What is the difference between a mobile payment terminal and a fixed payment terminal?
Are you looking to buy a payment terminal? One of the first choices you’ll need to make is whether to go for a countertop or mobile payment terminal. Both have their own advantages. Which one suits your business best mainly depends on how and where you accept payments.
What is the difference between a fixed payment terminal and a mobile payment terminal?
Where you used to mainly see fixed payment terminals, more and more entrepreneurs nowadays opt for a mobiele betaalautomaat. A fixed payment terminal sits in one fixed place, for example on a counter or at the register. The device is plugged into a power outlet and usually connects via an Ethernet cable or a stable Wi‑Fi network.
A mobile payment terminal runs on a rechargeable battery and connects via Wi‑Fi or a built-in 4G connection. That means you can accept payments anywhere, without being tied to a fixed place.
The benefits of a fixed payment terminal
For many stores and businesses with a single central payment point, a fixed payment terminal is still the most logical choice.
The main advantages are:
- Always ready to use. Because the device is continuously plugged into mains power, you never have to think about charging the battery.
- One clear payment point. That gives clarity for both staff and customers.
- Stable connection. A wired network connection is often very reliable.
- Less chance of damage. The device stays at its fixed spot and is moved less often.
- Good integration with POS systems. Fixed devices are often integrated with a POS system and can be used together with a separate pin pad, so customers can complete debit payments themselves.
When do you choose a fixed or mobile payment terminal?
The right choice depends mainly on how you work.
Choose a fixed payment terminal if:
- you have one fixed cash register or counter;
- your customers always pay at the same spot;
- you want to use the device with a POS integration;
- you want maximum stability.
Choose a mobile payment terminal if:
- you want to let your customers pay on-site;
- you work in hospitality;
- you have a delivery service;
- you regularly operate at markets, events, or festivals;
- you work at different locations.
Looking for a new payment terminal?
View our range of mobile and fixed payment terminals
Connect your POS system to Buckaroo payment terminals
At Buckaroo, we offer several ways to connect our payment terminals to POS systems. We’re always seeking collaborations with new POS vendors. This means our offering is regularly expanded. Currently, our payment terminals can be connected to the following POS vendors.
Aspos (Valk Solutions)
Is a mobile payment terminal more expensive than a fixed one?
The price of the device is mainly determined by the model, not by whether it is mobile or fixed.
With mobile payment solutions there are different price ranges. For example, there are compact models that easily fit in a pocket. These are often cheaper, but usually do not have a built-in receipt printer and sometimes have a smaller battery.
More extensive models offer extra functionalities, such as:
- a built-in receipt printer;
- a larger battery;
- a larger screen;
- additional options for POS integrations.
Fixed payment terminals usually differ less in design. Therefore you can't say that a fixed payment terminal is automatically cheaper than a mobile variant.
Conclusion
There is no one best payment terminal for every merchant. Do you have one fixed payment location and work with a POS system? Then a fixed payment terminal is often the best choice. Do you work on location or want customers to be able to pay everywhere? Then a mobile payment terminal offers more flexibility.
Need help choosing the right payment terminal?
We’re happy to help. On our payment terminals page you’ll find an overview of all available devices, including specifications and features. This makes it easy to compare different models.
Not sure yet what you need? Then describe your payment situation to our chatbot. Based on your wishes you’ll receive a suitable recommendation immediately. Of course you can also contact our helpdesk. Our colleagues are happy to think along with you, so you always choose a payment terminal that fits your business perfectly.
Why choose Buckaroo?
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Cost savings
We offer the cheapest rates in the Netherlands. In the long run, you are guaranteed to get the best deal with us. -
Reliability
With Buckaroo, you know your payments are secure. All our Payment terminals meet the highest security standards, including the latest encryption technology to protect data. -
Convenience
Our Payment terminals are intuitive and easy to use, both for you and your customers. No complicated processes, just quick and efficient payments.
