Sum Up Air vs Sum Up Solo: Which Card Reader Is Best for Your Business in 2025?
Written by Lee Hart
Looking for a card reader solution for your business? The SumUp Air and SumUp Solo are two popular options with notable differences in design, features, and price. The SumUp Air costs £39 (excluding VAT) while the SumUp Solo comes at a higher price point of £79 (excluding VAT), but offers a more premium experience with its touchscreen interface.
The SumUp Air features physical buttons and a small screen showing transaction amounts, requiring connection to a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth to operate. In contrast, the SumUp Solo provides a more sophisticated experience with its touchscreen display and comes with an included charging station. The Solo creates a more professional impression for customers during the payment process.
Both devices accept contactless, chip and PIN payments with transaction fees between 1.1-1.3% for in-person payments. The Air appeals to businesses seeking a budget-friendly option, while the Solo suits merchants wanting a standalone device with a more luxurious appearance that doesn't rely on additional devices.
Key Takeaways
- The SumUp Air is more affordable at £39 (ex VAT) and requires pairing with a mobile device, whilst the Solo costs £79 (ex VAT) but functions independently.
- SumUp Solo includes a touchscreen interface and charging station, creating a more professional payment experience for your customers.
- Both card readers process contactless payments with similar transaction fees of 1.1-1.3%, with no monthly charges regardless of which device you choose.
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Overview of Sum Up Air and Sum Up Solo
SumUp offers two popular card readers with distinct features and price points to meet different business needs. Each device has specific capabilities, connectivity requirements, and ideal use cases that merchants should consider before making a purchase.
Purpose and Use Cases
The SumUp Air is a compact card reader designed for businesses that already use smartphones or tablets for operations. It requires pairing with a mobile device via Bluetooth and the SumUp app to process payments. The Air features physical buttons for PIN entry and a small screen that displays transaction amounts.
SumUp Solo, by contrast, is a standalone device with a touchscreen interface. It can function independently without needing to be connected to another device. This makes it particularly useful for businesses that prefer a self-contained payment solution without relying on additional hardware.
Both devices accept contactless, chip and PIN, and mobile payments through services like Apple Pay and Google Pay, with transaction fees ranging from 1.1% to 1.3% for contactless payments.
Device Compatibility
The SumUp Air depends entirely on a compatible device (smartphone or tablet) with the SumUp app installed. This creates a two-piece system where the mobile device handles the transaction creation and internet connection, while the Air reader processes the actual card payment.
The Solo operates as a fully independent unit with built-in internet connectivity through Wi-Fi. It doesn't require pairing with other devices, though it can integrate with point-of-sale systems if needed.
Battery performance differs significantly between the two models. The Air has superior battery life, providing approximately 500 transactions per charge since it only powers on when needed for payment processing.
The Solo's touchscreen and constant connectivity reduce its battery longevity but offer greater convenience and flexibility for merchants who prefer not to use multiple devices.
Target Users
The SumUp Air targets small businesses, mobile vendors, and merchants who already use smartphones or tablets in their operations. It's ideal for market traders, delivery services, and businesses with lower transaction volumes due to its lower initial cost of £39 excluding VAT.
The Solo is better suited for established retail locations, restaurants, and businesses seeking a professional, standalone payment solution. Though priced higher at £79 excluding VAT, it offers greater convenience without requiring additional devices.
Businesses with multiple staff members often prefer the Solo as it eliminates the need to share personal mobile devices for payment processing. Its touchscreen interface also provides a more luxurious and organised appearance compared to the simpler Air model.
Design and Build Quality
The SumUp Air and SumUp Solo card readers differ significantly in their physical appearance and usability features. Both devices reflect SumUp's commitment to sleek design while serving different merchant needs.
Physical Dimensions
The SumUp Air is noticeably more compact and lightweight than the Solo model. Its small rectangular shape makes it highly portable and easy to store in pockets or small spaces. The Air measures approximately 84 × 84 × 23 mm, making it one of the smaller card readers on the market.
In contrast, the SumUp Solo is larger with a more substantial footprint. Its increased size accommodates the built-in touchscreen and independent functionality. The Solo stands taller and wider than the Air, designed to sit stably on countertops.
Both devices are designed for mobility, but the Air clearly prioritises portability while the Solo focuses on standalone capability and improved visibility during transactions.
User Interface
The SumUp Air features a small screen that displays the transaction amount and physical buttons for PIN entry. Its interface is functional but basic, requiring connection to a smartphone or tablet running the SumUp app to process payments.
The Solo boasts a significant upgrade with its full-colour touchscreen interface. This touchscreen allows for direct interaction without needing a separate device. Customers can easily see amounts, enter PINs, and select tip options directly on the Solo's screen.
The Solo's interface appears more professional and modern, offering a tipping functionality that many merchants appreciate. Its standalone operation eliminates the need to hand your personal mobile to customers during transactions.
Durability and Materials
Both SumUp devices feature robust construction with quality materials designed to withstand daily commercial use. The plastic casings are sturdy without feeling cheap or flimsy.
The Air's simpler design potentially offers fewer points of failure. Its physical buttons are designed to withstand thousands of presses. A separate holder is available for the Air that doubles as a charging station, adding stability when placed on countertops.
The Solo's touchscreen is protected by scratch-resistant glass, though it's naturally more vulnerable to damage than the Air's simpler display. The Solo also comes with a built-in stand for improved stability during use. Both devices are designed to resist minor spills and everyday wear, though neither is fully waterproof.
Key Features Comparison
SumUp Air and SumUp Solo offer distinct features that cater to different business needs. Let's examine how these card readers compare in terms of their displays, payment options, connectivity, and battery performance.
Display and Interaction
The SumUp Air features a small, basic screen that displays transaction amounts. It uses physical buttons for PIN entry, creating a straightforward user experience. While functional, this design appears less sophisticated than its counterpart.
In contrast, the SumUp Solo boasts a touchscreen interface that looks more premium and organised. This modern display allows customers to interact directly with the screen, offering a more streamlined payment process.
The Solo's touchscreen provides a more intuitive experience for both merchants and customers. Its visual interface makes navigation simpler and gives businesses a more professional appearance when processing payments.
Payment Methods Supported
Both devices accept major payment cards and contactless payments, including:
- Chip and PIN transactions
- Contactless card payments
- Mobile wallet payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay)
- NFC technology for tap-to-pay
The transaction fees remain consistent across both models, ranging from 1.1-1.3% for contactless payments and 1.95% for online payments. Neither device charges monthly fees, making them cost-effective options for small businesses.
Both readers support EMV chip cards for secure transactions, ensuring compliance with current payment security standards. This provides peace of mind for merchants concerned about fraud protection.
Connectivity Options
The SumUp Air requires pairing with a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth to process transactions. This dependency means you'll need a separate device with the SumUp app installed to operate the reader.
The SumUp Solo functions as a standalone device with built-in connectivity options. It features:
- Integrated Wi-Fi capabilities
- Optional cellular connectivity
- No need for additional devices to operate
This independence gives the Solo a significant advantage for businesses that prefer an all-in-one solution without relying on separate mobile devices. However, the Air offers flexibility as a backup option when used with a phone.
Battery Life
Battery performance varies significantly between these two card readers, impacting their practical daily use.
The SumUp Air offers reasonable battery life for a portable device, typically lasting through a full day of moderate transaction volume. A separate holder is available that doubles as a charging station, providing convenient power management.
The SumUp Solo delivers extended battery performance suitable for busy retail environments. Its larger battery capacity accommodates heavier usage throughout the day without requiring frequent recharging.
Both devices use USB charging, but the Solo's standalone nature means its battery needs to be more robust. For merchants who process numerous transactions throughout the day, the Solo's superior battery life may be a deciding factor.
Performance and Speed
When choosing between SumUp Air and SumUp Solo, transaction speed and reliability are crucial factors that impact daily business operations. These card readers differ significantly in how quickly they process payments and how dependably they function in various environments.
Transaction Efficiency
The SumUp Air processes transactions slightly faster than the Solo in most situations. This is partly because the Air has a more streamlined workflow with separate physical buttons for PIN entry rather than a touchscreen interface.
The Air can handle approximately 500 transactions on a single charge, while the Solo manages only about 100 transactions per full battery charge. This significant difference occurs because the Solo's touchscreen consumes more power.
For businesses with high transaction volumes, this efficiency gap can translate to less time spent recharging and more time processing sales. Small cafés, market stalls and mobile businesses particularly benefit from the Air's superior battery efficiency.
Reliability
Both devices show similar reliability ratings on review platforms. According to customer reviews, both the SumUp Air and Solo maintain a Trustpilot rating of 4 out of 5 with identical numbers of reviews.
The Air offers better compatibility with external hardware, working with several printer models including the Bixolon SPP-R200lliK/BEGE and Star Micronics SM-L200. The Solo, meanwhile, isn't compatible with external hardware devices, potentially limiting its functionality in certain business settings.
Connection stability is generally good for both devices, though the Air's simpler technology sometimes results in fewer technical glitches than the Solo's more complex touchscreen system.
Setup and Ease of Use
Both SumUp card readers offer straightforward setup processes but differ in their interfaces and initial configurations. The steps to get each reader operational vary slightly due to their different designs and functionalities.
Installation Process
Setting up the SumUp Air is quite simple. You'll need to charge the device first, then turn it on by pressing the power button. The Air connects to your smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth, requiring you to download and install the SumUp app.
The pairing process involves following the in-app instructions to connect your Air to your mobile device. Once connected, the app guides you through the final setup steps.
The SumUp Solo setup is different because it's a standalone device. After pressing the power button, you'll select your language from a drop-down menu directly on the Solo's touchscreen. Then you'll need to log into your SumUp profile on the device itself.
Unlike the Air, the Solo doesn't require a separate mobile device to operate, making its installation potentially quicker but requiring direct interaction with its interface.
Guided Actions for Merchants
The SumUp Air offers a more minimalist approach to merchant guidance. The device has a small screen that displays the transaction amount, whilst customers enter their PIN using physical buttons. The Air can be placed flat on a table or used with a separate holder that doubles as a charger.
Merchants primarily follow instructions through the SumUp app on their connected device rather than on the reader itself. This split interface means you'll need to manage two devices during transactions.
The Solo provides a more integrated experience with its touchscreen interface. All instructions and actions happen directly on the device itself. The touchscreen appears more luxurious and organised compared to the Air's physical buttons.
Merchants can access the SumUp Support Centre for detailed guidance on using either device, with specific sections dedicated to Solo card reader operation.
Pricing and Payment Structure
When choosing between SumUp Air and SumUp Solo, understanding the financial aspects is crucial. Both card readers have different upfront costs and ongoing transaction fees that will impact your business expenses.
Device Costs
The SumUp Air is typically the more affordable option for initial purchase. Current pricing shows it's available at a lower price point than the Solo model.
The SumUp Solo is priced at £59, down from its regular price of £79. This higher cost reflects its advanced features, including the touchscreen interface and standalone capabilities.
Both devices are one-time purchases with no monthly fees or contracts. The Solo includes additional value with its charging holder, which not only powers the device but also provides a professional display for your counter or workspace.
Transaction Fees
Both SumUp Air and Solo operate on a simple pay-as-you-go model with a fixed transaction fee structure.
The standard transaction fee for both devices is 1.69% per transaction with no hidden costs or monthly minimums. This flat percentage applies to all major credit and debit cards processed through either device.
Unlike some competitors, SumUp doesn't charge different rates for different card types, making it easier to predict your payment processing costs. There are no additional fees for setup or account maintenance.
For businesses with higher transaction volumes, the consistent fee structure makes it straightforward to calculate costs, though larger merchants might want to compare with providers offering volume-based discounts.
Integration with Business Tools
Both SumUp Air and SumUp Solo offer connectivity options that enhance your payment processing capabilities. The right integrations can streamline operations and save valuable time for small business owners.
App Integration
The SumUp Air connects seamlessly with the free SumUp App, which works on most iOS and Android devices. This portable solution allows merchants to process payments anywhere with cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity.
The SumUp Solo takes integration a step further with its standalone capabilities. Unlike the Air, the Solo doesn't require a separate smartphone or tablet to function, as it has built-in connectivity. However, it still integrates with SumUp's POS system for enhanced functionality.
Both devices support QuickBooks integration across all tiers of SumUp POS, making accounting tasks more efficient. This feature automatically syncs transaction data with your accounting software, reducing manual entry errors.
Receipt and Reporting Capabilities
The SumUp Air offers basic receipt options through the SumUp App. Merchants can send a digital receipt to customers via email or SMS after transactions. For printed receipts, you'll need to purchase a compatible thermal printer separately.
The SumUp Solo provides enhanced receipt functionality with its touchscreen interface. It allows for customisation of receipts with business logos and information directly on the device. The Solo also supports deposit systems for rentals or refundable purchases, tracking them separately within the system.
Both devices offer robust reporting tools through the SumUp Dashboard. Users can monitor sales, analyse transaction patterns, and export financial data for accounting purposes. The Solo's built-in display makes it easier to access quick reports on the go without using a separate device.
Security and Compliance
When choosing between the SumUp Air and SumUp Solo, security is a crucial factor to consider. Both devices offer robust protection features to safeguard your business and customers.
The SumUp Air uses encryption when handling sensitive information like credit card numbers. This provides a strong defence against potential data breaches during transactions.
For contactless payments, both devices support Apple Pay and Android Pay, which use tokenisation to protect data. This replaces actual card information with randomly generated numbers called tokens, adding an extra layer of security.
SumUp is fully PCI DSS compliant, meeting the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards required for all payment processors. This means they follow strict security protocols designed to protect cardholder data.
In the UK, SumUp Payments Limited is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011 (register number 900700). This regulatory oversight ensures they maintain high standards of operation.
Both the Air and Solo receive regular security updates to protect against emerging threats. These updates are typically automatic, requiring no action from merchants.
The main security difference between the two is that the Solo operates independently without needing a smartphone connection, potentially reducing one possible security vulnerability point.
Customer Support and Warranty
SumUp offers the same customer service options for both the Air and Solo card readers. Users can access support through the SumUp Support Centre, which contains guides and answers to common questions.
Both devices come with a 12-month warranty as standard. This covers manufacturing defects but not damage from drops or water exposure.
SumUp provides multiple contact channels for assistance:
- Email support
- Live chat through the app
- Telephone helpline
Customer reviews suggest that service quality is generally good with a rating of 3.8/5 for service and reviews according to Mobile Transaction. Response times typically range from a few hours to one business day.
When you purchase either card reader, SumUp provides helpful setup guides. These are designed to help merchants start accepting payments quickly, whether you've chosen the Air or Solo model.
The SumUp app includes a dedicated help section with troubleshooting tips for both devices. This can be particularly useful for resolving minor issues without contacting support.
For replacement parts or accessories, these can be ordered directly through the SumUp website. The charging dock for the Solo and holder for the Air are available as separate purchases.
Summary: Which Device to Choose?
The choice between SumUp Air and SumUp Solo depends on your specific business needs and budget.
SumUp Air is the more affordable option at £39 excluding VAT, making it ideal for businesses that need multiple card readers. It connects via Bluetooth to your smartphone or tablet, which serves as the control centre.
SumUp Solo costs more at £79 excluding VAT but offers standalone functionality with its built-in touchscreen. It connects via WiFi or SIM card, eliminating the need for a separate device.
Consider these key differences:
Feature: SumUp Air / SumUp Solo
Price: £39 / £79
Connectivity: Bluetooth / WiFi or SIM
Screen: No (uses phone/tablet) / Yes (touchscreen)
Additional hardware: Requires smartphone or tablet / Standalone
Tipping function: Basic / Customer-friendly touchscreen
The Air is better suited for businesses with:
- Tighter budgets
- Multiple points of sale
- Staff already comfortable with smartphones
The Solo is preferable for businesses wanting:
- Standalone operation
- Professional appearance
- Simplified customer tipping
- Less tech complexity
Both devices charge similar transaction fees (1.1-1.3% for contactless payments) and have no monthly fees, making the upfront cost the main financial consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many customers have questions about the differences between the SumUp Air and SumUp Solo card readers. These two popular payment devices have distinct features, pricing structures and operational capabilities that affect their suitability for different business needs.
What are the pricing differences between the SumUp Air and the SumUp Solo card readers?
The SumUp Air is significantly more affordable at £39 excluding VAT, making it the budget-friendly option for small businesses just starting out. In comparison, the SumUp Solo costs £79 excluding VAT, representing a substantial price difference.
The higher cost of the Solo reflects its advanced features, including the touchscreen interface and standalone capabilities. The initial investment difference may be important for businesses operating on tight budgets.
How do the transaction fees for SumUp Air compare with those of the SumUp Solo?
Both the SumUp Air and SumUp Solo operate on the same transaction fee structure. This means businesses won't face different percentage costs regardless of which device they choose.
The fees are typically percentage-based per transaction rather than a fixed monthly fee, making both options suitable for businesses with fluctuating sales volumes. This consistent fee structure simplifies the decision-making process, allowing businesses to focus on other differentiating factors.
What are the connectivity requirements for the SumUp Solo device?
The SumUp Solo comes with built-in connectivity options that give it more flexibility than the Air model. It includes Wi-Fi capabilities and a SIM card with mobile data.
This means the Solo can operate in locations with poor or no Wi-Fi coverage, making it ideal for mobile businesses, outdoor markets, or delivery services. The device's independent connectivity eliminates concerns about stable internet connections that might affect payment processing.
Can the SumUp Solo operate independently of a mobile app, unlike the SumUp Air?
Yes, the SumUp Solo can function completely independently without requiring a smartphone or tablet connection. This standalone capability is one of its key advantages over the Air model.
The SumUp Air, in contrast, must be paired with the SumUp App on a smartphone or tablet to process transactions. The Solo's independence makes it simpler to use for staff and reduces the need for additional devices.
In what ways does the functionality of the SumUp Solo differ from the SumUp Air?
The SumUp Solo features a touchscreen interface for both merchants and customers, creating a more modern payment experience. The SumUp Air uses physical buttons for PIN entry and has a smaller screen that only displays the amount.
The Solo offers a more integrated experience with its all-in-one design. Meanwhile, the Air requires a separate device for managing products and transactions, though it does benefit from the full features of the SumUp App when connected.
Is the SumUp Solo more suitable for small businesses than the SumUp Air?
The suitability depends entirely on the specific business needs rather than size alone. Businesses requiring mobility and independence might prefer the Solo despite its higher cost, while budget-conscious operations might favour the Air.
The Air works well for businesses that already use tablets or smartphones and want an affordable card reader solution. The Solo is better suited to businesses seeking a professional, self-contained payment terminal without the need for additional devices.
About The Author
Lee Hart
