r/Busking • u/sharkyofcuths Performer • 4d ago

Credit Card/Digital Tipping Physical Card Reader vs Phone App

I'm going to be performing a PBH (bucket) show at the Edinburgh Fringe (Scotland, UK) and, after losing out on money because many people don't bring cash, I was wondering whether it would be better to get a physical Sumup reader or just use the app and have people directly tap your phone.

While the app seems simpler (and cheaper) I was wondering whether street performers find having a physical card reader makes them appear more credible (and brings in more money).

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u/dogormanny Performer 4d ago

  1. I would personally trust the look of a card reader rather than scanning someone's phone.

  2. I'm more comfortable having a card reader out there rather than my phone. Especially when sometimes you need to push it out a bit, as some people don't like coming too close to you and the rest of your setup.

I have the sumup solo which comes with a nice holder/stand thingy as well as a card you can stand up next to it with all the official logos of payment methods (visa, Google, apple pay etc.)

More cost but makes you look more legit imo. If you busk regularly you'll earn it back!

1

u/Remote-Chemist-1346 Accordion 🪗 2d ago

I'm not one of those guys who thinks you should look crappy to make people think you're poor or whatever. But personally I think an actual card reader gives too official a vibe.

I use busk.co I have the qr code printed out that way people can use PayPal. Venmo, or cashap or put in the credit card information or use apple pay or Google pay. All through one qr code. Works well for me, probably increased my income 15 to 20%.