Compare POS Systems: Head-to-Head Comparisons
Finding the right POS system is easier when you can compare them side-by-side. We have analyzed the top POS systems to help you make an informed decision. Each comparison includes pricing, features, pros/cons, and our honest verdict.
Most Popular POS Comparisons
Square vs Toast
Best for: Deciding between flexibility (Square) and restaurant specialization (Toast)
Square offers free software and works for any business. Toast is built exclusively for restaurants with advanced features. Perfect for small restaurant owners weighing cost vs. features.
Toast vs Square
Best for: Restaurant owners evaluating the two most popular options
A restaurant-first perspective comparing Toast dedicated features against Square versatility. Includes online ordering, delivery, and hardware comparisons.
Square vs Clover
Best for: Understanding transparent pricing (Square) vs. negotiable rates (Clover)
The classic comparison for small business owners. Square fixed pricing vs. Clover variable rates through resellers. Which approach fits your business?
Clover vs Square
Best for: Businesses comparing premium hardware (Clover) vs. simple setup (Square)
Clover beautiful hardware and app ecosystem vs. Square no-contract simplicity. Includes our warning about Clover reseller practices.
Toast vs Lightspeed
Best for: Restaurant owners choosing between two industry leaders
Both excel at restaurant POS, but Toast uses proprietary hardware while Lightspeed runs on iPads. One is restaurant-only; one handles retail too.
Shopify POS vs Square
Best for: Retailers deciding between eCommerce integration (Shopify) and simplicity (Square)
If you sell online, Shopify POS syncs beautifully. If you are primarily brick-and-mortar, Square free tier is hard to beat.
Square vs Shopify POS
Best for: Businesses weighing free POS (Square) vs. omnichannel power (Shopify)
Start with zero monthly costs or invest in unified online-offline selling? This comparison helps you decide.
Lightspeed vs Shopify POS
Best for: Retailers choosing between inventory depth (Lightspeed) and eCommerce (Shopify)
Complex inventory management vs. seamless online integration. Which matters more to your retail business?
New to POS Systems?
Start with our quick guide for business owners
Get StartedRevel vs Toast
Best for: Multi-location restaurants comparing enterprise solutions
Revel offers maximum customization for franchise and enterprise. Toast delivers easier setup with robust features. Which fits your growth plan?
TouchBistro vs Toast
Best for: Restaurants comparing iPad-native (TouchBistro) vs. integrated platform (Toast)
TouchBistro excels at offline reliability and iPad simplicity. Toast dominates online ordering and delivery. Pick based on your priorities.
Compare by Business Type
Restaurant POS Comparisons
- Square vs Toast – Free POS vs. restaurant specialist
- Toast vs Square – Restaurant-first perspective
- Toast vs Lightspeed – Two restaurant heavyweights
- Revel vs Toast – Enterprise restaurant comparison
- TouchBistro vs Toast – iPad vs. proprietary hardware
Retail POS Comparisons
- Shopify POS vs Square – eCommerce vs. simplicity
- Square vs Shopify POS – Free tier vs. omnichannel
- Lightspeed vs Shopify – Inventory vs. eCommerce
- Square vs Clover – Flexibility vs. premium hardware
Small Business POS Comparisons
- Clover vs Square – Two most popular options
- Square vs Toast – All-purpose vs. restaurant-only
- Square vs Shopify – Start free or invest in omnichannel
How to Use These Comparisons
Each comparison page includes:
- Quick Verdict – Our recommendation in 30 seconds
- Side-by-Side Feature Table – Compare specs at a glance
- Key Differences – What really sets them apart
- Who Should Choose What – Guidance based on your business type
- FAQ Section – Common questions answered
- Cost Calculator – Estimate your monthly costs
Free POS Guides & Resources
Expert guides to help you make informed decisions about your POS system.
Ultimate POS Buyer's Checklist
47-Point Checklist for Choosing the Right POS System
Don't buy a POS system without this comprehensive checklist. Covers features, pricing, contracts, and questions to ask vendors.
Restaurant POS Buyer's Guide
Complete 2025 Guide for Restaurant Owners
Everything you need to know about restaurant POS systems. Compare top options, understand pricing, and avoid costly mistakes.
Retail POS Buyer's Guide
The Definitive Guide for Retail Store Owners
Find the perfect POS for your retail business. Covers inventory management, multi-location, eCommerce integration, and more.
POS Cost Savings Report
How to Save 30% on Your POS System
Industry insider secrets on negotiating better rates, avoiding hidden fees, and maximizing your POS investment.
POS Switching Guide
How to Switch POS Systems Without Losing Data
Step-by-step guide to migrating your business to a new POS system. Includes data migration checklist and timing recommendations.
Find POS Systems by Industry
Looking for recommendations specific to your business type? Check our industry guides:
- Restaurant POS Systems Hub
- Retail POS Systems Hub
- Best Free POS Systems
- Best Coffee Shop POS Systems
- Best Food Truck POS Systems
- Best Salon & Spa POS Systems
- Best Liquor Store POS Systems
- Best Brewery POS Systems
POS Brand Reviews
Get detailed reviews of major POS systems:
- Square POS Review 2025
- Toast POS Review 2025
- Clover POS Review 2025
- Lightspeed POS Review 2025
- Shopify POS Review 2025
Need Help Choosing?
Still not sure which POS is right for your business? Take our POS Recommendation Quiz or download our 47-point buyer checklist to evaluate vendors systematically.
POS System Cost Calculator
Get an instant estimate of your monthly POS costs based on your business needs
Estimated Monthly Cost
*Estimates based on industry averages. Actual costs may vary based on your specific needs and chosen vendor.
Ultimate POS Buyer's Checklist
47-Point Checklist for Choosing the Right POS System
Don't buy a POS system without this comprehensive checklist. Covers features, pricing, contracts, and questions to ask vendors.
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