SumUp vs. Zettle: The Ultimate Comparison Guide

In the competitive landscape of mobile payment solutions, SumUp and Zettle (formerly known as iZettle) stand out as popular choices for businesses of all sizes.

Both platforms offer robust tools for accepting payments on the go, but they cater to different needs and preferences.

The main difference is that SumUp emphasizes simplicity and cost-effectiveness, making it ideal for small businesses and freelancers, while Zettle provides a more feature-rich experience with advanced integrations and analytics, favored by larger businesses and those needing comprehensive payment solutions.

This guide delves into their key features, pricing, and suitability to help you determine which tool best fits your business requirements.

SumUp vs. Zettle: Key Features Comparison Chart

Here’s a quick table summary of how the core features compare:

Personal note:

I switched to Zettle because, while SumUp is fantastic for its simplicity and budget-friendly approach, I needed something more robust for my growing business. Zettle’s advanced features, like inventory management and seamless integration with my online store, offered the flexibility and control I was missing. SumUp was perfect when I was starting out, but as my needs evolved, Zettle became the better fit. It’s like upgrading from a reliable bike to a versatile car—both are great, but one just does more.

What is SumUp and How Does It Work?

SumUp is a mobile point-of-sale (mPOS) solution designed to help small businesses accept card payments easily and affordably. Founded in Europe, SumUp provides compact card readers that connect to smartphones or tablets via Bluetooth.

Users can accept various payment types, including chip and PIN, contactless payments, and mobile wallets.

SumUp emphasizes simplicity with a straightforward fee structure and minimal setup, making it ideal for small retailers, market stalls, and service providers looking for a cost-effective payment solution.

Pros of Sumup:

• Simple and transparent pricing with no monthly fees.
• Easy-to-use hardware that connects seamlessly with mobile devices.
• Fast setup process, ideal for small businesses and startups.
• Supports multiple payment methods including contactless and mobile wallets.
• Available in numerous countries, providing broad accessibility.

Cons of Sumup:

• Limited advanced features compared to competitors.
• Basic reporting and analytics tools.
• Fewer integrations with other business software and POS systems.
• Limited hardware options beyond basic card readers.
• Customer support may be less comprehensive for larger businesses.

What is Zettle and How Does It Work?

Zettle (formerly iZettle) is a comprehensive mPOS solution acquired by PayPal, aimed at providing businesses with a robust payment system integrated with advanced features. Zettle offers a range of hardware options, including card readers and POS terminals, that connect to smartphones, tablets, or computers.

It supports multiple payment methods, including card, contactless, NFC, and mobile wallets.

Zettle is known for its extensive integrations with various business tools and advanced reporting and analytics, making it suitable for both small and medium-sized businesses that require more functionality and scalability in their payment solutions.

Pros of Zettle:

• Advanced features including inventory management and employee tracking.
• Extensive integrations with popular business software like accounting and e-commerce platforms.
• Comprehensive reporting and analytics tools to track sales and performance.
• Wide range of hardware options, including POS terminals.
• Strong support from PayPal, including reliable customer service.
• Global availability with multi-currency support.

Cons of Zettle:

• More complex pricing structure, which may include monthly fees for advanced features.
• Higher initial costs for advanced hardware options.
• Can be overwhelming for very small businesses or solo entrepreneurs due to its extensive features.
• Setup may be more involved compared to simpler competitors.
• Some users report longer response times from customer support.

SumUp vs. Zettle: A Comprehensive Comparison of the Main Features

If you’re looking for a distinction between SumUp and Zettle, here’s a comprehensive analysis of the key features:

1. Pricing Structure

SumUp offers a simple, flat-rate pricing model with no monthly fees, making it highly appealing to small businesses and freelancers. They charge a fixed percentage per transaction, which is transparent and easy to understand.

On the other hand, Zettle offers similar flat-rate pricing but with slight variations depending on the payment method and country. Zettle also provides a broader range of pricing options, including a subscription model for those who need advanced features.

While both are affordable, Zettle’s pricing can become more economical for businesses processing higher volumes due to its tiered pricing model.

Winner: SumUp for its straightforward, predictable pricing.

2. Payment Methods Supported

SumUp supports a wide range of payment methods, including all major credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and invoicing options. This is a significant advantage for businesses catering to diverse customer preferences.

Zettle matches SumUp in supporting various payment methods but goes a step further by offering PayPal integration, which is a major advantage for businesses with an online presence. This added flexibility gives Zettle an edge, particularly for businesses that operate both online and offline.

Winner: Zettle for its broader payment method support, including PayPal.

3. Hardware and Device Compatibility

SumUp provides a compact and easy-to-use card reader that pairs seamlessly with smartphones and tablets. Their hardware is known for its durability and long battery life, making it ideal for businesses on the go.

Zettle also offers robust hardware, including a card reader and a more advanced terminal that supports a wider range of payment options and offers a touchscreen interface. Zettle’s hardware is more versatile, catering to businesses that need a more comprehensive setup, such as a full point-of-sale (POS) system.

Winner: Zettle for its more versatile and advanced hardware options.

4. User Interface and Ease of Use

SumUp’s interface is clean and straightforward, designed for ease of use, even for those with minimal technical expertise. The setup process is quick, and the app is intuitive, making it a great option for small businesses or individuals who want to start accepting payments quickly.

Zettle’s interface is equally user-friendly but offers more advanced features, such as inventory management and detailed sales reports, which add a layer of complexity. However, for businesses needing more than just payment processing, Zettle’s additional features might be worth the learning curve.

Winner: SumUp for its simplicity and ease of use.

5. Integrations and Ecosystem

SumUp offers limited integrations, mainly focusing on payment processing and basic invoicing. This makes it suitable for businesses that don’t require extensive third-party software. Zettle, however, shines in this area with a wide range of integrations, including popular accounting software like QuickBooks and Xero, and e-commerce platforms like Shopify.

This makes Zettle a more attractive choice for businesses looking to integrate their payment processing with other tools and streamline their operations.

Winner: Zettle for its extensive integrations and robust ecosystem.

6. Customer Support and Service

SumUp provides customer support through email and phone, with a reputation for being responsive and helpful. Their support is well-suited for small businesses that might not need around-the-clock assistance.

Zettle also offers phone and email support but extends its services with live chat and a more comprehensive help center, catering to businesses that might need immediate assistance. The added options and accessibility of Zettle’s support give it an edge, particularly for larger businesses with more complex needs.

Winner: Zettle for its more comprehensive customer support options.

7. Reporting and Analytics

SumUp offers basic reporting features, providing essential insights into sales and transactions, which are sufficient for small businesses. Zettle, however, offers a more advanced reporting system with detailed analytics that can track sales trends, inventory levels, and employee performance.

This feature is invaluable for businesses looking to make data-driven decisions and optimize their operations. The depth and breadth of Zettle’s analytics make it a better option for businesses that require more than just basic reporting.

Winner: Zettle for its advanced reporting and analytics capabilities.

Use Cases for SumUp

1. Freelancers and Solo Entrepreneurs: Ideal for individuals needing a simple and affordable way to accept payments on the go without complex features.
2. Small Retail Shops and Market Stalls: Perfect for small-scale operations that require basic payment processing without the need for extensive integrations or advanced reporting.

Use Cases for Zettle

1. Medium-Sized Retailers: Suitable for businesses that require advanced inventory management, detailed reporting, and integration with other business systems.
2. E-commerce and Brick-and-Mortar Hybrids: Businesses operating both online and physical stores benefit from Zettle’s extensive integrations and comprehensive feature set.

SumUp vs. Zettle Pricing Breakdown

Here’s a table summarizing the pricing for SumUp and Zettle:

SumUp Pricing

• Standard Card Reader: Free (no purchase necessary), with a transaction fee of approximately 2.75% per sale.
• Additional Features: No monthly fees, making it cost-effective for businesses with lower sales volumes.
• Subscription Services: Currently, SumUp focuses on a flat-rate pricing without tiered subscriptions, ensuring predictable costs.

Zettle Pricing

• Transaction Fees: Typically around 2.29% per card transaction (varies by country).
• Monthly Plans:
  • Free Plan: Basic payment processing with no monthly fee.
  • Premium Plans: Offer advanced features like inventory management, detailed analytics, and integrations for a monthly fee.
• Hardware Costs: Additional costs for advanced hardware options, such as POS terminals or additional card readers, which can range based on the type and functionality of the device.

What to Consider When Choosing Between SumUp and Zettle

What should be at the top of your mind when choosing a payment processing app for your business or daily needs? Let’s see:

1. Business Size and Needs

Consider the size of your business and the complexity of your payment processing needs. SumUp is ideal for small businesses or individuals who require a straightforward payment solution without additional complexities. Zettle is better suited for medium-sized businesses that need advanced features such as inventory management, detailed reporting, and extensive integrations.

2. Budget and Pricing Structure

Evaluate your budget for both initial setup and long-term costs. SumUp’s flat-rate pricing with no monthly fees is cost-effective for businesses with lower sales volumes. Zettle’s tiered pricing, including potential monthly fees for premium features, may offer better value for businesses with higher transaction volumes or those needing advanced functionalities.

3. Required Features and Integrations

Assess the features you need for your business operations. SumUp provides essential features suitable for basic payment processing. Zettle offers a more comprehensive set of features, including advanced reporting, inventory management, and integrations with various business tools, making it a better choice for businesses seeking a connected and scalable payment solution.

4. Customer Support Needs

Determine the level of customer support you require. SumUp offers standard support options, which may be sufficient for small businesses. Zettle, backed by PayPal, provides more comprehensive support, including live chat and phone support, which is crucial for larger businesses or those needing reliable assistance.

5. Geographic Presence and Currency Support

Consider the availability and support for your region. SumUp is widely available in many countries, particularly in Europe. Zettle, supported by PayPal’s global infrastructure, may offer better support and functionality in more regions, along with multi-currency support, making it suitable for businesses with an international presence.

FAQs

Here are five common questions people ask about SumUp and Zettle:

Can I use SumUp or Zettle without a smartphone?

• SumUp requires a smartphone or tablet to process payments since it connects via Bluetooth to the card reader. Zettle offers more flexibility with its advanced terminal that doesn’t require a smartphone, but it’s optional.

What are the fees for international payments?

• Both SumUp and Zettle charge a flat fee for international payments, but the exact fee may vary depending on the card type and country. Generally, these fees are higher than domestic transactions.

Which tool is better for large businesses?

• Zettle is better suited for large businesses due to its advanced features like inventory management, detailed analytics, and extensive integrations. SumUp is ideal for small businesses or freelancers who need a simple and affordable solution.

Can I accept online payments?

• Zettle integrates with PayPal, making it easier to accept online payments. SumUp offers an invoicing feature that allows customers to pay online, but it’s less robust than Zettle’s options.

How fast do I receive funds?

• Both tools typically deposit funds within 1-2 business days, though Zettle may offer faster payouts depending on your country and account type.

Is SumUp Better Than Zettle? Wrap up

Choosing between SumUp and Zettle ultimately depends on your business’s specific needs and scale. SumUp excels in simplicity, affordability, and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for small businesses and individual entrepreneurs who need a reliable and cost-effective payment solution without extra complexities.

In contrast, Zettle offers a more comprehensive feature set, advanced integrations, and robust support, which are better suited for medium-sized businesses and those requiring more sophisticated payment solutions and scalability.

Assess your business requirements, budget, and desired features to make the best decision between SumUp and Zettle.