In the present-day retail and service economy, staying ahead means offering customers multiple ways to pay quickly and securely. With the growing popularity of contactless payment methods such as NFC-enabled cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and other mobile wallet solutions—businesses need robust, secure, and versatile payment devices that process transactions quickly and integrate seamlessly with their existing systems.
Below, we review the top 8 NFC-enabled payment devices that are revolutionizing how businesses manage point-of-sale transactions. Whether you run a small boutique, a bustling restaurant, or an enterprise-level retail chain, these devices have been designed with modern connectivity, high security, and user-friendly features in mind.
What Is NFC?
NFC (near-Field Communication) is a short-range wireless technology that enables communication between devices over distances typically less than 4 centimeters. Operating at a frequency of 13.56 MHz, NFC supports data transfer rates ranging from 106 kbit/s to 424 kbit/s. It facilitates various applications, including contactless payments, data exchange, and access control, by allowing devices to connect simply by being nearby.
NFC technology builds upon existing RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) systems by enabling secure two-way communication between devices. This capability allows NFC to support various applications over short distances, from contactless payments to data exchange and access control.
How Does NFC Payments Work?
As mentioned, NFC technology enables two NFC-enabled devices to connect when they’re close—typically just a few inches apart—to transmit payment information securely. Two-way encryption sets NFC mobile payments apart from traditional card transactions, making them a significantly more secure option than swiping or inserting a credit or debit card.
The card details are encrypted and sent to the payment terminal when a transaction is initiated. At the same time, the mobile device requires user authentication—such as Face ID, fingerprint recognition, or a passcode—to authorize the transaction. Once verified, the device sends a randomly generated, one-time-use code to the NFC terminal instead of the card number. This tokenization ensures that no usable card data is exposed.
Because the card information isn’t transmitted in a reusable format and the one-time code is rendered useless after the transaction, it’s tough for hackers to intercept or exploit the data. Additionally, the requirement for close-range communication and user authentication means that transactions can’t be triggered accidentally, adding another layer of security and control for both the customer and the merchant.
Top 8 NFC-Enabled Payment Devices Your Business Should Consider
1. Ingenico AXIUM EX8000
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The Ingenico AXIUM EX8000 is a premium, enterprise-grade mobile payment and commerce solution designed for large retailers and businesses that require robust processing power and high security. Powered by Android 10, this terminal leverages the latest mobile apps from the Ingenico Appstore while offering a comprehensive range of payment methods—from EMV chip and PIN to contactless, magstripe, and even QR-code payments.
The device features a large 6-inch high-definition touchscreen with an ergonomic and visually appealing interface. Thanks to its high resolution and responsive design, it is easy for both staff and customers to navigate through transactions. Under the hood, it is powered by an ARM Quad-core Cortex A53 processor running at 1.3GHz. It also offers enhanced memory options, with up to 3GB RAM and 32GB Flash storage configurations, and support for MicroSD expansion. This ensures smooth and fast transaction processing, effectively minimizing wait times at checkout.
The device supports various connectivity options, including 4G, 3G, GPRS, Bluetooth, and WiFi, guaranteeing reliable performance even in remote locations. It also has integrated NFC capabilities, allowing for tap-to-pay and other digital wallet transactions. Security is a top priority, with the device being PCI PTS v6 compliant and equipped with advanced hardware and software protection. It supports end-to-end encryption to secure sensitive card data and personal information.
Additional features include dual cameras—a 2MP front camera for customer ID verification and an 8MP rear camera for efficient barcode scanning. Its long-lasting 4040mAh battery ensures uninterrupted use throughout long working hours. The device also supports a full range of accessories, such as protective cases and gang chargers, enhancing its adaptability across various business environments.
Who Should Choose the AXIUM EX8000?
The AXIUM EX8000 is a powerhouse for retailers looking to seamlessly extend the digital payment experience across the entire point of sale. Its speed, connectivity, and comprehensive payment support make it ideal for high-volume, enterprise-level environments where efficiency and security are paramount.
2. Ingenico Move 5000
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Engineered for mobility and versatility, the Ingenico Move 5000 is designed for businesses on the go. Whether used in restaurants, retail outlets, or outdoor pop-up events, this mobile payment terminal provides an elegant and intuitive user experience emphasizing connectivity and ease of use.
The Ingenico Move 5000 has a 3.5-inch color backlit touchscreen featuring an HVGA resolution of 480×320 pixels, providing clear visuals even in low-light settings. Complementing the touchscreen is an intuitive rubber keypad that ensures secure PIN entry and enables quicker transactions.
Running on the reliable Telium TETRA operating system, the device integrates smoothly with Ingenico’s service ecosystem. A Cortex A5 processor powers it and includes 512 MB of Flash and 512 MB of RAM. Support for MicroSD cards allows storage expansion of up to 32GB.
Regarding connectivity, the Move 5000 offers robust wireless options, including WiFi, 4G/LTE, 3G/GPRS, Bluetooth, and dual SIM support, ensuring stable network access and seamless switching between carriers. It also includes integrated GPS functionality, which enhances its effectiveness in mobile and field-based operations.
The terminal supports various payment methods, including EMV chip and PIN, NFC contactless (compatible with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and similar wallets), magnetic stripe, and QR-code-based payments. Optional accessories like a built-in barcode scanner and a high-speed thermal printer make quick and efficient transactions convenient.
The device is powered by a durable lithium-ion battery with a capacity of around 2900mAh, providing enough power to last a full business day. Its rugged design ensures it performs reliably in both indoor and outdoor environments.
Who Should Choose the Move 5000?
The Ingenico Move 5000 stands out for businesses that need the freedom to move without sacrificing functionality. Its seamless connectivity and diverse payment acceptance make it ideal for the hospitality, retail, and mobile service industries.
The option for additional features like a barcode scanner and receipt printer further adds to its value proposition, ensuring that you’re equipped to handle every transaction scenario.
3. Verifone P400
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Verifone has long been synonymous with secure and reliable payment solutions. The Verifone P400 is a premium countertop PIN pad designed for a professional environment. Its compact yet feature-rich design caters to various payment methods while ensuring a seamless customer experience.
The Verifone P400 is designed to deliver a seamless payment experience with its 3.5-inch capacitive touchscreen, featuring LED backlighting and a resolution of 320×480 pixels for clear and vibrant visuals. It also includes a tactile, backlit 15-key keypad that enhances usability during manual PIN entry and other input-heavy transactions.
Under the hood, the P400 is powered by a 600 MHz ARM Cortex-A9 processor (1500 MIPS), delivering fast and secure processing performance. It comes with 1024 MB of memory, comprising 512 MB Flash and 512 MB SDRAM, with higher memory configurations available in select models to accommodate more demanding applications.
Connectivity options include Ethernet, USB, and RS232, allowing seamless integration into various point-of-sale systems. The terminal supports a wide range of payment methods with its triple-track magnetic stripe reader, EMVCo-approved smart card reader, and built-in NFC/contactless payment capability, making it compatible with digital wallets and tap-to-pay transactions.
Security is a key strength of the Verifone P400, as it is PCI PTS 5.x approved, ensuring it meets high data encryption and transaction security standards. It runs on a stable and secure Linux-based operating system, further reinforcing its reliability.
Compact in design, with dimensions around 167 mm in length, 80mm in width, and 44mm in height, the P400 is well-suited for countertop setups in fast-paced retail and hospitality environments. Optional accessories like mounting brackets and privacy shields enhance usability and customer privacy.
Who Should Choose the P400?
The Verifone P400 is ideal for businesses that require a reliable and secure countertop payment terminal.
Its robust performance, diverse connectivity options, and comprehensive security features make it a trusted choice for industries that process a high volume of transactions. Whether you are in retail, hospitality, or any environment that values data security and efficiency, the P400 delivers consistently.
4. PAX A920 Mobile Payment Terminal
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The PAX A920 is a revolutionary mobile payment terminal that merges the functionality of an Android tablet with a dedicated payment device. Its sleek design, powerful performance, and versatile connectivity options make it perfect for in-store and on-the-go transactions. With support for multiple payment methods, the A920 is built to streamline operations and enhance the customer experience.
The PAX A920 mobile payment terminal is designed for both functionality and portability. It features a vibrant 5-inch IPS touchscreen with a 720 x 1280 pixels resolution. Its intuitive interface makes interactions smooth and visually engaging, while its compact and lightweight design—approximately 11.3 oz, including the battery—makes it ideal for on-the-go transactions.
Powered by PAXBiz®, which runs on Android (typically version 7.1 with some models supporting newer updates), the device operates on an ARM Cortex-A7 quad-core processor at around 1.1GHz. It includes 1GB of RAM and 8GB of Flash storage, with the option to expand memory via a MicroSD card slot supporting up to 32GB, allowing for flexibility in handling apps and data.
The A920 supports various payment methods, including EMV chip cards, contactless NFC payments (compatible with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay), magnetic stripe cards, and even manual key entries. It features integrated dual cameras: a 5MP autofocus rear camera for barcode scanning and a 0.3MP front camera for customer identification or signature capture.
Connectivity is robust, with options including 4G LTE, WiFi, Bluetooth, and short-range wireless communication, ensuring stable performance across various environments. A powerful 5250mAh lithium-ion battery offers an average life of 8 to 10 hours, making it well-suited for a full day of operation without recharging.
Additional features include a high-speed thermal printer capable of printing receipts at 80mm per second, dual SIM slots, and a Micro USB port, enhancing the device’s adaptability across network configurations and business needs.
Who Should Choose the PAX A920?
The PAX A920 is an excellent solution for businesses that demand mobility without compromising on functionality. Its all-in-one design—combining a tablet, payment terminal, and barcode scanner—makes it ideal for diverse environments such as retail stores, restaurants, and service-based industries.
With its robust connectivity and multi-payment support, the A920 ensures that your business can capture every sale, whether you’re in-store or on the move.
5. Dejavoo Z9
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The Dejavoo Z9 is a versatile, compact wireless payment terminal designed for countertop and mobile business environments. With its robust processing capabilities and wide range of connectivity options, the Z9 stands out as a reliable terminal for businesses looking to accept multiple forms of payment in dynamic environments.
The Dejavoo Z9 is a versatile payment terminal designed for mobility and ease of use. It features a 3.5-inch color TFT-LCD touchscreen with a capacitive touch panel and a 320 x 480 pixels resolution, providing a transparent and responsive interface. A virtual keypad is integrated directly into the touchscreen for secure and seamless PIN entry.
Powered by a 32-bit 400MHz secure microprocessor and running on a Linux-based operating system, the Z9 offers reliable performance for everyday payment processing. It comes with 256MB of Flash memory, 128MB of DDR RAM, and a MicroSD socket for expandable storage—ideal for handling larger transaction volumes or additional applications.
Connectivity is a significant strength of the Z9, offering WiFi, 4G LTE (or 3G/GPRS in some models), Ethernet, and Bluetooth. This wide range of options ensures reliable performance even in areas with inconsistent network coverage, making it suitable for fixed and mobile business environments.
The terminal supports a full suite of payment options, including magnetic stripe cards, EMV chip cards, and NFC payments such as Google Pay and Apple Pay. It also features triple-track magnetic stripe reading for broader compatibility across card types.
Security is robust, with PCI PTS 5—x certification and EMV Level 1/L2 compliance, ensuring secure transaction handling. The device also incorporates advanced encryption and tokenization to protect sensitive cardholder data.
Additional features include a built-in thermal printer capable of printing at speeds between 50 and 100mm per second for fast receipt generation. Its rugged yet compact design—measuring approximately 6.7 inches in length, 3.1 inches in width, and 2.3 inches in height and weighing about 0.74 lbs—makes it an excellent option for countertop and mobile use. An optional dual SIM configuration provides extended network coverage, enhancing flexibility in various operating conditions.
Who Should Choose the Dejavoo Z9?
The Dejavoo Z9 is perfect for businesses that require a compact yet powerful payment solution. Its robust connectivity options and security features make it well-suited for industries such as restaurants (for pay-at-the-table solutions), retail pop-ups, and mobile service providers.
With its versatile payment acceptance and user-friendly interface, the Z9 ensures that transactions can be processed quickly and securely wherever your business takes you.
6. SwipeSimple B350 Card Reader
The SwipeSimple B350 Card Reader is a modern, lightweight, and portable device that transforms your smartphone or tablet into a fully functional payment terminal. Designed with small businesses in mind, the B350 offers comprehensive support for various payment methods and features an intuitive design that is easy to use on the go.
The SwipeSimple B350 card reader is designed for portability and durability. Its compact and lightweight design makes it ideal for mobile businesses, while its rugged construction ensures it can handle the wear and tear of daily operations in dynamic environments.
This device supports various payment methods, including EMV chip cards, NFC contactless payments (such as Apple Pay and Google Pay), and traditional magnetic stripe cards. It pairs effortlessly with iOS and Android devices via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), offering a fast and reliable connection. Additionally, it supports WiFi connectivity, making it versatile enough to adapt to various business setups.
The B350 has a long-lasting rechargeable battery that can handle hundreds of transactions on a single charge, making it dependable for high-traffic days. It integrates seamlessly with the SwipeSimple mobile app, known for its intuitive and user-friendly interface. Setup is simple and requires little technical expertise, allowing users to begin accepting payments quickly.
Optimized for fast and secure transactions, the B350 also supports features like cash discount pricing and easy firmware updates through the app. It’s compatible with a variety of third-party software solutions, making it a valuable tool for payment processing, inventory management, and customer management.
Who Should Choose the SwipeSimple B350?
The SwipeSimple B350 Card Reader is an excellent choice for small businesses and mobile vendors who need an affordable yet robust payment solution.
Its ease of use, broad payment compatibility, and reliable wireless connectivity make it a favorite among entrepreneurs looking to simplify their point-of-sale operations without sacrificing security or functionality.
7. Square Reader for Contactless and Chip (2nd Generation)
Square has become a household name in the payment processing industry, and the Square Reader for Contactless and Chip (2nd generation) is one of its standout products. This compact, sleek reader is designed for businesses that value simplicity, affordability, and the ability to accept multiple forms of payment—all without the need for cumbersome cables or constant pairing.
The Square Reader for Contactless and Chip (2nd Generation) is a sleek, glossy white device that combines elegance with durability. Designed to be compact and pocketable, it’s ideal for mobile businesses, while its ergonomic form ensures a comfortable and secure grip during use.
This updated reader supports modern payment methods, accepting EMV chip cards through dipping and contactless payments via Apple Pay, Google Pay, and other NFC-enabled wallets. Unlike earlier magstripe-only models, this generation is built to handle today’s faster and more secure transaction standards.
The device connects wirelessly to iOS and Android devices via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), maintaining a stable connection throughout the day without frequent re-pairing. Its built-in battery is designed to last through busy workdays and can even support offline transactions for up to 24 hours, ensuring uninterrupted service even without WiFi access.
Seamlessly integrated with the free Square Point of Sale app, the reader provides powerful business tools, including inventory management, tipping options, customer analytics, and real-time reporting. Automatic software updates ensure the device stays current with the latest features and security enhancements.
The Square Reader is extremely user-friendly, with intuitive LED indicators to guide the setup and charging process. Its flat-rate pricing model, with no monthly fees, makes it especially appealing for small businesses and startups looking for a simple, reliable payment solution.
Why Choose the Square Reader for Contactless and Chip?
The Square Reader for Contactless and Chip (2nd generation) is hard to beat for businesses looking for a reliable, user-friendly, cost-effective payment solution. Its ability to accept a wide range of payment types and its seamless integration with the Square ecosystem ensure you can capture every sale with minimal fuss.
Whether you’re a retail store, a food truck, or a service provider, this reader helps keep your transactions secure and your operations smooth.
8. Payanywhere NFC-Enabled Reader
Payanywhere offers a suite of payment devices tailored to modern business needs, and its NFC-enabled reader is a standout product. Designed to transform any smartphone or tablet into a full-featured point-of-sale terminal, the Payanywhere NFC-Enabled Reader supports a variety of payment methods while integrating with a robust online merchant portal.
The Payanywhere NFC-Enabled Reader is a lightweight and compact device built for portability, making it an excellent choice for mobile businesses and service providers. It pairs effortlessly via Bluetooth with iOS and Android devices, allowing for a quick and seamless setup process.
This reader supports all primary payment methods, including magstripe, EMV chip cards, and NFC contactless payments such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay. Its integration with the Payanywhere platform also accommodates more advanced payment functions like split payments, pre-authorizations, and discounts, offering flexibility for a wide range of business needs.
Connectivity is reliable, with Bluetooth and optional WiFi capabilities enabling real-time transaction processing from virtually any location. A robust battery supports extended usage, making it ideal for businesses constantly on the move.
The reader integrates smoothly with the Payanywhere mobile app and merchant portal, known as “Payanywhere Inside,” which provides access to reporting, invoicing, and customer management tools. Security is a top priority, with built-in encryption and tokenization technologies safeguarding every transaction.
Designed to work with existing hardware and software setups, the reader offers an easy upgrade path for businesses looking to expand their payment options without major infrastructure changes. With no monthly hardware fees and a competitive transaction-based pricing model, it’s a cost-effective solution that grows with your business.
Why Choose the Payanywhere NFC-Enabled Reader?
The Payanywhere NFC-Enabled Reader is an excellent option for small-to-medium businesses looking for an all-in-one payment solution. Its versatility in accepting various payment methods—combined with the robust backend support provided by the Payanywhere platform—ensures you have a complete and secure solution for managing in-person and online sales.
Its ability to pair with existing mobile devices and seamless integration with comprehensive business management tools make it a great choice for any modern enterprise.
Conclusion
Today, offering secure, convenient, and flexible payment options is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. NFC-enabled payment devices provide a robust solution by combining speed, reliability, and advanced security features that protect both businesses and customers. From compact mobile readers to full-featured countertop terminals, the range of options available today ensures that every business—whether a pop-up shop, a food truck, or a multi-location retail chain—can find a device that fits its needs.
The eight NFC-enabled devices featured in this guide stand out for their innovation, ease of use, and adaptability across various business environments. With enhanced encryption, faster transaction times, and seamless integration with modern POS systems, investing in an NFC-capable terminal is wise for businesses looking to future-proof their payment infrastructure. As contactless payments continue to grow in popularity, choosing the correct device today means you’re ready for the evolving expectations of tomorrow’s customers.
