When comparing Shopify POS vs Helcim, you’re looking at two distinct approaches to retail point-of-sale technology. Shopify POS, rated 4.5/5, offers Retailers already using or planning to use Shopify for eCommerce. Meanwhile, Helcim, rated 4.6/5, provides Cost-conscious businesses wanting transparent pricing. Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.
Quick Comparison: Shopify POS vs Helcim
| Feature | Shopify POS | Helcim |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Retail | Multi-Industry |
| Starting Price | $89/month (POS Pro) | Free POS + interchange + 0.4% + 8¢ |
| Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.6/5 |
| Target Business | Small Business | Small Business to Mid-Market |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Interchange-plus |
| Free Trial | Yes | Yes |
| Free Version | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Retailers already using or planning to use Shopify for eCommerce | Cost-conscious businesses wanting transparent pricing |
Shopify POS Overview
Shopify POS seamlessly connects your online and retail stores, allowing you to sell anywhere. It syncs products, inventory, and customer data between your online store and physical locations.
Shopify POS is offered by Shopify Inc. (founded 2013) based in Ottawa, Canada. The system focuses on Retail, Pop-up shops, Markets, Omnichannel sellers.
Key Features:
- Unified inventory
- Customer profiles
- Staff management
- In-store analytics
- Product management
- Gift cards
Helcim Overview
Helcim provides interchange-plus payment processing with free POS software and card readers. Known for transparent pricing, no contracts, and volume-based discounts for growing businesses.
Helcim is offered by Helcim Inc. (founded 2006) based in Calgary, Canada. The system focuses on Retail, Service, B2B.
Key Features:
- Free POS Software
- Card Reader
- Invoicing
- Online Payments
- Recurring Billing
- Volume Discounts
Feature Comparison
Shopify POS Features:
- Unified inventory
- Customer profiles
- Staff management
- In-store analytics
- Product management
Helcim Features:
- Free POS Software
- Card Reader
- Invoicing
- Online Payments
- Recurring Billing
When comparing features, Shopify POS stands out with Best-in-class eCommerce integration, while Helcim differentiates itself with Transparent pricing. Your choice should depend on which features align better with your specific business requirements.
Pricing Comparison
| Pricing Aspect | Shopify POS | Helcim |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $89/month (POS Pro) | Free POS + interchange + 0.4% + 8¢ |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Interchange-plus |
| Price Range | Mid-range | Budget |
| Free Trial | Available | Available |
| Free Version | Yes | Yes |
Helcim 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
Shopify POS
Pros:
- Seamless eCommerce integration
- Beautiful interface
- Strong brand recognition
- Extensive app store
- Great for omnichannel
Cons:
- Best with Shopify eCommerce
- POS Pro needed for key features
- Transaction fees without Shopify Payments
Helcim
Pros:
- Transparent interchange-plus pricing
- Free POS and card reader
- No contracts or hidden fees
- Volume discounts
Cons:
- Limited POS features vs competitors
- Processing only – not full POS
- US and Canada only
Who Should Choose Shopify POS?
Shopify POS is ideal for Retailers already using or planning to use Shopify for eCommerce. The system is particularly well-suited for Retail, Pop-up shops, Markets, Omnichannel sellers.
However, Shopify POS may not be the best fit for Restaurants or businesses not doing eCommerce.
Who Should Choose Helcim?
Helcim is ideal for Cost-conscious businesses wanting transparent pricing. The system is particularly well-suited for Retail, Service, B2B.
However, Helcim may not be the best fit for Restaurants needing comprehensive POS features.
Our Recommendation
Both Shopify POS and Helcim are solid POS solutions, but they excel in different areas. Choose Shopify POS if you’re Retailers already using or planning to use Shopify for eCommerce. Choose Helcim if you’re Cost-conscious businesses wanting transparent pricing. Helcim has a higher user rating (4.6 vs 4.5). We recommend trying demos or free trials of both systems before making your final decision.