common issues. Both options offer clear, practical assistance for setup, payments, and troubleshooting.

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Customer Service Channels

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SumUp’s support team can be reached by email, offering specialised contacts depending on the product. For help with the Air card reader, users email support@sumup.com. For POS and Loyalty services, support@fivestars.com is the correct contact.

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Existing customers can log in to their accounts to access live chat support. This feature allows quick, personalised responses tailored to the specific product or issue. The chat is designed to solve problems efficiently and minimise waiting times.

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There is also a dedicated support centre on the SumUp website where users can find contact details, submit queries, and track requests. Overall, these channels ensure users have direct access to knowledgeable assistance when needed.

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Online Tutorials and Documentation

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SumUp offers a detailed online Support Centre with step-by-step guides and FAQs specifically for the Air card reader. This includes help with setup, connecting the device, processing payments, and issuing receipts.

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The documentation is easy to navigate and covers most common questions. Users can find articles on software updates, troubleshooting errors, and managing business accounts. Visual aids such as screenshots and videos enhance understanding.

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These online resources provide self-service options that reduce delay. Users can quickly find answers anytime without needing to wait for direct support, which makes using the Air card reader more straightforward.

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More detailed information is available at SumUp’s Support Centre.

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User Experience and Reviews

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Users find the SumUp Air card reader easy to set up and use. Many appreciate its compact size and lightweight design, which makes it convenient to carry for on-the-go payments.

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The device is praised for its reliability in processing transactions quickly. People often mention that it works well in various locations, such as markets or small shops.

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There are mixed opinions on customer service. While some users report satisfactory support, others describe their experiences as unsatisfactory, especially when dealing with issues or queries.

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Common positive points include:

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• Simple and clear interface
• Portable and sturdy build
• Compatibility with different payment methods, including contactless cards

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Some negatives reported are:

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• Occasional delays in customer service response
• Limited advanced features compared to some competitors

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SumUp Air has received an average rating of around 4 stars on review sites, showing general approval from a broad user base. Its ease of use and value for money are frequently mentioned strengths.

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More detailed user feedback can be found in reviews for the SumUp Air card reader and on Trustpilot.

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Who Should Use Sum Up Air?

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Sum Up Air is designed for small to medium-sized businesses that handle a moderate number of card payments each month. It suits those who need a simple and affordable way to accept payments without complicated contracts or high fixed fees.

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Businesses such as coffee shops, market stalls, and small retailers benefit from its ease of use. It connects easily to a smartphone or tablet, making it practical for mobile or temporary setups.

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The device also works well for freelancers and service providers like hairdressers or tutors. They can quickly take payments on the go, including contactless options like Apple Pay or Google Pay.

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Sum Up Air is not ideal for businesses with very high transaction volumes. Larger companies that require advanced features or custom solutions might find better options elsewhere.

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Key features that make it suitable include:

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• Low transaction fees
• Portable and lightweight design
• Compatibility with contactless payments
• No monthly rental fees

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For those looking for a straightforward contactless card reader that pairs with a smartphone, the SumUp Air card reader offers a practical solution. It simplifies payments and helps businesses stay mobile and flexible.

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Conclusion

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The SumUp Air is a compact and easy-to-use card reader. It suits small businesses that need a simple, no-contract payment solution.

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It connects via Bluetooth to a smartphone or tablet, making it portable and flexible. Users can accept all major debit and credit cards with one device.

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The device is lightweight and fits easily in a pocket. Its setup is quick and fully managed online, which saves time and paperwork.

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For businesses with moderate card transactions, SumUp Air offers reliable service without monthly fees. It is not designed for very high volumes but performs well for small to medium use.

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Key features include:

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• No monthly contract
• USB charging
• Compatibility with iOS and Android devices
• Secure transactions

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Its straightforward design helps users focus on running their business without the hassle of complicated hardware.

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More details on its features and user reviews can be found at the SumUp Air review on Tool Talk.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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The SumUp Air connects quickly to devices via Bluetooth and is known for its easy setup. It has unique features compared to the SumUp Solo. Customers often mention its reliability and user-friendly design. Fees depend on the transaction type, and the app supports multiple devices linked to one account.

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How do I connect my SumUp Air card reader to my device?

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The SumUp Air connects to smartphones or tablets using Bluetooth. Users must download the SumUp app and pair the card reader through the app’s setup process.

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The app will guide the user step-by-step to complete the connection. Once paired, the reader is ready for contactless and chip payments.

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What are the differences between SumUp Air and SumUp Solo card readers?

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SumUp Air requires pairing with a phone or tablet, while SumUp Solo has a built-in screen and works independently.

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Solo supports payments without a connected device, but Air depends on a mobile device for transactions. Both support chip and contactless payments.

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Where can I buy a SumUp Air card reader?

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SumUp Air card readers can be purchased directly from the official SumUp website. They are also available through select retailers and online marketplaces.

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Buying from SumUp ensures access to warranty and customer support.

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How does the SumUp Air card reader perform in customer reviews?

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Users commonly praise SumUp Air for its portability and ease of use. The Bluetooth connection and quick checkout process receive positive feedback.

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Some customers note occasional connectivity issues, but these can often be solved by resetting the device.

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What fees are associated with transactions using the SumUp Air?

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SumUp charges a fixed percentage fee per transaction. There are no monthly fees or minimum charges.

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Fees apply only when payments are processed through the card reader. Exact rates can vary by country and payment method.

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Can the SumUp Air app be used on multiple devices?

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Yes, the SumUp app can be installed on several devices but linked to the same account. This allows for management of sales and payments from different devices.

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However, the card reader can only actively connect to one device at a time.

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