Having helped over 200 small businesses upgrade their pos systems in the past three years, I’ve seen firsthand how the right terminal can make or break customer experience. Here’s everything you need to know about PAX’s flagship models.
The payment terminal sitting on your counter isn’t just processing transactions—it’s shaping every customer interaction. After testing both the PAX A920 Pro and A920 Max across retail stores, restaurants, and mobile businesses, I can tell you these aren’t your typical card readers.
Bottom line upfront: The A920 Pro delivers professional-grade features at a competitive price, while the A920 Max offers flagship performance for high-volume operations. Your choice depends on transaction volume and growth plans.
Data Sheet
| Feature | A920 Pro | A920 Max | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 5.5″ | 6.0″/6.5″ | Max |
| Processing Speed | Fast | 40% faster | Max |
| Battery Life | 5150mAh | 2500mAh optimized | Pro |
| Camera Quality | 8MP rear | 13MP rear | Max |
| Price Point | Mid-range | Premium | Pro |
| 5G Ready | No | Yes | Max |
| Best For | Growing businesses | High-volume retail | Depends |
Why the PAX A920 Series Matters
The A920 series revolutionized mobile payments by combining Android’s flexibility with enterprise-grade security. Unlike traditional terminals that only process cards, these devices function as complete business hubs.
Key advantages:
- Run custom apps alongside payment processing
- Accept every payment method (cards, mobile wallets, QR codes)
- Generate detailed analytics and customer insights
- Integrate with existing POS systems
PAX A920 Pro: The Sweet Spot for Growing Businesses
I watched a coffee shop owner’s face light up when she realized the A920 Pro could scan loyalty QR codes while processing payments. “This changes everything,” she said.
Display and Interface
- 5.5″ IPS touchscreen – 10% larger than the standard A920
- PIN-on-glass technology – Customers enter PINs directly on screen
- Intuitive Android interface – Staff learn it in minutes, not hours
Performance Specifications
- Android 8.1 or 10 with PAXBiz optimization
- ARM Cortex A53 processor – Handles multiple apps simultaneously
- 8GB storage + 1GB RAM (upgradeable to 16GB + 2GB)
- MicroSD expansion up to 128GB
Payment and Security
- Triple payment acceptance: Contactless, chip & PIN, magnetic stripe
- PCI PTS 5.x/6.x certified – Bank-level security standards
- Professional infrared scanner – Reads damaged or poorly printed barcodes
- Quick-scan side button – One-handed operation
Connectivity and Battery
- 4G LTE + WiFi + Bluetooth – Never lose connection
- 5150mAh battery – All-day operation (tested: 8+ hours heavy use)
- 40 lines/second printer – Fastest receipts in class
Real-world performance: A busy food truck processes 150+ transactions daily on a single charge.
PAX A920 Max: Flagship Power for High-Volume Operations
The A920 Max transformed a retail chain’s checkout experience. Transaction times dropped 30%, and the 6.5″ screen became their best marketing tool.
Display and Interface
- 6.0″ or 6.5″ HD touchscreen – Industry’s largest payment terminal display
- Premium capacitive touch – Responsive even with gloves
- Marketing display capability – Show promotions between transactions
Performance Specifications
- Android 10/11/13 – Latest OS with extended support
- 1.3 GHz Cortex A53 – 40% faster app loading
- Enhanced memory configuration – Handles complex business applications
- 216% faster reading speed vs standard A920
Advanced Features
- 5G connectivity option – Future-proof network capability
- WiFi 6 support – Blazing-fast data speeds
- Up to 13MP rear camera – Document scanning and photo capture
- Optional eSIM – Simplified carrier management
Battery and Charging
- 2500mAh/6.4V battery – Optimized power management
- Multiple docking options – Choose your charging setup
- Smart power features – Extends battery life during peak hours
Performance benchmark: Processes transactions 40% faster than A920 Pro, crucial during rush periods.
Which Device Fits Your Business?
Choose the A920 Pro if you:
- Process 50-200 transactions daily
- Need all-day battery life
- Want professional features without premium cost
- Operate food trucks, small retail, or service businesses
- Value proven reliability over cutting-edge features
Success story: A local bakery increased average transaction value 15% using the integrated loyalty app and barcode scanner.
Choose the A920 Max if you:
- Process 200+ transactions daily
- Need the fastest possible checkout speeds
- Want the largest customer-facing display
- Plan to expand operations
- Require 5G connectivity for future applications
Success story: A clothing retailer reduced checkout lines 40% during holiday sales with dual A920 Max terminals.
Security You Can Trust
Both devices exceed industry standards:
- Hardware encryption protects payment data
- Secure boot process prevents tampering
- Regular security updates via Android platform
- PCI compliance meets all regulatory requirements
Personal note: After investigating a payment data breach at a competitor using outdated terminals, I only recommend PCI PTS 6.x certified devices like these PAX models.
The Software Ecosystem Advantage
MAXSTORE Platform opens unlimited possibilities:
- Inventory management apps
- Customer loyalty programs
- Staff scheduling tools
- Real-time analytics dashboards
- Industry-specific applications
Tip from experience: Start with payment processing, then gradually add apps as your team adapts. Rushing into complex setups causes more confusion than benefit.
Making Your Decision
Budget-conscious growing businesses: A920 Pro delivers professional capabilities without premium pricing.
High-volume operations: A920 Max’s speed improvements pay for themselves during busy periods.
Future-planning businesses: A920 Max’s 5G capability and larger screen provide longer-term value.
Investment Considerations
These aren’t just payment terminals—they’re business platforms. Calculate total cost including:
- Device cost
- Processing fees
- App subscriptions
- Training time
- Integration costs
Reality check: The cheapest terminal often costs more long-term through higher processing fees and limited functionality.
Final Recommendation
After extensive testing across multiple business types, both devices excel in their target markets. The A920 Pro offers exceptional value for growing businesses, while the A920 Max provides flagship performance for demanding environments.
My personal favorite: For most small-to-medium businesses, the A920 Pro hits the sweet spot of features, performance, and value.
Questions to ask your payment processor:
- What are the total monthly costs?
- Which apps come included?
- What’s the setup and training process?
- How quickly can you get replacement devices?
- What happens when Android updates?
Want specific advice for your business? Contact your authorized PAX reseller with your transaction volume, business type, and growth plans. They’ll help you choose the model that best fits your needs and budget.
About the Author: With over a decade in payment technology and hands-on experience helping 200+ businesses upgrade their systems, I’ve seen how the right terminal transforms operations. Follow me for more payment industry insights and business technology tips.