Last updated: July 26, 2024
Point-of-sale (POS) software enables businesses to manage in-person and online sales transactions efficiently. Key features typically include payment processing, transaction recording, order tracking, receipt printing, and inventory management.
Quality POS systems offer quick payment options, enhance customer experience, provide real-time inventory updates, and support customer loyalty programs.
This guide examines the top POS solutions to help businesses select the right option based on critical factors like payment capabilities, inventory tools, usability, and pricing.
- Square POS - Best for Small Businesses
- Shopify POS - Best for E-Commerce Integration
- Clover POS - Best for POS Hardware and Customer Retention
- CAKE - Best for Breweries, Bars, and Pubs
- Lightspeed POS - Best for Retail
- TouchBistro - Best for Restaurants and Cafes
- Toast POS - Best for Restaurants and Dine-Ins
- Epos Now - Best for Small and Medium Retailers
- Revel Systems - Best for Quick Services
- Erply - Best for Inventory Management
- KORONA POS - Best for Inventory and Customer Management
- PayPal POS - Best for Online Payments
- GoDaddy POS - Best for Online and In-Person Sales
- eHopper POS - Best for FREE Card Processing
- Helcim POS - Best for Payment Processing Solutions
Rating: 4.5/5
Pricing: Free plan available
Square POS is ideal for small businesses with lower transaction volumes. It offers a free starter plan and processed $186.5 billion in payments in 2022.
Key Benefits:
- Complete POS system and hardware for compatibility
- Free CRM for customer data and engagement
- Integration with inventory apps like Shopventory
- Business analytics and reporting
- Social media integration for discovery and sales
Features:
- In-person, online, and phone payment processing
- Credit card payments (Visa, Mastercard, Amex)
- Contactless payments (Google Pay, Apple Pay)
- Gift card management
- Inventory alerts and data export
- Sales reporting and analytics
- Customizable checkout and itemized refunds
- Automatic discounts and custom tipping
Pros:
- Offline swiped card payments
- Multi-location management
- Consistent credit card rates
- Digital receipts for feedback
Cons:
- Limited scalability for large enterprises
- Account freezing policy for irregular transactions
Rating: 4.5/5
Pricing: From $5/month
Shopify POS seamlessly connects with existing Shopify stores to unify inventory, customer data, and sales across channels. Over 100,000 merchants use it for online and in-store sales.
Key Benefits:
- Retail staff management tools
- Actionable sales and product reports
- Product performance tracking
- Intuitive interface
Features:
- Omnichannel selling (in-store, online, social)
- Customer profile syncing
- Contactless and digital wallet payments
- Advanced inventory management
- Unlimited POS register syncing
- Real-time inventory tracking
- App store for customization
- Custom smart grid and receipts
- Automatic tax calculation
- Order management (exchanges, returns, etc.)
- Offline cash transactions
- Custom discounts and promos
Pros:
- Free mobile app for Android and iPad
- Wide range of compatible POS hardware
- Smartphone as POS terminal option
Cons:
- Not available in some countries
- Older iOS versions not supported
Rating: 4.0/5
Pricing: 2.3% + 10¢ per transaction
Clover POS offers extensive hardware options and personalized customer loyalty programs. Founded in 2012, it provides both software and hardware solutions.
Key Benefits:
- Integrations with Xero, Quickbooks, MailChimp, etc.
- Efficient refunds and exchanges
- Customizable reporting
- Offline transaction processing
Features:
- Cloud-based software
- Multiple payment types supported
- Tax rate setup and application
- Digital receipts and one-click tipping
- Automatic service charges
- Order optimization with item discounts
- Customer loyalty program
- Private customer feedback
- Free mobile app for marketing
- Customer data storage
- Staff scheduling and permissions
- Comprehensive reporting
Pros:
- Wide range of compatible hardware
- Virtual Terminal for no-POS payments
- PCI-certified secure system
- 24/7 phone support
Cons:
- No fixed per-transaction fee structure
- No free trial offered
Rating: 4.2/5
Pricing: From $69/month
CAKE offers an all-in-one screen with menus and quick cash buttons, ideal for fast bar service. Founded in 2011, it's headquartered in North Carolina.
Key Benefits:
- All-in-one order management screen
- QR code payments
- Easy opt-in loyalty program
- Downloadable performance data
Features:
- Easy check splitting and item transfer
- Order queue and open ticket tracking
- Contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay)
- Secure transactions with chargeback assistant
- Curbside order management
- Self-service kiosk integration
- Gift card sales
- Kitchen Display System integration
Pros:
- Accessible menu admin portal
- Card pre-authorization
- Transparent pricing
- Real-time performance reporting
Cons:
- No free plan available
- Limited scalability and features
Rating: 4.0/5
Pricing: From $89/month
[Lightspeed POS details to be added]
Rating: 4.0/5
Pricing: From $69/month
TouchBistro combines POS and restaurant management capabilities. Founded in 2010, it serves over 29,000 restaurants globally.
Key Benefits:
- Integrations with accounting, scheduling, and payment tools
- Faster mobile POS payments
- Tableside ordering and bill splitting
- Centralized menu management
Features:
- Multiple payment methods supported
- Contactless and e-wallet payments
- Upselling features
- Staff management with access controls
- Real-time performance data
- Easy menu building and customization
- Cloud-based remote access
- Customer insights and behavior tracking
- Automated reporting and data sharing
- Sales trend and CRM analytics
Pros:
- Direct online ordering and delivery
- Full-service restaurant POS
- Loyalty program for all purchase types
- Offline payment processing
Cons:
- No free trial option
- Not compatible with Android devices
Rating: 4.2/5
Pricing: Free plan available
Toast POS caters specifically to restaurant sales and management needs. Founded in 2011, it's used by over 100,000 restaurants and saw 60% year-over-year growth in 2022.
Key Benefits:
- Integrations with payroll, hotel, and delivery apps
- Faster order and payment service
- Easy setup and learning curve
- Increased off-premise sales
Features:
- Multiple payment methods for tableside transactions
- Instant guest feedback collection
- Order-ready notifications
- Commission-free takeout/delivery ordering
- Multi-location labor and sales overview
- Detailed sales analytics
- Remote menu management
- Item availability tracking
- Flexible implementation options
Pros:
- Free plan for single-location businesses
- Durable restaurant-grade hardware
- Offline payment processing
- Cloud software for all restaurant types
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Mixed customer service reviews
Rating: 4.0/5
Pricing: Custom pricing
Epos Now POS is tailored for small and medium retail businesses. Founded in 2011, it's used in 64,000 locations across 74 countries.
Key Benefits:
- Integrations with Quickbooks, Mailchimp, etc.
- Automated inventory management
- Customizable for unique business needs
- Cross-platform compatibility (PC, Mac, Android, iOS)
- Flat-rate transactions with Epos Now payments
Features:
- Simple dashboard for omnichannel sales
- Multiple payment methods supported
- Multi-site employee management
- Comprehensive sales data collection
- Easy-to-understand business reporting
- Real-time customer and staff reports
- Sales analytics for top performers
- Cross-channel purchase tracking
- Customer profiles with loyalty integration
- 24/7 phone support
Pros:
- Epos AppStore for additional tools
- Mobile access to business insights
- Real-time multi-faceted reporting
- Multi-channel ready system
Cons:
- Pricing not transparent
- May not suit rapidly growing businesses
Rating: 4.0/5
Pricing: Custom pricing
Revel Systems streamlines deployment for enterprise businesses, aligning with changing demands. Founded in 2010, it earned $129.1 million in revenue in 2023.
Key Benefits:
- Automated software updates
- Enhanced user experience
- PCI-compliant cloud technology
- Comprehensive analytics suite
Features:
- Multiple payment types supported
- In-store and online payments
- Offline transaction capabilities
- Real-time discount creation
- User access controls
- Granular inventory management
- Integrated payment processing
- Self-service chargeback management
- EMV-enabled fraud protection
Pros:
- 24/7 payment expert access
- Open API with customization options
- Ideal for iPadOS users
- Point-to-point encrypted payments
Cons:
- No free trial offered
- Pricing not publicly available
Rating: 4.5/5
Pricing: From $39/month
Erply offers built-in inventory software for real-time tracking. Founded in 2010, it's used by over 100,000 stores in 15 languages.
Key Benefits:
- Free eCommerce platform integrations
- Cloud-based online/offline functionality
- Real-time data syncing
- 60-day free trial
Features:
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Unique employee logins and time tracking
- Layaway sales management
- Cash flow expense logging
- Comprehensive reporting
- In-store order pickups with promotions
- Fast barcode scanning
- Customizable sales process
Pros:
- Free POS plan for small businesses
- Extended 60-day trial period
- Region-based data centers
- Seamless returns processing
Cons:
- Steep learning curve
- Limited customization options
Rating: 4.8/5
Pricing: From $59/month
KORONA POS offers consolidated inventory management and a complete CRM system. Founded in 2011 and based in Nevada, USA.
Key Benefits:
- Employee time tracking
- 24/7 multi-channel support
- Loss prevention features
- Guided setup and installation
Features:
- Multiple payment methods supported
- Product catalog management
- Digital and paper receipts
- Bulk product import
- Automatic stock updates
- Sales performance insights
- Customizable promotions
- Detailed analytics and reporting
- Employee access controls
Pros:
- Unlimited free trial
- 60-day money-back guarantee
- Franchise royalty management
- Multi-location promotions
Cons:
- Steep learning curve
- Limited report customization
Rating: 4.2/5
Pricing: 2.29% + $0.09 per transaction
PayPal POS integrates seamlessly with the widely-used PayPal payment system. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in California, USA.
Key Benefits:
- Integrations with popular eCommerce platforms
- Quick access to funds via PayPal Business
- Centralized product and inventory management
- Staff scheduling and performance tracking
Features:
- Tap-to-pay card transactions
- Digital wallet support
- Quick product selection
- Categorized product catalog
- Digital and paper receipts
- Bulk product import
- Automatic stock updates
- Sales reporting and analysis
- Customizable report views
Pros:
- Free POS software
- Dedicated mobile apps
- Contactless phone payments
Cons:
- Complex transaction fee structure
- Limited integration with management tools
Rating: 4.5/5
Pricing: 2.3% + 0¢ per transaction
GoDaddy POS enables seamless cross-channel shopping experiences. Founded in 1997, it serves over 22 million customers worldwide.
Key Benefits:
- Fast next-day payouts
- Smooth GoDaddy Online Store integration
- Virtual Terminal for hardware-free payments
- Custom pricing for high-volume businesses
Features:
- Unified dashboard for omnichannel sales
- Multiple payment methods supported
- Tap-to-Pay on smartphones
- Email and social media marketing tools
- Digital content creation for campaigns
- Centralized sales, payment, and inventory tracking
Pros:
- PCI-secure transactions
- 30-day money-back guarantee on hardware
- Mobile apps for Android and iOS
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- Only supports in-house payment processing
- Limited hardware options
Rating: 4.2/5
Pricing: Free plan available
eHopper POS offers free card processing for eligible US merchants. It provides efficient business management tools and is headquartered in the USA.
Key Benefits:
- Cross-platform compatibility (Android, Windows, Poynt)
- Centralized device and employee management
- Real-time customer data collection
- Support for various POS peripherals
Features:
- Multiple payment methods accepted
- Offline functionality (except for credit cards)
- Multi-language receipt options
- Custom receipt generation
- Flexible refund and order management
- Cash drawer tracking
- Customizable tax settings
- Customer discounts and loyalty programs
- Employee access controls
- QuickBooks integration
- Comprehensive reporting
Pros:
- Free POS software with no hidden fees
- Free card processing for US customers
- No long-term commitment required
- Offline mode available
Cons:
- No iOS device support
- Phone support limited to higher-tier plans
Rating: 4.2/5
Pricing: Free software, pay-per-transaction
Helcim POS specializes in international credit card processing, allowing businesses to receive payments in local currencies. Founded in 2006 in Alberta, Canada.
Key Benefits:
- Fraud prevention with Helcim Fraud Defender
- Online payments via Helcim Virtual Terminal
- Integrations with QuickBooks and WooCommerce
- API for custom business solutions
Features:
- Multiple payment methods supported
- Sales trend dashboard
- Actionable business reporting
- Inventory setup and management
- Multi-location inventory sync
- Unlimited user accounts
- Customizable user permissions
Pros:
- Optimized for desktop and mobile checkout
- No setup, cancellation, or monthly fees
- PCI-compliant platform
- Free account setup without paperwork
Cons:
- Complex transaction fee structure
- Limited integration options
Selecting the ideal POS solution requires careful consideration of several factors:
- Define Business Needs: Identify essential features for your operations.
- Set a Budget: Determine how much you're willing to invest.
- Research Options: Explore available solutions in the market.
- Read Reviews: Consider user experiences and opinions.
- Seek Recommendations: Ask for input from peers in your industry.
- Check Compatibility: Ensure the POS works with your existing systems.
- Assess Usability: Choose a user-friendly interface to minimize training time.
- Evaluate Support: Confirm the availability of reliable customer service.
POS software is crucial for businesses conducting in-person sales and managing physical locations. This includes:
- Retail stores
- Restaurants and cafes
- Mobile vendors
- Service-based businesses
Implement a POS system when you need to streamline transactions, track customer data, and optimize operations.
Compared to traditional methods, modern POS software offers significant advantages:
- Improved Efficiency and Accuracy: Reduces human error in transactions and reporting.
- Enhanced Security: Provides protection against data breaches and fraud.
- Automation: Streamlines tasks like transaction processing and reporting.
- Speed: Reduces wait times and improves customer throughput.
- Inventory Management: Offers real-time tracking and automated reordering.
- Data Analytics: Provides valuable insights into customer behavior and product performance.
POS software doesn't have to be expensive. Many providers offer free plans with basic features, while paid plans can be tailored to fit various budgets. The investment often pays off through improved efficiency and insights.
Even small businesses can benefit significantly from POS systems. They automate time-consuming tasks, provide valuable data insights, and can grow with your business. Assess your current processes to determine if a POS system aligns with your needs and goals.
While POS systems offer comprehensive solutions, some businesses may consider alternatives:
- Inventory Management Software
- Payment Processing Software
- Accounting Software
- E-commerce Platforms
- Traditional Cash Registers
- Spreadsheets
- Mobile Payment Apps
Each alternative has its strengths, but may lack the integration and features of a full POS system.
To maximize the benefits of your POS system, consider integrating it with other business software:
- Inventory Management Software: For advanced stock control and order management.
- Accounting Software: To streamline financial processes and sync sales data.
- Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP): For integrating multiple business processes.
- E-commerce Platforms: To unify online and offline sales channels.
- Marketing Automation Tools: To leverage POS data for targeted campaigns.
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM): For enhanced customer insights and engagement.
By carefully evaluating your needs and the available options, you can select a POS solution that not only manages transactions efficiently but also contributes to your overall business growth and customer satisfaction.