Quick Overview
- 1#1: Toast - Comprehensive cloud-based POS system for restaurants offering online ordering, payroll, inventory management, and analytics.
- 2#2: Lightspeed Restaurant - Cloud POS platform designed for restaurants with features for order management, table service, inventory, and multi-location support.
- 3#3: TouchBistro - iPad-based POS system tailored for full-service restaurants, providing menu management, staff scheduling, and reporting tools.
- 4#4: Square for Restaurants - Affordable POS solution for restaurants with bill splitting, kitchen display, online ordering, and integrated payments.
- 5#5: Revel Systems - Cloud-based POS for restaurants featuring real-time reporting, inventory tracking, loyalty programs, and e-commerce integration.
- 6#6: Clover - Flexible POS hardware and software for restaurants supporting payments, inventory, and custom app integrations.
- 7#7: Restaurant365 - All-in-one restaurant management software combining POS integration, accounting, operations, and scheduling.
- 8#8: SpotOn - Restaurant POS platform with contactless payments, online ordering, marketing tools, and expense management.
- 9#9: Lavu - Mobile POS system for restaurants offering table management, inventory control, and loyalty programs at an affordable price.
- 10#10: 7shifts - Employee scheduling and workforce management software for restaurants with labor forecasting, tip pooling, and communication tools.
These tools were rigorously evaluated based on key factors including feature depth (e.g., inventory tracking, online ordering), user experience, technical reliability, and overall value, ensuring they address the multifaceted needs of modern dining establishments.
Comparison Table
Effective restaurant management hinges on reliable software, and a robust comparison helps identify the right tool for operations. This table features top options like Toast, Lightspeed Restaurant, TouchBistro, Square for Restaurants, and Revel Systems, breaking down their key functionalities, pricing, and usability. Readers will discover which software aligns with their business size, workflow, and unique needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Toast Comprehensive cloud-based POS system for restaurants offering online ordering, payroll, inventory management, and analytics. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.0/10 | |
| 2 | Lightspeed Restaurant Cloud POS platform designed for restaurants with features for order management, table service, inventory, and multi-location support. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | TouchBistro iPad-based POS system tailored for full-service restaurants, providing menu management, staff scheduling, and reporting tools. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 4 | Square for Restaurants Affordable POS solution for restaurants with bill splitting, kitchen display, online ordering, and integrated payments. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 5 | Revel Systems Cloud-based POS for restaurants featuring real-time reporting, inventory tracking, loyalty programs, and e-commerce integration. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 6 | Clover Flexible POS hardware and software for restaurants supporting payments, inventory, and custom app integrations. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | Restaurant365 All-in-one restaurant management software combining POS integration, accounting, operations, and scheduling. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 8 | SpotOn Restaurant POS platform with contactless payments, online ordering, marketing tools, and expense management. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | Lavu Mobile POS system for restaurants offering table management, inventory control, and loyalty programs at an affordable price. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 10 | 7shifts Employee scheduling and workforce management software for restaurants with labor forecasting, tip pooling, and communication tools. | specialized | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.3/10 |
Comprehensive cloud-based POS system for restaurants offering online ordering, payroll, inventory management, and analytics.
Cloud POS platform designed for restaurants with features for order management, table service, inventory, and multi-location support.
iPad-based POS system tailored for full-service restaurants, providing menu management, staff scheduling, and reporting tools.
Affordable POS solution for restaurants with bill splitting, kitchen display, online ordering, and integrated payments.
Cloud-based POS for restaurants featuring real-time reporting, inventory tracking, loyalty programs, and e-commerce integration.
Flexible POS hardware and software for restaurants supporting payments, inventory, and custom app integrations.
All-in-one restaurant management software combining POS integration, accounting, operations, and scheduling.
Restaurant POS platform with contactless payments, online ordering, marketing tools, and expense management.
Mobile POS system for restaurants offering table management, inventory control, and loyalty programs at an affordable price.
Employee scheduling and workforce management software for restaurants with labor forecasting, tip pooling, and communication tools.
Toast
enterpriseComprehensive cloud-based POS system for restaurants offering online ordering, payroll, inventory management, and analytics.
End-to-end online ordering and delivery management integrated directly into the POS, eliminating the need for separate systems and reducing order errors.
Toast is a leading cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) system tailored for restaurants, providing an all-in-one platform that handles order management, payment processing, inventory tracking, employee scheduling, and customer loyalty programs. It integrates seamlessly with online ordering, third-party delivery services like Uber Eats and DoorDash, and kitchen display systems to optimize front- and back-of-house operations. Designed for scalability, Toast supports everything from single-location eateries to multi-unit chains with robust analytics and reporting tools.
Pros
- Comprehensive restaurant-specific features including POS, online ordering, payroll, and analytics in one platform
- Strong integrations with delivery apps and payment processors for streamlined operations
- Reliable offline mode and durable hardware options built for high-volume restaurant environments
Cons
- Higher upfront hardware costs and long-term contracts can be a barrier for small operations
- Advanced features may require a learning curve despite intuitive interface
- Customer support response times can vary, especially during peak seasons
Best For
Full-service restaurants, quick-service spots, and growing chains seeking a scalable, integrated POS solution to manage all aspects of operations efficiently.
Pricing
Software starts at $69/month per terminal (billed annually), plus hardware bundles from $799 and 2.49%-3.69% payment processing fees; custom enterprise pricing available.
Lightspeed Restaurant
enterpriseCloud POS platform designed for restaurants with features for order management, table service, inventory, and multi-location support.
Order Anywhere, enabling servers to take orders from any device with automatic syncing to the kitchen display system
Lightspeed Restaurant is a cloud-based POS system designed specifically for restaurants, bars, and cafes, providing comprehensive tools for order processing, inventory management, table management, and customer loyalty programs. It supports full-service, quick-service, and multi-location operations with features like kitchen display systems (KDS), online ordering integration, and real-time reporting. The platform emphasizes scalability and integrations with over 100 third-party apps, enabling streamlined operations from front-of-house to back-of-house.
Pros
- Extensive feature set including advanced inventory tracking and CRM tools
- Seamless multi-location management and real-time analytics
- Robust integrations with delivery services and accounting software
Cons
- Higher pricing compared to basic POS systems
- Steeper learning curve for advanced features
- Customer support can be inconsistent during peak times
Best For
Growing restaurant chains and multi-location businesses seeking scalable POS with strong inventory and reporting capabilities.
Pricing
Starts at $69/month per location (Essentials), $109 (Plus), $149 (Pro), plus one-time hardware costs and add-ons.
TouchBistro
specializediPad-based POS system tailored for full-service restaurants, providing menu management, staff scheduling, and reporting tools.
Interactive floor plan with drag-and-drop table management and real-time seat status updates
TouchBistro is a cloud-based POS system tailored exclusively for restaurants, offering comprehensive tools for order taking, table management, inventory tracking, and payment processing. It supports full-service operations with features like course-by-course serving, staff scheduling, and customer loyalty programs, all optimized for iPad hardware. The platform provides real-time reporting and offline functionality to ensure seamless service even without internet.
Pros
- Restaurant-specific features like advanced table mapping and multi-course management
- Reliable offline mode for uninterrupted service
- Strong integrations with kitchen displays, payroll, and loyalty apps
Cons
- Primarily iPad-only, limiting hardware flexibility
- Pricing can be steep for smaller venues
- Occasional reports of sync issues post-outages
Best For
Full-service restaurants and bars needing robust, mobile-first POS with table-side ordering.
Pricing
Starts at $69/month per terminal (Essentials plan), up to $165+/month for premium features; custom enterprise pricing available.
Square for Restaurants
enterpriseAffordable POS solution for restaurants with bill splitting, kitchen display, online ordering, and integrated payments.
Built-in payment processing with instant deposits and no hidden fees
Square for Restaurants is a cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) system tailored for the food service industry, offering seamless payment processing, order management, and inventory tracking. It supports features like kitchen display systems, online ordering integration, employee scheduling, and real-time reporting accessible from any device. Ideal for streamlining operations in quick-service and full-service restaurants, it eliminates the need for traditional cash registers with its modern hardware ecosystem.
Pros
- Intuitive, mobile-friendly interface with quick setup
- No monthly software fees, only pay-per-use transaction costs
- Strong integrations with delivery apps and accounting tools
Cons
- Transaction fees can accumulate for high-volume sales
- Limited advanced table management for large fine-dining operations
- Requires reliable internet and can have occasional sync issues
Best For
Small to medium-sized restaurants and quick-service spots seeking an affordable, user-friendly POS without contracts.
Pricing
Free POS software; processing fees at 2.6% + 10¢ (in-person), 2.9% + 30¢ (CNP); hardware bundles from $60/month or purchase outright.
Revel Systems
enterpriseCloud-based POS for restaurants featuring real-time reporting, inventory tracking, loyalty programs, and e-commerce integration.
Seamless cloud-based kitchen display system (KDS) that syncs orders in real-time across multiple stations.
Revel Systems is a cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) system tailored for restaurants, providing comprehensive tools for order processing, payment handling, inventory management, and sales reporting. It supports iPad and Android devices, enabling flexible deployment across counter, kitchen, and drive-thru operations. Revel integrates with third-party services like delivery platforms, payroll, and accounting software, offering scalability for quick-service and full-service establishments.
Pros
- Robust feature set including real-time inventory and analytics
- Extensive integrations with delivery and loyalty apps
- Reliable offline mode for uninterrupted service
Cons
- Higher cost structure with per-terminal fees
- Steep learning curve for advanced customizations
- Customer support response times can vary
Best For
Mid-sized restaurants seeking a scalable, feature-rich POS with strong backend reporting and integrations.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month per terminal for core features, plus hardware costs ($500+) and add-ons like online ordering ($50+/month).
Clover
enterpriseFlexible POS hardware and software for restaurants supporting payments, inventory, and custom app integrations.
Clover App Market offering over 1,000 apps for restaurant-specific customizations like delivery integrations and loyalty tools
Clover is a cloud-based POS system from Fiserv tailored for restaurants, offering hardware like countertop terminals, handheld devices, and kiosks alongside software for payments, inventory tracking, menu management, and kitchen display systems. It supports table-side ordering, online ordering integrations with services like DoorDash, employee scheduling, and customer loyalty programs through its extensive App Market. Designed for small to mid-sized restaurants, it streamlines operations from front-of-house to back-of-house with real-time reporting and customizable features.
Pros
- Highly customizable via the Clover App Market with thousands of third-party integrations
- Flexible hardware options including mobile devices for table-side service
- Seamless payment processing with support for EMV, NFC, and contactless payments
Cons
- Transaction fees can add up, especially for high-volume restaurants
- Customer support response times are sometimes slow outside business hours
- Occasional software glitches and updates that disrupt service
Best For
Small to medium-sized restaurants needing a versatile, app-extensible POS with strong payment capabilities and minimal upfront customization.
Pricing
Hardware from $499 (Mini) to $1,699 (Station Duo); software plans start at $14.95/month per device; payment processing at 2.3% + $0.10 per transaction (custom rates available).
Restaurant365
enterpriseAll-in-one restaurant management software combining POS integration, accounting, operations, and scheduling.
Seamless daily sales-to-GL posting from POS integrations for accurate, real-time financial visibility.
Restaurant365 is a cloud-based all-in-one restaurant management platform that integrates accounting, operations, payroll, and inventory management tailored for the foodservice industry. It connects seamlessly with popular POS systems like Toast, Square, and NCR to provide real-time financial data, scheduling, and reporting. The software streamlines back-office tasks, helping multi-unit operators track profitability across locations with automated AP/AR and labor cost controls.
Pros
- Comprehensive integration of accounting and operations data from POS systems
- Robust real-time reporting and analytics for profitability insights
- Scalable for multi-location restaurants with strong inventory and payroll tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- High pricing that may not suit single-location or small operations
- Occasional reports of slow customer support response times
Best For
Multi-unit restaurant chains and growing enterprises needing integrated financial and operational management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $400-$650 per location/month plus setup fees, scaling with users and features.
SpotOn
specializedRestaurant POS platform with contactless payments, online ordering, marketing tools, and expense management.
Blazing-fast transaction speeds on proprietary hardware, processing orders up to 40% quicker than competitors
SpotOn is a comprehensive POS and restaurant management platform designed to handle payments, ordering, inventory, scheduling, and customer loyalty for restaurants of all sizes. It offers touchscreen hardware, online ordering integrations with services like DoorDash and Uber Eats, and robust reporting tools to streamline front- and back-of-house operations. The system emphasizes fast transactions and customizable interfaces to boost efficiency and revenue.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with delivery and payment providers
- 24/7 U.S.-based customer support
- Advanced inventory and labor management tools
Cons
- Pricing can be opaque and higher than some competitors
- Occasional reports of software bugs and downtime
- Steeper learning curve for advanced features
Best For
Mid-sized restaurants and chains seeking an all-in-one POS with strong payment processing and delivery integrations.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at $99/month per location plus hardware ($500+) and 2.6% + $0.10 transaction fees.
Lavu
specializedMobile POS system for restaurants offering table management, inventory control, and loyalty programs at an affordable price.
Handheld server tablets enabling fast, table-side ordering and payment collection
Lavu is a cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) system designed specifically for restaurants, bars, food trucks, and quick-service eateries. It provides tools for table management, order taking via handheld devices, inventory tracking, payment processing, and kitchen display systems. The platform supports online ordering, customer loyalty programs, and real-time reporting to streamline restaurant operations.
Pros
- Highly intuitive mobile interface with handheld ordering
- Reliable offline mode for uninterrupted service
- Comprehensive restaurant-specific features like table mapping
Cons
- Limited to iOS devices, restricting hardware options
- Additional costs for hardware and advanced add-ons
- Reporting tools lack depth compared to enterprise competitors
Best For
Small to mid-sized restaurants and bars seeking a mobile-first, easy-to-deploy POS without complex setup.
Pricing
Starts at $69/month per terminal (Starter plan), up to $159/month (Ultimate), plus hardware purchases or leases averaging $500-$1,000 per device.
7shifts
specializedEmployee scheduling and workforce management software for restaurants with labor forecasting, tip pooling, and communication tools.
AutoSchedule AI that automatically generates optimized schedules based on forecasted sales, labor targets, and employee availability
7shifts is a restaurant-specific workforce management platform that specializes in employee scheduling, time tracking, labor forecasting, and team communication. It helps managers create optimized schedules, monitor real-time labor costs, and ensure compliance with labor laws through features like shift reminders and availability management. The software integrates with major POS systems like Toast and Square, enabling data-driven decisions to control expenses and boost efficiency.
Pros
- Powerful AI-driven scheduling and labor forecasting tools
- Seamless mobile app for employee self-service and clock-ins
- Robust integrations with POS and payroll systems
Cons
- Pricing escalates quickly with add-ons and locations
- Advanced reporting requires higher-tier plans
- Occasional sync issues with some integrations
Best For
Mid-sized to large restaurants and multi-location chains focused on optimizing labor costs and scheduling efficiency.
Pricing
Essential plan at $29.99/location/month; Pro at $59.99/location/month; Elite and Enterprise custom pricing (billed annually).
Conclusion
The top restaurant computer software options highlight the industry's innovation, with Toast leading as the comprehensive choice, integrating POS, ordering, payroll, and analytics. Lightspeed Restaurant excels for its multi-location support and order management, while TouchBistro stands out for tailored full-service tools like menu management and staff scheduling. Together, they prove there’s a solution for every restaurant, whether focusing on efficiency, scalability, or specific operational needs.
Begin your journey by exploring Toast—its all-encompassing features make it a top pick for most. If your venue has unique priorities, don’t overlook Lightspeed Restaurant or TouchBistro, as both offer powerful performance that can transform your operations.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison