Quick Overview
- 1#1: Square - Cloud-based POS system that turns any computer or device into a cash register with payments, inventory, and reporting features.
- 2#2: Lightspeed Retail - Comprehensive retail POS software for inventory management, customer tracking, and multi-channel sales on computers.
- 3#3: Shopify POS - Integrated POS solution for computers that syncs online store sales, inventory, and customer data seamlessly.
- 4#4: Clover - Flexible POS platform for computers with customizable apps, payments, and hardware integration for retail.
- 5#5: Toast - Restaurant-focused POS system for computers handling orders, payments, menus, and kitchen management.
- 6#6: Revel Systems - Cloud POS software for computers with advanced analytics, loyalty programs, and multi-store support.
- 7#7: Epos Now - Cloud-based EPOS for retail and hospitality on computers with integrations for accounting and CRM.
- 8#8: Loyverse - Free POS app for computers offering sales tracking, inventory control, and employee management for small businesses.
- 9#9: UniCenta - Open-source POS and back-office software for computers supporting retail, restaurants, and custom configurations.
- 10#10: Chromis POS - Free open-source POS system for computers designed for retail with inventory and reporting capabilities.
We ranked these tools by evaluating feature depth, user experience, reliability, and adaptability, ensuring a balanced focus on practical utility, technical quality, and value for diverse business needs.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores top computer cash register software options including Square, Lightspeed Retail, Shopify POS, Clover, Toast, and more, analyzing features like POS capabilities, integration options, and pricing structures. Readers will discover which tool aligns with their specific needs, from small businesses to larger operations, helping streamline daily transactions and manage operations effectively.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Square Cloud-based POS system that turns any computer or device into a cash register with payments, inventory, and reporting features. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.6/10 |
| 2 | Lightspeed Retail Comprehensive retail POS software for inventory management, customer tracking, and multi-channel sales on computers. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 |  Shopify POS Integrated POS solution for computers that syncs online store sales, inventory, and customer data seamlessly. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Clover Flexible POS platform for computers with customizable apps, payments, and hardware integration for retail. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | Toast Restaurant-focused POS system for computers handling orders, payments, menus, and kitchen management. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 6 | Revel Systems Cloud POS software for computers with advanced analytics, loyalty programs, and multi-store support. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 7 | Epos Now Cloud-based EPOS for retail and hospitality on computers with integrations for accounting and CRM. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | Loyverse Free POS app for computers offering sales tracking, inventory control, and employee management for small businesses. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 9 | UniCenta Open-source POS and back-office software for computers supporting retail, restaurants, and custom configurations. | other | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 | 6.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 10 | Chromis POS Free open-source POS system for computers designed for retail with inventory and reporting capabilities. | other | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 6.8/10 | 9.5/10 |
Cloud-based POS system that turns any computer or device into a cash register with payments, inventory, and reporting features.
Comprehensive retail POS software for inventory management, customer tracking, and multi-channel sales on computers.
Integrated POS solution for computers that syncs online store sales, inventory, and customer data seamlessly.
Flexible POS platform for computers with customizable apps, payments, and hardware integration for retail.
Restaurant-focused POS system for computers handling orders, payments, menus, and kitchen management.
Cloud POS software for computers with advanced analytics, loyalty programs, and multi-store support.
Cloud-based EPOS for retail and hospitality on computers with integrations for accounting and CRM.
Free POS app for computers offering sales tracking, inventory control, and employee management for small businesses.
Open-source POS and back-office software for computers supporting retail, restaurants, and custom configurations.
Free open-source POS system for computers designed for retail with inventory and reporting capabilities.
Square
enterpriseCloud-based POS system that turns any computer or device into a cash register with payments, inventory, and reporting features.
Completely free core POS software with instant setup and no contracts, allowing businesses to start selling immediately using existing hardware.
Square is a versatile point-of-sale (POS) system that transforms computers, tablets, or smartphones into efficient cash registers for processing payments, managing inventory, and generating sales reports. It supports contactless payments, gift cards, and loyalty programs, with seamless integration for e-commerce and appointments. Ideal for retail, restaurants, and services, it offers free core software with no monthly fees for basic use.
Pros
- Free POS software with no subscription for core features
- Intuitive interface and quick setup on any computer or device
- Robust payment processing including cards, Apple Pay, and digital wallets
Cons
- Transaction fees (2.6% + 10¢ in-person) can accumulate for high-volume sellers
- Requires reliable internet connection for full functionality
- Advanced reporting and features locked behind paid plans
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses and startups seeking an affordable, user-friendly cash register solution without upfront software costs.
Lightspeed Retail
enterpriseComprehensive retail POS software for inventory management, customer tracking, and multi-channel sales on computers.
Seamless omnichannel retail platform that unifies in-store POS with online sales and inventory in real-time
Lightspeed Retail is a cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) system tailored for retail businesses, enabling seamless transaction processing, inventory tracking, and customer management across multiple locations. It integrates with e-commerce platforms like Shopify for omnichannel selling and provides advanced analytics for business insights. Ideal for scaling retailers, it supports customizable hardware and automates reordering to prevent stockouts.
Pros
- Comprehensive inventory management with real-time tracking and automated reordering
- Robust multi-location support and omnichannel integrations
- Advanced reporting and analytics for data-driven decisions
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers required for full feature access
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customizations
- Occasional integration delays with third-party apps
Best For
Multi-location retail businesses seeking scalable POS with strong inventory and e-commerce synchronization.
Shopify POS
enterpriseIntegrated POS solution for computers that syncs online store sales, inventory, and customer data seamlessly.
Real-time inventory and sales synchronization across online and physical stores
Shopify POS is a versatile point-of-sale system that integrates seamlessly with Shopify's e-commerce platform, enabling merchants to process in-person transactions on iPads, computers, or compatible hardware. It handles sales, inventory management, customer data, and payments while syncing everything in real-time with online stores. This makes it ideal for omnichannel retail, supporting features like barcode scanning, refunds, and detailed reporting.
Pros
- Seamless real-time sync between online and in-store inventory/sales
- Broad compatibility with payment processors and hardware
- Robust customer management and reporting tools
Cons
- Requires underlying Shopify subscription for full access
- POS Pro features incur additional $89/month per location fee
- Less ideal as a standalone cash register without e-commerce needs
Best For
Retail businesses with an existing or planned Shopify online store seeking unified omnichannel sales management.
Clover
enterpriseFlexible POS platform for computers with customizable apps, payments, and hardware integration for retail.
App Marketplace with over 500 third-party apps for endless customization and integrations
Clover is a versatile cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) system from Fiserv, tailored for small to medium businesses as a computer cash register solution with robust payment processing, inventory tracking, and sales analytics. It runs on dedicated hardware like the Clover Station or Mini but also supports web-based dashboards and integrations for computer use, enabling seamless transactions via EMV, NFC, and contactless payments. The platform's app marketplace provides extensive customization for retail, restaurants, and services, making it a scalable cash register software option.
Pros
- Extensive app marketplace with 500+ integrations for customization
- Reliable payment processing supporting all major cards and digital wallets
- Strong inventory management and real-time reporting tools
Cons
- Hardware purchase required for full functionality, adding upfront costs
- Transaction fees can accumulate for high-volume businesses
- Occasional customer service delays reported by users
Best For
Small to medium retail, restaurant, or service businesses needing a customizable, app-rich POS for computer-based cash register operations.
Toast
enterpriseRestaurant-focused POS system for computers handling orders, payments, menus, and kitchen management.
Seamless Toast Online Ordering integration that syncs directly with the POS for real-time inventory and fulfillment.
Toast is a cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) system tailored for restaurants, offering comprehensive tools for order management, payment processing, inventory tracking, and employee scheduling. It supports hardware like iPads and kitchen displays, enabling efficient front-of-house and back-of-house operations. Additional features include online ordering, delivery integrations, customer loyalty programs, and advanced reporting, making it a full-service solution for foodservice businesses.
Pros
- Extensive restaurant-specific features like kitchen display systems and online ordering integrations
- Reliable offline mode for uninterrupted service
- Strong analytics and reporting for business insights
Cons
- High upfront hardware costs and subscription fees
- Steep learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
- Limited flexibility for non-restaurant retail environments
Best For
Mid-sized restaurants seeking an all-in-one POS with robust online and delivery capabilities.
Revel Systems
enterpriseCloud POS software for computers with advanced analytics, loyalty programs, and multi-store support.
Advanced kitchen display system (KDS) for streamlined order routing in restaurants
Revel Systems is a cloud-based POS platform tailored for restaurants, retail, and quick-service businesses, functioning as a comprehensive computer cash register solution. It handles transactions, inventory tracking, employee management, and customer loyalty programs with real-time syncing across devices. The system supports iPad hardware primarily but offers web-based dashboards for remote management and reporting.
Pros
- Robust inventory and sales analytics with real-time reporting
- Strong integrations with accounting software like QuickBooks and delivery apps
- Offline mode ensures uninterrupted service during connectivity issues
Cons
- High subscription costs plus hardware requirements
- Steep learning curve for advanced features
- Customer support can be slow and inconsistent
Best For
Mid-sized restaurants and retail stores needing scalable, feature-rich POS with advanced reporting.
Epos Now
enterpriseCloud-based EPOS for retail and hospitality on computers with integrations for accounting and CRM.
Expansive App Store enabling seamless integrations with e-commerce, loyalty programs, and third-party services.
Epos Now is a cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) system tailored for retail, hospitality, and service businesses, functioning as comprehensive computer cash register software. It handles transactions, inventory tracking, customer management, and detailed reporting, with support for hardware like touchscreens and receipt printers. The platform offers scalability for single or multi-location operations and integrates with accounting tools like Xero and Sage.
Pros
- Vast app marketplace with over 100 integrations for payments, accounting, and delivery services
- Robust inventory and multi-location management with real-time syncing
- Customizable interface and detailed analytics for business insights
Cons
- Subscription pricing can add up quickly for additional users or advanced features
- Occasional reports of slow customer support response times
- Requires stable internet connection due to cloud dependency
Best For
Small to medium-sized retail and restaurant owners seeking a scalable, feature-rich POS with extensive integrations.
Loyverse
specializedFree POS app for computers offering sales tracking, inventory control, and employee management for small businesses.
Unlimited free use of core POS features with offline capabilities, eliminating subscription costs for essential cash register functions.
Loyverse is a cloud-based POS system that serves as a versatile cash register software for small businesses, supporting sales processing, inventory management, employee tracking, and customer loyalty programs across mobile devices, tablets, and computers. It integrates with hardware like receipt printers and barcode scanners for efficient checkout operations. The platform offers real-time reporting and multi-location support through paid add-ons, making it scalable for growing retail or service businesses.
Pros
- Completely free core POS functionality with no time limits or outlet restrictions in the basic plan
- Intuitive interface with quick setup and multi-platform support (iOS, Android, Windows, web)
- Robust offline mode ensures uninterrupted sales during internet outages
Cons
- Advanced reporting and analytics locked behind paid Back Office subscription
- Limited built-in payment processing options, often requiring third-party integrations with fees
- Customer support primarily email-based, lacking live chat for free users
Best For
Ideal for small retail shops, cafes, or food trucks seeking a cost-effective, user-friendly cash register solution without complex setup.
UniCenta
otherOpen-source POS and back-office software for computers supporting retail, restaurants, and custom configurations.
100% open-source codebase enabling unlimited free customization and self-hosting
UniCenta is a free, open-source point-of-sale (POS) software tailored for retail, hospitality, and restaurant environments, functioning as a computer cash register solution. It provides essential features like sales processing, inventory management, customer loyalty programs, and detailed reporting across multiple terminals. Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, Linux, macOS) and hardware integration for printers, scanners, and scales make it versatile for small to medium businesses.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no licensing fees
- Highly customizable code for tailored business needs
- Strong multi-terminal and multi-language support
Cons
- Dated user interface that feels outdated
- Steep learning curve for initial setup and configuration
- Relies on community support rather than dedicated enterprise helpdesk
Best For
Cost-conscious small businesses or tech-savvy owners seeking a customizable, no-subscription POS without sacrificing core cash register functionality.
Chromis POS
otherFree open-source POS system for computers designed for retail with inventory and reporting capabilities.
Full open-source customizability allowing users to modify the code for specific business needs
Chromis POS is a free, open-source point-of-sale system originally derived from Openbravo, tailored for small to medium retail and hospitality businesses. It provides essential cash register functions including sales processing, inventory tracking, customer management, and basic reporting, with support for hardware like receipt printers, barcode scanners, and scales. The software runs on multiple platforms such as Windows, Linux, and Mac, making it versatile for on-premise deployments.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no licensing costs
- Cross-platform compatibility for Windows, Linux, and Mac
- Supports a wide range of POS hardware including scales and kitchen displays
Cons
- Outdated user interface that feels clunky and less modern
- Limited official support, relying on community forums
- Complex initial setup and configuration for non-technical users
Best For
Small retail or hospitality businesses seeking a no-cost, customizable on-premise POS solution without needing advanced cloud features.
Conclusion
After reviewing 10 top computer cash register software tools, it’s clear each meets distinct needs, but Square leads as the top choice, offering cloud-based versatility, seamless payments, and robust inventory features. Lightspeed Retail excels with comprehensive retail tools and multi-channel support, while Shopify POS stands out for its seamless sync between online and in-store sales—both strong alternatives for specific business goals. These tools collectively streamline operations, proving essential for modern commerce efficiency.
Don’t wait—try Square today to unlock the all-in-one power of a leading computer cash register solution and transform your business operations.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
shopify.comReferenced in the comparison table and product reviews above.