Quick Overview
- 1#1: Lightspeed Retail - Comprehensive cloud-based POS and inventory management platform for multi-location retail businesses with advanced analytics and omnichannel support.
- 2#2: Square for Retail - User-friendly, affordable POS system with real-time inventory tracking, purchase orders, and vendor management for small retailers.
- 3#3: Shopify POS - Integrated POS hardware and software that syncs in-store sales with online inventory for seamless omnichannel retail operations.
- 4#4: Clover - Customizable POS platform with robust inventory management, app integrations, and flexible hardware options for retail stores.
- 5#5: Revel Systems - iPad-based cloud POS offering advanced inventory control, matrix inventory, and real-time reporting for retail environments.
- 6#6: Epos Now - Cloud POS solution with comprehensive inventory tracking, stock alerts, and multi-store management for independent retailers.
- 7#7: KORONA POS - Feature-rich, secure POS system with sophisticated inventory management, loss prevention, and scalability for retail operations.
- 8#8: Loyverse POS - Free mobile POS app providing inventory management, sales analytics, and employee monitoring for small retail businesses.
- 9#9: RetailEdge - Desktop-based POS software with powerful inventory tools, purchase orders, and one-time licensing for independent retailers.
- 10#10: Cin7 - Advanced inventory management platform with POS integrations, multi-channel selling, and automation for growing retail businesses.
We selected these tools by prioritizing functionality (e.g., omnichannel integration, advanced analytics), usability, reliability, and value, ensuring a balanced guide that meets the needs of small-scale to large retail operations.
Comparison Table
This comparison table outlines key features, pricing structures, and scalability of leading retail POS and inventory management software, including Lightspeed Retail, Square for Retail, Shopify POS, Clover, Revel Systems, and additional tools. Readers will discover how each platform balances core functionalities like transaction processing and inventory tracking, empowering them to select solutions that match their business size, sales volume, and operational priorities.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lightspeed Retail Comprehensive cloud-based POS and inventory management platform for multi-location retail businesses with advanced analytics and omnichannel support. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | Square for Retail User-friendly, affordable POS system with real-time inventory tracking, purchase orders, and vendor management for small retailers. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 3 | Shopify POS Integrated POS hardware and software that syncs in-store sales with online inventory for seamless omnichannel retail operations. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Clover Customizable POS platform with robust inventory management, app integrations, and flexible hardware options for retail stores. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Revel Systems iPad-based cloud POS offering advanced inventory control, matrix inventory, and real-time reporting for retail environments. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | Epos Now Cloud POS solution with comprehensive inventory tracking, stock alerts, and multi-store management for independent retailers. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | KORONA POS Feature-rich, secure POS system with sophisticated inventory management, loss prevention, and scalability for retail operations. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 8 | Loyverse POS Free mobile POS app providing inventory management, sales analytics, and employee monitoring for small retail businesses. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.3/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 |
| 9 | RetailEdge Desktop-based POS software with powerful inventory tools, purchase orders, and one-time licensing for independent retailers. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 10 | Cin7 Advanced inventory management platform with POS integrations, multi-channel selling, and automation for growing retail businesses. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
Comprehensive cloud-based POS and inventory management platform for multi-location retail businesses with advanced analytics and omnichannel support.
User-friendly, affordable POS system with real-time inventory tracking, purchase orders, and vendor management for small retailers.
Integrated POS hardware and software that syncs in-store sales with online inventory for seamless omnichannel retail operations.
Customizable POS platform with robust inventory management, app integrations, and flexible hardware options for retail stores.
iPad-based cloud POS offering advanced inventory control, matrix inventory, and real-time reporting for retail environments.
Cloud POS solution with comprehensive inventory tracking, stock alerts, and multi-store management for independent retailers.
Feature-rich, secure POS system with sophisticated inventory management, loss prevention, and scalability for retail operations.
Free mobile POS app providing inventory management, sales analytics, and employee monitoring for small retail businesses.
Desktop-based POS software with powerful inventory tools, purchase orders, and one-time licensing for independent retailers.
Advanced inventory management platform with POS integrations, multi-channel selling, and automation for growing retail businesses.
Lightspeed Retail
enterpriseComprehensive cloud-based POS and inventory management platform for multi-location retail businesses with advanced analytics and omnichannel support.
Matrix inventory system for efficient management of product variants like sizes, colors, and styles across channels
Lightspeed Retail is a cloud-based POS and inventory management platform designed specifically for brick-and-mortar and multi-channel retailers. It provides real-time inventory tracking across multiple locations, seamless POS transactions, purchase order management, and robust reporting tools to optimize stock levels and sales performance. The software excels in omnichannel integration, connecting physical stores with online sales channels like Shopify and BigCommerce for unified commerce operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive multi-location inventory synchronization
- Extensive integrations with e-commerce and accounting software
- Powerful analytics and customizable reporting
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for single-location small businesses
- Advanced features have a moderate learning curve
- Customer support response times vary
Best For
Multi-location retail businesses needing scalable POS, inventory control, and omnichannel capabilities.
Pricing
Starts at $89/month (Essentials), $149/month (Plus), $249/month (Advanced) per register/location; annual billing offers discounts.
Square for Retail
enterpriseUser-friendly, affordable POS system with real-time inventory tracking, purchase orders, and vendor management for small retailers.
Free-to-start, all-in-one platform with native payment processing and real-time inventory visibility across in-store and online sales
Square for Retail is a cloud-based POS and inventory management platform tailored for physical retail stores, offering seamless payment processing, real-time stock tracking, and sales analytics. It supports multi-location inventory management, purchase orders, and product modifiers for complex items like variations and bundles. The system integrates with Square's hardware and e-commerce tools, enabling unified online and in-store operations without monthly software fees for core features.
Pros
- Intuitive setup and mobile-friendly interface requiring minimal training
- Free core POS and inventory software with transparent per-transaction pricing
- Real-time inventory syncing across locations and channels with low-stock alerts
Cons
- Transaction processing fees (2.6% + 10¢) add up for high-volume sales
- Advanced reporting and customization limited without upgrading to paid plans
- Fewer third-party integrations than enterprise competitors like Lightspeed
Best For
Small to medium retail businesses needing an affordable, easy-to-use POS with reliable inventory tracking and integrated payments.
Pricing
Free for core POS and inventory; 2.6% + 10¢ per in-person transaction; Plus plan $60/month/location for advanced features; Premium custom pricing.
Shopify POS
enterpriseIntegrated POS hardware and software that syncs in-store sales with online inventory for seamless omnichannel retail operations.
Real-time omnichannel inventory synchronization
Shopify POS is a comprehensive point-of-sale system integrated with Shopify's e-commerce platform, enabling retailers to process in-store transactions while maintaining real-time inventory synchronization across online and physical channels. It supports a wide range of hardware like iPads and card readers, offers customer management, sales reporting, and seamless payment processing. As a retail POS and inventory management solution, it excels in omnichannel operations, allowing merchants to sell, track stock, and fulfill orders from one dashboard.
Pros
- Seamless real-time inventory sync between online store and physical locations
- Intuitive mobile app with support for various payment methods and hardware
- Extensive app marketplace for customizations and integrations
Cons
- Requires a paid Shopify subscription for full access, adding to costs
- POS Pro features incur extra $89/month per location fee
- Advanced reporting and analytics often need third-party apps
Best For
Omnichannel retailers with both online and brick-and-mortar stores needing unified inventory and sales management.
Pricing
POS Lite free with any Shopify plan (Basic $29/mo); POS Pro $89/mo per location plus Shopify subscription.
Clover
enterpriseCustomizable POS platform with robust inventory management, app integrations, and flexible hardware options for retail stores.
App Marketplace with over 1,000 third-party apps for unlimited customization
Clover is a versatile POS system tailored for retail businesses, providing seamless point-of-sale transactions, real-time inventory tracking, and multi-location management capabilities. It integrates payments processing, employee scheduling, and customer loyalty tools into a single platform, supported by customizable hardware like countertop terminals and handheld devices. The software's app marketplace allows extensive customization for specific retail needs, from e-commerce integrations to advanced reporting.
Pros
- Integrated payment processing with competitive rates
- Robust inventory management with real-time tracking and low-stock alerts
- Vast App Marketplace for tailored integrations and extensions
Cons
- Hardware costs can be high upfront
- Additional fees for premium apps and advanced features
- Customer support can be inconsistent for smaller users
Best For
Small to medium retail businesses seeking an all-in-one POS with strong inventory tools and payment integration.
Pricing
Hardware starts at $499; software subscriptions from $14.95/month per device; transaction fees around 2.3% + $0.10.
Revel Systems
enterpriseiPad-based cloud POS offering advanced inventory control, matrix inventory, and real-time reporting for retail environments.
Real-time cloud synchronization across all locations for instant inventory and sales visibility
Revel Systems is a cloud-based POS and inventory management platform tailored for retail, restaurants, and quick-service businesses, providing real-time sales processing, stock tracking, and multi-location management. It supports iPad and iOS devices with features like customer loyalty programs, e-commerce integrations, and advanced reporting for streamlined operations. The system emphasizes scalability, allowing businesses to manage inventory across stores with automated reordering and detailed analytics.
Pros
- Robust real-time inventory tracking with low-stock alerts and multi-location support
- Extensive integrations with e-commerce, accounting, and third-party apps
- Scalable for growing businesses with strong reporting and analytics tools
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers can become expensive for smaller operations
- Occasional reports of slower customer support response times
- Heavy reliance on stable internet, with limited offline functionality
Best For
Multi-location retail and restaurant businesses needing scalable POS with advanced inventory and loyalty features.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month per location (Core plan), $299/month (Elite), plus hardware (~$1,000+ initial) and add-ons; custom Enterprise pricing.
Epos Now
enterpriseCloud POS solution with comprehensive inventory tracking, stock alerts, and multi-store management for independent retailers.
Marketplace with 100+ apps for seamless customization and integrations without coding
Epos Now is a cloud-based POS system tailored for retail businesses, providing comprehensive point-of-sale transactions, inventory tracking, and management tools. It offers real-time stock visibility, automated purchase orders, supplier management, and multi-location support to streamline operations. The platform integrates with e-commerce sites, accounting software, and hardware for a unified retail ecosystem, including loyalty programs and advanced reporting.
Pros
- Robust real-time inventory management with low-stock alerts and purchase ordering
- Extensive integrations with e-commerce, accounting, and over 100 apps via marketplace
- Strong multi-location support for centralized control across stores
Cons
- Pricing can escalate with add-ons and hardware bundles
- Customer support response times vary, with some delays reported
- Internet dependency for full cloud functionality
Best For
Small to medium retail businesses needing scalable POS with advanced multi-store inventory control.
Pricing
Starts at £25/month per terminal (Essential plan), up to £109/month (Pro); hardware and add-ons extra, with custom enterprise quotes.
KORONA POS
enterpriseFeature-rich, secure POS system with sophisticated inventory management, loss prevention, and scalability for retail operations.
Advanced compliance and age verification tools integrated with scale systems for weigh-and-pay sales in regulated retail
KORONA POS is a cloud-based point-of-sale system optimized for high-volume retail sectors like convenience stores, liquor stores, smoke shops, and specialty retail. It delivers comprehensive inventory management with real-time tracking, multi-location synchronization, and advanced reporting capabilities. The platform supports offline operations, hardware integrations, and compliance features tailored for regulated industries.
Pros
- Robust real-time inventory management with lot tracking and recipe costing
- Seamless multi-location support and centralized back-office control
- Extensive customizable reporting and analytics tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for setup and advanced features
- Higher pricing for small single-location operations
- Limited native e-commerce and online ordering integrations
Best For
High-volume, multi-location retail businesses in regulated industries like liquor or convenience stores needing scalable POS and inventory solutions.
Pricing
Monthly subscriptions start at $99 per terminal for starter plans, with pro tiers around $149 and custom enterprise pricing.
Loyverse POS
specializedFree mobile POS app providing inventory management, sales analytics, and employee monitoring for small retail businesses.
Free multi-store and multi-device real-time inventory synchronization
Loyverse POS is a cloud-based, mobile-first point-of-sale system designed for small retail and service businesses, offering seamless sales processing, inventory tracking, and customer management. It supports real-time synchronization across multiple devices and locations, with features like low-stock alerts, barcode scanning, and employee time tracking. The platform excels in simplicity, allowing users to manage operations via iOS or Android apps without complex setup.
Pros
- Completely free core POS and inventory management with unlimited transactions
- Intuitive mobile app with quick setup and real-time multi-device sync
- Robust inventory tools including stock alerts, variants, and multi-store support
Cons
- Advanced analytics and reporting locked behind paid add-ons
- Limited customization and integrations compared to enterprise solutions
- Occasional sync issues or delays in high-volume environments
Best For
Small retail shops, cafes, and single-to-few-location businesses needing a free, easy-to-use POS with solid inventory tracking.
Pricing
Free forever for core features; paid add-ons start at $5/month (e.g., Employees, Analytics, Web Reports).
RetailEdge
specializedDesktop-based POS software with powerful inventory tools, purchase orders, and one-time licensing for independent retailers.
Lifetime ownership model with no recurring subscriptions, allowing full control and cost predictability.
RetailEdge is a Windows-based POS and inventory management software tailored for small to medium-sized retail businesses, offering point-of-sale processing, real-time inventory tracking, purchase order management, and customer loyalty programs. It supports multi-store operations with centralized data management and integrates with hardware like barcode scanners and receipt printers. The software emphasizes detailed reporting and analytics to help retailers optimize stock levels and sales performance.
Pros
- Robust multi-location inventory synchronization
- Comprehensive reporting and analytics tools
- One-time lifetime license option reducing long-term costs
Cons
- Windows-only compatibility limits flexibility
- Steep learning curve for advanced features
- Lacks native cloud or mobile app support
Best For
Small to medium retailers with multiple locations needing reliable on-premise inventory control and POS without subscription fees.
Pricing
One-time purchase starting at $795 for Basic edition, up to $4,995 for Enterprise, plus optional annual support starting at $295.
Cin7
enterpriseAdvanced inventory management platform with POS integrations, multi-channel selling, and automation for growing retail businesses.
Cin7 Connect for unlimited, bi-directional integrations with any sales channel or backend system
Cin7 is a robust cloud-based inventory management platform tailored for retailers and distributors, integrating seamlessly with various POS systems like Lightspeed and Square, e-commerce platforms such as Shopify and Amazon, and accounting software. It offers real-time multi-location stock tracking, automated purchasing, order management, and advanced reporting to unify omnichannel operations. While not a standalone POS, it excels in syncing POS data for accurate inventory control across physical and online sales channels.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with 700+ apps including POS, e-commerce, and ERPs
- Real-time inventory visibility across unlimited locations and channels
- Powerful automation for purchase orders, fulfillment, and B2B EDI
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- Pricing is premium and may overwhelm small retailers
- Relies on third-party POS rather than offering a native one
Best For
Mid-sized retailers and wholesalers with multi-channel sales needing advanced inventory synchronization.
Pricing
Starts at $349/month (billed annually) for Operations plan; scales to $599+ for Enterprise with custom quotes available.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools showcase a range of strengths, from Lightspeed Retail's robust multi-location management to Square for Retail's user-friendly affordability and Shopify POS's omnichannel sync, yet Lightspeed Retail emerges as the top choice for comprehensive performance. Square and Shopify stand out as strong alternatives, each tailored to specific needs like small-scale operations or online-in-store integration.
Discover the power of Lightspeed Retail to elevate your retail operations, or explore Square for Retail or Shopify POS to find the perfect fit for your business goals.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
