I’m so excited to dive into card readers for Shopify stores. These little devices allow you to accept credit and debit cards in person, so you can sell beyond just online.
Card readers connect to Shopify’s point of sale system so store owners can process payments anywhere.
I’ll break down the different types of card readers, their costs and features and walk you through how to set them up and start taking payments.
Whether you’re new to in-person sales or looking to upgrade your current setup, this guide will help you choose and use the right card reader for your Shopify store.
What is a Card Reader?
A card reader is a device that allows businesses to accept credit and debit cards. It scans the card and securely processes the transaction. Card readers can process payments through various ways, swiping, inserting or tapping.
I think card readers are an essential tool for any business. They connect to point of sale systems so you can manage in-person transactions. Many card readers also support contactless payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay so customers have more ways to pay.
Card Readers Supported by Shopify
Shopify has several card reader options to fit different businesses. Here are some of the supported card readers:
- Tap & Chip Reader
- Accepts: EMV chip and contactless payments
- Connects via: Bluetooth
- Best for: Mobile sales and quick transactions
- Chip & Swipe Reader
- Accepts: EMV chip and magnetic stripe cards
- Connects via: Bluetooth
- For: Pop-up shops and mobile businesses
- Swipe Card Reader
- Accepts: Magnetic stripe cards
- Connects via: Audio jack, 30-pin or Lightning
- For: Swipe only businesses
- Retail Kit
- Includes: Tap & Chip Reader, Dock, Retail Stand for iPad, and Mount
- For: Countertop setup in retail stores
- POS Go
- All-in-one device with built-in scanner and touchscreen
- Connects via: Wi-Fi
- For: Larger retail operations
- Moneris iPP320 Terminal
- Accepts: Chip, swipe and PIN entry
- Wired connection
- For: High volume businesses that need PIN entry
Each of these card readers has its own strengths and is suited for different types and sizes of businesses.
When choosing a card reader I consider the types of payments accepted, connection method and specific business needs.
Card readers are a must-have for any business. They’re secure, efficient and improve customer experience and sales operations. With the right card reader you can manage transactions and focus on growth.
Why Shopify Card Reader is a Game Changer
Shopify Card Reader changes the way businesses process payments. I love how small and portable it is. It connects to my phone so I can take payments anywhere.
Security is key and this device delivers. It uses industry leading encryption and tokenization to protect customer data. The EMV chip card compatibility adds an extra layer of security for me and my clients.
Connectivity is easy. Whether I’m using Wi-Fi, mobile networks or a wired connection the reader keeps transactions flowing. This is huge when I’m selling at different locations.
The fraud prevention features are great. By converting sensitive information into secure codes the reader helps build trust with my customers. They like knowing their data is safe.
Payment options are many and fast. Customers can swipe, tap or scan to pay, making the checkout process super quick.
I love how the reader integrates with Shopify POS. It tracks transactions for me, so I don’t have to. Real-time inventory and analytics help me make informed decisions on my stock and sales strategies.
- Small and portable
- Advanced security
- Multiple connection options
- Multiple payment methods
- POS integration
This is a must-have for businesses in the US looking to upgrade their payment game.
How to Use Your Shopify Card Reader: A Guide
I’ll show you how to use your Shopify card reader for in-person sales. First download the Shopify POS app on your iOS or Android device. It’s free and required to process payments.
Once installed connect your Shopify card reader to your device. Plug it into the audio jack or charging port. It’s designed to be quick and easy to set up.
Open the Shopify POS app and add the products or services you’re selling. Don’t forget to add any applicable discounts so you get accurate receipts.
When your customer is ready to pay tap “Charge” in the app. Let them choose their payment method:
- Swipe for magnetic stripe cards
- Insert for chip cards
- Tap for contactless cards or digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay
If a signature is required your customer can sign on the screen. Double check the payment details, amount and items before finalizing the transaction.
Offer to email or text the receipt for a paperless option. Once payment is confirmed hand over the goods to complete the sale.
Remember an internet connection is required for payment processing. The Shopify card reader syncs with your Shopify store and inventory and sales data.
Follow these steps and you’ll be able to take payments quickly and securely and improve customer experience and in-person sales.
How Much Does Shopify Card Readers Cost?
Shopify has card readers to fit different business needs and budgets. The Tap & Chip Reader is $49 and is perfect for businesses that want to accept contactless and chip card payments.
The Chip & Swipe Reader is $29 for businesses that just want to accept chip and swipe transactions.
Same price point the Swipe Card Reader is for businesses that only want swipe functionality. It’s compatible with audio-jack, 30-pin or Lightning ports.
For maximum flexibility the Tap, Chip and Swipe Reader is $79 and has all three payment methods in one device.
For more advanced features the Moneris iPP320 Terminal is an option. Price varies but starts at $349 depending on your location and payment plan.
Shopify POS Card Readers
1. Wireless Tap and Chip Device
I love this reader for small business. It’s light and Bluetooth connected for on-the-go transactions. Accepts contactless payments and chip cards from major providers like Visa and Mastercard.
Also works with digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Features:
- 500 transaction battery life
- Chip technology to prevent fraud
- Compact and portable
2. Bluetooth Chip and Swipe Reader
This reader works with iOS and Android devices. Easy to use – just insert or swipe a card and confirm payment on the POS screen. The included countertop base is for fixed installations.
Setup steps:
- Open Shopify POS app and go to Settings > Set up Hardware > Card reader
- Choose Chip & Swipe Reader and connect via Bluetooth
- Once paired it will auto connect when in range
3. Audio Jack and Lightning Swipe Readers
These are great for online businesses looking to branch out into physical sales. The audio jack version works with multiple devices, the Lightning version is for iPads and iPhones.
Audio jack reader usage:
- Go to checkout screen
- Tap “Credit” to start payment
- Swipe card through reader
Lightning connector setup:
- Plug into iPad or iPhone
- Connect micro-USB cable for device charging (optional)
- Swipe card with magnetic strip facing up
4. All-in-One Tap, Chip and Swipe Device
I love how versatile this reader is. It accepts all major payment methods and works with iOS and Android via Bluetooth. Great for businesses that want to accommodate different customer preferences.
Pairing process:
- Charge reader for 4 hours
- Hold power button until Shopify logo appears
- In POS app go to Connectivity > Set up Hardware > Card reader > Tap, Chip and Swipe
- Complete Bluetooth pairing
5. Moneris iPP320 Terminal
For iPad based Shopify POS users this is a great option. Accepts all major cards and contactless payments. Reduces errors and speeds up transactions. Overall more efficient.
To use:
- Apply for a Moneris merchant account
- Get pre-configured terminal
- Connect to your POS system
Existing Moneris users can order a Shopify compatible terminal for easy integration.
Card Reader Comparison: Shopify vs Others
Pricing and Features
Here’s a table to compare card readers from Shopify and other providers:
| Card Reader | Payment Types Accepted | Transaction Fees | Hardware Cost | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shopify Tap & Chip | Chip, Contactless (NFC) | Varies with Shopify plan | $49 | Seamless integration with Shopify POS; requires Shopify Payments. |
| Square Reader | Swipe, Chip, Contactless (NFC) | 2.6% + $0.10 per transaction | $49 | Free magstripe reader; no monthly fees; works with Square POS app. |
| SumUp Plus | Swipe, Chip, Contactless (NFC) | 2.75% per transaction | $39 | No monthly fees; includes a screen for transaction confirmation. |
| PayPal Zettle | Chip, Contactless (NFC) | 2.29% + $0.09 per transaction | $29 | Accepts PayPal and Venmo payments; no monthly fees. |
| Clover Go | Swipe, Chip, Contactless (NFC) | 2.6% + $0.10 per transaction | $49 | Compatible with multiple payment processors; offers additional POS features. |
| Toast Go 2 | Swipe, Chip, Contactless (NFC) | 2.49% + $0.15 per transaction | Custom pricing | Designed specifically for restaurants; includes order and table management features. |
| Helcim Card Reader | Swipe, Chip, Contactless (NFC) | Interchange + 0.3% per transaction | $199 | Transparent interchange-plus pricing; volume discounts available. |
Shopify has two options: $49 Tap & Chip and $29 Chip & Swipe. Both are wireless and portable. Square has a free reader but charges 2.6% per transaction. PayPal Zettle is $29 and works with PayPal accounts. Stripe options range from $59 to $349 and is customizable. SumUp Plus is the budget friendly option at $39.
Shopify Readers vs Third Party Options
Shopify readers integrate with Shopify POS so setup is easy. No extra fees beyond Shopify Payments processing. Hardware is reasonably priced and accepts major credit cards and contactless payments.
Third party readers have different integration experiences with Shopify. Some require extra steps or apps. Transaction fees vary and hardware costs are all over the place. Support varies by provider.
I like how Shopify readers are easy to use and direct integration. Best for businesses fully in the Shopify ecosystem. All in one system makes sales management easy.
Third party options have more features. They may have better support for international payments and multiple currencies. Some like Stripe have more customizability.
So when choosing, think about your needs. Do you need simple payments or advanced features? What’s your budget for hardware and transaction fees? How important is Shopify integration to your business?
For a simple setup within Shopify, they can’t be beat. But if you need special features or complex payment requirements a third party option might be better for you. Weigh the pros and cons and decide for your business.
Conclusion
Shopify card readers make it easy and secure to accept in person payments. With multiple options to choose from, businesses can pick the reader that fits their needs.
Whether you need a portable solution or a fixed point of sale setup, there’s a Shopify card reader for you. I think these will make payment processing easier and the customer experience better for many merchants.
FAQs
Can I get a card reader from Shopify?
Yes, I can confirm Shopify has card readers. They have devices for tap, chip and swipe payments so you can accept in person payments through the Shopify POS.
Can I get a free Shopify card reader?
I found out that Shopify has a free card reader for eligible merchants. To qualify you need to use Shopify Payments and have an active paid Shopify plan. Note that this offer is only available in specific countries, US, Canada, UK and Ireland.
What are the processing fees for Shopify card readers?
When using a Shopify card reader with Shopify Payments I can tell you that the processing fee is 2.7% for each in person transaction. This rate is the same for all credit card transactions processed through the device.
How do I use a Shopify card reader?
Use your Shopify card reader like this:
- Connect to your phone or tablet via Bluetooth
- Open the Shopify POS app
- Swipe, insert or tap customer cards
- Offer digital receipts or print with a connected printer
Easy peasy.
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