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We understand that businesses have different needs when it comes to accepting payments. This blog will explore the differences between sending payment links and taking transactions on a virtual terminal. Both methods offer convenience and flexibility but have distinct features catering to specific needs. By understanding these differences, you can choose the payment solution that best suits your business and enhances your customers' payment experience. Let's start with payment links.
Payment links
What are they?
Payment links are unique URLs generated on Blink that allow you to securely request customer payments via email, text message, or embedded in websites and invoices.
What are the benefits?
- Convenience: Payment links are incredibly user-friendly, allowing customers to make payments with just a few clicks, reducing friction in the payment process.
- Flexibility: Your customers can pay through various channels, such as email, messaging apps, or embedded on websites.
- Security: All payment links are uniquely generated by us, and use secure encryption methods to protect customers' payment information.
- Customisable: Look even more professional in the eyes of your customers and customise the payment page to reflect your brand.
- Fully trackable: Always know where you're at. You can track if the link has been opened, paid or cancelled.
Virtual terminal
What is it?
Virtual means it's just like having a card reader or terminal anywhere, anytime. Take quick and easy card payments or direct debits over the phone.
What are the benefits?
- Versatility: Process one-off or recurring card payments and Direct Debits on your computer or smartphone anytime.
- Real-time reporting: Get instant visibility on your virtual terminal transactions.
- Recurring billing: Our virtual terminal supports recurring billing, making it suitable for businesses that offer subscription-based services or membership plans.
- Multi-user accessibility: On Blink, multiple users can access and use their virtual terminal simultaneously, making them suitable for businesses with large teams handling payments.
- Enhanced security: Blink virtual terminal technology is PCI level 1 compliant and runs direct checks with the card issuer on transactions to minimise the risk of fraud.
Choosing the right solution
Ultimately, choosing between a virtual terminal and Payment Links depends on your business and customer needs. Here's a quick guide:
- Virtual terminals: Opt for virtual terminal if your business primarily involves remote or card-not-present transactions, requires multi-user access, and deals with a wide range of payment methods.
- Payment links: Choose payment links if you want a quick and easy way to request payments, especially for service-based businesses, freelancers, or any scenario where simplicity and speed are paramount.
Blink's virtual terminal and payment links offer flexible payment solutions for various industries. By understanding their differences and benefits, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your business needs and objectives, ultimately improving your payment processes and customer satisfaction.
