What is the best POS system for small businesses?

The best POS system depends on your specific needs. Square is great for small businesses just starting out with free software. Toast is excellent for restaurants. Shopify POS is ideal for retail businesses with online stores.

How much does a POS system cost?

POS system costs vary widely. Free options like Square start at $0/month with transaction fees around 2.6% + $0.10. Premium systems like Toast or Lightspeed range from $69-$165/month plus hardware costs of $300-$1,500.

What features should I look for in a POS system?

Essential POS features include inventory management, sales reporting, employee management, payment processing, and customer management. Restaurants need table management and kitchen display systems. Retail needs barcode scanning and e-commerce integration.

Is Square POS really free?

Yes, Square offers free POS software with no monthly fees. You only pay transaction fees of 2.6% + $0.10 for in-person payments. Hardware like card readers ($49) and terminals ($299-$799) are sold separately. Premium features require paid plans starting at $29/month.

What is the difference between cloud-based and traditional POS systems?

Cloud-based POS systems store data online, allowing access from anywhere and automatic updates. Traditional (legacy) systems store data locally on a server. Cloud POS typically has lower upfront costs ($0-$100/month) vs traditional systems ($3,000-$10,000+ upfront). Cloud systems are better for multi-location businesses and remote management.

Can I use my iPad as a POS system?

Yes, many modern POS systems like Square, Toast, Clover, TouchBistro, and Lightspeed offer iPad-based solutions. You need the POS app, a card reader, and optionally a stand, receipt printer, and cash drawer. iPad POS systems are popular for their lower cost, ease of use, and sleek appearance.

How do I switch POS systems without losing data?

To switch POS systems safely: 1) Export all data (sales history, inventory, customer info) from your current system. 2) Choose a new POS that can import your data format. 3) Run both systems in parallel for 1-2 weeks. 4) Train staff on the new system. 5) Verify data accuracy before fully switching. Most vendors offer migration assistance.

What POS system do most restaurants use?

Toast is the most popular POS for restaurants in 2025, powering over 100,000 locations. Other top restaurant POS systems include Square for Restaurants (best for small cafes), TouchBistro (iPad-based), SpotOn (great for full-service), Clover (versatile), and NCR Aloha (enterprise chains). The best choice depends on restaurant type and budget.

PayPal Zettle vs Erply: Complete Comparison

Trying to decide between PayPal Zettle and Erply? This comprehensive comparison breaks down pricing, features, and which POS is better for your business.

Quick Comparison

Feature	PayPal Zettle	Erply
Price	$0/mo	$49/mo
Best For	Mobile & Pop-up	Retail & Franchise
Category	Multi-Industry	Retail
Rating	4.4/5	4.1/5

The Verdict

Choose PayPal Zettle if you’re a Mobile & Pop-up business.

Choose Erply if you’re a Retail & Franchise business.

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Written by

David Thompson

Retail Technology Expert

Verified Expert

David Thompson is a Retail Technology Expert specializing in point-of-sale systems for retail environments. With 15 years in retail technology consulting, David has helped over 200 businesses select and implement POS solutions. He holds an MBA from Northwestern Kellogg and previously led retail technology initiatives at Best Buy Corporate.

MBA, Northwestern Kellogg School of ManagementFormer Director of Retail Technology, Best Buy15+ years retail technology consulting

Expertise:

Retail POS SystemsE-commerce IntegrationOmnichannel SolutionsInventory Management

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