In today’s digital age, the way we do business has significantly changed. With cashless transactions on the rise, businesses of all sizes need reliable, efficient, and secure payment processing providers. Two such providers that have gained considerable popularity are Dojo vs Zettle (previously known as iZettle).
In this article, we will explore these two platforms, comparing their features, costs, customer service, and overall performance to help you determine which is the best fit for your business.
Featured pro tools
Dojo vs Zettle
| Feature/ Fee | Dojo | Zettle |
|---|---|---|
| Card Types Accepted | Accepts all major debit and credit cards, contactless payments, Apple Pay, and Google Pay | Accepts all major debit and credit cards, contactless payments, Apple Pay, and Google Pay |
| E-commerce Integration | Integration with WooCommerce, Magento, and Shopify | Integration with popular e-commerce platforms and synchronisation with the PayPal sales ecosystem |
| Device Compatibility | Compatible with Dojo’s card machines | Compatible with iOS and Android devices |
| Contract | 12-month contract, for example | No contractual obligation, pay-as-you-go |
| Transaction Fees | Varies by plan, typically around 0.9% – 2.5% per transaction | Fixed rate of 1.75% per transaction |
| Monthly Fees | From £10/month for a terminal rental | No monthly fee |
| Customer Support | UK-based, seven days a week | Via phone and email with limited hours |
| Security | PCI DSS Level 1 compliant, uses Point-to-Point Encryption (P2PE) | PCI DSS Level 1 compliant, encrypts all data, offers fraud detection tools |
These figures should provide a starting point for comparison. However, as fees may be subject to negotiation and changes based on your business needs and volume of transactions, you should reach out to each provider for a personalised quote.
Understanding payment processing providers
Before delving into the comparison, it’s crucial to understand what payment processing providers do.
Essentially, they act as the middlemen between merchants, customers, and banks.
They facilitate the seamless transfer of funds from a customer’s account to the merchant’s account upon a transaction. These providers have to ensure that all transactions are safe, quick, and efficient, adhering to all regulatory standards.
Introducing Dojo and Zettle
Dojo
Dojo, part of the Paymentsense group, is a UK-based card payment processing provider. It boasts innovative card machines, a powerful online portal, and efficient customer service. Dojo offers a straightforward and streamlined way for businesses to accept card payments both in-store and online.
Zettle
Zettle, on the other hand, is a Swedish fintech company that was acquired by PayPal in 2018. The platform provides businesses with an easy way to take payments using smartphones or tablets. Zettle has since expanded its offerings to include point-of-sale software and other services that make running a business easier.
Comparing features
Payment processing
Both Dojo and Zettle provide efficient payment processing services, accepting a wide range of cards and digital wallets.
Dojo’s card machines accept all major debit and credit cards. They also accept contactless payments, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. Its technology is designed to support both small and large transactions with equal efficiency.
Zettle offers similar payment processing services. It also accepts all major debit and credit cards, contactless payments, and digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay. However, Zettle’s unique selling point lies in its portability. Zettle’s card reader connects to a smartphone or a tablet, converting it into a mobile payment terminal.
E-commerce integration
If you run an e-commerce business, then the ability to integrate your payment processing with your online platform is a crucial factor.
Dojo offers seamless integration with many popular e-commerce platforms such as WooCommerce, Magento, and Shopify. This service ensures businesses can provide a smooth checkout experience to their online customers.
Similarly, Zettle also provides integration with popular e-commerce platforms. But, in addition, Zettle can sync with the PayPal sales ecosystem, thanks to its acquisition by PayPal. This means you can manage all your sales, whether in-person or online, from a single place.
Cost considerations
Dojo
Dojo offers a mix of fixed and custom pricing plans, which can be beneficial for businesses with variable sales volumes. Their pricing model is designed to be transparent, with no hidden charges.
However, there can be contractual obligations, which you need to take into account.
Zettle
Zettle operates on a pay-as-you-go basis, which can be beneficial for small businesses or those with unpredictable sales volumes.
There’s no monthly fee; instead, Zettle charges a fixed percentage per transaction. The pricing is transparent, with no hidden fees.
Customer service
Good customer service can often be a deciding factor when choosing a payment processing provider.
Dojo is known for its UK-based customer service, available seven days a week. They offer dedicated relationship managers who can provide tailored advice for your business. Dojo’s online portal also provides a wealth of resources and FAQs.
Zettle, meanwhile, provides customer support via phone and email. Their customer support hours are slightly more limited compared to Dojo. However, Zettle offers a comprehensive online help centre with detailed guides and troubleshooting advice.
Security
Both Dojo and Zettle take security seriously. Dojo’s payment services are PCI DSS Level 1 compliant, providing robust security for transactions. Moreover, they use Point-to-Point Encryption (P2PE), ensuring card data is secure.
Zettle also adheres to the highest level of PCI DSS standards. All data is encrypted, and no sensitive data is ever stored on the card reader or the mobile device. Zettle also offers fraud detection tools as part of its service.
In conclusion – Dojo vs Zettle
Choosing between Dojo and Zettle for your business ultimately depends on your specific needs.
If you require a more traditional card payment solution with robust customer service, Dojo might be a better choice. If you’re after a mobile, flexible solution with the ability to manage in-person and online sales from one platform, Zettle might be the one for you.
Remember, it’s essential to weigh all factors, including costs, features, customer service, and security, when making your decision. By doing so, you’ll be able to choose the payment processing provider that best suits your business.
FAQ
Dojo and Zettle are payment processing providers. They help businesses to accept and process card payments both in-person and online.
Dojo is based in the UK and is part of the Paymentsense group. Zettle is a Swedish fintech company acquired by PayPal in 2018.
Both Dojo and Zettle accept all major debit and credit cards, contactless payments, and digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Yes. Dojo integrates with many popular e-commerce platforms like WooCommerce, Magento, and Shopify. Zettle also provides similar integrations and additionally synchronises with the PayPal sales ecosystem.
Dojo offers a mix of fixed and custom pricing plans. Zettle operates on a pay-as-you-go basis, charging a fixed percentage per transaction.
Dojo may have contractual obligations depending on your chosen plan. Zettle does not require a contract and operates on a pay-as-you-go basis.
Dojo provides UK-based customer service seven days a week, while Zettle offers customer support via phone and email with slightly more limited hours.
Both providers adhere to PCI DSS Level 1 security standards. Dojo uses Point-to-Point Encryption (P2PE), while Zettle encrypts all data and offers fraud detection tools.
Dojo provides a traditional card payment solution, while Zettle turns smartphones or tablets into mobile payment terminals.
Zettle offers inventory management as part of its point-of-sale system. For Dojo, you would need to integrate with an external inventory management system.
Zettle is available in several countries across Europe. Dojo is primarily for businesses registered in the UK.
Yes. Both providers offer the option to send digital receipts via email or SMS.
Yes, both providers allow you to process refunds, though the process for doing so can vary.
Zettle provides an offline mode that allows you to take payments without an internet connection. With Dojo, an internet connection is required for transactions.
Both are suited for a range of businesses, from small start-ups to larger establishments. However, Zettle’s pay-as-you-go model can be particularly beneficial for small businesses or those with fluctuating sales volumes.
Yes, both providers can integrate with various external software and platforms for things like accounting and e-commerce.
Typically, Dojo settles transactions in 1-2 business days. Zettle also settles in 1-3 business days, but instant settlement is available for an additional fee.
Yes, both Dojo and Zettle provide reporting tools that offer insights into sales trends, top-selling products, and more.
Zettle can integrate with some existing POS systems. Dojo would require a custom solution for POS system integration.
For Dojo, you would need their specific card machines. Zettle requires a card reader which can be used in conjunction with an iOS or Android device.
Data transferability largely depends on the compatibility of the systems. Some data, like customer and sales data, might be exportable and importable. You should consult with each provider for specific details.
Dojo’s setup fees can vary based on your agreement and the equipment you choose. Zettle typically has a one-time cost for the card reader, with no additional setup fees.
Zettle does not currently support over-the-phone payments. Dojo, however, does offer a virtual terminal for over-the-phone and mail order payments.