In the world of payment processing, SumUp and Zettle are two formidable contenders for small businesses seeking efficiency and reliability. But how do they stack up against each other, and which one is the right fit for your business?
Below, we explore key factors like hardware compatibility and software features. We also take a look at custransaction fees, giving you a better idea which platform is better for small businesses.
Contents
SumUp vs Zettle Comparison Chart
| Product Name | SumUp | PayPal’s Zettle (formerly iZettle) |
 |  | |
| Website | Check Website | Check Website |
| Hardware | Card reader, card reader with printer, POS register | Card reader, POS terminal |
| Software | Mobile app, POS software, item catalog | Mobile app, POS software, catalog management, catalog inventory |
| Transaction Fees | 2.75% for in-person payments 3.25% $0.15 for manually keyed or payment-linked transactions | 2.29% to 3.49% + $0.09 to $0.49 depending on transaction type |
| Supported Mobile Wallets | Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay | Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay |
| Customer Support | Offers customer support via phone and email | Offers customer support via phone and email |
| Mobile App | Yes | Yes |
SumUp vs Zettle: At A Glance
SumUp: Empowering Small Merchants Worldwide
At its core, SumUp provides a comprehensive suite of products, including card readers, mobile point-of-sale (POS) software, and essential business tools. Whether you operate a street food stall, a salon, or a retail store, SumUp is tailor-made to address the specific needs of small businesses. With a staggering 3 million businesses relying on their services worldwide, SumUp is one of the most competitive platforms in today’s marketplace.
PayPal Zettle: Empowering Small Businesses with PayPal’s Backing
Zettle is a PayPal-backed card reader and point-of-sale (POS) solution, enabling merchants to accept a wide array of in-person payments through their PayPal accounts. In 2021, Zettle replaced PayPal Here, reaffirming PayPal’s commitment to empowering small businesses with innovative solutions. While in the UK, the platform retains the Zettle branding, in the US, it is simply referred to as the PayPal POS system.
Hardware
SumUp
SumUp offers a selection of devices that emphasize both simplicity and practicality. The SumUp Solo, a standalone card reader, features a straightforward touchscreen, enabling merchants to send digital receipts and access reports directly from the device.
For those seeking a comprehensive solution, the Solo Printer Bundle includes the SumUp Solo card reader and a dedicated printer capable of printing up to 800 receipts on a single charge. On the other hand, for those prioritizing mobility, the SumUp Plus is an excellent choice, equipped with NFC, Bluetooth, and an integrated Li-ion battery, making it a versatile mobile card terminal.
For businesses with more intricate checkout needs, SumUp provides the SumUp Point of Sale terminal. This versatile unit accepts various payment methods, including contactless options, and includes order management, reporting, and accounting features, offering a complete solution for growing enterprises.
PayPal Zettle
PayPal Zettle offers two key hardware solutions for payment processing: a card reader and a portable point-of-sale (POS) terminal.
The card reader seamlessly integrates with the Zettle mobile app on your smartphone or tablet, providing a quick and efficient in-store payment processing solution. Its battery life spans up to 8 hours or 100 transactions, and optional accessories like a charging dock, barcode scanner, printer, and tablet stand can further enhance its functionality.
On the other hand, the portable POS terminal is an all-in-one solution, preloaded with the Zettle app. It includes an activated SIM card with covered mobile data usage in the purchase price. Variants with built-in barcode scanners or terminal kits featuring a printer and dock are also available.
Features and Integrations
SumUp
For businesses seeking a payments partner with the potential to act as a central hub, SumUp offers some compelling features. However, it’s worth noting that its software integrations remain somewhat limited. Nevertheless, SumUp stands out for its adaptability, allowing businesses to create customized payment solutions.
SumUp provides an SDK (Software Development Kit) and API Switch, enabling businesses to accept card payments at their convenience, effectively building their payment solution.
Notably, SumUp’s card readers can connect directly to cellular networks, bypassing the need for Wi-Fi. This feature is especially beneficial for businesses on the move, like those at bazaars or trade shows, simplifying their setup.
Additionally, SumUp offers the flexibility to send online invoices and facilitates remote payment options through features like payment links and a virtual terminal, accommodating over-the-phone payments.
While SumUp’s software integrations may have room for expansion, its adaptability and diverse capabilities make it a suitable choice for businesses looking to craft tailored payment solutions.
PayPal Zettle
PayPal Zettle offers a versatile range of integrations that enable businesses to expand their capabilities effortlessly. These integrations include e-commerce platforms like BigCommerce, QuickBooks, SalesVu, WooCommerce, and Hike. They allow businesses to synchronize sales, inventory, and customer data in real time across platforms.
In addition to e-commerce, PayPal Zettle provides seamless integration with accounting platforms like QuickBooks and Xero, simplifying the tracking and management of business performance.
For point-of-sale (POS) systems, Zettle’s PayPal card reader is compatible with Lightspeed, Loyverse, Revel, and Vend by Lightspeed, ensuring a smooth and efficient integration process.
The best part? Integrating with PayPal Zettle is free, making it a cost-effective choice for businesses seeking to enhance their capabilities without breaking the bank. These integrations empower businesses to adapt and thrive in today’s competitive business landscape.
Payment Options and Transaction Fees
SumUp
SumUp accepts a wide range of payment methods, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Diners Club International, Discover, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and more.
As for the fees, SumUp follows a simple pay-as-you-go structure, ensuring that merchants are never caught off guard by hidden fees or complicated contracts. Notably, SumUp’s Card Reader comes with a one-time purchase cost, offering businesses a straightforward entry point.
For in-person transactions, the company levies a flat fee of 2.75%. Online transactions, in contrast, incur a processing fee of 2.9% plus an additional $0.15 per transaction. When it comes to manually keyed or payment-linked transactions, the fee is slightly higher at 3.25%, again with an additional $0.15.
One of the standout benefits of using SumUp is the absence of monthly contracts, minimums, or obligatory commitments. This freedom allows businesses to tailor their payment processing precisely to their needs without being tethered to lengthy agreements.
SumUp’s card readers connect directly to cellular networks, ideal for mobile businesses like bazaars or trade shows. In addition to in-person payments, SumUp offers online invoicing, payment links, and a virtual terminal for over-the-phone transactions. It also supports major credit cards and popular mobile wallets for a seamless payment experience.
PayPal Zettle
PayPal Zettle offers a straightforward fee structure that caters to various transaction types. For card-present transactions and QR code payments, PayPal Zettle charges 2.29% of the transaction amount plus $0.09 per transaction. This competitive rate ensures cost-effectiveness for businesses accepting in-person payments.
When it comes to manually keyed card entries, the fee is slightly higher at 3.49% of the transaction amount plus $0.09 per transaction. This fee structure accommodates instances where card information must be manually inputted.
For businesses utilizing invoicing, specifically PayPal payments, there’s a fee of 3.49% of the transaction amount plus $0.49 per transaction. This option provides added flexibility for businesses and their customers.
Additionally, for invoicing via cards and alternative payment methods, the fee stands at 2.29% of the transaction amount plus $0.49 per transaction. For businesses with unique needs or higher transaction volumes, PayPal Zettle offers customized point-of-sale (POS) pricing plans, which can be tailored to meet specific requirements.
Verdict
SumUp and PayPal Zettle emerge as formidable contenders in the realm of payment processing, each catering to the unique needs of small businesses. Both platforms offer user-friendly hardware solutions, allowing businesses to seamlessly accept card and contactless payments.
SumUp’s strength lies in its hardware versatility, providing a range of options to meet diverse business requirements. It excels at offering a portable solution, allowing businesses to accept payments wherever they go.
When it comes to fees, SumUp boasts a simpler fee structure that is competitive with PayPal Zettle’s pricing. However, both platforms remain relatively close in this regard.
PayPal Zettle stands out with its robust integrations, backed by the trusted name of PayPal. Its software offers a broader array of features, making it an excellent choice for businesses seeking comprehensive business analytics and in-depth insights.
SumUp may have limitations when it comes to international use, but it does offer solutions for businesses operating abroad in some cases.
Ultimately, the choice between SumUp and PayPal Zettle boils down to your specific business needs. SumUp shines for its simplicity and portability, while PayPal Zettle impresses with its integrations and advanced analytics. Carefully evaluating your requirements will lead you to the platform that best aligns with your business goals.