Quick Overview
- 1#1: Toast - Comprehensive cloud-based POS and restaurant management platform tailored for quick service operations including payments, inventory, and online ordering.
- 2#2: Revel Systems - iPad-based POS system optimized for quick service restaurants with fast transactions, inventory tracking, and loyalty programs.
- 3#3: Square for Restaurants - Affordable, user-friendly POS solution for small to medium quick service restaurants with integrated payments and basic reporting.
- 4#4: Lightspeed Restaurant - Cloud POS platform supporting quick service with menu management, table service, and multi-location capabilities.
- 5#5: Clover - Versatile POS hardware and software for quick service venues featuring customizable apps and contactless payments.
- 6#6: TouchBistro - Mobile-first iPad POS designed for restaurants including quick service with offline mode and staff management.
- 7#7: SpotOn - Restaurant POS and payments platform with marketing tools and analytics suited for quick service businesses.
- 8#8: Lavu - Cross-platform POS for restaurants emphasizing quick service with cloud reporting and multi-store support.
- 9#9: Olo - Digital ordering and guest engagement platform enabling seamless online and delivery orders for quick service restaurants.
- 10#10: Restaurant365 - Integrated accounting, operations, and inventory management software for multi-unit quick service operations.
We selected and ranked these tools based on key factors like feature breadth, user-friendliness, performance reliability, and overall value, ensuring they deliver exceptional impact for quick service operations.
Comparison Table
Quick service businesses depend on reliable software to simplify operations, and this comparison table examines leading tools like Toast, Revel Systems, Square for Restaurants, Lightspeed Restaurant, and Clover, outlining key features to help readers find the best fit for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Toast Comprehensive cloud-based POS and restaurant management platform tailored for quick service operations including payments, inventory, and online ordering. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 2 | Revel Systems iPad-based POS system optimized for quick service restaurants with fast transactions, inventory tracking, and loyalty programs. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | Square for Restaurants Affordable, user-friendly POS solution for small to medium quick service restaurants with integrated payments and basic reporting. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 4 | Lightspeed Restaurant Cloud POS platform supporting quick service with menu management, table service, and multi-location capabilities. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 5 | Clover Versatile POS hardware and software for quick service venues featuring customizable apps and contactless payments. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | TouchBistro Mobile-first iPad POS designed for restaurants including quick service with offline mode and staff management. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 7 | SpotOn Restaurant POS and payments platform with marketing tools and analytics suited for quick service businesses. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | Lavu Cross-platform POS for restaurants emphasizing quick service with cloud reporting and multi-store support. | specialized | 8.0/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 9 | Olo Digital ordering and guest engagement platform enabling seamless online and delivery orders for quick service restaurants. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.9/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | Restaurant365 Integrated accounting, operations, and inventory management software for multi-unit quick service operations. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
Comprehensive cloud-based POS and restaurant management platform tailored for quick service operations including payments, inventory, and online ordering.
iPad-based POS system optimized for quick service restaurants with fast transactions, inventory tracking, and loyalty programs.
Affordable, user-friendly POS solution for small to medium quick service restaurants with integrated payments and basic reporting.
Cloud POS platform supporting quick service with menu management, table service, and multi-location capabilities.
Versatile POS hardware and software for quick service venues featuring customizable apps and contactless payments.
Mobile-first iPad POS designed for restaurants including quick service with offline mode and staff management.
Restaurant POS and payments platform with marketing tools and analytics suited for quick service businesses.
Cross-platform POS for restaurants emphasizing quick service with cloud reporting and multi-store support.
Digital ordering and guest engagement platform enabling seamless online and delivery orders for quick service restaurants.
Integrated accounting, operations, and inventory management software for multi-unit quick service operations.
Toast
enterpriseComprehensive cloud-based POS and restaurant management platform tailored for quick service operations including payments, inventory, and online ordering.
Toast Online Ordering with built-in upselling and delivery integrations that captures 30%+ more digital revenue without third-party commissions eating into margins
Toast is a leading cloud-based POS and restaurant management platform tailored for quick service restaurants (QSRs), handling everything from order taking and payments to inventory and reporting. It supports high-volume transactions with mobile ordering devices, kitchen display systems (KDS), and seamless integrations with popular delivery apps like Uber Eats and DoorDash. Toast's all-in-one ecosystem reduces the need for multiple vendors, enabling QSRs to optimize speed, accuracy, and customer experience in fast-paced environments.
Pros
- Robust feature set including real-time inventory, labor management, and advanced analytics optimized for QSR speed
- Excellent third-party integrations for online ordering, loyalty programs, and delivery services
- Reliable 24/7 support and high uptime with offline mode for uninterrupted service
Cons
- Higher upfront hardware costs and subscription pricing compared to basic POS alternatives
- Steeper learning curve for full customization and advanced reporting features
- Payment processing fees can add up for very high-volume locations
Best For
High-volume quick service restaurants needing a scalable, all-in-one platform to streamline operations, boost online sales, and manage peak-hour rushes efficiently.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starts at around $69/month per location plus hardware (from $799) and 2.49%-3.69% + $0.15 per transaction processing fees.
Revel Systems
specializediPad-based POS system optimized for quick service restaurants with fast transactions, inventory tracking, and loyalty programs.
Cloud-based Kitchen Display System (KDS) for rapid, accurate order routing and fulfillment in fast-paced environments
Revel Systems is a cloud-based POS platform optimized for quick service restaurants, enabling fast order processing, inventory tracking, and real-time sales reporting across multiple locations. It supports iPad and Android devices with features like kitchen display systems (KDS), employee management, and loyalty programs to handle high-volume transactions efficiently. The system integrates seamlessly with third-party delivery services, payment processors, and accounting software for streamlined operations.
Pros
- Scalable for multi-location QSRs with centralized management
- Advanced reporting and analytics for data-driven decisions
- Strong integrations with delivery apps and payment gateways
Cons
- Higher subscription costs, especially for additional terminals
- Relies heavily on stable internet; offline mode limited
- Initial setup and customization can require training
Best For
Growing quick service restaurant chains needing robust, cloud-synced POS with enterprise-level reporting.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month per terminal (Core plan), scaling to $299+ for Enterprise; hardware and add-ons extra.
Square for Restaurants
specializedAffordable, user-friendly POS solution for small to medium quick service restaurants with integrated payments and basic reporting.
Free core POS software with instant setup and built-in KDS for rapid order fulfillment in fast-paced QSR environments
Square for Restaurants is a cloud-based POS system tailored for quick service establishments, providing tools for fast order processing, contactless payments, inventory management, and kitchen display systems (KDS). It supports counter service, drive-thru operations, online ordering, and loyalty programs to handle high-volume transactions efficiently. The platform integrates seamlessly with Square's hardware like tablets and card readers, offering real-time reporting and team management features.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with minimal training required for staff
- Transparent pricing with no monthly software fees or contracts
- Strong integration for online ordering and delivery apps
Cons
- Transaction fees can accumulate for high-volume QSRs
- Reporting lacks depth compared to enterprise competitors
- Requires stable internet; offline mode is limited
Best For
Small to medium quick service restaurants needing a simple, affordable POS for counter and online orders without complex setup.
Pricing
Free POS software; 2.6% + 10¢ per in-person transaction, 2.9% + 30¢ for online; hardware from $0 (basic reader) to $800+ for full kits.
Lightspeed Restaurant
enterpriseCloud POS platform supporting quick service with menu management, table service, and multi-location capabilities.
Unified Kitchen Display System (KDS) with real-time order routing and bump screens for high-speed service
Lightspeed Restaurant is a cloud-based POS system tailored for restaurants, including quick service operations, offering fast order processing, kitchen display systems, and inventory management. It integrates with online ordering, delivery services like Uber Eats and DoorDash, and provides real-time reporting for high-volume environments. The platform supports multi-location management, employee scheduling, and customer loyalty programs to optimize daily operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive integrations with 100+ apps including delivery and payments
- Robust inventory and multi-location reporting tools
- Reliable cloud-based performance with offline mode
Cons
- Higher cost compared to basic QSR POS options
- Steep learning curve for advanced customizations
- Hardware costs can add up for full deployment
Best For
Quick service restaurants with multiple locations needing scalable order management and analytics.
Pricing
Starts at $69/month per location (Essentials), $119/month (Restaurant Pro), custom Enterprise pricing; hardware sold separately.
Clover
specializedVersatile POS hardware and software for quick service venues featuring customizable apps and contactless payments.
App Marketplace enabling seamless customization and integrations without custom development
Clover is a versatile point-of-sale (POS) system designed for quick service restaurants and retail, offering hardware like the Clover Station, Mini, and Flex alongside cloud-based software for transactions, inventory, and operations. It excels in handling high-volume orders with features like kitchen display systems (KDS), customizable menus, employee management, and integrations with delivery platforms such as DoorDash and Uber Eats. The platform's app marketplace provides extensive customization, making it adaptable for fast-paced QSR environments.
Pros
- Vast App Marketplace with over 500 integrations for delivery, loyalty, and more
- Reliable hardware options tailored for countertop and mobile QSR use
- Robust inventory and KDS for efficient order flow in high-volume settings
Cons
- High upfront hardware costs (starting at $499+)
- Monthly software fees per device can accumulate for multi-location setups
- Customer support response times vary, with some users reporting delays
Best For
Small to medium quick service restaurants needing flexible, customizable POS with strong third-party integrations.
Pricing
Hardware from $499 (purchase) or lease options; software plans start at $14.95/month (Register) to $99.85/month (Station Pro) per device, plus 2.3%-3.5% + $0.10 per transaction processing fees.
TouchBistro
specializedMobile-first iPad POS designed for restaurants including quick service with offline mode and staff management.
Offline functionality that keeps the POS running seamlessly without internet, critical for busy QSR environments
TouchBistro is a comprehensive cloud-based POS and restaurant management platform tailored for various restaurant types, including quick service establishments. It enables fast order processing, inventory tracking, employee management, and customer loyalty programs to handle high-volume transactions efficiently. The system supports handheld devices for quick service workflows and integrates with online ordering and delivery services.
Pros
- Robust feature set including inventory, scheduling, and loyalty tools optimized for restaurants
- Reliable offline mode ensures uninterrupted service during connectivity issues
- Strong integrations with third-party delivery and payment providers
Cons
- Higher pricing compared to lighter QSR alternatives like Square
- More suited to full-service restaurants, potentially overkill for pure quick service
- Hardware requirements (primarily iPads) can add to upfront costs
Best For
Quick service restaurants needing an all-in-one management system with advanced reporting and scalability.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at ~$69 per terminal/month (billed annually), plus one-time hardware/setup fees; scales with locations and features.
SpotOn
enterpriseRestaurant POS and payments platform with marketing tools and analytics suited for quick service businesses.
Integrated loyalty and marketing platform that automates guest engagement and drives repeat visits with data-driven campaigns
SpotOn is an all-in-one POS and payment platform tailored for quick service restaurants, offering fast transaction processing, kitchen display systems, and seamless integrations with delivery apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats. It includes inventory management, employee scheduling, and real-time reporting to handle high-volume orders efficiently. The platform also features built-in marketing tools and loyalty programs to boost customer retention and sales.
Pros
- Seamless payment processing with competitive rates and no long-term contracts
- Strong integrations for online ordering and delivery services
- Comprehensive analytics and marketing automation tools
Cons
- Higher upfront hardware costs for full setups
- Customer support response times can vary
- Limited customization options for very niche QSR workflows
Best For
Quick service restaurants with moderate to high volume needing integrated POS, payments, and marketing without vendor lock-in.
Pricing
Custom quotes; payments at 2.6% + $0.10 per transaction (contactless lower), hardware bundles from $500+, monthly software ~$100-300/location.
Lavu
specializedCross-platform POS for restaurants emphasizing quick service with cloud reporting and multi-store support.
Offline mode with full POS functionality, ensuring uninterrupted service in high-traffic quick service environments
Lavu is a cloud-based POS system designed specifically for restaurants, with strong capabilities for quick service operations like cafes, food trucks, and fast-casual eateries. It offers mobile order entry on iPads and iPhones, inventory management, employee time tracking, and integrated online ordering. The platform emphasizes speed and flexibility, supporting offline mode to handle peak rushes without internet dependency.
Pros
- Highly mobile iPad-based interface ideal for quick service mobility
- Strong offline functionality for reliable service during outages
- Affordable pricing with essential restaurant tools like inventory and loyalty
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and reporting compared to enterprise competitors
- Hardware locked to Apple ecosystem, increasing setup costs
- Customer support can be slow during high-volume periods
Best For
Small to mid-sized quick service restaurants seeking a cost-effective, mobile-first POS without complex enterprise needs.
Pricing
Starts at $69/month for Starter plan (1 terminal), up to $159/month for Pro plan; additional fees per device and payment processing.
Olo
specializedDigital ordering and guest engagement platform enabling seamless online and delivery orders for quick service restaurants.
Unified guest profile that aggregates data across all channels for hyper-personalized experiences
Olo is a leading digital ordering and guest engagement platform tailored for quick service restaurants and chains. It provides seamless online ordering, delivery integrations with partners like DoorDash and Uber Eats, payment processing, and POS compatibility with systems like Toast and Square. Additionally, Olo offers analytics, loyalty programs, and marketing tools to personalize customer experiences and boost revenue.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with major POS systems and third-party delivery services
- Robust guest data platform for personalized marketing and loyalty programs
- High scalability and reliability for multi-location chains
Cons
- Custom pricing can be expensive for single-location or small QSRs
- Setup and customization require technical expertise
- Not a full POS replacement; functions best as a complement
Best For
Mid-to-large quick service restaurant chains seeking to centralize digital ordering and enhance customer retention.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on order volume and locations; typically starts at $1,000+ per month with per-order fees.
Restaurant365
enterpriseIntegrated accounting, operations, and inventory management software for multi-unit quick service operations.
Seamless, automated reconciliation between POS sales data and restaurant-specific accounting
Restaurant365 is a cloud-based restaurant management platform that unifies back-office operations including accounting, inventory management, scheduling, payroll, and reporting. It integrates deeply with popular QSR POS systems like Toast, Revel, and Square to provide real-time data synchronization for quick service environments. Designed primarily for multi-unit operators, it emphasizes financial accuracy and operational efficiency to drive profitability.
Pros
- Comprehensive POS integrations and real-time data syncing
- Robust GAAP-compliant accounting tailored for restaurants
- Advanced inventory forecasting and labor optimization tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- Higher cost unsuitable for single-location QSR
- Relies on third-party POS, not a complete front-of-house solution
Best For
Multi-unit quick service restaurant operators needing integrated back-office and financial management.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting at $250-$500 per location/month, scaling with modules and users.
Conclusion
The top quick service software tools, from Toast's comprehensive all-in-one solution to Revel Systems' speed and loyalty focus and Square for Restaurants' affordability, deliver strong efficiency. Together, they redefine operational management, with Toast leading as the most versatile choice. Whether prioritizing integration, speed, or cost, each offers unique value, making them essential for modern quick service venues.
To optimize your quick service operations, start with Toast—its robust features streamline payments, inventory, and ordering. Don't overlook Revel or Square if specific needs like loyalty programs or budget align better with your business.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison