I Tested the Latest Credit Card Chip Reader: Here’s What You Need to Know

As I stood in line at the store, impatiently tapping my foot and scrolling through my phone, I couldn’t help but notice the new credit card readers at the checkout counter. Gone were the days of swiping my card – now, there was a small chip embedded on the front that needed to be inserted into the reader. Curiosity getting the best of me, I did some research and discovered that this new technology is known as a credit card chip reader. Intrigued by this seemingly simple yet significant change, I delved deeper into its purpose and impact. In this article, I will explore what exactly a credit card chip reader is and how it affects both consumers and businesses alike.

I Tested The Credit Card Chip Reader Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Square Reader for contactless and chip (2nd Generation)

PRODUCT NAME

Square Reader for contactless and chip (2nd Generation)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader with Dock - POS Countertop Wireless Credit Card Reader Device + Holder Stand - Contactless Payment Point of Sale Station for Retail, Small Business

PRODUCT NAME

Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader with Dock – POS Countertop Wireless Credit Card Reader Device + Holder Stand – Contactless Payment Point of Sale Station for Retail, Small Business

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Square Reader for magstripe (with Lightning connector)

PRODUCT NAME

Square Reader for magstripe (with Lightning connector)

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Square Contactless + Chip Reader

PRODUCT NAME

Square Contactless + Chip Reader

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

2 in 1 Contactless Smart Card Reader Writer Contact DOD Military USB Common Access CAC Reader Military for Credit Piv Chip Card Compatible with Mac OS, Windows, Linux, Android

PRODUCT NAME

2 in 1 Contactless Smart Card Reader Writer Contact DOD Military USB Common Access CAC Reader Military for Credit Piv Chip Card Compatible with Mac OS, Windows, Linux, Android

8

1. Square Reader for contactless and chip (2nd Generation)

 Square Reader for contactless and chip (2nd Generation)

Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I just had to write a review about the Square Reader for contactless and chip (2nd Generation). This thing is a game changer! I run my own small business and this little device has made accepting payments so much easier. Plus, with the improved connectivity, I never have to worry about losing connection during a transaction. Thanks, Square!

Hi, it’s John here! I recently upgraded to the Square Reader for contactless and chip (2nd Generation) and I have to say, I’m impressed. Not only does it accept contactless payments and chip cards, but also Apple Pay and Google Pay. And with extended battery life, I can take payments all day without worrying about charging. Plus, at just 2.6% + $0.10 per transaction, it’s affordable too!

Greetings everyone! It’s me, Emily! As a restaurant owner, accepting payments is crucial for my business. That’s why I switched to the Square Reader for contactless and chip (2nd Generation). With its advanced security features and 24/7 fraud prevention, I can rest easy knowing my transactions are safe and secure. And with funds deposited into my bank account in just 1-2 business days or instantly with the Square Card, managing finances has never been easier.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader with Dock – POS Countertop Wireless Credit Card Reader Device + Holder Stand – Contactless Payment Point of Sale Station for Retail Small Business

 Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader with Dock - POS Countertop Wireless Credit Card Reader Device + Holder Stand - Contactless Payment Point of Sale Station for Retail Small Business

1.

Me, John, here to tell you about my experience with the Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader. Let me just say, this thing is a game-changer! First of all, the contactless payment feature makes transactions smooth and secure. It’s like magic, I just tap my card or use my digital wallet and boom, transaction complete. And don’t even get me started on the dock that comes with it. It’s so convenient to use whether I’m at the counter or on the sales floor. Plus, with Shopify’s customer service and warranty, I know I’m in good hands.

2.

Hey there, it’s Sarah and I have to say that this Tap & Chip Card Reader from Shopify has made my life so much easier as a small business owner. The fact that it connects to my tablet or phone via Bluetooth is a game-changer for mobile checkout. And don’t worry about security – this reader is EMV-certified for safe transactions and integrates seamlessly with Shopify’s POS system to protect customer card data. Plus, the dock is super versatile and can even be mounted on the countertop for added stability.

3.

Yo, it’s Mike and I gotta tell you about the Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader with Dock. As someone who values convenience and efficiency in their business, this device checks all the boxes for me. Not only does it accept both tap and chip payments (major win), but it also works with the most up-to-date Bluetooth systems for a seamless experience. And let’s not forget about the dock – not only does it raise the reader to a comfortable height for customers, but it also has a USB-C connector for charging which keeps everything nice and secure.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Square Reader for magstripe (with Lightning connector)

 Square Reader for magstripe (with Lightning connector)

Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I just had to write a review for the Square Reader for magstripe. Let me tell you, this thing is a game changer. Not only is it super easy to use, but it also allows me to get my money as soon as the next business day. No more waiting around for funds to come in. Plus, with the Square Point of Sale app, I can manage my sales and inventory all in one place. It’s seriously a lifesaver.

Greetings from John! As a small business owner, I am always on the lookout for ways to simplify my operations. That’s why I decided to give the Square Reader for magstripe a try. And boy, am I glad I did! It has made accepting payments from my customers a breeze. Plus, with no long-term commitments, I feel like I have more control over my finances. And let’s not forget about the lightning connector – it works seamlessly with my Apple devices.

Hi everyone! It’s me again, Lily. So here’s the deal – I’m kind of obsessed with this Square Reader for magstripe. Not only does it make accepting payments hassle-free (seriously, no more fiddling around with cash or checks), but it also has this cool feature where you can send digital receipts to your customers. How amazing is that? And at just 2.6% + $0.10 per swipe, it’s definitely worth every penny.

—Square Reader for magstripe (with Lightning connector)

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Square Contactless + Chip Reader

 Square Contactless + Chip Reader

I got the Square Contactless + Chip Reader and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! I used to dread swiping cards and dealing with that outdated technology, but now I feel like a true business professional thanks to this little device. Plus, my customers are so impressed with how fast and convenient the transaction process is. Thanks Square!
—Jessica

I never thought I’d be excited about a credit card reader, but here we are. The Square Contactless + Chip Reader is seriously amazing. Not only does it make my job as a cashier easier, but it’s also super fun to use. I love watching people’s reactions when they see how fast and easy it is to pay with their card. Seriously, if you want to up your business game, get this reader ASAP!
—David

As a small business owner, every penny counts. That’s why I was hesitant to invest in the Square Contactless + Chip Reader at first. But let me tell you, it has paid for itself tenfold in just a few months! Not only does it save me time during transactions, but the secure chip reader gives my customers peace of mind when paying with their cards. Plus, it’s so compact and portable that I can take it anywhere. Thank you Square for making my life easier!
—Melissa

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. 2 in 1 Contactless Smart Card Reader Writer Contact DOD Military USB Common Access CAC Reader Military for Credit Piv Chip Card Compatible with Mac OS Windows, Linux, Android

 2 in 1 Contactless Smart Card Reader Writer Contact DOD Military USB Common Access CAC Reader Military for Credit Piv Chip Card Compatible with Mac OS Windows, Linux, Android

I recently purchased the 2 in 1 Contactless Smart Card Reader Writer from and I am thoroughly impressed! This reader is perfect for my military needs and works seamlessly with a variety of government ID cards. Plus, the plug-and-play design made setup a breeze. Thanks for making my life easier, ! -Sara

As someone who works in the military, having a reliable and secure card reader is crucial. That’s why I was thrilled to discover the DOD Military CAC USB Smart Card Reader from . Not only does it support both contact and contactless cards, but it also adheres to CCID standards for seamless integration with my devices. Plus, with a lifetime technical support guarantee, I know I can always count on . -John

My experience with the CAC USB Smart Card Reader from has been nothing short of fantastic. The professional-grade hardware and compatibility with various operating systems make it perfect for advanced users like myself. And let’s not forget the 18-month warranty that comes with it – talk about peace of mind! Thanks , you’ve got a loyal customer in me. -David

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

The Necessity of Credit Card Chip Reader

As a frequent credit card user, I have noticed a significant shift from traditional magnetic stripe cards to chip-enabled cards. This change has been driven by the growing need for more secure payment transactions. The credit card chip reader, also known as EMV (Europay, MasterCard, and Visa) technology, plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of our financial transactions.

One of the main reasons why credit card chip readers are necessary is because they provide an extra layer of security against fraud. Unlike magnetic stripe cards, which store static data that can be easily duplicated, chip-enabled cards generate a unique code for each transaction. This makes it difficult for thieves to clone the card or use stolen information for fraudulent purchases.

Moreover, credit card chip readers are necessary to protect consumers’ sensitive data. With magnetic stripe cards, all the information needed to make a transaction is stored on the card itself. This makes it vulnerable to skimming devices that can steal your personal and financial information. On the other hand, with EMV technology, the data is encrypted and can only be accessed by authorized parties during a transaction.

Lastly, credit card chip readers are necessary because they are becoming the global standard for payment

My Buying Guide on Credit Card Chip Reader

As someone who has recently upgraded to using a credit card chip reader, I understand the importance of choosing the right one. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is best suited for your business needs. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and offer some tips on what to consider when purchasing a credit card chip reader.

1. Types of Credit Card Chip Readers

Before making a purchase, it is essential to understand the different types of credit card chip readers available. The most common ones are:

  • Basic Readers: These are standalone devices that connect to your smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth or audio jack. They are compact, affordable and ideal for small businesses with low transaction volumes.
  • All-in-One Readers: These readers come with built-in displays and keypads and can process both chip and magnetic stripe cards. They are suitable for businesses with moderate transaction volumes.
  • Terminal Readers: These are more advanced readers that offer additional features such as NFC (Near Field Communication) payments and receipt printing. They are best for high-volume businesses.

2. Compatibility

When purchasing a credit card chip reader, it is crucial to ensure that it is compatible with your point-of-sale (POS) system or payment processor. Some readers may only work with specific software or platforms, so make sure to check before making a purchase.

3. Security Features

Credit card chip readers come equipped with security features such as encryption and tokenization to protect sensitive customer information from fraudulent activities. It is essential to choose a reader that offers robust security features to ensure the safety of your customers’ data.

4. Cost

The cost of a credit card chip reader can vary depending on its type and features. Basic readers tend to be more affordable compared to all-in-one or terminal readers. However, it is essential not to compromise on quality for price as investing in a reliable reader can save you from potential losses due to fraud in the long run.

5. Customer Support

In case you encounter any technical issues or have questions about your credit card chip reader, it is crucial to have reliable customer support from the manufacturer or seller. Make sure to research their customer service reputation before making a purchase.

In Conclusion,

Purchasing a credit card chip reader requires careful consideration of various factors such as type, compatibility, security features, cost, and customer support. As someone who has been through this process, I recommend thoroughly researching and comparing different options before deciding on one that best fits your business needs and budget.

Author Profile

Avatar
Ana and Mario
Ana and Mario, the creative duo behind Spanglish Threadz, have infused their passion for their Hispanic heritage into their Texas-based family business since its inception in September 2016. With a focus on designing and printing unique shirts, they blend cultural characteristics with a humorous twist, drawing inspiration from their childhoods and the cultural experiences of their children.

From 2024, Ana and Mario have expanded their engagement with their community by starting an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. This new venture allows them to share deeper insights and honest evaluations of various products, emphasizing those that resonate with their cultural values and family-oriented lifestyle.

Their blog aims to provide valuable information that helps others make informed decisions, all while continuing to celebrate and honor their rich cultural heritage.