Every business owner wants to keep costs down, especially when it comes to payment processing. At Tillex, we understand that finding the most affordable way to take card payments is crucial for your bottom line. But here's the thing - the cheapest option isn't always the most cost-effective in the long run.
Understanding True Payment Costs
When evaluating payment solutions, it's essential to look beyond the headline rates. Many providers advertise attractive transaction fees but add monthly charges, setup costs, and hidden fees that quickly mount up. The real cost includes transaction fees, monthly rentals, and any additional charges for essential services like customer support or next-day settlement.
Types of Payment Solutions
Basic mobile card readers might seem appealing with their low upfront costs, but they often come with higher transaction fees. For a business processing €5,000 monthly, the difference between a 1.75% rate and our 0.15% rate means €80 in savings every month.
Countertop terminals typically offer better transaction rates and more reliability. At Swift Payments, our terminal rental starts at just €20 monthly with transaction fees from 0.15% - significantly lower than industry averages of 1.5% to 2.5%.
Why Tillex Offers Real Value
Our transparent pricing means no surprises. You'll know exactly what you're paying, with no hidden PCI compliance fees, early termination charges, or support costs. We include professional installation, next-day settlement, and ongoing customer support at no extra charge.
For a business processing €10,000 monthly, here's what this means:
Tillex Payments: €35 (€20 rental + €15 transaction fees)
Industry average: €170-€270
That's potential annual savings of €1,620 to €2,820.
Smart Money-Saving Tips
Encourage contactless payments when possible, as they often have lower processing costs. Understand your payment mix - debit cards typically cost less to process than credit cards. Most importantly, choose a provider that offers transparent pricing without hidden fees.
When Cheap Becomes Expensive
The cheapest option can become costly if it includes poor customer support, unreliable equipment, or slow settlement times. When your payment system fails during a busy period, the lost sales far outweigh any initial savings.
Making the Right Choice
The most cost-effective solution balances low fees with reliability, good support, and features that help your business run smoothly. Consider your monthly transaction volume, business type, and growth plans when making your decision.
Ready to discover how much you could save with our transparent, low-cost payment solutions? Contact Tillex today for a free cost analysis tailored to your business needs.

