One machine takes debit and credit. The decision is therefore about where you trade and which account sits behind the terminal, not about card types. Published hardware runs from 11 to 179 pounds, published in-person rates from 0.79% to 1.75%, and the account will cost more than the machine within a quarter on any real turnover.
Four checks before you buy
Does the machine work where you trade, on wifi, a SIM or a paired phone? Does the account publish a rate you can verify? What does it charge for commercial, American Express and non UK cards? And what is the term and the exit charge? A provider that answers all four in writing is a provider you can compare; one that answers none is a conversation, not a quote.
Rented versus bought, again
Bank owned acquirers rent, app based providers sell. Renting spreads the cost and usually buys a lower percentage; buying costs more today and leaves you free. Elavon's own plans show the trade explicitly: a five pound device on a higher rate, or a rented terminal on a rate roughly two fifths lower.
What small businesses get wrong
Buying on the hardware price, and comparing a blended rate against an interchange plus rate as if they were the same number. The first costs a few pounds; the second can cost hundreds a year in either direction. Ask each provider to quote on your own last twelve months rather than on their example business.
Questions people ask about machine for credit card payment
Do I need different machines for debit and credit cards?
No. Every UK terminal takes both, along with contactless and phone wallets. The difference is in the account's pricing, not the hardware.
What does a credit card payment machine cost?
Published hardware runs from 11 pounds plus VAT to 179 pounds excluding VAT outright, or 15 to 18 pounds a month rented on the plans that publish.
How do I compare a blended rate with interchange plus?
By applying both to your own card mix over the last twelve months. A blended percentage and an interchange plus margin are not comparable as printed numbers.