EC card reader - Why this term no longer exists

Have you ever heard the term “EC card reader”? Perhaps you even use it yourself to describe devices that accept card payments. But did you know that “EC” no longer actually exists in this context? The term is a remnant from a bygone era of cashless payment. In this article, we explain why “EC card readers” no longer exist and what the reality is instead.

Mobile Zahlung mit einer Smartwatch und einem mobilen Zahlungsterminal.

Eine mobile Zahlung wird mit einem mobilen Zahlungsterminal durchgeführt. Eine Person hält das Terminal, während eine andere Person mit einer Smartwatch oder einem Wearable die Zahlung vornimmt. Der dezente graue Hintergrund sorgt für einen modernen und minimalistischen Look.

What does “EC” actually mean?

“EC” originally stood for ‘Elektronisches Cash’, a payment system introduced by German banks in the 1990s. It was a pure debit card system that allowed customers to pay directly with their bank card by debiting the amount immediately from their current account.

The classic “EC card” was therefore a debit card that was specially designed for this system. It often bore the “girocard” logo or the Maestro symbol (an international payment system from Mastercard).

Why does “EC” no longer exist?

The “EC” system was replaced in Germany a few years ago by the “girocard” system, which is technically more modern and internationally compatible. Most so-called “EC cards” today are either pure girocards or combined cards that also support Maestro or V-Pay in addition to girocard functionality. These international payment systems make it possible to use cards outside Germany as well.

Since the “EC” trademark has been abolished, there are strictly speaking no more “EC cards” - and therefore no more “EC card readers”.

Modern card readers: What they can really do

The term “EC card reader” is therefore an outdated term. Today, modern devices accept a variety of payment methods:

  • Debit cards: such as the girocard (formerly EC card), Maestro or V-Pay.
  • Credit cards: such as Mastercard, Visa or American Express.
  • Contactless payments: via NFC with card, smartphone (Apple Pay, Google Pay) or smartwatch.
  • Digital receipts: many devices offer the option of sending receipts by email or QR code, which promotes sustainability.

Today's card readers are universally designed and support not only the former “EC system”, but also a wide range of payment methods - ideal for companies that want to work flexibly and in a customer-oriented manner.

Why is the term “EC card reader” still used?

The term is deeply rooted in people's minds, especially in German-speaking countries. Many associate it with the possibility of making cashless payments. In practice, however, this is a misunderstanding, as modern card readers do far more than the former “EC system”.

The use of language shows one thing above all: many people are still unaware that “EC” is a thing of the past. It is therefore time to translate the term into the modern world of cashless payment.

Conclusion: An outdated term for modern technologies

Although the term “EC card reader” is no longer correct, it is still commonly used in everyday life. However, companies should be aware that today there are no longer special “EC devices”, but rather multifunctional card readers that support all common payment methods.

So if you are looking for a modern payment system for your company, make sure you choose a device that is future-proof and also enables contactless payments. After all, the world of cashless payments is constantly evolving - and “EC” is long gone.

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