The best point-of-sale (POS) systems do more than allow your business to accept payments from customers. These systems also help you manage sales, track inventory and improve daily business operations by offering numerous hardware options and feature-rich POS software. Transparent pricing, intuitive flows and access to live support are also important.
All of our picks for the best POS systems are chosen by our editorial team, who follow strict editorial guidelines to ensure fairness and accuracy in our coverage to help you choose the right POS system for your company. We independently evaluate and rate POS systems, scoring them on system capabilities, cost, integrations and other features. View our full methodology.
Here are our picks for the best POS systems.
Our pick for
Free version
Square rises above competitors with a free version of its POS system that bakes in a great deal of functionality and for its transparent pricing, lack of a contract and hidden fees, and strong integrations with other hardware and software.
Square POS
Learn more
on Square POS's secure website
Monthly fee
$0.00
and up.
Square’s point-of-sale system stands out with its transparent pricing, live support and many useful features. Unlike most systems, Square offers a free POS software option with no monthly charges. Because Square works on iPhones, Android devices and iPads, you can make sales on the go — for example, at a farmers market, trade show or music festival.
Pros
- Free plan option available.
- Offers helpful related services, like payroll, that integrate closely with its POS system.
- No long-term contracts or termination fees.
- All plans include a free online store.
Cons
- Can’t run on Windows devices.
- Complex industries might prefer a more specialized system.
Our pick for
E-commerce platform integration
Shopify seamlessly unites online and in-store sales with its integrated POS and e-commerce plans. And its in-house payment processing solution makes it a one-stop-shop for businesses.
Shopify Retail POS
Learn more
on Shopify POS's secure website
Monthly fee
$39.00
and up for e-commerce plans with POS Lite; Can upgrade to POS Pro for an extra $89.
Shopify’s POS system is well equipped to handle all the complexities that come with selling items via an online store. In all subscription tiers, you can set up an online shop and add products almost instantly, sell through multiple channels (including social media), connect with vendors, automatically email customers who abandon their carts, process payments at reasonable rates and make sales in 133 currencies and multiple languages. These features make Shopify one of the best retail POS options.
Pros
- No long-term contracts or termination fees.
- All plans include an online store.
- Built specifically for online sellers.
- 24/7 chat support.
Cons
- No free plan options.
- Cannot process cards in offline mode.
Our pick for
International businesses
Stripe accepts payments in more than 135 currencies, making it a strong fit for businesses with global reach. Stripe Terminal is not a POS system but an integration that allows you to extend your online business to in-person sales. With some coding, it can be connected to your POS app.
Stripe Terminal
Learn more
on Stripe Terminal's secure website
Monthly fee
$0.00
Stripe Terminal extends Stripe Payments functionality to become a full POS solution. Stripe can accept dozens of payment methods and more than 135 currencies. And its advanced developer tools allow you to create a checkout flow that feels custom, provided you know how to use them.
Pros
- No monthly software fees.
- No long-term contracts or termination fees.
- 24/7 phone and chat support.
Cons
- Does not include a POS app or standard POS capabilities.
- Likely requires coding and developer expertise.
Our pick for
High sales volumes
As a full-service merchant services provider, Helcim can essentially do it all for a business: payment processing, point of sale, invoicing and business management. Because it offers volume discounts, Helcim is especially cost-effective for businesses with high sales volumes.
Helcim POS
Learn more
on Helcim POS's secure website
Monthly fee
$0.00
Unlike flat-rate payment processors that charge the same transaction fee across different types of credit cards, Helcim uses an interchange-plus pricing model. This means your business saves when a customer uses a card with low interchange rates. Helcim also offers volume discounts if you process more than $50,000 monthly, which is a plus for high-volume businesses. And if you need hardware for taking payments in-person, the company sells its own smart terminal and mobile card reader, too.Read full review
Pros
- No monthly software fees.
- No long-term contract or termination fees.
- Offers volume discounts for businesses whose monthly credit card volume surpasses $50,000.
- Interchange-plus processing rates can help businesses save money.
Cons
- Some hardware, like barcode scanners and cash drawers, are only available through a third-party provider.
- No full POS register options.
Our pick for
POS hardware
Clover’s POS hardware may be priced higher than many of its competitors, but not without reason. The recognizable branded hardware is built to last and rests on a strong reputation of dependability.
Clover POS
Learn more
on Clover POS's secure website
Monthly fee
$14.95
and up.
Clover's POS system stands out with its durable and versatile hardware, with POS terminals that make it easy to accept orders at the counter or on the go. You also have the option to pair the hardware and software with a different merchant account, such as one from Wells Fargo, SunTrust, PNC, BBVA or Citi.
Pros
- Free plan available if you’re only using a mobile card reader.
- 24/7 phone and email support.
- All restaurant plans include no-fee online ordering, and retail plans let you integrate with existing online stores.
Cons
- Promotions require a three-year contract.
- Charges termination fees, though they may be waived in certain cases.
- Online payment processing rates are more expensive than competitors.
- Popular accounting integrations are only available through third-party apps.
Our pick for
Restaurants doing dine-in and online business
Toast lets customers integrate online ordering options with their existing Toast POS system. If your restaurant has multiple locations, customers can choose where they’d like to pick up their order.
Toast POS
Learn more
on Toast POS's secure website
Payment processing fees
2.49% + $0.15
if you buy hardware upfront; 3.09% + $0.15 for pay-as-you-go option.
Monthly fee
$0.00
Quick Start Bundle; $69 Core plan; $165 Growth plan. Custom plan also available.
Toast makes scalable POS systems for quick-service and full-service restaurants, fine dining establishments, bars, cafes and food trucks. It offers a variety of hardware options including countertop terminals, handheld systems for taking orders tableside, self-serve ordering kiosks and kitchen display screens.
Pros
- Free plan available for restaurants with up to two POS terminals.
- 24/7 support via web messaging.
- Offers helpful related services, like payroll and team management software, that integrate closely with its POS system.
- Built specifically for restaurants with in-house delivery platform available, among other industry-specific features.
Cons
- Requires a two-year contract and charges early termination fees.
- Online payment processing rates are more expensive than competitors.
- Charges setup fee, and offline mode includes hidden cost of backup router.
- Online ordering is considered an add-on for all plans.
Our pick for
Restaurant-specific add-on features
SpotOn Restaurant solutions are custom fit for your specific restaurant needs and numerous software integrations can round out your system. The company’s Restaurant Advisory Council provides regular feedback for continual improvement.
SpotOn Restaurant
4.5
NerdWallet rating
Learn more
on SpotOn Restaurant's secure website
Payment processing fees
1.99% + $0.25
For most cards in paid plans.
Monthly fee
$0.00
and up.
SpotOn’s monthly software fee and payment processing fees along with its ability to integrate with third-party hardware make this system an affordable and appealing option. SpotOn offers customizable add-on features such as a loyalty program and team management software. The company also has a strong reputation for its hands-on approach to customer support, from installation and training to 24/7 availability for assistance.
Pros
- Offers a free plan.
- Restaurants can customize plans by adding loyalty programs, reservation capabilities, online ordering or employee scheduling software.
- 24/7 phone support.
- No long-term contract or termination fees.
Cons
- Charges setup fee.
- Offline mode includes the hidden cost of a router.
Our pick for
Bank POS provider
U.S. Bank Merchant Services offers payment processing and business bank accounts in addition to POS solutions, making it a one-stop shop for small businesses.
U.S. Bank Merchant Services POS
Learn more
on U.S. Bank Merchant Services POS's secure website
Monthly fee
$0.00
and up.
U.S. Bank offers business banking, payment processing and point-of-sale solutions for small businesses. The bank also offers Everyday Funding, which allows merchants to receive funds in their deposit account every day of the week, including weekends – not something you’ll find among many competitors.
Pros
- No termination fees.
- Free plan available if you’re only using a mobile card reader.
- 24/7 phone support, plus a dedicated customer account manager.
- Provides in-house banking services.
Cons
- Must contact the bank directly for POS hardware pricing.
- May charge setup fee, depending on installation needs.
- Only the highest-tier plan includes online ordering.
- Offline mode isn’t standard for all plans.
Our pick for
Inventory management
Lightspeed’s POS designed specifically for retailers offers several strong features, but it stands out particularly for its inventory management capabilities. The system is especially well suited for businesses with more than one location.
Lightspeed Retail POS
Learn more
on Lightspeed Retail POS's secure website
Monthly fee
$89.00
for Lean plan, $149 for Standard plan, $269 for Advanced plan.
The Lightspeed POS system’s inventory management capabilities are outstanding at every subscription tier and more comprehensive than those of its competitors. When entering items into your system, you can add plenty of information — such as a description, images, cost, manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP), your selling price, tax and discount rules, tags, barcodes, stock-keeping units (SKUs), brands, categories and custom-built fields — which can be used to generate and filter results on reports.
Pros
- Includes detailed inventory management tools for creating product variants.
- Free one-on-one onboarding session for all new merchants.
- 24/7 phone and live chat support.
- Generate unlimited barcode labels.
Cons
- No free plan options.
- Lowest-tier plan doesn’t include e-commerce features.
- Charges termination fee and may require annual contract.
- Does not include a virtual terminal or offline mode.
Our pick for
Food trucks
TouchBistro is a POS system designed specifically for food-industry businesses. With a wealth of restaurant-related features and the ability to easily take payments on the go — with or without an internet connection — it’s a particularly good choice for food trucks.
TouchBistro
Learn more
on TouchBistro's secure website
Payment processing fees
N/A
Quote-based.
Monthly fee
$69.00
and up.
For restaurants that haven’t warmed to the idea of a totally cloud-based POS system, TouchBistro is a solid option. It’s a hybrid POS, meaning it’s locally installed but data is still sent to the cloud. Although other cloud-based POS systems can accept payments in offline mode, the TouchBistro system will maintain additional capabilities, like real-time reporting, in a Wi-Fi outage.
Pros
- 24/7 phone, chat and email support.
- Includes restaurant-specific features, like table and menu management.
- Optional profit management system provides tools for improving margins.
- As a hybrid POS system, TouchBistro can operate without the cloud. Offline capabilities include accepting payments, taking orders, editing menus and managing staff.
Cons
- Payment processing rates are quote-based, making them difficult to compare to the competition.
- Contracts are automatically renewed and can't be terminated early.
- No free plan options and charges setup fee.
- Ability to accept online orders costs extra.
Our pick for
Cash discount program
Lavu makes iPad-based POS systems for different types of restaurants, from delis and coffee shops to full-service dining establishments. The company’s cash discount program helps business owners save on processing fees by passing some of the costs onto customers who choose to pay with cards instead of cash. Those who pay cash can skip the fees, so be sure your business is equipped to handle cash transactions.
Lavu
Learn more
on Lavu's secure website
Payment processing fees
N/A
Quote-based.
Monthly fee
$99.00
and up.
All of Lavu’s plans let restaurant owners opt for “dual pricing” options that offer customers discounts for paying in cash instead of with a card. This can be a good option for businesses that want to encourage cash transactions or are concerned about payment processing fees adding up. However, Lavu’s payment processing rates are quote-based, which makes it difficult to estimate processing costs in the first place.
Pros
- 24/7 phone and chat support.
- Highly customizable POS platform for those with programming skills.
- Restaurants can set up timed menu changes, start customers’ tabs on one register and cash them out at another.
- Dual pricing program can help decrease payment processing fees.
Cons
- No free plan options.
- Cannot cancel subscription before term is up.
- Does not list payment processing fees.
- No virtual terminal for accepting transactions remotely.
Our pick for
Mobile POS software
This all-in-one mobile POS and payment processing system is built for quick and easy setup and integrates seamlessly with many big names in business-related software. PayPal Zettle’s POS software is free, so business owners pay only for hardware and payment processing.
PayPal Zettle
Monthly fee
$0.00
PayPal's Zettle system stands out for its free software and no-contract business model, which takes some of the risk out of switching to a new POS system. Its hardware POS packages make it easy to set up quickly, and some decent (though limited) accessories are available.
Pros
- No monthly fees.
- No long-term commitment.
- Accepts Venmo and PayPal payments.
Cons
- No add-on features available.
- Doesn’t accept swiped payments.
Our pick for
Customer loyalty
Whereas some competitors only offer loyalty programs as an add-on, Loyverse includes one for free. You can use it to distribute scannable loyalty cards to customers, create point-based reward systems and offer discounts.
Loyverse
Payment processing fees
N/A
Varies by processor.
Monthly fee
$0.00
Loyverse is a free POS software product that works on iPhones, Android smartphones, iPads and tablets. While its free software may be sufficient for very small businesses, others can opt to pay for extra features, like employee management tools, advanced inventory tracking and integrations for accounting and e-commerce.
Pros
- Can be used for a variety of businesses, including restaurants, cafes, bars, grocery stores, retail stores and boutiques.
- Integrates with several payment processors, including SumUp and Zettle.
- Can be used with other payment processors without an integration.
- Free software includes a loyalty program, which most competitors offer as an add-on with additional cost.
Cons
- 24/7 live chat support is only available with paid add-on subscriptions.
- Not all features are available with the free version, including employee management and integrations into accounting and e-commerce apps.
Our pick for
Grocery stores
As a grocery store POS system designed by grocers, IT Retail stands out with an expansive list of industry-specific features to cover a wide range of food retail businesses. While the system’s features and capabilities receive standout marks, NerdWallet gives it only 3.5 out of 5 stars due primarily to a lack of transparency around pricing and fees.
IT Retail
3.5
NerdWallet rating
Payment processing fees
N/A
Quote-based.
Monthly fee
$199.00
and up.
IT Retail has been in the business of building and selling grocery store POS systems for more than two decades. While its prices are higher and less transparent than some of its competitors, the company has built a POS system that includes all the features you’ll need to run your store, including a product lookup menu, wholesale sales functionality, customer loyalty programs and capabilities to accept all forms of payment, including EBT. The pricing structure is largely quote-based, but there is a pay-monthly option and two hardware bundle options with listed prices.
Pros
- System and features specifically designed for grocery stores.
- Accepts all payment types, including EBT, checks and gift cards.
- 24/7 tech support and training.
- Supports sales of regulated items like alcohol and tobacco.
Cons
- Lack of pricing transparency.
- Prices that are disclosed run higher than some competitors.
Our picks for best POS systems
Square: Best overall POS system
NerdWallet rating: 5 stars.
Types of businesses supported: Retail, food and beverage, professional services (beauty, health, repair, etc.) and custom-built options.
Why we like it: The Square POS system is an excellent option for small businesses that are looking for an easy-to-run, cost-effective POS. Square stands out among its competitors by offering a free version of its POS that contains a great deal of functionality, including sales tracking, inventory management and an offline mode to accept transactions without a Wi-Fi connection. Square also is transparent with pricing, doesn’t require contracts or charge hidden fees, and integrates with third-party hardware and software. Additionally, Square offers a free 30-day trial of its paid plan for both its retail and restaurant solutions; businesses owners can easily downgrade to the free software plan at the end of the trial with no additional fee or penalty. This is one of the most generous free trials offered by a POS provider, especially in the restaurant space, where it’s rare to find a free trial offer. Read our full Square POS review.
$0 for Square POS, Restaurant, Retail and Appointments Free plans.
$29 for Square Appointments Plus plan.
$60 for Square Restaurant Plus plan.
$69 for Square Appointments Premium plan.
$89 for Square Retail Plus plan.
$192 and up for Square Restaurant Essentials Bundle.
Custom pricing for Square Retail Premium plan.
$0 for Square magstripe-only card reader ($10 for each additional reader) or if using Tap to Pay for iPhone (iPhone not included).
$49 and up for Square Reader contactless and chip card reader.
$149 for Square Stand iPad POS or Square Stand Mount (iPad not included; monthly financing available).
$299 for Square Terminal mobile card reader with built-in printer (monthly financing available).
$799 for Square Register two-screen system (monthly financing available).
2.6% plus 10 cents for in-person transactions.
2.9% plus 30 cents for online transactions.
3.5% plus 15 cents for manually keyed transactions.
3.3% plus 30 cents for invoices.
Stripe Terminal: Best for international businesses
NerdWallet rating: 5 stars.
Types of businesses supported: Open application programming interface and ability to accept more than 135 currencies are primarily relevant to online sales.
Why we like it: Stripe Terminal extends Stripe Payments functionality for online businesses looking to add in-person payment capability. Because Stripe accepts all forms of payment — credit and debit cards, digital wallets, ACH transfers and even buy now, pay later options — in more than 135 currencies, it’s a solid option for online businesses that sell internationally. Stripe has a lot of customization options and some neat features that more tech-savvy business owners, or those with access to developers, may want to take advantage of. Read our full Stripe Terminal review.
$0 for standard Stripe Connect.
$2 per account for Stripe Express (for marketplaces) or Stripe Custom (the white-label option that allows businesses to customize the checkout process).
$59 for Stripe Reader M2.
$249 for BBPOS WisePOS E card reader.
$349 for Stripe Reader S700.
2.7% plus 5 cents for in-person transactions.
2.9% plus 30 cents for online transactions.
3.4% plus 30 cents for manually keyed transactions.
4.4% plus 30 cents for international card transactions.
Helcim: Best for high sales volumes
NerdWallet rating: 4.5 stars.
Types of businesses supported: Retail, service and e-commerce businesses.
Why we like it: Helcim is best known for payment processing, but its POS software isn’t something to gloss over — especially as it’s one of a few among the competition that works across both desktop and mobile, as well as Mac and Windows devices. Similar to Square, Helcim boasts no monthly or hidden fees and no contract, but it follows the interchange-plus pricing model for payment processing. Helcim offers competitive processing rates and offers discounted rates for businesses with $50,000 or more per month in card transactions, meaning it’s a particularly strong contender for businesses with higher sales volumes. Read our full Helcim review.
$0.
$99 for a mobile card reader (with stand).
$329 for a standalone terminal with built-in thermal printer.
Interchange plus 0.4% and 8 cents per in-person transaction (if $50,000 or less in monthly card transactions).
Interchange plus 0.5% and 25 cents per online or manually keyed transaction (if $50,000 or less in monthly card transactions).
0.5% plus 25 cents for ACH payments.
Toast POS: Best for restaurants doing dine-in and online business
NerdWallet rating: 4.5 stars.
Types of businesses supported: Restaurants (quick service, fine dining and full service), bars, cafes, and food trucks.
Why we like it: Toast’s POS systems can accommodate small restaurants and growing ones — especially those that want to build their online presence. Its online ordering add-on is customizable, meaning you can upload photos and change the color schemes and fonts. You can add your business to the Toast Takeout app to gain customers and use Toast Delivery Services to deliver orders. Built specifically for restaurants, Toast also offers spill-proof hardware that’s made to function among high heat and dust. Read our full Toast POS review.
$0 for Quick Start Bundle.
$69 for Core plan.
$110 plus $4 per employee for Restaurant Basics plan.
$165 for Growth plan.
Custom plans available.
$799.20 for Handheld Starter Kit (but $0 if you agree to a higher processing fee).
$1,024.20 for Countertop Starter Kit (but $0 if you agree to a higher processing fee).
$1,339.20 for Guest Self-Service Starter Kit (but $0 if you agree to a higher processing fee).
3.09% plus 15 cents per transaction, if you choose pay-as-you-go option on hardware.
2.49% plus 15 cents for card-present transactions, if you pay for hardware upfront.
3.50% plus 15 cents for card-not-present transactions, if you pay for hardware upfront.
SpotOn Restaurant: Best for restaurant-specific add-on features
NerdWallet rating: 4.5 stars.
Types of businesses supported: Fine dining, casual dining, quick service, bar and nightclub, food trucks and custom-built options.
Why we like it: SpotOn’s monthly software fee and payment processing fees along with its ability to integrate with third-party hardware make this system an affordable and appealing option. SpotOn offers customizable add-on features such as a loyalty program and team management software. The company also has a strong reputation for its hands-on approach to customer support, from installation and training to 24/7 availability for assistance.
$0 for Quick Start plan.
$99 for Counter-service plan, plus $3 per employee.
$135 for Full-service plan, plus $3 per employee.
Custom pricing available as well.
$850 for the Counter POS.
$750 for the Station POS.
$600 for the KDS.
Other hardware devices, like the handheld option, are custom.
1.99% plus 25 cents for most cards in the Counter-service, Full-service and Customizable plans.
2.89% plus 25 cents for Quick Start plan subscribers (this processing rate includes hardware and software costs).
2.99% plus 25 cents for reward, international, corporate and keyed-in cards.
Shopify: Best e-commerce platform integration
NerdWallet rating: 4 stars.
Types of businesses supported: E-commerce and in-store retail.
Why we like it: Shopify POS is an ideal system for retailers and e-commerce businesses. The POS options available with Shopify’s e-commerce plans offer a number of valuable features, including customer profiles and history, inventory tracking, automatic sales tax calculations, basic reporting functions and more. Business owners looking for additional functionality can purchase the POS Pro plan, which offers inventory forecasting, alerts when stock is running low and a suite of useful staff-related features, among other capabilities. And with Shopify Payments, which charges flat-rate processing fees, business owners can run their store and accept payments in one unified solution. Retailers will also appreciate Shopify’s transparent pricing as well as its customer support resources. Read our full Shopify POS review.
Shopify e-commerce plans:
$29 for Shopify Basic when billed annually (or $39 when paid monthly).
$79 for regular Shopify when billed annually (or $105 when paid monthly).
$299 for Shopify Advanced when billed annually (or $399 when paid monthly).
Custom pricing for Shopify Plus.
All e-commerce plans come with POS Lite for selling in-person. Upgrading to POS Pro for brick-and-mortar businesses costs an extra $89 per location.
Shopify’s alternative solutions for mainly selling in-person:
$5 for Starter plan, which includes one POS Lite location.
$79 (when billed annually) for Retail plan, or $89 when paid monthly; includes one POS Pro location.
$49 for Tap & Chip card reader.
$219 for Tap & Chip countertop kit (iPad not included).
$299 for Shopify POS Go mobile device.
$349 for Shopify POS terminal.
$459 and up for POS terminal countertop kits.
2.5%, 2.7% or 2.9% plus 30 cents for online payments for Advanced, Shopify or Basic plan, respectively.
2.4%, 2.5% or 2.6% plus 10 cents for in-person payments for Advanced, Shopify or Basic plan, respectively.
Clover: Best for POS hardware
NerdWallet rating: 4 stars.
Types of businesses supported: Table service restaurants and cafes; counter service restaurants, cafes, diners and food trucks; and retail, service and e-commerce businesses.
Why we like it: Clover offers a lot of flexibility with its merchant processing. Its POS hardware does ring up at a higher price point, but it holds a strong reputation for quality design and dependable function. Add to that competitive flat-rate processing fees for in-person transactions and a range of monthly software plans, and Clover makes for a solid choice for small-business owners across different industries. Read our full Clover POS review.
$14.95 for Retail Starter, Personal Services Starter, Professional Services Starter and Standard and Home & Field Services plans.
$49.95 for Retail Standard, Personal Services Standard and Advanced and Professional Services Advanced plans.
$54.95 for Quick-Service Dining Starter and Standard plans.
$64.90 for Retail Advanced plan.
$69.90 for Quick-Service Dining Advanced plan.
$84.95 for Full-Service Dining Starter plan.
$99.90 for Full-Service Dining Standard plan.
$114.85 for Full-Service Dining Advanced plan.
$49 for chip, swipe and contactless Clover Go card reader.
$599 for Clover Flex mobile POS with printer.
$799 for Clover Mini POS.
$1,699 for Clover Station Solo.
$1,799 for Clover Station Duo.
2.3% plus 10 cents for in-person transactions for most plans, though rates may also vary by hardware type.
2.6% plus 10 cents for in-person transactions on Retail Starter, Personal Services Starter and Professional Services Standard plans, as well as Home & Field Services Standard and Advanced plans.
3.5% plus 10 cents for online or keyed-in transactions.
U.S. Bank Merchant Services: Best bank POS provider
NerdWallet rating: 4 stars.
Types of businesses supported: In-person and online retail, bars, restaurants and personal, and professional services.
Why we like it: U.S. Bank is a merchant services provider that offers business banking, payment processing and POS solutions. In that way, it can serve as a solid option for a business that’s looking to consolidate all services under a single provider. It uses Talech and Elavon POS systems and accepts all major cards and contactless payment options. U.S. Bank’s processing rates are competitive and it offers a variety of software plans, all priced under $100 per month. With no long-term contracts, termination fees or PCI compliance fees, it stands apart from some on this list. U.S. Bank business account holders enjoy free same-day funding and a general funding schedule that allows for receipt of funds on any day of the week, weekends included.
Merchants opening a new Payment Solutions account are eligible to earn back 2.5% on transaction fees each month through 2025. Terms and conditions apply.
$0 for Mobile plan.
$15 for Terminal plan.
$29 for Starter plan.
$69 for Standard plan.
$99 for Premium plan.
$29 for each additional software license.
Sells a variety of hardware including full POS stations, handheld terminals and customer displays. You can purchase hardware outright or rent for a monthly fee. Monthly rental pricing starts at $20 for a handheld terminal.
2.6% plus 10 cents for in-person payments.
2.9% plus 30 cents for online payments.
3.5% plus 15 cents for keyed payments.
PayPal Zettle: Best for mobile POS software
NerdWallet rating: 4 stars.
Types of businesses supported: Retail, service and e-commerce businesses.
Why we like it: PayPal Zettle’s POS software can be downloaded for free to your mobile device. With a card reader and the creation of a PayPal Business account, you can quickly have a basic POS up and running for your business. Zettle POS includes a payment processing system that accepts all transaction types — cards, digital wallets, QR codes and keyed — along with standard POS functions such as sales tracking and reporting and inventory management. Another plus is the system’s easy integration with popular accounting and e-commerce software including QuickBooks and BigCommerce. Read our full PayPal Zettle review.
$0.
$29 for first card reader; additional readers cost $79. Price includes USB cable.
$199 for terminal only.
$239 for terminal with barcode scanner built in.
$249 for Store Kit Mini (screen terminal with card reader).
$339 for Store Kit Portable kit with mobile card reader and printer.
$499 for Store Kit Standard (adds printer).
$699 for Store Kit Plus (adds barcode scanner).
2.29% plus 9 cents for in-person and QR code transactions.
3.49% plus 9 cents for manual-entry card transactions.
2.89% plus 49 cents for online card payments.
2.99% plus 49 cents for invoicing (payment made with card).
3.49% plus 49 cents for invoicing (payment made with PayPal).
Loyverse: Best for customer loyalty
NerdWallet rating: 4 stars.
Types of businesses supported: Grocery stores, convenience stores, cafes, restaurants, retail shops and bars.
Why we like it: One of Loyverse’s most notable pros is its loyalty program, but that’s not the only feature that comes with its free base plan. Other free capabilities include basic inventory tracking, multi-location management, sales reports and barcode scanning. As for POS hardware, you can choose from a variety of third-party options from providers like Epson, Star and Citizen. Having multiple choices — as opposed to being limited to expensive proprietary hardware — can make it easier to stay within your budget.
$0 for base POS software.
$25 each for employee management and advanced inventory management.
$9 for each third-party integration.
You can shop on the Loyverse website from a selection of hardware the company has tested for compatibility with its POS software. Prices are listed once you go into the Shop POS Portal. The company lists compatible options for both Android and iOS.
Through third-party payment processors.
TouchBistro: Best for food trucks
NerdWallet rating: 3.5 stars.
Types of businesses supported: Restaurants (full service, fine dining, quick service and fast casual), food trucks, breweries and wineries, bars and clubs, cafes and coffee shops, and bakeries.
Why we like it: TouchBistro is a worthy contender in the restaurant POS space. Hardware that enables mobile and offline payments and software features such as menu scheduling, upselling reminders and low inventory alerts make TouchBistro an especially strong choice for a food truck business. The POS software comes with dozens of detailed reports to give you important business insights on everything from sales to customer behavior to staff performance. TouchBistro offers relevant add-ons such as gift cards and a loyalty program for an additional monthly cost. The company is not as transparent as some competitors with its pricing, and you will be bound to a long-term contract that’s not easy to terminate, but the 24/7 customer support it offers by phone, email and chat sets it apart from some other POS providers. Read our full TouchBistro review.
$69 for base plan.
$25 for gift cards feature.
$50 for online ordering feature.
$99 for loyalty features or marketing features.
$229 for reservations feature.
Not disclosed. An iPad is necessary to run TouchBistro software. IPads, cash drawers, routers, printers, mini servers, keyboards and other accessories are available by quote only. You may also have the option to use your existing equipment.
Quote-based if you use TouchBistro Payments; can also choose from third-party payment processors.
Lightspeed Retail: Best for inventory management
NerdWallet rating: 3.5 stars.
Types of businesses supported: Retail (apparel, bike, CBD, electronics, gift store, health, home decor, jewelry, pet, sporting goods, toy, vape, other).
Why we like it: Lightspeed Retail POS stands out for its top-notch inventory management features, which include cataloging and tracking functions that are especially useful for businesses with large inventories and multiple locations. Additional features include customer relationship management and loyalty programs, employee sales and performance tracking, and data analysis and reporting. And if your business requires more, Lightspeed offers an entire marketplace of app integrations. Read our full Lightspeed Retail POS review.
$89 for Lean plan ($69 if billed annually).
$149 for Standard plan ($119 if billed annually).
$269 for Advanced plan ($199 if billed annually).
Pricing for Lightspeed's iPad and desktop hardware kits is quote-based. Individual hardware products are listed in Lightspeed's online store:
$99 for Chipper 2X BT card reader.
$199 for iPad stand or swivel stand.
$299 for WisePOS E countertop reader.
$429 for Lightspeed Lite Server for data backup and offline mode functionality.
2.6% plus 10 cents per in-person transaction.
2.9% plus 30 cents for online transactions.
IT Retail: Best for grocery stores
NerdWallet rating: 3.5 stars.
Types of businesses supported: General, corner, dollar and natural food stores; butcher shops, fish markets and co-ops.
Why we like it: IT Retail is built specifically for grocery and related store needs, and excels in its POS software design. The list of software features it offers is extensive and includes a function for wholesale sales, a customer loyalty program as well as capabilities to accept EBT transactions and support sales of highly regulated items such as tobacco and liquor. Like many of the more industry-specific POS systems, IT Retail’s pricing is primarily quote-based, which is a large contributing factor to the company’s lower overall star rating. Were IT Retail to more readily share pricing information around payment processing fees, monthly software pricing and hardware costs as well as any additional fees that may apply, this strong POS system would likely receive a significantly higher score.
$199 a month for the IT Retail Flex plan. In addition to using the POS software, the Flex package allows you to essentially rent instead of buy your equipment.
$1,499 for the IT Retail Freedom Standard hardware bundle, which comes with a touch-screen terminal, a cash drawer, a barcode scanner, an LCD customer display and a receipt printer.
$1,999 for the IT Retail Freedom Premium hardware bundle, which includes all of the Standard bundle hardware plus a dual-arm mount for the customer display.
Fees are undisclosed; you need to sign a processing agreement.
Lavu: Best cash discount program
NerdWallet rating: 3.5 stars.
Types of businesses supported: Restaurants, coffee shops and food trucks.
Why we like it: With so many restaurant POS systems on the market, Lavu stands out for its cash discount program. Customers who pay with cash save, while those who pay with card cover up to 99% of the resulting processing fees themselves. Its POS hardware selection is straightforward and iPad-based — you can add on cash drawers, kitchen display systems, iPad enclosures, card readers and printers to fit your restaurant setup.
$99 for Starter plan with Dual Pay.
$149 for Growth plan with Dual Pay.
$279 for Optimize plan with Dual Pay.
Lavu's POS terminals use iPads, which can be bought through Lavu or elsewhere. Vault Pro iPad enclosures start at $190. Stands, rotation bases, receipt printers and cash drawers are sold separately.
Quote-based.
What is a POS system?
A POS system makes it possible for your business to accept payments from customers during the checkout process. It can take the form of a countertop register with a cash drawer or a handheld device with a credit card reader, depending on whether you need to complete sales on the go. The system includes the POS hardware itself and the software you use to enter item prices and collect data on your sales, inventory, returns, etc. Strictly online businesses usually do not need hardware.
Providers may offer their own hardware options, like POS terminals with customer displays, receipt printers and cash drawers. Or, in some cases, you can simply download POS software to an iPad or tablet for a simpler, more portable solution. Similar to POS hardware, POS software varies in complexity and may include features specific to your industry.
Learn more about what a POS system does
Dig into how a POS system works, how much it costs and what it should accomplish for your business.
How much does a POS system cost?
A POS system is made up of multiple components that vary in price. Often, you can get the entire system from a single POS system provider. You can expect to pay a monthly fee, along with payment processing fees and hardware fees. Ideally, companies should be transparent about each of these costs. Generally, you want to avoid early termination fees or long contracts that are hard to cancel without penalty. If payment processing comes bundled with your POS, make sure you understand the pricing first and can avoid PCI compliance costs and high chargeback fees.
» MORE: How much does a POS system cost?
Consider these four main costs to estimate your total POS system expenses.
Software subscriptions
Many POS systems run on cloud-based software that requires you sign up for a monthly subscription. Some basic plans are free or start at $10 per month. Other plans are more expensive and cost upward of $199 per month. You might receive a discount by paying annually instead of monthly.
Hardware costs
POS system providers might offer a free basic card reader that you can operate using a phone or tablet. In other cases, you might need proprietary hardware or a more robust POS terminal, which can cost hundreds of dollars. Other POS hardware items to consider include receipt printers, cash drawers, customer-facing displays and barcode scanners.
Payment processing fees
Usually, a payment processor comes included with a POS system. Every time you accept a debit or credit card transaction, you’ll have to pay a transaction fee, usually around 2.5% to 3% of the transaction, plus 10 to 30 cents. Prices vary depending on the type of card and whether it’s being accepted in-person or online. Some processors use flat fees, so you pay the same rate for all in-person transactions, for instance. Others use interchange-plus fees, which means fees can vary depending on factors such as your industry and the type of card your client is using.
Add-ons
If you want multiple registers or locations or exceed a certain amount in revenue each month, a basic plan might not cut it. Certain features, such as inventory management and loyalty programs, might cost extra.
POS system features
Ultimately, the POS features you need depend largely on your industry. Here are several universal software and hardware features to look for in a POS system, as well as some industry-specific capabilities you might consider.
POS software features
Online store options: Giving customers the option to make purchases or place orders online can help bring you more business. Make sure your POS system accommodates all of your sales channels, whether they’re in-person, online or both.
Reporting: Regardless of your industry, you want a POS system that can generate reports on your sales, so that you can see which items or services are most profitable for your business and popular among your customers.
Robust customer support: While some answers might be easy to find online, it’s nice to be able to talk to someone who can help you troubleshoot when you need it. Look for live chat and/or phone support options and verify that they’ll be available during your business’s normal hours.
Inventory management: Restaurants and retail stores need to keep track of how many items they have on hand and when it’s time to reorder. For a more detailed list of options, see NerdWallet’s picks for the best inventory POS systems.
Multi-location management: You want to use the same POS system across all of your business’s locations, so that you easily track inventory, menus or service in multiple areas. Multi-location management also lets you set different prices and tax rules for each location, and run reports to see how each location is performing.
Table or menu management: If you own a busy restaurant, this one is important. These features let you view the status of tables in your restaurant, see how long it takes to turn tables, update menus and track when you run out of certain items.
Loyalty program: Although they typically cost extra, loyalty programs can help re-engage your customers with a point- or discount-earning system that gives them a reason to keep coming back. You can also use them to send custom discounts for birthdays and other special events.
POS hardware features
Mobility: Do you need a full countertop POS terminal, a pocket-sized card reader or something in between? Maybe your business sells items mostly online but occasionally needs to process transactions at a pop-up event. A simple card reader may be sufficient in that situation. However, brick-and-mortar retail stores will probably require a countertop terminal, while restaurants might need a handheld touchscreen device that lets employees take orders and process payments tableside.
Accessories: Common POS accessories include cash drawers, receipt printers and barcode scanners. Some POS system providers offer hardware bundles that include everything you need, while others function in a more a-la-carte manner.
Durability: Depending on your business, you’ll want to see whether the POS hardware you’re considering is spill-proof and/or heat-proof. This is especially advantageous for busy restaurant settings.
How to choose a POS system
Finding the right POS system for your business comes down to these key considerations.
Decide which POS software features you need
This will depend largely on what type of business you have, since many POS software plans are industry-specific. For example, restaurants may need table management and inventory management, while service-based businesses can benefit from the ability to schedule appointments. Decide which features are nonnegotiable for your business to help narrow your search. .
Choose compatible POS hardware options
Common hardware options include card readers, countertop terminals, handheld terminals, receipt printers and barcode scanners. Service-based businesses, cafes and restaurants that accept tips might also want a customer-facing screen with preset gratuity options. Not all hardware and software products are compatible with each other, so the easiest way to ensure compatibility is to find a POS provider with everything your business needs.
Calculate upfront and ongoing costs
Hardware will likely be your biggest upfront POS cost, and you’ll want to factor in per-transaction payment processing costs, too. Some monthly POS software subscriptions are free, but if you want a more robust feature set, expect to pay a fee. You’ll also want to look out for additional costs, such as setup and PCI compliance fees.
Pay attention to contract periods
Not all POS providers require you to sign a contract, which gives you the flexibility to switch systems at any time. However, some companies require you to commit for at least a year. While that isn’t necessarily a deal breaker, you’ll want to be sure that the product will work for your business in the long term. Read the “terms and conditions” carefully and seek out product demos so you can test functionality before committing.
Confirm it integrates with your accounting software
To ensure a smooth setup process, your POS software should also integrate with your accounting software, so that your books are always up to date. For more options, see NerdWallet’s choices for the best POS systems that integrate with QuickBooks.
Benefits of using a POS system
Compared to traditional cash registers, POS systems typically have greater flexibility and include more business management features. Here are some of the advantages of going with the more modern POS option:
Portability: Tablet-based POS systems can sit on the countertop, accommodate mobile businesses that make sales on the go, or let employees ring customers up from anywhere in the store.
Robust feature sets: Many POS systems’ software plans go beyond basic sales tracking. They may include additional features like inventory management, employee time tracking and management, scheduling tools and customer loyalty programs.
Seamless integrations: You can sync POS software to your accounting software to minimize manual data entry.
Types of POS systems
There’s no shortage of options when you’re comparing POS systems, and identifying main differentiating factors can help you quickly narrow down your choices. Here’s a handful of ways to describe different types of POS systems.
Free vs. paid POS software: Multiple POS system providers offer free POS software that includes the basics and can help keep costs down.However, you will still need to factor in payment processing fees and hardware costs, if you plan to accept payments in person.
Online vs. in-store POS system: Different POS systems accommodate different types of sales channels. Some specialize in e-commerce sales and even double as e-commerce platforms, while others focus more on in-person sales.
Industry-specific vs. universal POS system: Certain POS systems are made for a particular type of industry, usually restaurants or retail, and offer specialized features. Providers’ websites typically let you know which industries they target.
Compare more POS systems
If you’d like to shop for POS systems by industry or hardware preference, check out NerdWallet’s picks for:
Best POS systems by industry
Best POS systems by hardware
POS system FAQ
A POS system is a combination of hardware and software that enables a business to accept payment for a transaction. Many POS systems, however, often do much more than process payments. They may have the capability to track inventory, manage employees, sync with popular payroll and accounting software, build customer profiles, offer loyalty programs and additional features.
An example of a simple POS system that’s quite common these days would be a credit card reader attached to a smartphone; this mobile POS system allows a transaction to be completed with the swipe of a card through a card reader and payment software accessed through the phone. An example of a more complex, feature-rich POS system would be a full set of POS hardware that includes a terminal, cash drawer, barcode scanner and receipt printer with accompanying software that enables business management.
A POS payment is taken at the time of a sales transaction. Payment may be made in person, using cash, a credit or debit card or a digital wallet, or online, depending on the specific setup of the business. If a card is used for payment, whether in person or online, the merchant will be charged a processing fee based on the card used, the issuing bank of the card and the payment processor’s own fee.