Skip to content
Shipping abroad? Click here to visit our EU store.
Visit thepointofsale.store, if you're shipping to mainland Europe.
Important Notice: Manufacturer price increases are expected in July (including Landi, Sunmi, as well as others).Order ahead of time
Sunmi D3 Pro vs D3 Mini: A Complete Guide to the 3rd Gen Android POS Terminals

Sunmi D3 Pro vs D3 Mini: A Complete Guide to the 3rd Gen Android POS Terminals

Why the D3 Series is Currently Popular

The Sunmi D3 series has gained significant traction because it solves a specific hardware frustration: lag on Android POS terminals. By moving toΒ Qualcomm hexa-core processors and Android 13, these devices handle demanding cloud-based POS software without the lag found in cheaper entry-level units.

Key reasons for their popularity include:

  • Enhanced Security: They support GMS (Google Mobile Services) and EDLA (Enterprise Devices Licensing Agreement), ensuring better compatibility with Google Play apps and tighter data security.

  • Aesthetics: The minimalist aluminium body of the Pro and the compact, award-winning design of the Mini suit modern retail interiors.

  • NFC "Tap on Glass": The Pro model allows for contactless payments directly on the screen, reducing the need for separate card readers in some setups.

What were the predecessors?

The D3 range replaces the highly successful Sunmi T2 (for the D3 Pro) and the Sunmi D2 Mini (for the D3 Mini).

  • From T2 to D3 Pro: You get a 60% performance boost, a much slimmer profile, and move from Android 7/9 to Android 13.

  • From D2 Mini to D3 Mini: Performance is roughly four times faster than the previous generation, with improved UFS 2.2 storage for quicker app loading.

Technical Specifications: D3 Pro vs D3 Mini

Feature Sunmi D3 Pro Sunmi D3 Mini
Processor Qualcomm Hexa-core (Up to 2.4GHz) Qualcomm Hexa-core (Up to 2.4GHz)
Operating System SUNMI OS 4.0 (Android 13) SUNMI OS 4.0 (Android 13)
Main Display 15.6" Full HD (1920 x 1080) 10.1" HD (1280 x 800)
Customer Display Optional 10.1" (NFC enabled) 2.4" (58mm model) or 4" (80mm model)
Memory 4GB RAM + 64GB ROM 3GB RAM + 32GB ROM
Printer External connection only Integrated (58mm or 80mm options)
Connectivity Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, Ethernet Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, 4G (optional)
Battery No (Mains power only) Optional 2600mAh (58mm model only)

Β 

Top Considerations: Which fits your business?

1. Counter Space and Portability

The D3 Mini is an "all-in-one" solution. Because the printer and scanner are built into the chassis, it takes up very little room. If you run a coffee shop, pop-up stall, or boutique with limited counter space, the Mini is the logical choice. The D3 Pro is a "thin-client" style desktop; it is larger and requires an external receipt printer, making it better for fixed, high-volume counters like full-service restaurants or supermarkets.

Expert Tip: Integrated printers can be harder to swap out, so we always recommend going for terminal without this, allowing you to choose the best receipt printer for you, as well as swap it out if it ever fails.Β 

2. Transaction Speed and Multi-tasking

The D3 Pro has a slight edge in performance with 4GB of RAM and Wi-Fi 6. If your POS software is resource-heavy (e.g., managing complex inventory or multiple delivery app integrations simultaneously), the Pro handles these tasks with less strain.Β 

Be sure to check with your point-of-sale software provider, whether either the D3 Pro or Mini are compatible.Β 

3. Customer Interaction

The D3 Pro offers a secondary 10.1" display that can show high-resolution promotional videos or detailed digital receipts. The D3 Mini uses smaller displays primarily for showing the transaction total. If upselling at the point of purchase is part of your strategy, the Pro is superior.

Expert Tip:Β Some customer displays mirror the main screen image, and some are able to show specific content you select for advertising. This capability is dependent on your point-of-sale software provider and whether they support this dual functionality.Β 

4. Power Resilience

The D3 Mini (58mm version) includes a built-in battery. This is vital for businesses with unreliable power or those needing to move the terminal around a space (e.g., taking it to a table or using it at a market). The D3 Pro must remain plugged into a wall socket.

Market Comparison: How well are these POS terminals placed in the market?

When compared to competitors like Square Register or Pax E-Series, the Sunmi D3 range offers more flexibility because it is "software agnostic." While Square locks you into their payment ecosystem, Sunmi allows you to choose your own UK merchant service provider and POS software.

FAQ: Common Questions

Does the Sunmi D3 Pro come with a printer? No. The D3 Pro is a terminal only. You will need to connect a separate thermal receipt printer via USB, Bluetooth, or LAN. The D3 Mini, however, has a printer built-in. Talk to us about our selection of printers.Β 

Can I use any UK SIM card for the 4G model? Yes, the D3 Mini (4G version) has standard SIM slots that support UK mobile data providers, which is useful for mobile catering.

What is the "Tap on Glass" feature? Available on the D3 Pro, this allows customers to tap their contactless card or phone directly onto the main screen to pay, provided your payment software supports "SoftPOS."

Is it waterproof? No. While the aluminium housing is robust, these devices are not IP-rated for water resistance. They should be kept away from splash zones in bars or kitchens.

How do I clean the screen? Use a microfibre cloth and a small amount of 70% isopropyl alcohol. Avoid spraying liquids directly onto the device, especially near the printer mechanism

Ready to Choose?

Click here for D3 ProΒ 

Click here for D3 Mini

Previous article The iMin Swan 2 and Swan 2 Pro: An Honest Guide for UK Retail and Hospitality Businesses
Next article 21.5" iMin K1-101 vs 15.6" Sunmi D2s KDS: Product Comparison

Compare products

{"one"=>"Select 2 or 3 items to compare", "other"=>"{{ count }} of 3 items selected"}

Select first item to compare

Select second item to compare

Select third item to compare

Compare