When comparing NCR Aloha vs PayPal Zettle, you’re looking at two distinct approaches to restaurant point-of-sale technology. NCR Aloha, rated 4.1/5, offers Full-service restaurants, growing chains, and enterprises needing robust features. Meanwhile, PayPal Zettle, rated 4.2/5, provides Small businesses wanting pay-per-transaction model. Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.
Quick Comparison: NCR Aloha vs PayPal Zettle
| Feature | NCR Aloha | PayPal Zettle |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Restaurant | Multi-Industry |
| Starting Price | $175/month | $29 (card reader) + 2.29% per transaction |
| Rating | 4.1/5 | 4.2/5 |
| Target Business | All Sizes | Small Business |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Transaction-based |
| Free Trial | No | No |
| Free Version | No | Yes |
| Best For | Full-service restaurants, growing chains, and enterprises needing robust features | Small businesses wanting pay-per-transaction model |
NCR Aloha Overview
NCR Aloha is a leading restaurant POS system backed by NCR Voyix with over 130 years of experience. It offers both cloud-based (Aloha Cloud) and Windows-based (Aloha Essentials) solutions serving over 75,000 restaurants worldwide, from major chains like Chipotle to independent restaurants.
NCR Aloha is offered by NCR Voyix (founded 1884) based in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. The system focuses on Restaurants, Quick Service, Full Service, Bars.
Key Features:
- Cloud-based deployment
- Mobile ordering
- Kitchen display system
- Online ordering
- Loyalty programs
- Inventory management
PayPal Zettle Overview
PayPal Zettle is a mobile POS system with card readers and simple POS software. Features no monthly fees on the basic plan, integration with PayPal, and affordable hardware options.
PayPal Zettle is offered by PayPal (founded 2010) based in Stockholm, Sweden. The system focuses on Retail, Service, Mobile Businesses.
Key Features:
- Mobile POS
- Card Reader
- Inventory Management
- Reporting
- Digital Receipts
- PayPal Integration
Feature Comparison
NCR Aloha Features:
- Cloud-based deployment
- Mobile ordering
- Kitchen display system
- Online ordering
- Loyalty programs
PayPal Zettle Features:
- Mobile POS
- Card Reader
- Inventory Management
- Reporting
- Digital Receipts
When comparing features, NCR Aloha stands out with 130+ years of NCR experience, while PayPal Zettle differentiates itself with No monthly fees. Your choice should depend on which features align better with your specific business requirements.
Pricing Comparison
| Pricing Aspect | NCR Aloha | PayPal Zettle |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $175/month | $29 (card reader) + 2.29% per transaction |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Transaction-based |
| Price Range | Premium | Budget |
| Free Trial | Not available | Not available |
| Free Version | No | Yes |
PayPal Zettle is more budget-friendly, making it a better choice for cost-conscious businesses. Consider the total cost of ownership including hardware, processing fees, and add-on modules when making your decision.
Pros and Cons
NCR Aloha
Pros:
- Trusted by major restaurant chains
- 250+ integrations available
- Comprehensive feature set
- Both cloud and on-premise options
- 24/7 customer support included
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Can be complex to program
- Recent fee increases (April 2025)
- Not as user-friendly as newer systems
PayPal Zettle
Pros:
- No monthly fees
- PayPal integration
- Affordable hardware
- Easy setup
Cons:
- Processing fees on every transaction
- Limited advanced features
- Basic reporting
Who Should Choose NCR Aloha?
NCR Aloha is ideal for Full-service restaurants, growing chains, and enterprises needing robust features. The system is particularly well-suited for Restaurants, Quick Service, Full Service, Bars.
However, NCR Aloha may not be the best fit for Budget-conscious small restaurants, businesses wanting simple setup.
Who Should Choose PayPal Zettle?
PayPal Zettle is ideal for Small businesses wanting pay-per-transaction model. The system is particularly well-suited for Retail, Service, Mobile Businesses.
However, PayPal Zettle may not be the best fit for High-volume operations where processing fees add up.
Our Recommendation
Both NCR Aloha and PayPal Zettle are solid POS solutions, but they excel in different areas. Choose NCR Aloha if you’re Full-service restaurants, growing chains, and enterprises needing robust features. Choose PayPal Zettle if you’re Small businesses wanting pay-per-transaction model. PayPal Zettle has a higher user rating (4.2 vs 4.1). Also, choose PayPal Zettle if you want to start with a free version. We recommend trying demos or free trials of both systems before making your final decision.