When comparing Simphony vs ChowNow, you’re looking at two distinct approaches to restaurant point-of-sale technology. Simphony, rated 4.2/5, offers Global brands and multi-location operators. Meanwhile, ChowNow, rated 4.3/5, provides Restaurants wanting commission-free ordering. Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.
Quick Comparison: Simphony vs ChowNow
| Feature | Simphony | ChowNow |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Restaurant | Software |
| Starting Price | $1/month per workstation | $149/month |
| Rating | 4.2/5 | 4.3/5 |
| Target Business | Small Business to Enterprise | Small Business to Mid-Market |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Subscription |
| Free Trial | No | No |
| Free Version | No | No |
| Best For | Global brands and multi-location operators | Restaurants wanting commission-free ordering |
Simphony Overview
Oracle Simphony is a cloud-based POS platform serving restaurants, hotels, and stadiums in 180 countries. Features 200+ integrations, offline mode, and scalable architecture from single locations to global chains.
Simphony is offered by Oracle (founded 2010) based in Austin, TX. The system focuses on Full Service, Quick Service, Hotels, Stadiums.
Key Features:
- Cloud POS
- Offline Mode
- 200+ Integrations
- Multi-language
- Online Ordering
- Kitchen Display
ChowNow Overview
ChowNow is a commission-free online ordering platform for restaurants. Provides branded apps, website ordering, and marketing tools without per-order commissions like third-party delivery apps.
ChowNow is offered by ChowNow Inc. (founded 2010) based in Los Angeles, CA. The system focuses on Restaurants.
Key Features:
- Online Ordering
- Branded App
- Marketing Tools
- Customer Database
- POS Integration
- Loyalty Programs
Feature Comparison
Simphony Features:
- Cloud POS
- Offline Mode
- 200+ Integrations
- Multi-language
- Online Ordering
ChowNow Features:
- Online Ordering
- Branded App
- Marketing Tools
- Customer Database
- POS Integration
When comparing features, Simphony stands out with $1/month entry pricing, while ChowNow differentiates itself with Zero commissions. Your choice should depend on which features align better with your specific business requirements.
Pricing Comparison
| Pricing Aspect | Simphony | ChowNow |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $1/month per workstation | $149/month |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Subscription |
| Price Range | Budget to Premium | Mid-range |
| Free Trial | Not available | Not available |
| Free Version | No | No |
Both systems offer competitive pricing for their respective feature sets. Consider the total cost of ownership including hardware, processing fees, and add-on modules when making your decision.
Pros and Cons
Simphony
Pros:
- Affordable $1/month entry
- 180 country presence
- 200+ integrations
- Enterprise scalability
Cons:
- Complex for small operations
- Advanced features cost more
- Implementation required
ChowNow
Pros:
- No commission fees
- Branded experience
- Customer data ownership
- Marketing tools
Cons:
- Monthly subscription cost
- No delivery drivers
- Limited to online ordering
Who Should Choose Simphony?
Simphony is ideal for Global brands and multi-location operators. The system is particularly well-suited for Full Service, Quick Service, Hotels, Stadiums.
However, Simphony may not be the best fit for Very small restaurants wanting simplicity.
Who Should Choose ChowNow?
ChowNow is ideal for Restaurants wanting commission-free ordering. The system is particularly well-suited for Restaurants.
However, ChowNow may not be the best fit for Those needing full POS or delivery services.
Our Recommendation
Both Simphony and ChowNow are solid POS solutions, but they excel in different areas. Choose Simphony if you’re Global brands and multi-location operators. Choose ChowNow if you’re Restaurants wanting commission-free ordering. ChowNow has a higher user rating (4.3 vs 4.2). We recommend trying demos or free trials of both systems before making your final decision.