Small Business Guide
What is a payment terminal?
A payment terminal is the device that reads your customer’s card or phone tap and moves the money into your business bank account. You might also hear it called a credit card machine or a card reader. Same idea, different names.
Credit card machine, card reader, payment terminal: what is the difference?
Mostly just different names for the same thing. A shop owner says “credit card machine.” A sales rep says “payment terminal.” A phone-based one gets called a “card reader.” They all do the same core job: take the payment and get you paid. Pick whichever word you like. We will know what you mean.
The main types
Which one fits depends on where and how you take payment. Most small businesses use one or two of these.
Countertop terminal
The classic machine that sits by your register, plugs into power and internet, and takes a tap, chip, or swipe. Best for a fixed checkout counter.
Mobile or wireless reader
A small reader that runs on Wi-Fi or cell signal so you can take payment anywhere: tableside, at a market booth, on a job site, or in line to speed things up.
Tap to pay on a phone
Newer phones can accept a card tap directly, with no extra hardware. Good for a business that is just starting out or takes the occasional payment.
Online or virtual terminal
A web page where you key in a card or send a pay-by-text link. Useful for invoices, phone orders, and deposits when the customer is not standing in front of you.
Payment terminal vs. POS system
A payment terminal takes the payment. A POS (point of sale) system does that and more. It tracks your sales, inventory, menu, and staff. Think of the terminal as one piece of a bigger POS setup. If all you need is to take cards, a terminal on its own may be plenty. If you want to run reports, manage stock, or handle tables and tickets, that is where a full POS earns its keep.
What does it cost?
Two parts. First, the hardware, which you buy outright or rent monthly. Second, the processing rate you pay on each sale. Both depend on the provider, your business type, and how much you run. Anyone who quotes you one flat number without asking about your business is guessing. Norvet does a free, no-pressure comparison so you see real numbers for your situation before you commit to anything.
Common questions
What is a payment terminal?
A payment terminal is the device that reads your customer’s card or phone tap and moves the money into your business bank account. You may also hear it called a credit card machine or a card reader.
Is a credit card machine the same as a payment terminal?
Yes. "Credit card machine," "card reader," and "payment terminal" are mostly different names for the same thing: the device that takes the payment.
What is the difference between a POS system and a payment terminal?
A payment terminal takes the payment. A POS (point of sale) system does that and more: it tracks sales, inventory, menu items, and staff. A payment terminal is often one part of a full POS system. If you only need to take cards, a terminal may be all you need.
Can I take card payments on my phone?
Often, yes. Many newer phones can accept a card tap with no extra hardware, and small wireless readers pair with a phone or tablet for on-the-go payments.
How much does a credit card machine cost?
There are two parts: the hardware (or a monthly rental) and the processing rate you pay on each sale. Both vary by provider and by your business type and volume. Norvet does a free, no-pressure comparison so you can see real numbers for your situation before you decide.
Not sure which one fits your business?
Tell us how you take payments today and a Norvet specialist will walk you through the options. No pressure, no obligation.