When comparing Shopify POS vs PayPal Zettle, 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, 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: Shopify POS vs PayPal Zettle
| Feature | Shopify POS | PayPal Zettle |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Retail | Multi-Industry |
| Starting Price | $89/month (POS Pro) | $29 (card reader) + 2.29% per transaction |
| Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.2/5 |
| Target Business | Small Business | Small Business |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Transaction-based |
| Free Trial | Yes | No |
| Free Version | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Retailers already using or planning to use Shopify for eCommerce | Small businesses wanting pay-per-transaction model |
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
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
Shopify POS Features:
- Unified inventory
- Customer profiles
- Staff management
- In-store analytics
- Product management
PayPal Zettle Features:
- Mobile POS
- Card Reader
- Inventory Management
- Reporting
- Digital Receipts
When comparing features, Shopify POS stands out with Best-in-class eCommerce integration, 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 | Shopify POS | PayPal Zettle |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $89/month (POS Pro) | $29 (card reader) + 2.29% per transaction |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Transaction-based |
| Price Range | Mid-range | Budget |
| Free Trial | Available | Not available |
| Free Version | Yes | 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
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
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 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 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 Shopify POS and PayPal Zettle 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 PayPal Zettle if you’re Small businesses wanting pay-per-transaction model. Shopify POS has a higher user rating (4.5 vs 4.2). We recommend trying demos or free trials of both systems before making your final decision.