Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader: A Quick Overview

In today's fast-paced retail environment, ensuring that transactions are quick, secure, and hassle-free is more crucial than ever. Businesses need to change to match the expectations of consumers who want smooth payment experiences. The Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader is made to meet this demand by offering a cutting-edge solution that keeps up with the constantly changing field of payment technologies.

The Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader offers a streamlined and reliable option for merchants looking to enhance their payment processes. This device is revolutionizing the way that contemporary companies aim to improve customer service and streamline operations. Transactions may be completed more quickly, and it integrates with Shopify's environment effortlessly.

What is the Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader?

The Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader is a compact, powerful device facilitating seamless business payment transactions. Its primary function is enabling merchants to process payments efficiently using contactless tap and traditional chip card methods.

Equipped with advanced EMV technology, with the help of this card reader, every transaction is guaranteed to be safe from fraud. The ability to handle contactless payments allows for quicker checkouts. At the same time, chip cards are an essential tool for any modern merchant hoping to provide their consumers with a secure and seamless payment experience since they give an additional degree of protection.

Overall Design of Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader

Let's examine the Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader, the dock that goes with it, and the packaging for each device.

Compact and Lightweight Design

The Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader is designed to be compact and lightweight, measuring 2.83 x 3.39 x 0.51 inches and weighing just 0.2 pounds. Its small size and light weight make it easy to handle and ideal for mobile transactions. Whether you're using it in a retail environment or on the go, its portability is a key feature for merchants who need to accept payments efficiently.

Lack of Built-In Clip or Holder

One notable aspect of the card reader is that it does not have an integrated clip or holder. While the device is easy to handle during transactions, securing it when not in use might require additional accessories. Merchants who plan to use the reader frequently may find this inconvenient, as they'll need to find a way to store or secure the device properly.

Optional Dock for Enhanced Convenience

To address the lack of built-in security, Shopify offers an optional dock for the card reader, available for $40. This dock provides a secure place to hold the reader and keeps it charged. It includes a mounting system with a bolt and nut, allowing merchants to install it on a countertop for added stability. However, removing the card reader from the dock can be somewhat cumbersome, which might be a consideration for users who need to detach the device frequently.

Design Features of the Card Reader

The card reader is equipped with practical design features for ease of use. The power button and USB-C charging port are located on the back of the device, making them easily accessible. Four indicator lights on the top of the card reader provide information about battery level and payment status. These lights are not visible when off, which helps maintain a sleek appearance.

Charging Options

The card reader includes a short USB charging cord but does not come with a wall plug. For added convenience, the optional dock includes a longer 6-foot USB charging cable, which provides more flexibility in positioning the reader and ensures it remains charged and ready for use.

Shopify Credit Card Reader Pricing

Shopify does well in this area because of its affordable processing and hardware costs (well, except for the Starter plan). We want to give the reader an even better score here. Still, the substantial monthly cost of the Basic Shopify plan—the most affordable option that provides you with an online shop and reasonable processing rates—and the transaction fees associated with utilizing a non-Shopify payment processor keep us from doing so.

The Tap & Chip Card Reader is reasonably priced at $49. It is a straightforward, easy-to-use card reader that supports tap-and-chip transactions. The charging dock costs an extra $40.

The price at which payments are processed on this device is determined by your Shopify plan. This is the amount each transaction will cost:

• Shopify Starter ($5/month): 5% + $0.30 for transactions made online, 5% for those made in-person
• Basic Shopify: 2.9% + $0.30 for online purchases, 2.7% for in-person transactions ($39/month if paid monthly or $29/month if paid yearly).
• Shopify charges 2.6% + $0.30 for online purchases and 2.5% for in-person transactions ($105 monthly if paid on a monthly basis or $79 monthly if paid annually).
• Advanced Shopify: 2.4% + $0.30 for online transactions, 2.4% for in-person transactions ($399/month if paid monthly or $299/month if paid yearly).

There are extra transaction costs if you use a payment processor other than Shopify Payments. These fees are 2.0% for Basic Shopify plans, 1.0% for Shopify plans, and 0.5% for Advanced Shopify plans per transaction.

Though Shopify Starter is only suitable for extremely infrequent or light sales owing to the extremely high per-transaction charges, Shopify's price structure is competitive overall. Our Shopify review covers what each membership plan includes in full.

Shopify Tap & Chip Reader Hardware Specs

Supported Payment Methods

The Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader is designed to accommodate diverse payment options, supporting both EMV chip cards and NFC/contactless payments. This device accepts major credit and debit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. Additionally, it is compatible with popular mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay, ensuring that businesses can easily cater to a broad spectrum of customer payment preferences.

Device Compatibility

The Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader must connect to a Shopify POS-enabled device via Bluetooth to function effectively. It is compatible with various devices, including:

• iPhone: Models starting from iPhone 5, provided they run iOS 11.4 or later
• iPad Air: Generation 2 and newer models with iOS 11.4 or higher
• iPad: Generation 4 or later models operating on iOS 11.4 or above
• iPad Mini: From Generation 2 onward, with iOS 11.4 or more recent
• iPad Pro: All versions that use iOS 11.4 or newer
• Android: Devices running Android version 5.0 (Lollipop) or more recent

This extensive compatibility ensures that businesses using various devices can integrate the card reader into their existing point-of-sale systems.

Battery Performance

The Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader is designed for efficiency in terms of battery life. A full charge requires about one to two hours and can last up to a week under normal selling conditions. This extended battery life is particularly advantageous for busy retail settings. If you use the optional dock, which continuously charges the device, you won't need to worry about battery management, as the dock ensures that the reader is always ready for use.

Payment Processor Requirement

Merchants must process payments through Shopify Payments to utilize the Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader. This requirement ensures that the card reader integrates seamlessly with Shopify's platform, simplifying transaction processes and providing a cohesive user experience. By using Shopify Payments, businesses can leverage the full functionality of the card reader and streamline their payment operations within the Shopify ecosystem.

Getting Started With The Shopify Tap & Chip Reader

Preparing the Shopify Reader for Use

• Charge the Device: Begin by fully charging the card reader, which takes approximately one to two hours. The device will indicate a full charge when all four battery lights on the top are lit.
• Install Shopify POS App: Download and install the free Shopify POS app on your mobile device from the App Store or Google Play.
• Log In to Shopify Account: Open the app and log in to your Shopify store account, or sign up for an account if you don't already have one.
• Turn On the Reader: Press the power button on the back of the card reader to turn it on.
• Connect via Bluetooth: Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your mobile device. The card reader should connect automatically to the Shopify POS app. To confirm the connection, go to Settings in the app, select "Set up hardware," choose "Card Reader," and then select "Tap & Chip." The app should show a "Connect card reader" link if the device is properly connected.
• Charge Accessories: The device includes a USB charging cable but no wall plug. If you don't have a wall socket, you can use a laptop or battery pack to charge the gadget. If using the dock accessory, it also requires a power source but includes a 6-foot USB cable for flexible placement.

Accepting Payments with Shopify Tap & Chip Reader:

Once your reader is set up, accepting payments is simple. Select "Credit" on the Shopify POS app's payment screen for contactless payments. Ask the client to touch the card reader with their contactless card or device. Hold it until the four blue notification lights appear, indicating the payment has been processed. The app will confirm the transaction with a "Payment received" message.

For chip card payments, also select "Credit" on the POS app. Give the client instructions to place their chip card into the scanner so that the chip faces the Shopify logo. If required, the customer will sign on the screen. After they submit their signature, you can provide a receipt and start a new order. The transaction is complete once the card is removed from the reader.

Features & Software Design

Our review of Shopify POS covers everything in detail, but here's a quick summary.

We at Merchant Maverick find Shopify POS impressive because to its convenient UI and affordable price. It integrates seamlessly with Shopify online stores and is well-suited for retail, though it retains eCommerce features if needed.

The Shopify Tap & Chip Reader excels with this POS system but lacks offline payment capability, unlike Square's POS. Remember, the Tap & Chip Reader is only available through Shopify's website and works exclusively with Shopify POS.

Payment Features

• Accept Two or More Payment Options: You may divide tenders and use several payment methods for a single transaction using Shopify POS.
• Gift Cards: Make cards that may be redeemed online or in-store.
• Custom Payment Alternatives: The ability to create custom payment alternatives is one of Shopify POS's most distinctive features. Do you want to take payments as Monopoly money, gold coins, or personal checks? Here's how you go about it.
• Several Sales Channels: Make a "Buy Button" that you may post on your website and social media. You may sell goods from any location, not just your Shopify online store.

Checkout Features

• Automated Tax Calculations: Shopify POS computes sales tax automatically according to your store's location. You can also establish bespoke taxes for particular orders or goods.
• Shipping Addresses: To send a customer's order later on, you may keep their address and contact information.
• Customized Receipts: Your printed and digital receipts are completely customizable. However, this calls for the Shopify POS Pro add-on.

Store Management Features

• Automatic Tax Calculations: Depending on where your store is located, Shopify POS automatically computes sales tax. Furthermore, bespoke taxes can be established for particular orders or items.
• Shipping Addresses: When fulfilling future orders, you can save a customer's address and contact information.
• Custom Receipts: You can alter your printed and digital receipts completely. However, the Shopify POS Pro add-on is needed for this.

Product Management Features

• Product Arrangement: You can arrange your items however you see fit. For your items, you may also provide a variety of sizes, materials, and colors, each with a unique price, weight, SKU number, and other details.
• Inventory Management: Tracking your top-selling products is simple with Shopify's sophisticated inventory management system, which also tracks the most economical things.
• Barcode Support: Every product can have a new barcode installed or be allocated an existing one.

About Ease Of Use

Initial setup

Setting up the Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader is remarkably simple. The process is designed to be intuitive, allowing users to get started quickly with minimal effort. The device comes with clear instructions and is complemented by a comprehensive knowledge base and training videos within the Shopify POS app. These resources ensure that users can easily configure the reader and integrate it with their Shopify POS system without requiring advanced technical skills.

Device Use

Once set up, the Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader is highly user-friendly. Its design ensures that operating the device is straightforward, making it accessible even for those new to card readers. The integration with Shopify POS allows for smooth transaction handling, whether processing contactless or chip card payments. 

The device's interface is designed for efficiency, enabling users to focus on serving customers rather than grappling with complicated technology. The reader's ease of use significantly enhances the transaction experience for merchants and customers.

Customer Service & Support

Customer Service

Shopify's customer service is regarded more highly than that of other major online retailers. The speed and caliber of Shopify's customer service are generally considered good. The Shopify Tap & Chip Reader receives high marks in this area thanks to its extensive knowledge base, numerous training videos on YouTube, and wide range of beneficial support choices.

Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader Support

Not that there haven't been public grievances about the company's customer service, mind you. This is understandable for a business of this size, though, given we frequently come across glowing reviews about Shopify's customer service.

Shopify provides round-the-clock direct customer service by phone, email, live Chat, and Twitter, in addition to a variety of additional customer care channels:

• Academy: Free instructional programs are offered, complete with transcripts and videos.
• Encyclopedia: Terms and concepts related to eCommerce defined and summarized.
• Multi-chapter PDF manuals covering particular subjects.
• Forums: Depending on what you require, several distinct community forums are accessible.
• Developer Docs: Technically oriented resources and documentation for APIs.
• Register for live webinar broadcasts.
• Podcast: Interviews with prosperous business owners are featured on the Shopify Masters podcast.
• Blog: The Shopify blog is educational and kept up-to-date.
• Changelog: Keep abreast of your store's features' most recent additions and modifications.
• Free Tools: Calculators, content templates, and other accessible materials that may be obtained via the main website.
• Specialists: Shopify specialists, including developers, designers, and marketers, may be hired.
• YouTube: Countless video tutorials are available on the Shopify Help Center channel.

Shopify Credit Card Reader Reviews

Shopify receives high marks in this area because prominent user review sites frequently give positive reviews of the company's services. Of course, this is also an area that may be useful.

This section relates to reviews of Shopify POS and Shopify overall; I have yet to see many reviews, particularly on the Tap & Chip Card Reader.

Positive Testimonials & Reviews

All things considered, consumers really like Shopify's services, especially compared to similar services. This is what most users find appealing about Shopify.

• Easy To Use: Shopify POS and Shopify have received amazing reviews from merchants who praise its simplicity and ease of use. To put it plainly, there are a few more straightforward ways to launch an Internet store and start making sales in physical stores.
• Inventory management: Many users have remarked on how simple it is to import inventory and how effectively Shopify POS works with various goods.
• Good Customer Service: Although not everyone is a fan of Shopify's customer service, the company is still superior to many of its rivals by providing live chat and a phone line that is open around the clock. Numerous consumers have also complimented the kindness and helpfulness of the support team.
• Extendability: Shopify's connectivity with other eCommerce software platforms has been highlighted in several customer evaluations.

Negative Complaints & Reviews

There are a few typical issues, even though Shopify POS and Shopify receive more compliments than complaints.

• Lack of Offline Functionality: Some users have had issues with Shopify POS's inability to operate offline. While other systems allow you to process transactions despite a service interruption, Shopify does not.
• Extra Charges: Some users have discovered that utilizing Shopify comes at a far higher cost than is first evident when they discover they must buy software or feature add-ons to have the capability they want.
• Errors and bugs: Numerous people have expressed dissatisfaction about how they negatively affect their experiences.
• Bad Service From Shopify Payments: Many customers have complained about payments being withheld by Shopify Payments. This risk, though, is shared by third-party processors. For additional information, see our post about preventing account suspensions and cancellations.

Read more:

• Ways To Get A Shopify Card Reader Free
• 10+ Best Shopify POS Apps 
• 10 Steps to Set Up Shopify POS System
• 4 Best Shopify POS Integrations

Conclusion

With compatibility for both EMV chip and NFC contactless payments, the Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader offers significant advantages for contemporary enterprises. Its small size and easy to use design, together with its seamless integration with Shopify POS, guarantee a seamless setup and productive day-to-day operation.

The Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader is a leading option for companies looking for a dependable and user-friendly payment solution. Visit Shopify's website to learn more about its features or make a purchase, and see how it can enhance your payment process and customer experience.