{"id":510811,"date":"2023-11-02T13:47:17","date_gmt":"2023-11-02T13:47:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/uk\/?p=510811"},"modified":"2026-02-09T14:58:25","modified_gmt":"2026-02-09T14:58:25","slug":"compare-virtual-terminals","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/uk\/card-readers\/compare-virtual-terminals","title":{"rendered":"Compare virtual terminals 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"

What is a virtual terminal?<\/h3>

A virtual terminal enables businesses to key in a customer’s card information and process a transaction without the need for the customer to be physically present. This means businesses can reach a broader customer base, even if they’re overseas. <\/p>

Virtual terminals use web-based software to do this, so you won’t need additional equipment, such as a physical point of sale (POS) terminal or a dedicated phone line. All you’ll need is an Internet connection and a web browser.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>

What is an example of a virtual terminal?<\/h3>

You can turn any desktop PC into a virtual terminal as it’s a web-based application. You can also use laptops, smartphones and tablets. Most virtual terminals accept both credit cards and debit cards. <\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>

How do virtual terminals work?<\/h3>

Virtual terminals are designed to take payments over the Internet, by phone, via email or by fax. They do this through an Internet-equipped device, such as a laptop or smartphone. So, if a customer calls you by phone, you simply sign into your account on your device, enter the payment amount and then enter your customer’s name, card details and billing address to process the transaction. You can usually create and send a receipt to your customer at the same time. <\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>

Why use a virtual terminal?<\/h3>

Virtual terminals can be useful for small businesses that process debit or credit card payments over the phone or Internet. But they can also be used to take payments in person. Virtual terminals can be a great choice if you need to accept payments from customers overseas, as they often support multiple currencies. <\/p>

Many terminals offer features such as recurring payments, receipt issuing and other payment tracking tools. Some also include fraud detection features. They are usually very easy to set up and don’t require additional, often costly, equipment. <\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>

Virtual terminal costs<\/h3>

Virtual terminal costs depend on the provider and the plan you choose. Some virtual terminals come with a monthly subscription fee of around \u00a315 to \u00a345 a month, while others charge processing fees of around 2.5% to 2.95% per transaction instead. Some might charge both.<\/p>

This makes it important to compare monthly and processing fees carefully to work out which option offers the best value for your business.<\/p>

Pros and cons of virtual terminals<\/h3>
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Pros<\/h4>\n