# TLDR Review: Square Reader 2nd Generation

*Published: 2026-06-21 | Updated: 2026-06-21 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/reviews-tldr/square-reader-2nd-generation*

---

## Product: Square Reader 2nd Generation
**Brand:** Square

## Pros
- Supports tap-to-pay and chip card transactions seamlessly, making payments quick and straightforward
- Compact size and lightweight design, perfect for on-the-go use and fits easily into a pocket
- Easy to connect via Bluetooth with quick automatic updates, streamlining setup
- Long battery life suitable for extended usage during busy sales or events
- Suitable for small businesses, vendor booths, and festival settings
- Creates a professional appearance that can increase customer confidence
- Successful in processing multiple transactions reliably during initial use
- Easy for both vendors and customers, simplifying the checkout process
- Well-designed, durable, and user-friendly hardware that reinforces a reliable impression
- Compatible with iPhone and Android, ensuring broad usability

## Cons
- Reliability issues: some devices may fail to reconnect or stop working after extended periods of inactivity
- Limited lifespan concerns: support mentions that devices might stop functioning if not used regularly, which could be problematic for infrequent vendors
- Troubleshooting can be involved, sometimes requiring resets or device replacements to restore function
- Occasional intermittent performance issues could surface during critical transactions, causing frustration
- No mention of an app or other included accessories in the box, which might leave out some setup conveniences

## Bottom Line

This Square Reader for contactless and chip (2nd Generation) is a solid choice for small businesses seeking quick, easy, and professional payment processing. It offers portability, fast connections, and reliable initial performance. However, some reviews highlight potential reliability issues if the device isn't used regularly, so if you plan to keep it dormant for long periods, consider whether this meets your needs. If longevity and consistent performance are top priorities, you might want to explore options with more proven durability or inquire about newer models with improved reliability.

## Pros vs Cons at a Glance

| Pros | Cons |
|------|------|
| Supports tap-to-pay and chip card transactions seamlessly, making payments quick and straightforward | Reliability issues: some devices may fail to reconnect or stop working after extended periods of inactivity |
| Compact size and lightweight design, perfect for on-the-go use and fits easily into a pocket | Limited lifespan concerns: support mentions that devices might stop functioning if not used regularly, which could be problematic for infrequent vendors |
| Easy to connect via Bluetooth with quick automatic updates, streamlining setup | Troubleshooting can be involved, sometimes requiring resets or device replacements to restore function |
| Long battery life suitable for extended usage during busy sales or events | Occasional intermittent performance issues could surface during critical transactions, causing frustration |
| Suitable for small businesses, vendor booths, and festival settings | No mention of an app or other included accessories in the box, which might leave out some setup conveniences |
| Creates a professional appearance that can increase customer confidence |  |
| Successful in processing multiple transactions reliably during initial use |  |
| Easy for both vendors and customers, simplifying the checkout process |  |
| Well-designed, durable, and user-friendly hardware that reinforces a reliable impression |  |
| Compatible with iPhone and Android, ensuring broad usability |  |

## Current Prices

| Retailer | Price | Availability |
|----------|-------|-------------|
| Best Buy | $36.99  | In Stock |
| retailers/apple | $59.95  | In Stock |

---

*About this review: We pulled together findings from professional and user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from thousands of retailers to give you the short version.*