What You Need to Know Before Upgrading to Tork Switch 2

Tork Switch 2 is a newer version of the Tork Switch payment terminal, and upgrading from the original Switch involves replacing your hardware and, in most cases, re-enrolling with your payment processor. The upgrade is not automatic — you will need to contact your payment provider or Tork directly to arrange the swap, and there is typically a waiting period while the new device ships and your account is reconfigured.

The main reason to upgrade is that Switch 2 processes payments faster, supports more payment types (including contactless and digital wallets), and has a larger screen. If your current Switch is aging, experiencing connection issues, or your business has grown to handle more transaction volume, the upgrade may reduce friction at checkout. However, if your existing terminal works reliably and you process relatively few transactions, the upgrade is optional.

Key Takeaways

  • Tork Switch 2 is a hardware replacement, not a software update, so you will receive a physical new device and your old one will need to be returned or disposed of.
  • Your payment processor (the bank or company that handles your transactions) must support Switch 2 before you can use it, so confirm compatibility before requesting the upgrade.
  • The upgrade process typically takes one to three weeks from request to set up, during which your old terminal may still work depending on your provider's policy.
  • You will likely need to re-enter some account details and sign new paperwork when the new device arrives, even if you keep the same processor.

How the Hardware Upgrade Works

When you request an upgrade, your payment processor ships a new Tork Switch 2 device to your business address. You do not order it directly from Tork in most cases — your processor handles the logistics. The new device arrives in a box with a power cable, a receipt printer (if your plan includes one), and setup instructions.

Once the new terminal arrives, you will need to power it on and connect it to your internet or cellular network. The device will prompt you to log in with your account credentials or to set up a new account tied to your existing merchant ID. Some processors require you to call a support line to set up the device; others allow you to do it through the terminal itself. Your old Switch will stop processing payments once the new one is fully activated, so timing matters if you process transactions daily.

Checking Processor Compatibility Before You Request the Upgrade

Not every payment processor supports Tork Switch 2 yet. Before you contact your provider to request an upgrade, confirm that they have certified the device and that your account type is may be able to access. This information is usually on your processor's website under "supported terminals" or "hardware options," or you can call their merchant support line directly.

If your processor does not yet support Switch 2, you have two options: wait for them to add support (which may take months), or switch to a different processor that already supports it. Switching processors is more involved — it requires closing your old account, opening a new one, and potentially renegotiating rates — so most businesses wait unless they have a strong reason to move.

What Happens to Your Old Terminal

Your original Tork Switch will stop working once Switch 2 is activated. Some processors ask you to ship the old device back to them; others tell you to destroy it or recycle it. Check your upgrade paperwork or call your processor to confirm the return procedure. If you are required to return it, the processor usually provides a prepaid shipping label.

Do not throw away the old terminal without confirming the return policy — some processors charge a fee if you fail to return equipment. If you own the device outright (rather than leasing it), you may be able to keep it as a backup, but it will not process live transactions once your account is moved to Switch 2.

Timeline and Downtime During the Upgrade

The full upgrade process usually takes one to three weeks. The first week covers shipping and delivery. The second week is when you set up the new device and your processor activates it on your account. During this window, your old terminal may still work, depending on your processor's policy — some allow both devices to run in parallel for a few days to reduce the risk of missing a transaction.

If you process a high volume of transactions, coordinate the upgrade with your processor to schedule the cutover during a slow business day or after hours. Some processors can migrate your settings and transaction history to the new device automatically; others require you to re-enter information. Ask your processor what data will transfer and what you will need to reconfigure.

Costs and What to Expect on Your Bill

The cost of upgrading varies by processor. Some include the new device at no charge if you have been a customer for a certain length of time or if you commit to a new contract. Others charge a one-time hardware fee, typically between $100 and $300. A few processors deduct the cost from your processing fees over several months.

Ask your processor for a written quote before you request the upgrade so you know what to expect on your next bill. Also confirm whether the monthly lease or rental fee for your terminal will change — some processors charge the same rate for both devices, while others adjust the fee based on the new hardware. If the cost is higher than you want to pay, you can decline the upgrade and continue using your original Switch.

Troubleshooting Common Issues After set up

The most common problem after switching to Switch 2 is that the device does not connect to your internet or cellular network. If this happens, restart the terminal and check that your Wi-Fi password is correct or that your cellular plan is active. If the device still cannot connect, call your processor's support line — they may need to reset the connection on their end.

Another frequent issue is that your old terminal continues to process transactions even after Switch 2 is supposed to be active. This usually means your processor has not fully deactivated the old device yet. Contact them to confirm the old terminal is turned off in their system. If you accidentally process a transaction on both devices, your processor can help you identify and reverse the duplicate charge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I upgrade to Tork Switch 2 if I lease my current terminal?

Yes. If you lease your original Switch, the upgrade is handled by your processor or leasing company. They will ship the new device and handle the return of the old one as part of the lease agreement. You will not own the new device either — you will continue to pay a monthly lease fee.

What if my processor does not support Tork Switch 2 yet?

You can ask your processor when they plan to add support, or you can switch to a different processor that already supports it. Switching processors requires opening a new account and closing the old one, which takes one to two weeks. Compare rates and features across processors before making the move.

Do I need to update my point-of-sale system when I upgrade to Switch 2?

Not usually. Tork Switch 2 uses the same connection methods as the original Switch, so most point-of-sale systems work with it right away. However, if your POS is very old, check with your POS vendor to confirm compatibility before the new device arrives.

Can I use both the old Switch and Switch 2 at the same time?

Temporarily, yes — some processors allow both devices to run in parallel for a few days during the transition. However, only one device can be active on your account long-term. Ask your processor whether they support dual-device operation and for how long.

What if the new device arrives damaged?

Contact your processor when ready with photos of the damage. They will ship a replacement at no charge and provide a return label for the damaged unit. Do not attempt to use a damaged device, as it may not process transactions correctly.