Apex Reader vs Square Online
Apex Reader
apexonepayments.comSquare Online
squareup.comSide by side
| Figure | Apex Reader | Square Online |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | — | $49/mo |
| Free plan | — | Yes |
| Free trial | — | Yes |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | Yes | Yes |
| iOS | Yes | — |
| Android | Yes | — |
| Plans published | 0 | 4 |
| Spec score · Mobile Payment Processing Software | 7.9 (#6) | 7.8 (#12) |
| Purpose | Apex Reader is a pocket-sized Bluetooth card reader that pairs with an iPhone or Android phone for in-person payments. | Square Online lets businesses build an online store or website to sell products and take orders. |
| Security | The product page states that Reader is PCI PTS certified, uses end-to-end encryption, and keeps card data off the phone. | Square says it maintains PCI certification and provides end-to-end encryption for card-present payments. |
| Support | The Help Center says support is available 24/7/365 in English and Spanish. | Square support is available by phone, email, live chat, and social media, and the Online support center includes setup and troubleshooting resources. |
Plans
Square Online
- Square FreeFree
- Square Plus$49 a month
- Square Premium$149 a month
- Square ProPriced on request
In their own words
Apex Reader
Apex Reader is a pocket-sized Bluetooth card reader for in-person payments away from a counter. It pairs with an iPhone or Android phone and accepts NFC contactless payments, EMV chip cards, and magnetic-stripe swipes, including Apple Pay and Google Pay. Bluetooth LE connectivity requires iOS 14 or later or Android 10 or later, and no separate data plan is required. The reader provides up to 12 hours of active use and charges through micro-USB. The Apexonepayments app can start a sale or retrieve one from an invoice, process refunds and voids, and add optional tax and tips. It sends branded receipts by SMS or email, while sales synchronize to the dashboard in real time. Reader transactions share a ledger with Apex Flex and Mini. Account activation takes under two minutes, with no setup fees or monthly minimums. Pricing is on request.
Square Online
Square Online has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.