Quick Overview
- 1#1: Square - All-in-one POS system with seamless payment processing, inventory tracking, and sales analytics for small to medium retail businesses.
- 2#2: Lightspeed Retail - Cloud-based POS software providing advanced inventory management, multi-location support, and e-commerce integration for growing retail operations.
- 3#3: Shopify POS - Unified POS solution that synchronizes in-store and online sales, inventory, and customer data for omnichannel retail.
- 4#4: Clover - Flexible POS platform with customizable hardware, app marketplace, and robust reporting for retail and service businesses.
- 5#5: Revel Systems - iPad-based POS system delivering real-time reporting, employee management, and third-party integrations for retail environments.
- 6#6: Epos Now - Cloud POS software with hardware bundles, CRM tools, and loyalty programs tailored for independent retailers.
- 7#7: KORONA POS - Secure, customizable POS system offering unlimited users, advanced analytics, and hardware compatibility for specialty retail.
- 8#8: Loyverse - Free cloud POS app with inventory control, sales reports, and employee management for small retail shops.
- 9#9: Erply - Scalable POS and inventory management system with multi-store capabilities and real-time data syncing for retailers.
- 10#10: Retail Pro - Global enterprise POS solution providing merchandising, CRM, and analytics for large-scale retail chains.
These tools were selected based on a blend of key factors: comprehensive feature sets (including inventory management, omnichannel integration, and reporting), user-friendliness (intuitive design and scalability), and overall value (from affordability to enterprise-grade capabilities), ensuring they cater to diverse retail needs, from small shops to large chains.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores top point of sale retail software tools, including Square, Lightspeed Retail, Shopify POS, Clover, and Revel Systems, to help retailers identify suitable solutions. Readers will gain insights into key features, pricing structures, and usability aspects to match their business needs effectively.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Square All-in-one POS system with seamless payment processing, inventory tracking, and sales analytics for small to medium retail businesses. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 2 | Lightspeed Retail Cloud-based POS software providing advanced inventory management, multi-location support, and e-commerce integration for growing retail operations. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | Shopify POS Unified POS solution that synchronizes in-store and online sales, inventory, and customer data for omnichannel retail. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 4 | Clover Flexible POS platform with customizable hardware, app marketplace, and robust reporting for retail and service businesses. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Revel Systems iPad-based POS system delivering real-time reporting, employee management, and third-party integrations for retail environments. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 6 | Epos Now Cloud POS software with hardware bundles, CRM tools, and loyalty programs tailored for independent retailers. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | KORONA POS Secure, customizable POS system offering unlimited users, advanced analytics, and hardware compatibility for specialty retail. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Loyverse Free cloud POS app with inventory control, sales reports, and employee management for small retail shops. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 9 | Erply Scalable POS and inventory management system with multi-store capabilities and real-time data syncing for retailers. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | Retail Pro Global enterprise POS solution providing merchandising, CRM, and analytics for large-scale retail chains. | enterprise | 7.9/10 | 8.8/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.2/10 |
All-in-one POS system with seamless payment processing, inventory tracking, and sales analytics for small to medium retail businesses.
Cloud-based POS software providing advanced inventory management, multi-location support, and e-commerce integration for growing retail operations.
Unified POS solution that synchronizes in-store and online sales, inventory, and customer data for omnichannel retail.
Flexible POS platform with customizable hardware, app marketplace, and robust reporting for retail and service businesses.
iPad-based POS system delivering real-time reporting, employee management, and third-party integrations for retail environments.
Cloud POS software with hardware bundles, CRM tools, and loyalty programs tailored for independent retailers.
Secure, customizable POS system offering unlimited users, advanced analytics, and hardware compatibility for specialty retail.
Free cloud POS app with inventory control, sales reports, and employee management for small retail shops.
Scalable POS and inventory management system with multi-store capabilities and real-time data syncing for retailers.
Global enterprise POS solution providing merchandising, CRM, and analytics for large-scale retail chains.
Square
specializedAll-in-one POS system with seamless payment processing, inventory tracking, and sales analytics for small to medium retail businesses.
Completely free POS software with no subscription required for core features, making it accessible for startups.
Square is a leading point-of-sale (POS) system tailored for small to medium-sized retail businesses, offering free software that handles payments, inventory, sales tracking, and customer management. It supports a wide range of hardware, from compact card readers to full countertop registers, enabling seamless in-person, online, and mobile transactions. With integrations for e-commerce, appointments, and payroll, Square streamlines operations while providing real-time reporting and analytics.
Pros
- Intuitive, mobile-first interface that's quick to set up
- Free core POS software with no monthly fees
- Comprehensive payment processing for cards, digital wallets, and contactless
Cons
- Transaction fees can accumulate for high-volume sellers
- Advanced reporting and customization require paid add-ons
- Customer support can be slow outside business hours
Best For
Small retail shops, food trucks, and boutiques seeking an affordable, user-friendly POS that scales without upfront software costs.
Pricing
Free POS software; 2.6% + 10¢ per in-person transaction, 2.9% + 30¢ online; premium features like Square for Retail from $60/month per location.
Lightspeed Retail
enterpriseCloud-based POS software providing advanced inventory management, multi-location support, and e-commerce integration for growing retail operations.
True omnichannel unification that syncs inventory, orders, and customers across physical stores, websites, and marketplaces in real-time
Lightspeed Retail is a cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) system tailored for brick-and-mortar and multi-channel retail businesses, offering robust inventory management, sales processing, and customer relationship tools. It enables seamless integration between in-store sales, online storefronts, and third-party marketplaces like Amazon and eBay. The platform provides advanced analytics, multi-location support, and customizable hardware compatibility to streamline retail operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive inventory management with real-time tracking and matrix pricing for complex products
- Strong omnichannel capabilities integrating POS with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and BigCommerce
- Powerful analytics and reporting for sales trends, customer insights, and performance metrics
Cons
- Higher pricing can be prohibitive for very small businesses
- Steeper learning curve for advanced features and customizations
- Some users report occasional sync delays between locations or online channels
Best For
Multi-location retailers or growing businesses needing integrated online/offline sales and advanced inventory control.
Pricing
Starts at $89/month per location (Lean plan), with Standard at $119/month and Advanced at $159/month; annual billing discounts available, plus transaction fees.
Shopify POS
specializedUnified POS solution that synchronizes in-store and online sales, inventory, and customer data for omnichannel retail.
Real-time inventory and sales synchronization across online and physical stores
Shopify POS is a comprehensive point-of-sale system integrated with Shopify's e-commerce platform, enabling retailers to process in-person transactions while maintaining real-time synchronization of inventory, orders, and customer data across online and offline channels. It supports mobile hardware like iPads, Android devices, and card readers, offering features such as buy-online-pickup-in-store (BOPIS) and unified customer profiles. Ideal for omnichannel retail, it streamlines operations from pop-up shops to established brick-and-mortar stores.
Pros
- Seamless real-time sync between online store and physical sales
- Intuitive mobile-first interface with quick setup
- Extensive payment gateway support and omnichannel capabilities
Cons
- POS Pro advanced features require additional $89/month per location fee
- Transaction fees apply if not using Shopify Payments
- Reporting and customization limited in basic Lite version
Best For
Omnichannel retailers with an existing Shopify online store seeking unified inventory and sales management.
Pricing
POS Lite free with any Shopify plan ($29+/month); POS Pro $89/month per location; transaction fees 0.5-2% if not using Shopify Payments.
Clover
specializedFlexible POS platform with customizable hardware, app marketplace, and robust reporting for retail and service businesses.
Clover App Market with over 500 third-party apps for tailored retail functionalities
Clover is a versatile point-of-sale (POS) system tailored for retail businesses, featuring a suite of hardware like the Clover Go handheld, Mini, Flex, and Station countertop terminals integrated with cloud-based software. It handles payments, inventory management, sales reporting, employee scheduling, and customer loyalty programs seamlessly. The platform stands out with its extensive App Market, allowing users to add custom apps for e-commerce, delivery integrations, and specialized retail tools.
Pros
- Extensive App Market with 500+ integrations for customization
- Reliable hardware options with built-in payment processing
- Comprehensive retail tools including inventory and CRM
Cons
- High upfront hardware costs starting at $499
- Ongoing monthly fees per device can accumulate
- Customer support can be inconsistent for complex issues
Best For
Small to medium retail businesses needing a customizable, hardware-inclusive POS with strong app ecosystem support.
Pricing
Hardware from $49 (Go) to $1,699 (Station Duo); software plans from $0/mo (Payments) to $115/mo (Restaurant Full); processing fees ~2.3% + $0.10 in-person.
Revel Systems
enterpriseiPad-based POS system delivering real-time reporting, employee management, and third-party integrations for retail environments.
Seamless offline mode with automatic cloud sync for uninterrupted operations during connectivity issues
Revel Systems is a cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) solution designed primarily for retail and restaurant businesses, providing comprehensive tools for sales processing, inventory management, customer loyalty programs, and real-time reporting. It operates on iPad hardware, enabling a mobile and intuitive checkout experience across multiple locations. The platform emphasizes scalability, third-party integrations, and advanced analytics to streamline operations for growing businesses.
Pros
- Robust inventory and multi-location management
- Extensive third-party app integrations
- Real-time cloud-based reporting and analytics
Cons
- Higher pricing compared to basic POS alternatives
- Heavy reliance on iOS devices limits hardware flexibility
- Steep learning curve for advanced features
Best For
Multi-location retail and quick-service restaurants needing scalable, feature-rich POS with strong analytics.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month per terminal for Starter plan (billed annually), with Core at $149/month, Pro at $299/month, and custom Enterprise pricing.
Epos Now
specializedCloud POS software with hardware bundles, CRM tools, and loyalty programs tailored for independent retailers.
Comprehensive App Store with 100+ third-party integrations for seamless customization.
Epos Now is a cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) system tailored for retail businesses, providing tools for transaction processing, inventory tracking, sales reporting, and customer management. It offers customizable hardware bundles including touchscreens, card readers, and receipt printers, alongside a vast app marketplace for integrations with e-commerce platforms, accounting software, and loyalty programs. The platform supports multi-store operations and real-time cloud syncing, making it suitable for scaling retail environments.
Pros
- Extensive app store with over 100 integrations for retail needs
- Reliable hardware bundles and multi-location support
- Strong reporting and inventory management tools
Cons
- Higher upfront costs for hardware and full setups
- Occasional software glitches reported by users
- Customer support can be slower for non-premium plans
Best For
Small to medium-sized retail stores seeking a scalable POS with robust integrations and hardware options.
Pricing
Software starts at £25/month per device (Essential plan); hardware bundles from £500 one-time; higher tiers like Pro at £39/month with custom enterprise quotes.
KORONA POS
specializedSecure, customizable POS system offering unlimited users, advanced analytics, and hardware compatibility for specialty retail.
Advanced age verification and compliance scanning for alcohol, tobacco, and lottery sales
KORONA POS is a cloud-based point-of-sale system tailored for retail businesses, including convenience stores, liquor shops, smoke shops, and quick-service restaurants. It offers comprehensive features like real-time inventory management, employee scheduling, customer loyalty programs, and advanced reporting across multiple locations. The platform emphasizes compliance tools, such as age verification for regulated products, and integrates with hardware like receipt printers and scales.
Pros
- Robust inventory tracking with lot and expiration management
- Strong compliance features including age verification and lottery integration
- 24/7 US-based customer support and multi-location scalability
Cons
- Pricing starts higher than some competitors for small businesses
- Steeper learning curve for advanced reporting tools
- Primarily focused on US market with limited international features
Best For
Multi-location retailers in regulated industries like convenience, liquor, and tobacco stores seeking compliance and inventory control.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month per terminal for Starter plan, $199/month for Pro, and $299+/month for Enterprise, plus one-time hardware setup fees.
Loyverse
specializedFree cloud POS app with inventory control, sales reports, and employee management for small retail shops.
Fully free POS with no transaction fees or subscription required for core sales and inventory features
Loyverse is a cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) system tailored for small retail businesses, restaurants, and service providers, offering sales processing, inventory management, employee scheduling, and customer loyalty tools. It supports mobile devices on iOS and Android with offline functionality, hardware integration like barcode scanners and receipt printers, and real-time analytics via a web dashboard. The platform emphasizes simplicity and scalability for multi-location setups.
Pros
- Completely free core POS with unlimited transactions
- Intuitive mobile-first interface with offline mode
- Strong inventory and employee management tools
Cons
- Advanced reporting and analytics require paid add-ons
- Limited customization options compared to enterprise POS
- Customer support primarily email-based and can be slow
Best For
Small retail shops, cafes, and startups seeking a no-cost, user-friendly POS solution to manage daily operations without complex setup.
Pricing
Free forever plan for basic POS; paid add-ons like Back Office ($5/location/month), Hardware Server ($5-25/month), and Loyalty ($5-15/month).
Erply
enterpriseScalable POS and inventory management system with multi-store capabilities and real-time data syncing for retailers.
Real-time multi-location inventory synchronization
Erply is a cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) and retail management software tailored for small to medium-sized retailers, providing tools for sales processing, inventory tracking, and customer management. It excels in multi-location operations with real-time inventory synchronization across stores, warehouses, and online channels. The platform also offers robust reporting, employee management, and e-commerce integrations to streamline omnichannel retail.
Pros
- Superior multi-location inventory management with real-time syncing
- Comprehensive reporting and analytics for retail insights
- Strong e-commerce and third-party integrations
Cons
- Dated user interface that feels clunky
- Steeper learning curve for non-technical users
- Pricing can add up for multiple users and advanced modules
Best For
Multi-store retailers needing robust inventory control and omnichannel capabilities.
Pricing
Starts at $29/user/month for basic POS (billed annually), scaling to $79/user/month for advanced plans; custom quotes for enterprises.
Retail Pro
enterpriseGlobal enterprise POS solution providing merchandising, CRM, and analytics for large-scale retail chains.
Retail Pro Prism's cloud-native unified database that seamlessly integrates POS, eCommerce, and mobile sales across global locations.
Retail Pro is an enterprise-grade point-of-sale (POS) software solution tailored for multi-location retail businesses, providing comprehensive tools for inventory management, sales processing, customer relationship management (CRM), and reporting. Its flagship Prism platform delivers cloud-based flexibility with unified data across POS, eCommerce, and back-office operations, supporting complex retail environments. The software excels in scalability for global chains, handling multiple currencies, languages, and compliance requirements.
Pros
- Powerful multi-store and multi-channel management
- Advanced customization via Universal Business Engine (UBE)
- Strong support for international operations with multi-currency/language
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation
- High costs for setup and licensing
- Limited transparency in pricing
Best For
Large multi-location retail chains, especially those with international operations needing scalable, customizable POS systems.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; modular plans typically start at $5,000+ per store annually, scaling with users and features for enterprise deployments.
Conclusion
The top point of sale software tools each bring unique strengths, with Square leading as the overall best: its all-in-one design integrates payment processing, inventory tracking, and sales analytics seamlessly, making it perfect for small to medium retail businesses. Lightspeed Retail follows closely, excelling with advanced inventory management and multi-location support, while Shopify POS stands out for its unified omnichannel approach, syncing in-store and online sales effortlessly. Ultimately, the right choice depends on individual needs, but Square remains the top pick for its versatility and reliability.
Ready to streamline your retail operations? Start with Square—experience its straightforward setup, robust features, and support for growth, and take your business to the next level.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
