7 Best Portable Money Counters with Counterfeit Detection

The best portable money counter with counterfeit detection depends on your needs. The Aneken Money Counter is best for budget-conscious users seeking multi-detection capabilities, while the Cassida 6600 UV/MG excels at high-volume business counting with blazing speed. For on-the-go detection without counting, the Aneken AL-17 stands out with its ultra-portable UV detection design.

Whether you run a retail store, restaurant, or handle cash regularly, these machines protect you from counterfeit bills while saving you hours of manual counting.

Quick Comparison Table

Product	Counting Speed	Detection Methods	Portability	Hopper Capacity	Value Count Feature
Aneken Money Counter	1,300 notes/min	UV, MG, IR	Desktop with external display	200 bills	Yes
Cassida 6600 UV/MG	1,400 notes/min	UV, MG, IR	Desktop with 2.8″ screen	200 bills	Yes (ValuCount)
Aneken AL-17	N/A (Manual)	UV, Watermark detection	Highly portable, compact	N/A	No
Aneken AL-139	0.5 sec per bill	UV, MG, IR, Image	Very portable (1.3 lbs)	N/A	Yes
DETECK DT5	600 notes/min	UV, Watermark	Ultra-portable (0.86 lbs)	150 bills	No (qty only)
Royal Sovereign RBC-100N	1,500 notes/min	UV, MG	Portable (6 lbs)	200 bills	Yes
WINB Money Counter	600 notes/min	UV	Ultra-portable (under 1 lb)	N/A	No (qty only)

1. Aneken Money Counter – Best Value All-in-One Solution

Best for: Small business owners and retailers who need triple-detection security without breaking the bank.

Key Features:

Feature	Details
Counting Speed	1,300 bills per minute
Detection Methods	UV, Magnetic, Infrared
Counting Modes	Count, Add, Batch, Auto
Value Count	Manual denomination setting
Display	External LCD screen

The Aneken Money Counter is the best choice for budget-conscious users seeking multi-detection security. It combines three counterfeit detection methods—UV, magnetic, and infrared—to catch suspicious bills before they slip through. The machine counts up to 1,300 banknotes per minute and holds 200 bills in its hopper, making it efficient for small to medium-volume operations.

The external LCD display makes it easy to read results from different angles. You can manually set denominations to calculate total monetary value, though you can’t count mixed bills in one batch. The straightforward button interface requires no complicated setup, so even beginners can start counting right away.

With an included cleaning brush, spare fuse, and lifetime service support, this machine offers solid value at its price point.

2. Cassida 6600 UV/MG – Best for High-Volume Businesses

Best for: Banks, casinos, and busy retail locations that need the fastest counting speed available.

Key Features:

Feature	Details
Counting Speed	1,400 bills per minute
Detection Methods	UV, Magnetic, Infrared
Display	2.8″ TFT touchscreen
Counting Modes	Count, Add, Batch, Add+Batch
ValuCount Feature	Yes, automatic calculation

The Cassida 6600 UV/MG is the best choice for high-volume cash handling environments. It’s a business-grade machine that counts up to 1,400 bills per minute—the fastest in our lineup—making it ideal for operations processing large amounts of cash daily. The large 2.8-inch touchscreen provides clear feedback and easy navigation through multiple counting modes.

The ValuCount feature calculates total monetary value automatically once you select the denomination. All three detection methods (UV, magnetic, and infrared) work together to catch counterfeits and prevent double-counting errors. The machine stops immediately with an alert if it detects a suspicious bill.

This is a professional-grade device built for reliability and accuracy in demanding environments.

3. Aneken AL-17 Counterfeit Bill Detector – Best Portable Detection Tool

Best for: Cashiers, small vendors, and anyone who needs quick counterfeit verification without automatic counting.

Key Features:

Feature	Details
Detection Method	Ultra-bright UV LED light
Watermark Detection	Four-leaf clover backlight
Portability	Compact, countertop-friendly
Currency Support	All major world currencies
Power Mode	Motion-sensor dormant state

The Aneken AL-17 is the best portable detection tool for quick, on-the-spot bill verification. This device uses ultra-bright UV LED technology and a unique four-leaf clover watermark backlight to reveal hidden security features in banknotes within one second. It’s not a counter—it’s a verification tool designed for speed and accuracy.

The motion-sensor dormant state extends the LED lifespan to over three times longer than standard detectors. It works with all major currencies including US dollars, euros, pounds, and more, plus it can verify ID cards, passports, and credit cards. The ultra-bright UV light works effectively even under fluorescent lighting or sunlight.

Its compact, portable design makes it perfect for retail counters, currency exchanges, or anywhere you need instant verification.

4. Aneken AL-139 Counterfeit Detector – Best Multi-Currency Portable Option

Best for: International businesses and currency exchanges needing 4-way orientation detection with traceable records.

Key Features:

Feature	Details
Detection Methods	UV, MG, IR, Image
Orientation	4-way feeding capability
Detection Speed	0.5 seconds per bill
Display	2.8″ digital screen
Weight	1.3 pounds only

The Aneken AL-139 is the best multi-currency portable detector for businesses that need flexibility and records. This compact machine weighs just 1.3 pounds and detects counterfeit bills in 0.5 seconds using four different methods: UV, magnetic, infrared, and image detection. It supports multiple currencies including US dollars, euros, pounds, and pesos with upgradeable software.

The 4-way orientation feeding means bills can enter from any direction—no need to align them perfectly. The 2.8-inch digital screen displays total value, bill count, and traceable records of all detections. You can review detection history for each denomination, making it perfect for audit trails and security compliance.

This is an excellent choice for international travelers, currency exchanges, and businesses with diverse cash handling needs.

5. DETECK DT5 – Best Ultra-Portable Battery-Powered Counter

Best for: Mobile vendors, event staff, and field workers who need a lightweight counter with battery power.

Key Features:

Feature	Details
Counting Speed	600 bills per minute
Detection Methods	UV and Watermark light
Weight	0.86 pounds
Power Options	4 AA batteries or AC adapter
Hopper Capacity	150 new bills

The DETECK DT5 is the best ultra-portable counter for workers who need to count cash on the go. At just 0.86 pounds with an included leather carrying bag, this machine goes anywhere. It counts up to 600 bills per minute and includes UV and watermark detection to verify bill authenticity while counting.

The dual-power design lets you use four AA batteries or plug into a standard outlet, giving you flexibility whether you’re indoors or out. It counts bill quantities only (not total value), but the ADD function lets you total multiple stacks up to 999 bills. The included bill stopper prevents money from flying away during counting.

This is perfect for restaurants, event venues, and mobile businesses that need reliable counting without a fixed location.

6. Royal Sovereign RBC-100N – Best Speed and Portability Balance

Best for: Retail stores and offices seeking the fastest counting speed in a portable, lightweight package.

Key Features:

Feature	Details
Counting Speed	1,500 bills per minute
Detection Methods	UV and Magnetic ink
Weight	6 pounds
Hopper Capacity	200 bills
Self-Test Function	Automatic diagnostics

The Royal Sovereign RBC-100N is the best balance of speed and portability for businesses that need performance without the desktop footprint. It’s the fastest counter in our review at 1,500 bills per minute, yet weighs just over 6 pounds—light enough to move between locations. The hopper holds 200 bills, and the machine counts them all quickly and accurately.

UV and magnetic detection catches counterfeit bills automatically, and the machine stops with an alert when it detects suspicious currency. The auto start/stop feature begins counting as soon as bills enter the hopper and stops when empty, making batch counting effortless. An automatic self-test runs every time you turn it on to ensure accurate operation.

This is ideal for retail shops, restaurants, and small offices that need professional-grade counting with portability.

7. WINB Money Counter – Best Budget-Friendly Portable Counter

Best for: Small businesses and individuals seeking an affordable, lightweight counter with basic UV detection.

Key Features:

Feature	Details
Counting Speed	600 bills per minute
Detection Method	Built-in UV blacklight
Weight	Under 1 pound
Power Options	AC outlet or 4 AA batteries
Display	Clear LED screen

The WINB Money Counter is the best budget-friendly option for those seeking basic counting and UV verification. Weighing under 1 pound with a carrying case included, this machine is perfect for on-the-go use. It counts up to 600 bills per minute and features a built-in UV blacklight to check for basic security strips on USD and other currencies.

The dual-power design uses either a standard outlet or four AA batteries, making it flexible for any location. The bright LED display clearly shows your count total, and the ADD function lets you batch count multiple stacks. This device counts quantities only—not monetary value—so it’s best for situations where you just need to verify bill count and basic authenticity.

It’s a reliable, efficient tool for small retailers and anyone handling cash who wants basic security without complexity.

How to Choose the Best Portable Money Counter with Counterfeit Detection

Determine Your Primary Need: Counting, Detection, or Both

First, decide whether you need automatic bill counting, counterfeit verification, or both functions. If you’re handling large cash volumes daily, a full counter is essential. If you just need quick verification of individual bills, a dedicated detector tool works better.

Consider your workflow: Do you count stacks regularly, or do you verify bills one at a time?

Check Detection Methods and Currency Compatibility

Different machines use different detection technologies. UV, magnetic, and infrared each catch different counterfeit methods. Look for machines supporting all three if you handle high-value transactions. Also verify the machine supports the currencies you handle most often.

Multi-currency support matters if you work internationally or in tourist areas.

Consider Portability vs. Speed Trade-offs

Lighter machines sacrifice some speed—portable counters typically max out at 600-1,000 bills per minute, while desktop models hit 1,400-1,500. Decide if you need maximum speed or maximum mobility. For small businesses, portability often matters more than peak speed.

Think about where you’ll use the machine most: fixed location or multiple sites?

Evaluate Power and Practical Features

Battery-powered machines offer flexibility but need recharging. AC-powered machines are faster and more reliable but require a power outlet. Check if the machine includes extras like carrying cases, cleaning brushes, or spare parts. Look for automatic self-tests and error alerts that protect you from counting mistakes.

Consider warranty length and available customer support when making your final decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate are portable money counters with counterfeit detection?

Modern portable counters are highly accurate—most achieve 99%+ accuracy for counting and detection when bills are properly stacked and aligned. However, they still require well-maintained equipment and regular cleaning for best results.

Can these machines count mixed denominations?

Most portable counters count only same-size bills in one batch. Some higher-end models have value count features that can calculate mixed denominations if you manually set each denomination, but true automatic mixed-denomination counting is rare in portable models.

Which detection method is most reliable: UV, magnetic, or infrared?

All three methods catch different counterfeit techniques, so machines with all three are most reliable. UV catches security threads, magnetic detects ink properties, and infrared prevents double-counting errors. Using all three together provides comprehensive protection.

Are battery-powered counters as reliable as AC-powered models?

Battery-powered counters are reliable but typically slower than AC models and require regular charging. They’re excellent for portability but not ideal for high-volume daily counting where AC-powered machines excel.

Do I need a portable counter or just a detection tool?

Choose a counter if you regularly process large cash volumes. Choose a detection tool if you mainly verify individual bills. Many businesses benefit from having both—a portable counter for daily operations and a quick detector for spot-checks.

Final Thoughts

The best portable money counter with counterfeit detection depends on whether you prioritize speed, portability, or budget. The Cassida 6600 UV/MG is unbeatable for high-volume businesses, while the DETECK DT5 offers the best ultra-portable option for mobile workers.

Focus on detection methods that match your needs—triple detection (UV, MG, IR) offers maximum security, while single-method detectors work fine for basic verification. Consider your power source, counting speed, and whether you need value calculation features.

Invest in the right machine for your specific workflow, and you’ll save hours while protecting your business from counterfeit losses.