PAX Q80 Review

Measuring 7.1” L x 3.26” W x 2.83” H and weighing just under 1 pound, it won’t take up much room no matter where you want to put it. In addition to its compact size, the Q80 boasts the following specs:

• 4” color touchscreen display
• 1024 MB of memory, with micro SD card slot for card up to 32 GB
• 10 backlit number keys and 5 function keys
• Built-in receipt printer

This credit card machine is designed for businesses that don’t want a large, complex system but need a convenient and reliable way to take a variety of credit and debit cards.

Payment Types

The Q80 is a new model, so it can accept all the current payment methods. This includes traditional magnetic strip cards, EMV chip cards, and contactless (NFC) payments. It can also allow esignatures. A built-in PIN pad ensures that debit card users can enter their PINs if they prefer to authorize that way.

Connections and Ports

The PAX Q80 has multiple connection options: modem, Ethernet, wifi, 3G or 4G, or by Bluetooth. Additionally, ports for connecting optional accessories are also available. Ports include USB and micro USB, as well as Ethernet and RS232.

Security 

The Q80 is PCI compliant, and EMV Level 1 and 2 certified. Additionally, it meets contactless security requirements for MasterCard’s Contactless and Visa’s payWave options.

An optional privacy shield for the PIN pad is available to give customers added protection from others seeing their PIN as it is entered.

Compatible Processors

PAX machines are not proprietary, meaning that you aren’t restricted to one processor when you want to use a PAX machine. Many processors have the capability to support the Q80 and other machines in the PAX line of processing equipment. If you’re currently processing, you can contact your credit card processor to see if they’re compatible with PAX. If you’re not currently taking cards and want to make sure you find a processor that can support the Q80 (or other PAX models) you can find one through CardFellow’s free processor comparison tool.

Costs

Machines like this typically range from $350 – $700, but the cost for the PAX Q80 will vary depending on where you purchase it. In general, it’s a good idea to purchase from the credit card processor you use (or want to use) to ensure compatibility and quick set up. Some processors may offer a leasing option; in most cases, it will cost significantly more to lease the terminal than to purchase it outright.

The cost for the machine itself is in addition to the costs of accepting credit cards, which will be determine by your processor.