Quick Overview
- 1#1: Lightspeed Retail - Comprehensive POS and retail management platform with inventory, CRM, and omnichannel sales capabilities for multi-store operations.
- 2#2: Shopify POS - Unified commerce solution integrating in-store POS with online sales and centralized inventory management.
- 3#3: Cin7 - Cloud-based inventory and order management software connecting POS, ecommerce, and accounting systems for retailers.
- 4#4: Square for Retail - Affordable POS system with inventory tracking, reporting, and payment processing for small to medium stores.
- 5#5: Revel Systems - Cloud iPad POS platform offering real-time inventory, analytics, and multi-location management for retailers.
- 6#6: Clover - Customizable POS hardware and software with app marketplace for inventory and store operations.
- 7#7: DEAR Systems - Integrated inventory, purchasing, sales, and manufacturing management with accounting sync for distributors and retailers.
- 8#8: Zoho Inventory - Multi-channel inventory management tool with order processing, warehousing, and shipping features.
- 9#9: Fishbowl - Advanced inventory control software with manufacturing, warehousing, and QuickBooks integration for complex operations.
- 10#10: NetSuite - Cloud ERP platform with retail modules for inventory, POS, and enterprise store management.
Each tool was evaluated based on robust feature sets, user experience, reliability, and value, ensuring alignment with the diverse needs of retailers, from small businesses to multi-location enterprises.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores top stores management software tools like Lightspeed Retail, Shopify POS, Cin7, Square for Retail, and Revel Systems, offering a clear overview to aid in choosing the right solution. Readers will discover key features, pricing nuances, and suitability for various business sizes and workflows, ensuring they make an informed decision.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lightspeed Retail Comprehensive POS and retail management platform with inventory, CRM, and omnichannel sales capabilities for multi-store operations. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | Shopify POS Unified commerce solution integrating in-store POS with online sales and centralized inventory management. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | Cin7 Cloud-based inventory and order management software connecting POS, ecommerce, and accounting systems for retailers. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Square for Retail Affordable POS system with inventory tracking, reporting, and payment processing for small to medium stores. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 5 | Revel Systems Cloud iPad POS platform offering real-time inventory, analytics, and multi-location management for retailers. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | Clover Customizable POS hardware and software with app marketplace for inventory and store operations. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | DEAR Systems Integrated inventory, purchasing, sales, and manufacturing management with accounting sync for distributors and retailers. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 8 | Zoho Inventory Multi-channel inventory management tool with order processing, warehousing, and shipping features. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 9 | Fishbowl Advanced inventory control software with manufacturing, warehousing, and QuickBooks integration for complex operations. | specialized | 7.9/10 | 8.7/10 | 6.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 10 | NetSuite Cloud ERP platform with retail modules for inventory, POS, and enterprise store management. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.4/10 | 7.3/10 |
Comprehensive POS and retail management platform with inventory, CRM, and omnichannel sales capabilities for multi-store operations.
Unified commerce solution integrating in-store POS with online sales and centralized inventory management.
Cloud-based inventory and order management software connecting POS, ecommerce, and accounting systems for retailers.
Affordable POS system with inventory tracking, reporting, and payment processing for small to medium stores.
Cloud iPad POS platform offering real-time inventory, analytics, and multi-location management for retailers.
Customizable POS hardware and software with app marketplace for inventory and store operations.
Integrated inventory, purchasing, sales, and manufacturing management with accounting sync for distributors and retailers.
Multi-channel inventory management tool with order processing, warehousing, and shipping features.
Advanced inventory control software with manufacturing, warehousing, and QuickBooks integration for complex operations.
Cloud ERP platform with retail modules for inventory, POS, and enterprise store management.
Lightspeed Retail
enterpriseComprehensive POS and retail management platform with inventory, CRM, and omnichannel sales capabilities for multi-store operations.
Matrix inventory support for handling complex product variations like sizes and colors across unlimited locations
Lightspeed Retail is a comprehensive cloud-based POS and retail management platform tailored for physical and online stores, offering tools for inventory tracking, sales processing, and customer management. It enables multi-location retailers to synchronize stock levels in real-time, process omnichannel transactions, and generate actionable insights through advanced reporting. With extensive integrations for e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting software like QuickBooks, it supports scalable growth for retail businesses of all sizes.
Pros
- Powerful multi-location inventory management with real-time synchronization
- Robust omnichannel selling capabilities integrating in-store and online sales
- Advanced analytics and customizable reporting for data-driven decisions
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for very small single-store operations
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization features
- Customer support response times vary during peak periods
Best For
Mid-sized to enterprise-level retail chains with multiple locations seeking an all-in-one solution for unified inventory, sales, and e-commerce management.
Pricing
Starts at $69/month per register (Lite plan), with Essential ($109), Plus ($159), and Advanced ($289) tiers; annual billing discounts available, plus setup fees.
Shopify POS
enterpriseUnified commerce solution integrating in-store POS with online sales and centralized inventory management.
Real-time bidirectional inventory sync across online and physical stores, preventing overselling and stockouts.
Shopify POS is a robust point-of-sale system integrated with Shopify's e-commerce platform, enabling retailers to manage in-store transactions, inventory, and customer data alongside their online stores. It supports hardware like card readers, receipt printers, and iPads for flexible checkout setups in retail environments. Key capabilities include real-time inventory syncing, staff management, and omnichannel sales reporting, making it ideal for unified store operations.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Shopify online store for omnichannel inventory and sales syncing
- Extensive app marketplace for custom features like loyalty programs and analytics
- Scalable for single stores to multi-location enterprises with reliable uptime
Cons
- POS Pro advanced features require additional $89/month per location fee
- Reporting and customization limited in basic plans without upgrades
- Hardware setup and integration can involve extra upfront costs
Best For
Multi-channel retailers with physical stores seeking unified online-offline management without complex IT setups.
Pricing
Tied to Shopify plans starting at $29/month (Basic) + $89/month per location for POS Pro; transaction fees apply (2.4-2.9% + 30¢ online, lower in-person).
Cin7
enterpriseCloud-based inventory and order management software connecting POS, ecommerce, and accounting systems for retailers.
Intelligent stock allocation that automatically directs inventory to the optimal sales channel or location in real-time
Cin7 is a comprehensive cloud-based inventory and order management platform tailored for retailers and wholesalers handling multi-channel sales. It centralizes real-time inventory tracking across e-commerce sites, physical stores, marketplaces, and B2B portals, while supporting POS operations and seamless integrations with platforms like Shopify, QuickBooks, and Xero. The software excels in automating order fulfillment, stock allocation, and reporting to streamline store management operations.
Pros
- Robust multi-channel inventory synchronization in real-time
- Extensive integrations with over 700 connectors including POS and accounting
- Advanced reporting and analytics for informed decision-making
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- High pricing may not suit small businesses
- Limited native mobile app capabilities
Best For
Multi-location retailers and wholesalers with omnichannel sales needing centralized inventory control.
Pricing
Core plan starts at $349/month (billed annually) with per-order fees from $0.20; Prime at $599/month and custom Enterprise options available.
Square for Retail
specializedAffordable POS system with inventory tracking, reporting, and payment processing for small to medium stores.
Real-time inventory syncing across in-store, online, and third-party delivery channels
Square for Retail is a cloud-based POS and stores management software tailored for brick-and-mortar retailers, offering tools for inventory tracking, sales processing, employee scheduling, and customer management. It integrates seamlessly with Square's payment hardware and online storefronts for omnichannel selling. The platform provides real-time reporting, purchase order creation, and stock alerts to streamline daily operations.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with minimal training required
- Robust inventory tools including modifiers, bundles, and multi-location support
- Flexible, transaction-based pricing with no long-term contracts
Cons
- Processing fees add up for high-volume stores (2.6% + 10¢ per card-present transaction)
- Advanced reporting and customization limited in lower tiers
- Customer support primarily self-service with variable response times
Best For
Small to medium retail stores needing an affordable, user-friendly POS with solid inventory management and payment integration.
Pricing
Free for basic POS; Retail Plus at $60/month per location; Retail Premium custom pricing; plus transaction fees.
Revel Systems
specializedCloud iPad POS platform offering real-time inventory, analytics, and multi-location management for retailers.
Real-time cloud syncing with offline mode for uninterrupted operations across multiple stores
Revel Systems is a cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) and store management platform tailored for retail and quick-service restaurants, providing robust tools for inventory tracking, sales processing, and multi-location management. It integrates hardware like iPads with software features for real-time reporting, employee management, and customer relationship tools. Ideal for businesses seeking scalable operations, it supports purchase orders, vendor management, and analytics to optimize store performance.
Pros
- Advanced inventory management with real-time tracking and purchase orders
- Strong multi-location support and centralized reporting
- Extensive integrations with e-commerce, accounting, and third-party apps
Cons
- Higher pricing with per-terminal fees and hardware requirements
- Steep learning curve for advanced customizations
- Customer support can be inconsistent during peak times
Best For
Multi-location retail and restaurant chains needing scalable POS with deep inventory control.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month per terminal for Starter plan, up to $299+ for Enterprise; plus hardware (~$500/iPad) and 2.3-2.6% processing fees.
Clover
specializedCustomizable POS hardware and software with app marketplace for inventory and store operations.
The Clover App Market with over 400 apps for tailored stores management extensions
Clover is a versatile point-of-sale (POS) system tailored for small to medium-sized retail and service businesses, providing tools for payment processing, inventory management, sales tracking, and employee scheduling. It features a customizable dashboard and a vast app marketplace to extend functionality for stores management needs like order fulfillment and multi-location support. Overall, it streamlines in-store operations while integrating seamlessly with online sales channels.
Pros
- Integrated payment processing with competitive rates
- Extensive app marketplace for custom integrations
- User-friendly interface with mobile accessibility
Cons
- High upfront hardware costs
- Advanced features often require additional subscriptions
- Customer support can be inconsistent
Best For
Small retail stores and quick-service businesses seeking an all-in-one POS with strong inventory and payment tools.
Pricing
Hardware starts at $499; software plans from $14.95/month per device; plus 2.3% + $0.10 per transaction.
DEAR Systems
specializedIntegrated inventory, purchasing, sales, and manufacturing management with accounting sync for distributors and retailers.
Landed cost tracking that automatically allocates shipping, duties, and fees to inventory for precise costing.
DEAR Systems is a cloud-based inventory and stores management software tailored for retailers, wholesalers, and light manufacturers. It offers real-time stock tracking across multiple locations, automated purchasing, order fulfillment, and support for multi-channel sales including POS, e-commerce, and marketplaces. The platform excels in detailed inventory control with features like lot/serial number tracking, bill of materials, and landed cost calculations, integrating seamlessly with accounting software like Xero and QuickBooks.
Pros
- Comprehensive inventory management with lot/serial tracking and multi-location support
- Strong integrations with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting tools
- Advanced reporting and automation for purchasing and fulfillment
Cons
- Steep learning curve for complex features and setup
- Pricing scales quickly with order volume and users
- POS functionality is basic compared to dedicated systems
Best For
Medium-sized retailers and distributors needing robust multi-channel inventory control and order management.
Pricing
Starts at $349 AUD/month (Essentials plan billed annually), scaling to $1,049 AUD/month for higher volumes; custom enterprise pricing available.
Zoho Inventory
specializedMulti-channel inventory management tool with order processing, warehousing, and shipping features.
Real-time inventory synchronization across multiple warehouses, sales channels, and Zoho apps
Zoho Inventory is a cloud-based inventory management solution that helps businesses track stock levels, manage orders, and handle warehouse operations efficiently. It supports multi-warehouse management, serial/batch tracking, purchase orders, and integrations with e-commerce platforms like Shopify, Amazon, and shipping carriers such as UPS and FedEx. Designed for small to medium-sized retailers, it ensures real-time visibility into inventory across multiple sales channels to prevent stockouts and overstocking.
Pros
- Multi-warehouse and multi-channel inventory syncing
- Extensive integrations with e-commerce and accounting tools
- Affordable pricing including a functional free plan
Cons
- Cluttered interface for complex setups
- Reporting features are basic without add-ons
- Customer support response times can vary
Best For
Small to medium retailers and e-commerce sellers managing inventory across multiple locations and online stores.
Pricing
Free plan for up to 20 orders/month; paid plans start at $29/organization/month (billed annually) for Standard tier.
Fishbowl
specializedAdvanced inventory control software with manufacturing, warehousing, and QuickBooks integration for complex operations.
Native, bi-directional QuickBooks integration that automatically syncs inventory transactions and financials in real-time
Fishbowl is a robust inventory management software designed for small to medium-sized businesses in warehousing, distribution, and light manufacturing. It excels in multi-location inventory tracking, barcode scanning, purchase/sales order management, and bill of materials for production. The software stands out with its deep, native integration with QuickBooks, enabling seamless synchronization of inventory and financial data.
Pros
- Deep QuickBooks integration for real-time accounting sync
- Advanced inventory tools like lot/serial tracking and multi-location support
- Strong manufacturing capabilities with BOM and work orders
Cons
- Dated desktop interface feels clunky compared to modern SaaS tools
- Steep learning curve requiring training for full utilization
- Limited native mobile app functionality
Best For
QuickBooks-dependent SMBs in warehousing and light manufacturing needing powerful on-premise inventory control.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $4,395 per user plus ~20% annual maintenance; cloud version (Fishbowl Warehouse) from ~$150/user/month.
NetSuite
enterpriseCloud ERP platform with retail modules for inventory, POS, and enterprise store management.
Unified Commerce platform for real-time synchronization of in-store, online, and back-office inventory and orders
NetSuite is a comprehensive cloud-based ERP platform that provides robust stores management through its inventory control, order management, and retail operations modules. It supports multi-location inventory tracking, POS integrations, and omnichannel order fulfillment for physical and online stores. While powerful for enterprise-scale retail, it extends far beyond stores to full business management including financials and CRM.
Pros
- Seamless integration with full ERP suite for end-to-end retail operations
- Real-time inventory visibility across multiple stores and channels
- Highly scalable for global enterprises with advanced analytics
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex setup requiring customization
- High pricing not suitable for small or single-store operations
- Overkill for basic stores management without broader ERP needs
Best For
Large retail enterprises needing integrated ERP with advanced multi-channel stores management.
Pricing
Custom subscription starting at ~$1,000/month base plus $99/user/month; enterprise quotes required.
Conclusion
The top store management tools each bring unique strengths, with Lightspeed Retail emerging as the standout choice for its comprehensive features including robust POS, inventory, CRM, and omnichannel capabilities tailored for multi-store operations. Shopify POS follows closely, excelling in unified commerce integration between in-store sales and online channels, while Cin7 impresses with its cloud-based connectivity across POS, ecommerce, and accounting systems. These platforms cater to diverse needs, but Lightspeed Retail remains the top pick for those seeking a well-rounded solution.
Take the first step toward efficient store management—try Lightspeed Retail to experience its seamless integration of tools and support for scaling your business effectively.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
