SumUp Review: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Payment Solution for Small Businesses in 2025
Looking for a payment solution for your small business? SumUp offers a range of card readers and point-of-sale systems that have gained popularity in the UK market. With over 24,000 reviews and a 4-star rating on Trustpilot, SumUp has established itself as a reliable option for merchants seeking affordable transaction fees and simple payment processing technology.
The SumUp card reader allows businesses to accept payments quickly with minimal setup, making it particularly appealing to first-time business owners. Its compact design and wireless capabilities let you take payments anywhere, while the associated app provides transaction tracking and business insights at your fingertips.
Key Takeaways
- SumUp offers payment processing with transparent fees and no monthly contracts for small business owners.
- The card reader and POS system are praised for their ease of use and simple setup process.
- Customer reviews indicate a good level of satisfaction with a 4-star rating from thousands of users on Trustpilot.
Overview of SumUp
SumUp is a leading global financial technology company that focuses on providing payment solutions primarily for small businesses. Founded in 2012, the company has expanded its services across Europe and the Americas.
The core offering from SumUp is its card payment technology, featuring affordable, mobile card readers that allow merchants to accept various payment methods including chip and PIN, contactless, and mobile payments. These readers connect to smartphones or tablets via Bluetooth.
SumUp's payment structure is straightforward with a flat-rate transaction fee rather than more complex monthly charges. Although this can be a more expensive way to price payments, it makes it particularly appealing to small businesses with lower sales volumes or seasonal operations.
Beyond card readers, SumUp has expanded its product range to include:
- POS (Point of Sale) systems
- Business accounts
- Online payment solutions
- Invoicing tools
- Digital receipts
The company operates through a mobile application that serves as the control centre for all services. Through this app, merchants can track sales, manage inventory, and review transaction history.
SumUp positions itself as a champion for small businesses by aiming to level the playing field in the financial services sector. Their solutions require minimal setup and technical knowledge.
The SumUp business checking account integrates with their other services, creating a comprehensive ecosystem for small business financial management. This integration allows merchants to manage multiple aspects of their business finances through a single platform.
Features and Services
SumUp offers a comprehensive suite of payment processing and business management tools. Their products range from card readers to complete point-of-sale systems, all designed to help small businesses accept payments efficiently.
Card Payment Terminals
SumUp provides several card reader options to meet different business needs. The SumUp Air is their most popular device, a compact Bluetooth-connected card reader that pairs with smartphones or tablets. It accepts chip and PIN, contactless, and mobile wallet payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay.
For businesses needing more mobility, the SumUp 3G reader operates independently without requiring a smartphone connection. It includes a built-in SIM card with complimentary data coverage across the UK.
Both devices feature impressive battery life, with the Air lasting approximately 500 transactions per charge. The terminals process all major credit and debit cards with transaction fees of 1.69% for in-person payments.
Setup is straightforward, requiring only the SumUp app and a brief registration process. The readers are praised for their ease of use and reliability in various business environments.
Till Point of Sale Hardware
SumUp's POS hardware options cater to brick-and-mortar businesses requiring complete checkout solutions. The SumUp Pro combines a tablet stand, receipt printer, and cash drawer with their card reader technology.
The system runs on SumUp's proprietary software, allowing businesses to manage inventory, track sales, and process various payment types. The touchscreen interface is intuitive, making staff training minimal.
For restaurants and cafés, the POS system includes table management features, split bill functionality, and tipping options. Retail businesses benefit from barcode scanning and stock level alerts.
The hardware is durable and designed for continuous daily use. SumUp offers flexible payment options for the POS systems, including outright purchase or monthly payment plans.
Integration with the broader SumUp ecosystem ensures that all sales data synchronises across platforms for comprehensive business insights.
Mobile Payments
SumUp's mobile payment solutions extend beyond physical card readers. Their app-based payment options allow businesses to accept payments remotely through various channels.
The SumUp App transforms smartphones into mobile payment terminals when paired with a card reader. For businesses operating remotely, SumUp Virtual Terminal enables processing card payments over the phone.
SumUp also offers payment links that can be sent via email, SMS, or messaging apps. These links direct customers to secure payment pages where they can complete transactions without the merchant needing specialised equipment.
QR code payments have gained popularity, and SumUp supports this with customisable QR codes that customers can scan to pay. This contactless option is particularly useful in the post-pandemic retail environment.
Transaction fees for mobile and remote payments are slightly higher at 2.5%, reflecting the increased risk of card-not-present transactions.
Tax Tools
SumUp's tax management features help small businesses maintain compliance with HMRC requirements. The system automatically calculates VAT on transactions based on pre-set rates for different product categories.
Business owners can generate VAT reports directly from the SumUp dashboard, simplifying quarterly returns. The system stores transaction data for the required seven-year period, ensuring businesses meet record-keeping obligations.
For businesses with multiple tax scenarios, SumUp allows configuration of different tax rates and exemptions. This is particularly useful for businesses selling both standard and reduced-rate items.
At financial year-end, the reporting tools compile annual summaries for accounting purposes. These reports can be exported in various formats compatible with popular accounting software.
Regular updates ensure the tax tools remain compliant with changing regulations, giving business owners peace of mind regarding their tax responsibilities.
Invoicing Solutions
SumUp's invoicing platform allows businesses to create, send, and track professional invoices. The system offers customisable templates that can include business logos and personalised messaging.
Invoices can be delivered via email with embedded payment links for immediate online payment. Customers receive automatic reminders for overdue payments, helping businesses manage cash flow more effectively.
The platform supports recurring invoices for subscription-based services or regular billing arrangements. This automation reduces administrative workload for businesses with repeat customers.
Each invoice is tracked through the SumUp dashboard, showing when it was viewed and paid. This visibility helps businesses manage accounts receivable efficiently.
Payment reconciliation happens automatically, with funds typically appearing in business accounts within 1-3 business days. The invoicing solution integrates seamlessly with SumUp's other financial tools.
E-commerce Integrations
SumUp offers robust e-commerce capabilities that bridge physical and online sales channels. Their online store solution allows businesses to create web shops without technical expertise.
The platform integrates with major e-commerce platforms including Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento. These integrations synchronise inventory and sales data across channels, preventing overselling and stock discrepancies.
For businesses with existing websites, SumUp provides payment gateway services with customisable checkout experiences. The checkout process is optimised for mobile devices, reducing cart abandonment rates.
Digital product sellers benefit from automatic fulfilment options for downloadable goods. Physical product retailers can manage shipping and fulfilment through the same interface.
E-commerce transaction fees are competitive at 2.5% with no monthly fees or hidden charges. The platform also supports multiple currencies for businesses selling internationally.
Reporting and Analytics
SumUp's reporting tools provide valuable business intelligence through comprehensive sales data. The dashboard presents visual representations of daily, weekly, and monthly performance metrics.
Business owners can analyse sales by product category, time of day, or payment method. These insights help with inventory planning and staffing decisions based on peak business periods.
Customer behaviour analytics track repeat purchases and average transaction values. This information supports targeted marketing efforts and loyalty programme development.
Exportable reports in CSV or Excel format facilitate deeper analysis or sharing with accountants and business advisors. The system allows custom date ranges for specific reporting needs.
Real-time sales notifications keep business owners informed even when away from their premises. The analytics platform highlights unusual transactions or potential issues requiring attention, adding an extra layer of security monitoring.
Pricing Structure
SumUp offers transparent pricing that varies based on the hardware, transaction types, and plan level you select. Understanding these costs is crucial for determining if this payment solution fits your business budget.
Reader Costs
SumUp provides several card reader options at different price points. The standard SumUp Air card reader costs around £29 + VAT, making it one of the more affordable readers on the market. For businesses needing more features, the SumUp Solo & Printer Card Reader comes at £139 + VAT.
The 3G Card Reader, which works independently of your smartphone, is priced at approximately £99 + VAT. This is ideal for merchants who need a standalone solution.
SumUp also offers complete POS systems with varying hardware components. These range from basic tablet stands to full systems with receipt printers and cash drawers. The initial investment depends on which components you select.
Transaction Fees
SumUp's transaction fee structure is straightforward compared to many payment processors. For in-person payments, SumUp charges 1.69% per transaction with no minimum fee. This flat-rate pricing makes it easy to calculate your costs.
For online payments and payment links, the fee increases to 2.5%. Virtual terminal and phone payments incur a higher rate of 2.95% + 25p per transaction.
Higher volume merchants may qualify for the SumUp Plus plan, which offers reduced rates of 0.99% per transaction +£19 per month. This can result in significant savings for businesses processing large payment volumes.
No hidden fees are included, making SumUp's pricing transparent and predictable for small businesses.
Monthly Plans
One of SumUp's major selling points is that their basic service has no monthly account fees when using only card readers. This makes it particularly attractive for small or seasonal businesses with fluctuating sales volumes.
For businesses needing POS functionality, SumUp offers tiered plans:
- Connect Lite: £0 monthly + £349 upfront hardware cost
- Connect Pro: £49 monthly + custom hardware cost (circa £700)
Each tier offers additional features like inventory management, staff management, and advanced reporting. The Plus plan includes the benefit of 7am payouts and exclusive deals.
SumUp POS software is available for free, though hardware must be purchased separately. Businesses on the Plus plan receive 50% off SumUp POS hardware.
Additional Charges
SumUp maintains a straightforward fee structure with minimal additional charges. Unlike many competitors, there are no setup fees, PCI compliance fees or early termination charges to worry about.
Standard payout timings for funds to reach your bank account are generally 1-3 business days. For faster access to your money, SumUp offers an Instant Payout feature for an additional 1% fee.
Currency conversion for international transactions incurs a small fee. If you accept payments in currencies other than GBP, this is something to consider in your cost analysis.
Replacement hardware outside of warranty periods will require additional purchases. The warranty typically covers hardware defects for 12 months from purchase.
Shipping costs for card readers and POS equipment may apply, though SumUp occasionally runs promotions offering free delivery.
Ease of Use
SumUp offers a straightforward experience for merchants looking to accept card payments. The platform focuses on simplicity without sacrificing functionality, making it accessible for small business owners with varying levels of technical expertise.
Setup Process
Setting up SumUp is remarkably quick and hassle-free. New users can create an account within minutes and begin accepting payments almost immediately after registration. The card reader arrives pre-configured and ready to pair with the mobile app.
The initial setup requires downloading the SumUp app, creating an account, and entering basic business information. Users will need to verify their identity and link a bank account for receiving funds.
No technical expertise is required for the setup process. The step-by-step instructions guide even the most technologically challenged merchants through each stage of the configuration. This simplicity is one of the factors behind SumUp's 4-star rating from users.
User Interface
The SumUp app features a clean, intuitive interface that prioritises essential functions. The dashboard displays key information at a glance, including recent transactions, daily sales totals, and account balance.
Navigation through the app is logical, with clearly labelled buttons and minimal clutter. The payment process is streamlined to just a few taps, allowing merchants to focus on customer interactions rather than complicated technology.
The POS system's interface is equally user-friendly, with customisable product listings and quick checkout options. Users can easily add items, apply discounts, and process refunds without extensive training.
Many reviewers praise the simplicity of the interface, noting how effortlessly they adapted to using it despite having limited experience with payment technology.
Customer Support
SumUp provides multiple support channels for users requiring assistance. Their help centre features detailed guides and FAQs addressing common issues and questions about the system.
Email support is available for more complex enquiries, with typical response times within 24 hours. For urgent matters, telephone support is accessible during business hours.
The quality of customer service receives mixed reviews, with most users finding the support team knowledgeable and helpful. Some customers report occasional delays during peak periods.
The help section in the app offers troubleshooting tips for common issues like connectivity problems or payment failures. This self-service option helps users resolve minor issues quickly without needing to contact support.
Security Measures
SumUp implements robust security systems to protect both businesses and their customers. These safeguards work together to create a secure payment environment while maintaining compliance with industry standards.
Data Protection
SumUp prioritises the protection of sensitive payment information through multiple encryption methods. They employ SSL encryption for all data transmissions, ensuring information remains scrambled and unreadable to unauthorised parties.
The company uses tokenisation technology to replace actual card details with unique identification symbols. This means your customers' card information isn't stored directly on your device or SumUp's systems.
For additional account protection, SumUp implements two-factor authentication (2FA). This extra security layer requires users to verify their identity through a second method beyond just a password.
All customer data is stored on secure servers with restricted access protocols. Regular security audits help identify and address potential vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
Compliance Standards
SumUp adheres to the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), a set of requirements designed to ensure all companies process, store and transmit credit card information securely.
The company maintains Level 1 PCI DSS compliance—the highest security standard in the payments industry. This certification involves rigorous testing and regular audits by independent security assessors.
SumUp follows GDPR requirements for European operations, ensuring proper handling of personal data. They maintain clear privacy policies outlining how customer information is collected, used and protected.
Their systems also comply with EMV (Europay, Mastercard, and Visa) standards for chip-based transactions. These standards help prevent counterfeit card fraud and reduce liability for fraudulent transactions.
Fraud Prevention
SumUp's security system actively detects unusual transaction patterns, including split transactions which might indicate fraudulent activity. This monitoring helps identify potential scams before they succeed.
The company employs Address Verification Service (AVS) checks to compare the billing address provided during transactions against the address on file with the card issuer. This verification step helps reduce unauthorised card usage.
Recent reports have highlighted fraudulent SumUp accounts being created using stolen email addresses. In response, SumUp has strengthened their account verification processes and improved their detection systems.
The payment platform also includes features to prevent duplicate payments, giving merchants real-time transaction confirmations. This safeguard protects both businesses and customers from accidental double-charging.
Pros and Cons
SumUp offers various features that may or may not suit your business needs. Let's examine the strengths and limitations to help you decide if this payment solution is right for you.
Advantages
SumUp stands out for its straightforward pricing structure starting with no monthly fees. This makes it particularly attractive for small businesses or those with seasonal sales patterns who want to avoid ongoing costs.
This service provides a zero-contract arrangement with easy setup, allowing businesses to start accepting payments quickly without being locked into long-term commitments.
Another significant benefit is the inclusion of a free EPOS system and online store with your account. This gives merchants additional sales channels without extra investment.
The card reader itself receives praise for being portable and user-friendly, making it ideal for businesses that need to accept payments on the go.
Drawbacks
Despite its advantages, SumUp has some limitations. The system offers limited functionality compared to more comprehensive payment solutions, which might be restrictive for businesses with complex needs.
While the card readers are affordable (typically less than £100), the basic functionality may not satisfy merchants requiring advanced features.
Some users report concerns about customer service responsiveness, though overall SumUp maintains a 4-star rating on Trustpilot from over 24,000 reviews.
For high-volume merchants, the transaction fee structure might prove less economical than fixed monthly fee services with lower per-transaction costs. For merchants doing over £50k per annum it generally makes sense to look at alternative payment providers.
Customer Opinions
When choosing a payment solution like SumUp, understanding what actual users think is crucial. Their experiences provide real insights into reliability, customer service quality, and overall satisfaction.
Testimonials
Small business owners frequently praise SumUp for its user-friendly interface. Many highlight how quickly they were able to start accepting payments after setting up the system.
"The system is easy to use and charges are inexpensive," notes one business owner who recommends SumUp for both small and larger businesses.
Some customers have specifically mentioned SumUp's value for first-time business owners. The straightforward pricing structure and lack of monthly fees are frequently mentioned positives in customer testimonials.
However, not all experiences are positive. Some users have reported issues with customer service responsiveness when problems arise. Account verification processes have also been criticised by some as being overly complex.
User Ratings
SumUp currently holds a 4-star rating on Trustpilot based on over 24,000 reviews, suggesting generally positive customer sentiment. This relatively high score indicates most users are satisfied with their experience.
The rating breakdown shows mixed opinions. While many users give five stars, there are also significant numbers of one-star reviews expressing frustration with specific issues.
Expert Market notes that positive reviews typically focus on ease of use and low cost, while negative reviews often centre around customer service challenges.
Competitor Comparison
SumUp competes primarily with other mobile card payment providers like Zettle (formerly iZettle) and Square in the UK market. Each offers similar services but with key differences worth noting.
SumUp offers the lowest flat transaction fee at 1.69% for all chip and contactless card payments, making it slightly more affordable than its competitors. Zettle and Square both charge 1.75% for the same services.
Customer satisfaction varies between these payment processors. While SumUp enjoys a strong 4.2-star rating on Trustpilot from over 20,000 reviews, some competitors like Stripe receive notably lower ratings.
All three providers offer card readers that are more compact and affordable than traditional PDQ machines, which typically require merchant accounts and long-term contracts.
Key comparison points:These modern payment processors share similar zero-contract structures and comparable price points, making them all viable options for small businesses.
The best choice depends on specific business needs, with SumUp potentially offering better value for businesses with higher transaction volumes due to its lower percentage fee.
Conclusion
SumUp stands out as a solid payment solution for small businesses seeking simplicity and affordability. The provider offers competitive transaction fees with no monthly commitments, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes.
The card reader is easy to use and adds professionalism to small businesses without a hefty price tag. Many users appreciate how the system operates through a straightforward mobile app that integrates payment processing and business account management.
SumUp has been recognised for workplace equality, specifically for the LGBTQ+ community by the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index in 2022. This demonstrates their commitment to inclusive business practices.
When compared to competitors like Zettle, SumUp is considered slightly better for taking payments, though the offerings are quite similar. This gives SumUp a slight edge in the market.
The POS system and card machine work well for small businesses that need uncomplicated payment solutions. The hardware is reliable and the fees transparent.
For merchants wanting an all-in-one solution, SumUp provides a business checking account with simple pricing and management through the same mobile app as its POS offering.
SumUp isn't perfect for every business type, particularly those with high transaction volumes who might benefit from negotiated rates elsewhere. However, for most small to medium businesses, it represents excellent value.
Frequently Asked Questions
SumUp has garnered considerable attention in the payment processing market, with users having specific concerns and questions about their services. These questions cover everything from customer experiences to fees and potential drawbacks.
What are common complaints from users about SumUp's services?
The most frequent complaint about SumUp involves account termination issues. Some merchants report having their accounts suddenly terminated or being refused processing abilities after initially signing up for the service.
Customer service responsiveness is another common pain point. Users occasionally mention difficulties reaching support representatives when facing urgent payment processing problems.
Some customers also note delays in receiving funds to their bank accounts, which can impact cash flow for small businesses that rely on prompt payments.
How do customers rate their experience with SumUp in the UK?
SumUp receives generally positive ratings from UK users. On Trustpilot, SumUp maintains a 4-star rating based on thousands of reviews, indicating overall customer satisfaction.
Many UK business owners praise the system for its ease of use and reliability. The UK Business Forums community contains numerous positive comments about the card readers being "nifty little devices" and "very good value for money".
Some Irish users specifically mention never having issues with SumUp, noting that "payments [are] made promptly, and [it's] so easy to take customer payments with phone app".
What measures does SumUp take to maintain client safety and security?
SumUp employs end-to-end encryption for all transactions, ensuring customer payment data remains secure throughout the payment process.
They comply with PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) requirements, which is essential for any business handling card payments.
Their card readers are designed with built-in security features to prevent skimming and other forms of payment fraud. This helps protect both merchants and their customers.
What feedback do employees typically give regarding their work experience at SumUp?
Employees often highlight SumUp's innovative work environment and the opportunity to contribute to a growing financial technology company.
Team members frequently mention the company's commitment to work-life balance, though experiences can vary between departments.
Some staff appreciate the international work culture, as SumUp operates across multiple countries, providing exposure to global business practices.
Are there any regular fees associated with using SumUp's card reader services?
SumUp does not charge monthly fees or minimum processing requirements, making it attractive for small and occasional merchants.
Their primary fee structure is a simple per-transaction fee, typically around 1.69% for in-person payments, though this may vary by region and payment type.
There is a one-time cost to purchase the card reader device, but no recurring rental fees are charged after this initial investment.
What potential drawbacks should businesses consider before choosing SumUp as their payment processor?
Businesses with high transaction volumes might find SumUp's per-transaction fee structure less cost-effective than processors offering volume-based discounts.
The lack of advanced inventory management features may be limiting for retail businesses with complex stock requirements.
Some users report longer settlement times compared to traditional merchant accounts, with funds typically taking 1-3 business days to reach your bank account.
Integration capabilities with specialised point-of-sale systems can be limited, which might pose challenges for businesses with specific software needs.
