Square vs Clover: Complete 2025 POS Comparison
Square and Clover are two of the most popular POS systems for small to medium businesses. Both offer flexible hardware options and robust features, but they take fundamentally different approaches: Square offers transparent, fixed pricing while Clover pricing varies significantly based on your merchant services provider.
Quick Verdict: Choose Square for transparent pricing, no contracts, and if you want to avoid payment processing lock-in. Choose Clover if you want premium hardware design, are working with a trusted local merchant services provider, or need more customization options.
Last updated: December 2025
Square
Best for small businesses & startups
Clover
Flexible hardware with powerful features
Quick Verdict
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
| Feature | Square | Clover |
|---|---|---|
| Free POS software | ✓ Yes | ✗ No |
| Inventory management | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Employee management | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Online ordering | ✓ Yes | Add-on |
| Advanced reporting | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Loyalty program | Add-on | ✓ Yes |
| Table management | Add-on | Add-on |
| Kitchen display | Add-on | Add-on |
| 24/7 phone support | ✗ No | ✓ Yes |
| Offline mode | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
Square
Pros
- Free to start with no monthly fees
- Easy setup and intuitive interface
- Affordable hardware options
- Excellent for mobile payments
- Robust free features
Cons
- Higher processing fees than some competitors
- Limited restaurant-specific features in free plan
- Account stability issues reported
- Add-ons can increase costs
Clover
Pros
- Beautiful, reliable hardware
- Large app marketplace
- Works with many payment processors
- Versatile for different business types
- Strong inventory features
Cons
- Hardware costs are high
- Software resold through third parties
- Inconsistent pricing and support
- Monthly fees add up quickly
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Get Free Custom Quotes Compare pricing from top providers - takes 60 secondsSquare vs Clover: Key Differences
How You Buy Them
Square is only available directly from Square – pricing is the same for everyone. Clover is sold through thousands of merchant services providers, banks, and resellers, meaning pricing can vary dramatically. This is Clover’s biggest strength and weakness.
Processing Fee Flexibility
With Square, you get fixed rates (2.6% + 10c). With Clover, your rates depend on your provider – you might get better rates through negotiation, or worse rates from a less reputable reseller. Always get multiple quotes.
Hardware Quality
Clover’s hardware is generally considered more premium and aesthetically pleasing. The Clover Station is a beautiful all-in-one terminal. Square’s hardware is more utilitarian but highly functional.
App Marketplace
Both have extensive app marketplaces, but Clover’s is larger with more third-party integrations. Square’s ecosystem is more tightly integrated but more limited in options.
Who Should Choose Square?
- Businesses that value pricing transparency
- Those who don’t want to negotiate with payment processors
- Startups and small businesses on a budget
- Mobile businesses and food trucks
- Those who want month-to-month flexibility
Who Should Choose Clover?
- Established businesses with negotiating leverage
- Those with a trusted existing merchant services relationship
- Businesses wanting premium hardware aesthetics
- Those needing specific third-party integrations
- Multi-location businesses seeking custom solutions
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Clover pricing vary so much?
Clover is sold through independent merchant services providers who set their own pricing. This means you could pay $0/month or $99/month for the same software depending on who you buy from. Always compare multiple providers.
Can I use Clover hardware with Square?
No, Clover hardware only works with Clover software, and vice versa. Both are proprietary closed systems.
Which is better for restaurants?
Both work for restaurants, but if you’re running a full-service restaurant, you might want to consider Toast instead, which is purpose-built for food service.
Is Clover a scam?
Clover itself is a legitimate product owned by Fiserv. However, some resellers have engaged in questionable practices like hidden fees or equipment leases. Always buy from reputable sources and read your contract carefully.
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