Quick Overview
- 1#1: Epicor Eagle - Comprehensive POS and inventory management system specifically designed for hardware stores, lumber yards, and building material retailers.
- 2#2: Lightspeed Retail - Cloud-based POS with advanced inventory tracking, multi-location support, and e-commerce integration ideal for hardware retailers.
- 3#3: IT Retail - Industry-specific POS software optimized for hardware stores and building supply businesses with special order and vendor management.
- 4#4: Square for Retail - User-friendly, affordable POS with inventory management and sales analytics suited for small to medium hardware stores.
- 5#5: LS Retail - Microsoft Dynamics-powered POS solution for complex retail operations including hardware and home improvement chains.
- 6#6: Clover - Flexible POS hardware and software platform with customizable apps for inventory-heavy retail like hardware stores.
- 7#7: Revel Systems - Cloud iPad POS with real-time inventory, customer loyalty, and reporting features for specialty retail.
- 8#8: Hardware Retailer - All-in-one POS tailored for independent hardware retailers with quick sales and detailed inventory control.
- 9#9: POS Nation - Customizable turnkey POS systems with strong support for retail inventory management in hardware stores.
- 10#10: RetailEdge - Reliable desktop POS software offering matrix inventory and purchase order features for small hardware retailers.
We evaluated these tools based on industry-specific features (such as lumber yard tracking or special order management), functionality, ease of use, and value, ensuring each entry meets the unique demands of hardware retail.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores hardware store POS software options, including Epicor Eagle, Lightspeed Retail, IT Retail, Square for Retail, LS Retail, and more, to guide businesses in selecting the right fit. Readers will discover key features, usability, and practical applications of each tool, enabling informed decisions for their operations.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Epicor Eagle Comprehensive POS and inventory management system specifically designed for hardware stores, lumber yards, and building material retailers. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Lightspeed Retail Cloud-based POS with advanced inventory tracking, multi-location support, and e-commerce integration ideal for hardware retailers. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | IT Retail Industry-specific POS software optimized for hardware stores and building supply businesses with special order and vendor management. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 4 | Square for Retail User-friendly, affordable POS with inventory management and sales analytics suited for small to medium hardware stores. | other | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 5 | LS Retail Microsoft Dynamics-powered POS solution for complex retail operations including hardware and home improvement chains. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Clover Flexible POS hardware and software platform with customizable apps for inventory-heavy retail like hardware stores. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 7 | Revel Systems Cloud iPad POS with real-time inventory, customer loyalty, and reporting features for specialty retail. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 8 | Hardware Retailer All-in-one POS tailored for independent hardware retailers with quick sales and detailed inventory control. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | POS Nation Customizable turnkey POS systems with strong support for retail inventory management in hardware stores. | other | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 10 | RetailEdge Reliable desktop POS software offering matrix inventory and purchase order features for small hardware retailers. | other | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 |
Comprehensive POS and inventory management system specifically designed for hardware stores, lumber yards, and building material retailers.
Cloud-based POS with advanced inventory tracking, multi-location support, and e-commerce integration ideal for hardware retailers.
Industry-specific POS software optimized for hardware stores and building supply businesses with special order and vendor management.
User-friendly, affordable POS with inventory management and sales analytics suited for small to medium hardware stores.
Microsoft Dynamics-powered POS solution for complex retail operations including hardware and home improvement chains.
Flexible POS hardware and software platform with customizable apps for inventory-heavy retail like hardware stores.
Cloud iPad POS with real-time inventory, customer loyalty, and reporting features for specialty retail.
All-in-one POS tailored for independent hardware retailers with quick sales and detailed inventory control.
Customizable turnkey POS systems with strong support for retail inventory management in hardware stores.
Reliable desktop POS software offering matrix inventory and purchase order features for small hardware retailers.
Epicor Eagle
enterpriseComprehensive POS and inventory management system specifically designed for hardware stores, lumber yards, and building material retailers.
Matrix pricing and inventory system that dynamically handles variable pricing for hardware items like nuts, bolts, and paint by size, quantity, and packaging.
Epicor Eagle is a robust, industry-specific POS and ERP solution tailored for hardware stores, lumber yards, and building material retailers. It provides comprehensive inventory management with matrix pricing for items like fasteners and paint, special order processing, rental tracking, and integrated accounting. Designed to handle the complexities of hardware retail, it streamlines operations from point-of-sale transactions to advanced reporting and customer loyalty programs.
Pros
- Highly specialized features for hardware inventory like matrix pricing and bulk management
- Seamless integration of POS, rentals, special orders, and accounting
- Proven reliability with decades of industry use and strong reporting tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options
- Higher upfront costs compared to general retail POS systems
- Primarily on-premise with cloud migration still evolving
Best For
Established hardware stores and lumber yards needing a comprehensive, scalable solution for complex inventory and multi-location operations.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $15,000+ per store with annual maintenance fees around 20%; cloud subscriptions from $500/month per location depending on modules.
Lightspeed Retail
enterpriseCloud-based POS with advanced inventory tracking, multi-location support, and e-commerce integration ideal for hardware retailers.
Real-time multi-location inventory visibility and transfer capabilities
Lightspeed Retail is a cloud-based POS system tailored for retail businesses like hardware stores, providing robust inventory management for tools, parts, and supplies with support for matrix SKUs, serial numbers, and bundles. It streamlines sales, customer loyalty programs, purchase orders, and multi-location operations while integrating seamlessly with e-commerce platforms for omnichannel selling. Advanced analytics and reporting help hardware retailers optimize stock levels, forecast demand, and manage vendors efficiently.
Pros
- Comprehensive inventory tools including matrix, kits, and purchase orders ideal for hardware variety
- Multi-location support with real-time synchronization and centralized reporting
- Strong e-commerce integrations for online/offline unified sales
Cons
- Higher pricing may strain smaller hardware stores
- Learning curve for advanced inventory and reporting features
- Transaction fees add to overall costs
Best For
Multi-location hardware stores needing scalable inventory management and omnichannel capabilities.
Pricing
Starts at $89/month (Essentials) per location, up to $249/month (Advanced); plus payment processing fees and one-time setup.
IT Retail
specializedIndustry-specific POS software optimized for hardware stores and building supply businesses with special order and vendor management.
Advanced matrix inventory for variable products like nuts/bolts in different sizes, packs, and materials
IT Retail is a cloud-based POS software tailored for retail environments like hardware stores, offering seamless point-of-sale transactions, real-time inventory management, and customer relationship tools. It excels in handling complex product catalogs with features like serial number tracking, vendor management, and multi-location support, making it ideal for stores stocking tools, fasteners, lumber, and more. The system also provides customizable reporting and loyalty programs to drive sales and efficiency.
Pros
- Robust inventory management with lot/serial tracking perfect for hardware SKUs
- Multi-store synchronization for chain hardware retailers
- Detailed analytics and reporting for sales trends and stock optimization
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for advanced features
- Pricing can add up for multiple locations
- Limited native integrations with specialized hardware store tools like rental equipment software
Best For
Mid-sized hardware stores with diverse inventory needing scalable POS and strong stock control.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month for basic single-store plan; Pro and Enterprise tiers from $199-$499/month based on locations and features, with custom quotes available.
Square for Retail
otherUser-friendly, affordable POS with inventory management and sales analytics suited for small to medium hardware stores.
Unlimited free inventory items with modifiers and purchase order management, ideal for diverse hardware SKUs
Square for Retail is a cloud-based POS system tailored for retail businesses like hardware stores, offering seamless payment processing, inventory management, and sales tracking. It supports barcode scanning, stock level monitoring, purchase orders, and modifiers for product variations such as sizes or types of hardware items. The platform integrates online and in-store sales, employee management, and customizable reports to streamline operations for small to medium retailers.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile-first interface that's quick to set up and learn
- Strong inventory tools including real-time tracking and low-stock alerts
- Affordable with no contracts and integrated payment processing
Cons
- Limited advanced customization for complex hardware store workflows like bulk vendor integrations
- Reporting lacks depth for high-volume SKU analysis compared to specialized POS
- Transaction fees can accumulate for high-volume stores
Best For
Small to medium hardware stores seeking a simple, scalable POS with reliable inventory basics and low upfront costs.
Pricing
Core POS free; Retail plan $60/month per location; payments 2.6% + 10¢ in-person, 2.9% + 30¢ online.
LS Retail
enterpriseMicrosoft Dynamics-powered POS solution for complex retail operations including hardware and home improvement chains.
Unified Retail Platform that combines POS, merchandising, and financials into a single Dynamics 365 app for real-time operations.
LS Retail's LS Central is a comprehensive POS and ERP solution built on Microsoft Dynamics 365, designed for retail sectors including hardware stores, handling point-of-sale transactions, inventory management, and customer loyalty programs. It supports complex retail operations like tool rentals, special orders, and multi-store synchronization with real-time data visibility. The platform excels in unifying front-end sales with back-office functions for efficient hardware store management.
Pros
- Robust inventory management for high-SKU hardware items with lot tracking and vendor portals
- Seamless integration with Microsoft Dynamics for ERP scalability
- Strong multi-channel support including in-store POS, e-commerce, and mobile sales
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to its enterprise-level complexity
- High implementation costs and time for customization
- Overkill and pricey for small independent hardware stores
Best For
Mid-sized to large hardware store chains requiring integrated POS, ERP, and omnichannel capabilities.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $5,000+ per store setup plus monthly subscriptions from $200-$500 per user/store; contact for quote.
Clover
enterpriseFlexible POS hardware and software platform with customizable apps for inventory-heavy retail like hardware stores.
App Market with 500+ integrations for tailored hardware store needs like QuickBooks sync and delivery apps
Clover is a versatile cloud-based POS system from Fiserv, providing hardware like countertop terminals, Go handheld devices, and Mini stations, paired with software for payments, inventory management, sales tracking, and customer engagement. Tailored for retail including hardware stores, it handles barcode scanning, multi-location inventory, and basic order fulfillment. The extensive App Market enables customization with add-ons for loyalty, e-commerce, and specialized reporting, making it adaptable without deep specialization.
Pros
- Extensive App Market for custom integrations like inventory add-ons and loyalty programs
- Reliable payment processing with competitive rates and EMV/chip support
- Flexible hardware options suitable for counter, mobile, or self-service in hardware stores
Cons
- Limited native support for complex inventory like matrix SKUs or rental tracking without apps
- Upfront hardware costs can be high for small stores
- Ongoing transaction fees (2.3%-3.5% + $0.10) add up for high-volume sales
Best For
Small to medium hardware stores seeking an all-in-one POS with strong payments and easy customization via apps, but not requiring deep retail-specific inventory depth.
Pricing
Hardware $499-$1,699 one-time; software $14.95-$114.85/month per device; payments 2.3%-3.5% + $0.10 per transaction.
Revel Systems
enterpriseCloud iPad POS with real-time inventory, customer loyalty, and reporting features for specialty retail.
Real-time multi-location inventory visibility and automated reordering alerts
Revel Systems is a cloud-based, iPad-centric POS solution that extends its restaurant roots to retail, including hardware stores, with features for sales processing, inventory management, and customer tracking. It offers real-time reporting, multi-location support, and integrations with tools like QuickBooks for streamlined operations. For hardware stores, it handles complex SKUs, purchase orders, and loyalty programs effectively, though it lacks deep specialization in areas like tool rentals or contractor invoicing.
Pros
- Robust cloud-based inventory management with real-time syncing across locations
- Intuitive iPad interface with offline mode for reliability
- Strong integrations with accounting and e-commerce platforms
Cons
- Higher pricing with mandatory Apple hardware purchases
- Less tailored for hardware-specific needs like serialized tracking or rentals
- Steep learning curve for advanced customizations
Best For
Mid-sized hardware stores with multiple locations seeking a scalable, mobile-first POS system.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month per location (Starter plan) up to $299+ for advanced tiers, plus one-time hardware costs ($500+ for iPad setup).
Hardware Retailer
specializedAll-in-one POS tailored for independent hardware retailers with quick sales and detailed inventory control.
Advanced rental management module with scheduling, billing, and maintenance tracking optimized for hardware store tool rentals
Hardware Retailer is a specialized POS software solution designed exclusively for hardware stores, building material suppliers, and lumber yards. It provides comprehensive tools for inventory management, including matrix pricing, special buys, and lot tracking, alongside sales processing, customer loyalty programs, and rental module for tools and equipment. The system supports multi-store operations, purchase orders, and integrations with accounting software like QuickBooks.
Pros
- Deep industry-specific features like rental tracking and special order management
- Robust inventory control tailored for hardware items with matrix pricing
- Reliable multi-location support and proven track record in the sector
Cons
- Outdated interface that feels clunky compared to modern cloud POS systems
- Primarily on-premise deployment with limited mobile accessibility
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
Best For
Mid-sized hardware retailers with complex inventory, rentals, and multi-store needs seeking a dedicated industry solution.
Pricing
One-time license fees starting at $5,000-$20,000 based on modules and stores, plus annual maintenance around 15-20% of license cost.
POS Nation
otherCustomizable turnkey POS systems with strong support for retail inventory management in hardware stores.
White-glove on-site installation and unlimited lifetime support
POS Nation provides turnkey POS hardware and software solutions customized for hardware stores, including inventory management, rental tracking, special orders, and contractor sales tools. The platform integrates durable hardware like touchscreen registers, receipt printers, and barcode scanners with retail-focused software for efficient point-of-sale operations. It emphasizes on-site installation, training, and ongoing support to minimize downtime in busy hardware retail environments.
Pros
- Industry-specific features like rental modules and special orders tailored for hardware stores
- White-glove installation and lifetime technical support
- Robust hardware bundles built for high-volume retail durability
Cons
- High upfront costs for hardware bundles
- Less flexibility for fully cloud-based operations compared to competitors
- Custom pricing requires quotes, lacking transparent tiers
Best For
Hardware stores seeking reliable, on-premise POS systems with expert installation and hands-on support for complex inventory needs.
Pricing
Custom quotes; hardware bundles start at $2,000+, software subscriptions from $99/month per location.
RetailEdge
otherReliable desktop POS software offering matrix inventory and purchase order features for small hardware retailers.
Matrix inventory and optional rental module for efficiently managing hardware product variations and tool rentals
RetailEdge is a Windows-based POS software tailored for small to medium retail businesses, including hardware stores, providing essential tools for sales processing, inventory management, and customer tracking. It excels in handling complex SKUs with features like matrix pricing for sizes/colors, serial number tracking, purchase orders, and special orders common in hardware retail. The system supports multi-store operations and integrates with QuickBooks, peripherals like barcode scanners, and offers optional rental/layaway modules for comprehensive store management.
Pros
- One-time purchase model offers excellent long-term value without recurring subscriptions
- Robust inventory tools including matrix support and serial tracking ideal for hardware SKUs
- Intuitive touchscreen interface with strong hardware peripheral compatibility
Cons
- Primarily desktop software lacking full cloud or mobile app functionality
- Advanced e-commerce integrations are limited or require custom work
- Reporting is solid but not as visually advanced or customizable as cloud competitors
Best For
Small to medium hardware stores needing reliable on-premise POS with strong inventory control and no monthly fees.
Pricing
One-time license starts at $795 for single-user/single-store; multi-user/multi-store up to $2,995, plus optional $199-$495 annual support.
Conclusion
When evaluating hardware store POS software, Epicor Eagle shines as the top pick, boasting a comprehensive design tailored to the unique demands of hardware, lumber, and building material retailers. Lightspeed Retail and IT Retail follow closely, offering robust alternatives—Lightspeed for its cloud flexibility, multi-location support, and e-commerce integration, and IT Retail for specialized tools like special order management and vendor support. Together, these solutions demonstrate the range of options, ensuring every hardware operation finds a suitable fit.
Explore Epicor Eagle today to unlock tailored features that streamline your workflow and elevate your retail performance.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison