Square vs Dojo UK: Card Payment Providers Compared
Square vs Dojo: Overview
Square and Dojo are two of the most popular modern payment providers for UK small businesses. Both offer simple pricing and modern card machines, but they target slightly different audiences. Square is an all-in-one ecosystem (POS, online, invoicing), while Dojo focuses on fast in-person payments with premium hardware.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Square | Dojo |
|---|---|---|
| In-person rate | 1.75% | From 1.4% |
| Online rate | 1.4% + 25p | N/A |
| Monthly fee | £0 | From £20/month |
| Card machine cost | £19 + VAT (reader) | Included in plan |
| Contract | None | Flexible (some min. terms) |
| Settlement speed | 1–2 business days | Next business day |
| POS software | Free (Square POS) | Basic POS included |
| Online store | Yes (Square Online) | No |
| Invoicing | Yes (free) | No |
| UK phone support | Business hours | 24/7 |
Which Is Best for Your Business?
Choose Square if:
- You want zero monthly fees and no contract
- You need online payments, invoicing, and a POS system in one place
- You're a pop-up, market trader, or very small business
- You process under £4,000/month
Choose Dojo if:
- You process over £4,000/month in-person (lower rate saves more than the monthly fee costs)
- You want premium card machine hardware with fast contactless processing
- You value 24/7 UK phone support
- You're in hospitality and want next-day settlement
Not sure? Use our free comparison tool to calculate your exact monthly cost with each provider based on your turnover.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Square or Dojo cheaper?
For most small businesses, they're similar. Square charges 1.75% with no monthly fee. Dojo starts from 1.4% but charges from £20/month. If you process under £4,000/month, Square is usually cheaper. Above that, Dojo's lower rate can win.
Which has better card machines?
Dojo's Go terminal is widely praised for its modern design and speed. Square's reader is more compact and cheaper to buy outright. For restaurant or retail POS, Square's ecosystem (register, KDS, appointments) is more comprehensive.
Do either have contracts?
Square has no contracts whatsoever — cancel any time. Dojo offers flexible contracts but some plans have minimum terms. Always confirm the contract length before signing with Dojo.
Which has better customer support?
Dojo offers UK-based phone support 24/7 and has a strong reputation for service. Square provides phone and email support during business hours. For businesses that rely on quick phone support, Dojo edges ahead.