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A POS terminal is the backbone of in-person retail—it’s how you process payments, track sales, manage inventory, and keep your business running smoothly.

If your current system freezes during rush hour, can’t handle contactless payments, or leaves you guessing which products are running low, it’s time for an upgrade.

With over a decade in retail operations, I’ve seen how the wrong POS system can bottleneck checkout, confuse staff, and create accounting headaches at month-end.

This guide cuts through the marketing noise to show you exactly which POS terminals deliver fast, reliable transactions, support every payment method your customers expect (from chip cards to digital wallets), and make real-time inventory management possible—without a steep learning curve or hidden fees.

Every recommendation here is based on real operational insight, so you can trust you’re getting advice grounded in years of retail experience, not just marketing claims.

Comparing the Best POS Terminals, Side-by-Side

Now let’s quickly compare these top terminals based on pricing, trial info, and what they are best at.

The Best POS Terminals for Better Checkouts, Reviewed

Here are our detailed reviews of these top POS terminals, including the pros, cons, top features, and why we picked them.

Best all-around POS terminal

  • Free plan available
  • From $49/month + transaction fees
Visit Website
Rating: 4.9/5

Square gives you a flexible POS terminal setup whether you’re running a busy retail floor, a coffee bar, or a mobile service business that lives on pop-ups and events.

You get card-present hardware that talks directly to your POS software, so you can keep checkouts fast, inventory accurate, and fees predictable across locations.

Why I Picked Square

I picked Square because you can match the hardware to how you sell—Square Stand on an iPad for countertop checkouts, Square Register for full-service lanes, Square Terminal or Handheld for tableside or curbside orders—all running the same POS software and catalog.

You keep payments under control through flat, published processing rates tied to every terminal, so you always know your cost per in-person swipe or tap.

Your team also gets built-in tools like tipping, item modifiers, and customer profiles right on the terminal screens, which reduce order errors while capturing the data you actually need.

I like that you can start with a single Stand or Terminal, then add more devices and locations later without re-platforming your POS or swapping acquirers.

Square Key Features

In addition to the hardware variety, Square includes a few terminal-friendly features merchants will actually lean on day to day.

  • Offline Card Acceptance: Keep taking chip and tap payments during internet blips, then automatically upload them once you’re back online.
  • Team Management Tools: Track clock-ins, permissions, and sales by staff member directly from your POS terminals.
  • Customer Profiles and Receipts: Capture emails and phone numbers at checkout to send digital receipts and build marketing lists.
  • Inventory and Item Modifiers: Let staff customize orders (sizes, add-ons, modifiers) while keeping item counts and recipes accurate in the background.

Square Integrations

Integrations include Square Online, WooCommerce, Wix, BigCommerce, Ecwid, GoDaddy Websites + Marketing, QuickBooks Online, Xero, Magento, and Zen Cart.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Built-in tipping, modifiers, and customer profiles support retail and F&B.
  • Multiple hardware options fit counters, food trucks, and service routes.
  • Transparent, flat in-person processing rates simplify cost forecasting.

Cons:

  • Tied to Square’s ecosystem; you can’t run terminals on Windows.
  • Larger setups with multiple registers and accessories can feel space-hungry.

New Product Updates from Square

December 28 2025
Square Introduces Neighborhoods on Cash App

Square launches Neighborhoods on Cash App, offering businesses access to over 57 million active accounts, direct marketing, neighborhood rewards, and a 1% processing fee. For more information, visit Square's official site.

Best for B2B sellers

  • Free quote available
  • From $99/month

Stax Pay helps B2B and high-volume sellers get out of the “rate roulette” game with subscription-style pricing and tools that actually fit complex invoices and larger tickets.

You get POS hardware flexibility plus invoicing, ACH, and online payments in one place, so your finance team isn’t babysitting five different systems.

Why I Picked Stax Pay

I picked Stax Pay because its membership pricing helps you control costs through a flat monthly fee, which matters when your average ticket is higher than most retail environments.

You get card-present terminals, a virtual terminal, ACH support, and online checkout, so your team can take payments whether the customer is standing at the counter or paying a large invoice remotely.

The invoicing and recurring billing tools also reduce manual collections by letting you send invoices with embedded payment links and automate repeat charges.

Its reporting views give you fee visibility by channel, helping you decide which payment methods to encourage without running manual reconciliations.

Stax Pay Key Features

Here are a few extra features that are especially useful if you’re treating your POS terminals as part of a larger B2B payments stack.

  • Omni-Channel Acceptance: Use terminals, a virtual terminal, and hosted payment pages together so in-person, phone, and online payments all run through the same platform.
  • Text-To-Pay And Payment Links: Let your team send secure payment links or text-based requests so customers can pay larger invoices from their phone or inbox.
  • Recurring Billing Tools: Set up subscription or installment schedules directly in the platform so repeat B2B orders and retainers are billed automatically.
  • Surcharge And Fee Programs: Configure surcharging or convenience fees where allowed so you can protect margins on card-heavy customer segments.

Stax Pay Integrations

Integrations include QuickBooks Online, NetSuite, Salesforce, HubSpot, and Avalara.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Hardware-agnostic approach lets you pair Stax with a range of POS terminals.
  • Supports cards, ACH, and invoicing, which fits complex B2B payment flows.
  • Membership pricing can lower costs for high-ticket, high-volume B2B merchants.

Cons:

  • Primarily suited to US-based businesses, with more limited international support.
  • Monthly subscription fees may be hard to justify for low-volume sellers.

New Product Updates from Stax Pay

October 12 2025
Stax Processing: New End-to-End Payments Platform

Stax Payments introduces Stax Processing, an end-to-end payments platform offering an integrated transaction lifecycle and direct card network access. For more information, visit Stax Pay's official site.

Best for high-volume businesses in various industries

  • 3-month free trial
  • From $79/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.5/5

Payment Depot’s membership-style pricing is built for retailers and restaurants that run serious card volume through physical terminals and don’t want surprises on their monthly statement.

You get interchange-plus pricing tied to a predictable subscription, plus access to modern terminals and POS options without being locked into a single hardware ecosystem.

Why I Picked Payment Depot

I picked Payment Depot because the subscription model lets you control terminal costs as volume scales—your savings come from wholesale interchange rates plus a flat monthly fee instead of padded markups.

For in-store checkout, you can pair that pricing with Clover or Vital Select POS terminals, so your team gets familiar, well-supported hardware while finance gets cleaner fee structures.

You can also use SwipeSimple-powered terminals and mobile readers, which means your field staff or pop-up locations can accept tapped, dipped, or keyed payments without a separate processor.

I like that you can often reprogram many existing terminals rather than buying a full new fleet, which matters if you’re trying to upgrade processing economics without torching your hardware budget this year.

Payment Depot Key Features

Once you’ve locked in the pricing model, these terminal-focused features do most of the day-to-day work.

  • Terminal Catalog And Reprogramming: Access a wide range of countertop, smart, and mobile terminals, or have many existing devices reprogrammed so you can shift processors without a full hardware refresh.
  • Multi-Processor Back Ends: Run terminals on Fiserv (Clover) or TSYS (Vital) so you can match processing rails and hardware to your risk profile, ticket size, and existing bank relationships.
  • Virtual Terminal And Payment Links: Let staff key in phone orders or send payment links through a browser-based virtual terminal so finance teams can keep card-present and card-not-present flows under one provider.
  • Mobile App And Terminal Options: Use SwipeSimple’s mobile app and compatible terminals so store associates, field reps, or pop-up locations can take chip, swipe, or tap payments on the same pricing plan.

Payment Depot Integrations

Integrations include Clover POS, SwipeSimple, Vital Select, Authorize.Net, Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, PrestaShop, OpenCart, and Revel Systems.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Many existing terminals can be reprogrammed, reducing upfront hardware spend.
  • Supports Clover and Vital Select terminals for modern, retail-ready POS hardware.
  • Membership pricing is attractive for high-volume terminal and in-store traffic.

Cons:

  • Limited to US-based, non–high-risk merchants for in-store processing.
  • Less cost-effective for lower-volume merchants with modest terminal usage.

Best for real-time inventory management

  • Free trial + free demo available
  • From $59/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.8/5

KORONA POS gives high-volume retailers, ticketing venues, and franchises a way to keep terminals, inventory, and locations aligned without constant manual fixes.

It’s built for operators who care about real-time stock accuracy across multiple terminals.

Why I Picked KORONA POS

I picked KORONA POS because every terminal syncs inventory in real time, so your stock counts stay accurate with each sale, return, or transfer.

I like that you can manage products and pricing centrally, giving multi-location retailers one source of truth for how their terminals behave.

You also get flexibility with hardware and payment processors, so you can negotiate better rates and keep using terminals you already own.

KORONA POS Key Features

Here are a few terminal-focused capabilities that matter once you’re running day-to-day operations.

  • Multi-Store Control: Adjust pricing, inventory, and products per location from one dashboard.
  • Ticketing and Access Control: Sell tickets and manage entry directly from each terminal.
  • Cash Management Tools: Track drawer counts, variances, and paid in/out activity per device.
  • Advanced Reporting: Build custom sales and inventory reports grouped by terminal or store.

KORONA POS Integrations

Integrations include QuickBooks, WooCommerce, Shopify, Magento, BigCommerce, Mailchimp, PayPal, Stripe, Worldpay, Authorize.Net, and CardConnect.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Strong multi-location controls for franchises and multi-store retailers.
  • Supports mixed hardware setups without vendor lock-in.
  • Real-time terminal-level stock updates reduce inventory errors.

Cons:

  • Report customization can take time to configure.
  • Each terminal requires its own license fee.

New Product Updates from KORONA POS

KORONA POS Enhances Reporting Tools for Better Tracking
KORONA POS adds a time column to the Cancellation Report for better audit tracking.
November 2 2025
KORONA POS Enhances Reporting Tools for Better Tracking

KORONA POS has updated its reporting tools with new grouping, columns, and time-tracking features to improve data visibility across discounts, stock, and cancellations. For more information, visit KORONA POS's official site.

Best for omnichannel retail integration

  • 3-day free trial
  • Pricing upon request

Shopify POS gives you a dedicated countertop terminal that actually talks to the rest of your retail stack—online inventory, customer profiles, and store locations all live in one place.

It’s best for omnichannel retailers already on Shopify who want a customer-facing terminal that cuts line time without creating a second data silo.

Why I Picked Shopify POS

I picked Shopify POS because you can run your in-store terminal and online store from the same product catalog and inventory engine, so you aren’t reconciling two sets of stock after every weekend.

Your customers get a dedicated, buyer-facing display on the POS Terminal, which shows itemized carts and payment flows so they can review line items, add a tip, and choose receipt options without crowding your staff’s screen.

Your team can use the POS smart grid to pin discounts, apps, and popular products to the home screen, which speeds up checkout during busy hours.

You also get native support for tap, chip, and swipe payments via Shopify Payments, so you can accept modern payment methods while keeping fees and payouts in a single place.

Shopify POS Key Features

In addition to the terminal hardware itself, Shopify POS gives retailers tools your team will actually use at the counter and in the back office.

  • Unified Product Catalog: Manage products, prices, and variants once, then sell them across online and in-store channels.
  • Omnichannel Inventory: Track inventory by location and support pickups, ship-from-store, and transfers without spreadsheets.
  • Customer Profiles: Store purchase history and preferences to power targeted promos and loyalty programs.
  • Staff Permissions: Assign roles and access levels so associates can sell confidently without touching sensitive settings.

Shopify POS Integrations

Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, Mailchimp, Klaviyo, LoyaltyLion, Yotpo, ShipStation, DHL Express, UPS, and Canada Post.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Shared catalog and inventory let you sell online and in-store from one system.
  • Smart grid layout lets staff pin key apps, discounts, and products.
  • Dedicated customer-facing terminal display improves transparency and tipping at checkout.

Cons:

  • POS Terminal and in-person card acceptance require Shopify Payments in supported countries.
  • Advanced retail workflows may need additional paid apps from the Shopify App Store.

Best for iPad POS systems

  • Free demo available
  • From $59/month + payment processing
Visit Website
Rating: 5/5

Lavu gives restaurant teams an iPad-based terminal that actually keeps up with peak service—tableside orders, bar tabs, and delivery tickets all flow through one screen instead of a pile of devices.

It’s best for restaurants, bars, and cafés that want mobile, Wi-Fi–friendly hardware tied to strong inventory and reporting tools rather than a basic cash register.

Why I Picked Lavu

I picked Lavu for operators who want an iPad terminal built for real restaurant chaos, not just slow hours—its offline card support helps you keep taking payments even when the internet dips.

You get a single iPad screen that pulls together orders, payments, and online sales using built-in online ordering and the MenuDrive platform, so your team isn’t re-keying delivery tickets by hand.

I like that your staff can fire tickets straight to a kitchen display system while real-time inventory updates in the background, keeping menu availability accurate during rushes.

It’s a great fit if you run a restaurant, bar, or café and want lightweight iPad terminals your servers can carry tableside instead of being locked to a bulky counter POS.

Lavu Key Features

In addition to the core ordering and payment tools, here are a few terminal-focused features that matter for busy food-and-beverage teams.

  • Dual Pricing And Cash Discount: Offer cash discounts and dual pricing to offset card fees while keeping totals clear for guests.
  • Loyalty And Gift Cards: Run built-in loyalty programs and digital or physical gift cards directly from the terminal.
  • Manager Mobile App: Check live sales, labor, and key reports from a manager app when you’re off-site.
  • Menu And Floor Layout Tools: Build menus, modifiers, and floor layouts in the back office so every terminal shows clear sections and pricing.

Lavu Integrations

Integrations include Marketman, Bar-i Liquid Accounting, Digital Pour, Restaurant365, OpenTable, Otter, Chowly, Up'n Go, QuickBooks, and Xero.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Real-time inventory and reporting help prevent stockouts during service.
  • MenuDrive online ordering feeds directly into the POS and kitchen.
  • iPad terminals support fast tableside ordering and in-seat payments.

Cons:

  • Total cost increases as you add online ordering and advanced features.
  • iPad-only design limits reuse of existing non-Apple POS hardware.

Best for scalability

  • Pricing upon request
Visit Website
Rating: 5/5

For growing retail and hospitality businesses, Epos Now gives you a POS terminal setup that can flex from a single store to multiple locations without forcing a full hardware reset.

It’s a good fit if you want cloud-based control over tills, tablets, and handhelds while keeping your existing workflows mostly intact.

Why I Picked Epos Now

I picked Epos Now because it lets you scale from one terminal to many by running the same cloud back office across different hardware setups, so you can add lanes or locations without rebuilding your system.

You can also choose between Epos Now’s own payment service or supported third-party processors, which helps you negotiate better rates instead of being locked into a single option.

I like that your team can log in from anywhere to check real-time performance and device activity, which keeps you on top of what’s happening at each register.

For retailers adding new channels or locations, that combination of flexible terminals, processor choice, and remote visibility makes it easier to grow without replacing everything that already works.

Epos Now Key Features

Here are a few practical features that matter when you’re picking a POS terminal setup for a growing retail or hospitality business.

  • Real-Time Multilocation Inventory: Sync stock levels across stores and channels so terminals always reflect what you actually have on hand.
  • Centralized Back Office: Manage products, pricing, promotions, and user permissions from one dashboard instead of configuring each device individually.
  • Built-In Reporting And Dashboards: Track sales, item performance, and peak hours from any device to guide staffing and purchasing decisions.
  • Staff And Permissions Management: Set role-based access on each terminal so cashiers, supervisors, and managers only see the tools they need.

Epos Now Integrations

Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, Sage, Mailchimp, Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, PayPal, Stripe, and Zapier.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Lets you choose between in-house and third-party payment processors.
  • Supports over 100 third-party apps for custom retail setups.
  • Works with a wide range of POS hardware and terminals.

Cons:

  • Long-term contracts and paid support plans may reduce flexibility.
  • Pricing details are limited online; many plans require a quote.

Best for transparent payment solutions

  • Free demo available
  • From 1.83% + 8¢
Visit Website
Rating: 4.4/5

Helcim’s smart terminals are built for retailers who care about transparent pricing as much as fast checkout—you get interchange-plus rates, no long-term contracts, and hardware that works at the counter and on the floor.

It’s a good fit for small and midsize merchants in the US and Canada that want card-present payments, inventory, and customer data living in one system instead of five.

Why I Picked Helcim

I picked Helcim because you get interchange-plus pricing with automatic volume discounts, so your effective rate drops as your in-store card volume grows.

That cost control is tied to real tools: a smart terminal with built-in POS software, printer, and card reader that keeps in-person and online sales, inventory, and customer profiles in sync.

I also like that you can use Tap to Pay on iPhone through the Helcim POS app, which lets your team take contactless payments anywhere on the sales floor without extra hardware. For margin-conscious retailers, Fee Saver and compliant surcharging options help you offset card fees using settings built directly into the terminal and POS.

If you want to keep your existing POS or custom setup, the smart terminal is API-ready, so you can plug Helcim’s hardware and pricing into your current stack instead of rebuilding everything from scratch.

Helcim Key Features

In addition to the core pricing model and smart terminal, here are a few features that matter for retail teams.

  • All-In-One Smart Terminal: Combines POS software, EMV card reader, and receipt printer in a single device that runs on Wi-Fi or 4G.
  • Centralized Product Catalog: Manage items, prices, and taxes in Helcim so your terminals, POS app, and online checkout pull from the same product data.
  • Customer Profiles: Store cards on file, track purchase history, and manage customer details from the same system you use at the terminal.
  • Next-Business-Day Deposits: Batch card-present transactions to get funds in your bank account as early as the next business day.

Helcim Integrations

Integrations include QuickBooks Online, Xero, WooCommerce, Foxy.io, Great Exposure, and Magento.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Tap to Pay on iPhone enables line-busting and pop-up checkout without extra hardware.
  • Smart terminal syncs payments, inventory, and customer data across in-store and online.
  • Transparent interchange-plus pricing with automatic volume discounts for higher card volume.

Cons:

  • Only available to merchants in the United States and Canada.
  • Inventory and staff tools are lighter than full-scale retail management suites.

Best for low rates and fees

  • Free quote available
  • Pricing upon request

Merchant One is a fit if you care more about low, negotiable card-present rates than flashy POS software, and you want terminals that work in retail, restaurant, and mobile setups.

It’s best for small and midsize US merchants who need fast approvals, next-day funding, and a mix of countertop, compact, and handheld devices.

Why I Picked Merchant One

I picked Merchant One because you can actually get aggressive card-present pricing—qualified swiped rates plus interchange-plus options—backed by a terminal placement program instead of huge upfront hardware bills.

You also get a broad range of hardware, from full POS stations with 14" displays to compact terminals and mobile readers, so your setup can match your counter space, pop-up booth, or food truck instead of the other way around.

I like that your account isn’t just dumped into a generic queue; you get a dedicated account manager alongside 24/7 support, which matters when a terminal freezes 10 minutes before closing.

For newer or credit-challenged businesses, the high approval rate and next-day funding options give you a practical way to start taking cards at the counter without waiting weeks for underwriting.

Merchant One Key Features

Beyond pricing and hardware choice, there are a few POS-terminal-focused features that make Merchant One worth a look.

  • Multi-Layered Security: Terminals and gateway use EMV, encryption, and PCI-compliant processing to reduce fraud risk on in-person transactions.
  • Card-Not-Present Tools: A virtual terminal and key-in app let you handle phone orders and invoices alongside your in-store card swipes.
  • Customer Vault: Store cards on file securely so your staff can run repeat charges without re-entering card details at the terminal every time.
  • Sales Reporting Dashboard: Track top sellers, refunds, and daily volume from a central portal to keep tabs on how each location and terminal is performing.

Merchant One Integrations

Integrations include Authorize.net, Payeezy Gateway, Payflow Pro, Paytrace Gateway, USAePay, Aloha POS, Micros POS, and Maitre’D.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Dedicated account manager and 24/7 support when terminal issues hit peak hours.
  • Wide range of terminals, POS stations, and mobile readers for different use cases.
  • Low advertised qualified rates and $0 setup help control card fees.

Cons:

  • Exact pricing and terms aren’t fully published—you need a custom quote.
  • Standard three-year contract with an early termination fee if you cancel.

Best for ease of use

  • Free demo available
  • From 2.3% + $0.1 per transaction

Clover Flex gives you a full POS terminal in one handheld device—taking chip, swipe, and contactless payments while you walk the floor, work curbside, or run events.

It’s best for busy retailers who want quick setup, simple staff training, and hardware that can actually survive a full shift without running back to the counter.

Why I Picked Clover

I picked Clover because you get a true all-in-one handheld terminal—payments, receipts, inventory lookups, and basic customer data all live on a single device instead of a patchwork of gadgets.

Your team can accept chip, swipe, and tap payments (including Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay) on the same terminal, so you’re not turning away wallet users or slowing down the line with workarounds.

I also like that Flex can pair with other Clover devices, so you can start with a single handheld and later add a counter station without rebuilding your setup.

Setup is straightforward, and once it’s configured, staff mostly live on the home screen and app tiles instead of fighting through menus.

Clover Key Features

In addition to the handheld form factor, Clover brings a few practical tools that matter when you’re choosing a POS terminal.

  • All-Day Battery And Connectivity: Up to 8 hours of battery life plus WiFi and LTE options keep staff taking payments anywhere on the floor without constantly docking the device.
  • Built-In Printing And Scanning: Integrated receipt printer, camera, and barcode scanner mean you can print receipts and scan items or tickets without separate hardware.
  • Employee Profiles And Permissions: Role-based logins control who can issue refunds, apply discounts, or access reports, which helps you keep shrink and voids under control.
  • On-Device Apps And Add-Ons: Access to Clover’s App Market lets you add tools like loyalty, inventory, or time tracking directly to the terminal as your needs grow.

Clover Integrations

Integrations include Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, QuickBooks (via Commerce Sync), Xero, Shopify, WooCommerce, Adobe Commerce, and WordPress/WooCommerce payment plugins.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • App Market offers accounting, loyalty, and inventory add-ons as you scale.
  • Long battery life plus LTE/WiFi supports true line-busting and tableside pay.
  • Handheld device with printer and scanner replaces multiple hardware pieces.

Cons:

  • Many advanced reporting and vertical-specific tools require extra paid apps.
  • Hardware and payment processing are typically bundled into multi-year terms.

Best for ecommerce and retail

  • 3-day free trial available
  • From $29/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.4/5

Shopify POS Terminal gives your in-store team a modern, customer-facing checkout that actually matches the rest of your retail stack.

It’s best for omnichannel retailers who already run on Shopify and want a countertop terminal that keeps inventory, payments, and customer data in sync without bolting on third-party hardware.

Why I Picked Shopify

I picked Shopify because it gives in-store shoppers a clear, customer-facing screen where they can see itemized carts, choose receipts, and add tips without leaning over your terminal.

You also get true omnichannel checkout—your POS Terminal runs on Shopify POS and Shopify Payments, so in-store transactions sync with your online inventory, customer profiles, and sales data in real time.

For busy counters, I like that the dedicated reader and dock connect over Wi-Fi or Ethernet, which helps keep lines moving when your wireless network is unreliable.

If you care about brand polish, you can customize the customer display with your logo and imagery so the payment moment still feels like part of your store experience.

Shopify Key Features

Beyond the checkout basics, these extras matter when you’re standardizing POS terminals across multiple stores.

  • EMV & PCI Compliance: Helps protect card data and reduce risk on every card-present transaction.
  • Countertop Kits: Pair the terminal with tablet stands, receipt printers, and cash drawers for a clean, fixed checkout station.
  • Customer Display Controls: Configure tipping, receipt options, and on-screen messaging to match your policies and workflows.
  • Multi-Location Support: Roll out the same hardware across locations while keeping reporting and staff permissions in one back office.

Shopify Integrations

Integrations include Shopify POS, Shopify Payments, your Shopify online store, LoyaltyLion, Smile.io, Klaviyo, Gorgias, Omnisend, and Recharge.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Integrates with Shopify POS to sync in-store and online inventory.
  • Wi-Fi or Ethernet connectivity keeps counter checkouts running during rushes.
  • Customer-facing display lets shoppers review carts, tips, and receipts.

Cons:

  • Requires Shopify Payments and supported regions, limiting multinational store deployments.
  • Hardware and subscription costs can feel steep for very small shops.

Best for durable hardware

  • Free plan + free demo available
  • From $69/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.3/5

For restaurants where servers live on the floor, Toast’s handheld POS terminals keep tickets moving even when the bar is slammed or the patio’s full.

Purpose-built hardware with all-day battery life and spill-resistant casings fits best for busy US restaurants that want mobile ordering without babying their devices.

Why I Picked Toast

I picked Toast because its handheld hardware is actually designed for restaurant conditions—IP54 spill and dust resistance, drop protection up to four feet, and a body that survives nightly clean-downs.

Your team can carry a single Toast Go 2 all shift thanks to up to 24 hours of battery life, so you’re not constantly swapping or hunting for chargers mid-service.

Taking orders and payments tableside with tap, dip, or swipe shortens table turns and keeps servers on the floor instead of parked at a terminal.

Because the handhelds are fully integrated with the broader Toast platform, every check flows straight into your kitchen displays and reporting, giving you accurate tickets and payments without bouncing between separate devices.

Toast Key Features

In addition to the handheld hardware, Toast gives you tools that make each device more useful in a high-volume dining room.

  • Full Payment Support: Accept chip, swipe, tap, and mobile wallets from a single handheld.
  • Offline Mode: Keep taking orders and payments when Wi-Fi drops, then sync once you’re back online.
  • Flexible Form Factors: Combine handhelds with countertop terminals, self-serve kiosks, and kitchen display systems.
  • Centralized Device Management: Use Toast’s backend to configure menus, push updates, and monitor devices from one place.

Toast Integrations

Integrations include DoorDash, Grubhub, Uber Eats, Caviar, Postmates, Restaurant365, Resy, Raydiant, Deliverect, and Chowly.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Accepts tap, dip, swipe, and wallets for flexible guest payment options.
  • Up to 24-hour battery life supports full shifts without swapping devices.
  • Handheld device is spill-, dust-, and drop-resistant for harsh restaurant use.

Cons:

  • Handheld only sold in US, not available for global locations.
  • Hardware is tied to Toast software, limiting flexibility if you switch.

Best for large restaurant chains

  • Free demo available
  • From $99/mo
Visit Website
Rating: 4.1/5

Revel Systems is built for high-volume, multi-location restaurant groups that need every terminal—from bar to patio—to behave the same way at scale.

You get an iPad-based POS that combines hardware, software, and payments into a single setup tailored for complex operations, not mom-and-pop cafés.

Why I Picked Revel Systems

I picked Revel Systems because it gives you true multi-location control—your menus, pricing, and taxes live in one back office, so every terminal across your chain stays in sync.

Your team also gets pre-configured iPad hardware bundles, so opening new locations or replacing terminals is more about plugging things in than rebuilding your tech stack from scratch.

I like that you can keep taking orders and card payments during internet outages through its always-on offline mode, which queues transactions and pushes them once you’re back online.

On the floor, conversational ordering flows mirror how guests actually place orders, which makes terminals easier for new staff to learn and cuts down on mis-rings during busy shifts.

Revel Systems Key Features

In addition to its multi-location focus, Revel has a few terminal-friendly tools restaurant chains will actually use day to day.

  • Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Capture guest profiles, order history, and preferences directly from the POS to fuel targeted campaigns and better service.
  • Loyalty And Rewards Programs: Run integrated loyalty, points, and rewards programs so guests can earn and redeem right at the terminal.
  • Integrated Delivery Management: Pull orders from partners like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub into the same order flow your staff already uses.
  • Employee Management Tools: Track hours, permissions, and roles from the same system that runs your terminals, tightening labor controls across locations.

Revel Systems Integrations

Integrations include QuickBooks Online, Restaurant365, CrunchTime, DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, Twilio, Como, Punchh, and Paytronix.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Supports kiosks, tableside iPads, and KDS screens for complex layouts.
  • Always-on offline mode keeps iPad terminals taking orders during outages.
  • Multi-location control with centralized menus, pricing, taxes, and reporting.

Cons:

  • Configuration grows complex as you add locations and service models.
  • Implementation and onboarding costs can be high for smaller groups.

Best option with no monthly fee

  • Free plan available
  • Pricing upon request

PayPal Zettle’s all-in-one terminal is made for small retailers, pop-ups, and food trucks that want a real POS terminal without getting locked into monthly software fees.

You pay for the hardware and per-transaction processing, then get a mobile-ready device that handles cards, wallets, PayPal, and Venmo out of the box.

Why I Picked PayPal Zettle

I picked PayPal Zettle for this list because you get a true POS terminal with no monthly software subscription—just transparent transaction fees, starting at around 2.29% + $0.09 for card-present payments.

That pricing structure works well if your volume is steady but not enterprise-level, and you care more about predictable costs than chasing every advanced feature.

You also get the PayPal POS app built directly into the terminal, plus an activated SIM card and mobile data, so you can keep taking payments even when you’re away from a stable WiFi network. For busy market days or sidewalk sales, you can just grab the terminal and go instead of tethering it to a phone or router.

I like that you can accept a wide range of tenders—credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, and Venmo—and have everything land in your PayPal account quickly for easier cash-flow visibility.

The built-in barcode scanner option is handy if you’re running a small retail space and want faster checkout without buying a bunch of extra peripherals.

PayPal Zettle Key Features

Beyond the terminal hardware, PayPal Zettle includes a few practical tools that help you keep checkout moving without adding extra software.

  • Tap To Pay On Phone: Turn compatible iPhone or Android devices into extra checkout points for contactless cards and wallets when lines get long.
  • Gift Cards And Discounts: Issue and redeem gift cards, and apply custom discounts so you can run promos without manual workarounds.
  • Basic Staff Management: Assign logins, track sales by team member, and limit access so cashiers see only what they need to do their jobs.
  • Inventory And Product Catalog: Build a product catalog with variants and track stock levels from a single dashboard tied to your in-person sales.

PayPal Zettle Integrations

Integrations include QuickBooks Online, Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, SalesVu, Hike, and NearSt.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Supports cards, wallets, PayPal, and Venmo on a single device.
  • Mobile-ready terminal with built-in SIM and data for on-the-go selling.
  • No monthly POS software fee; you only pay transaction pricing.

Cons:

  • Fewer native integrations than larger, full-featured retail POS platforms.
  • Reporting and analytics are basic for multi-store or data-heavy retailers.

Best for apparel and fashion retailers

  • Free demo available
  • From $89/month for one station

Heartland’s Terminal+ is aimed squarely at apparel and fashion retailers that want a handheld device tied directly into inventory and reporting, not just a glorified card reader.

You can sell on the floor, at the counter, or at events while your stock counts and sales data stay in sync.

Why I Picked Heartland

I picked Heartland for fashion and apparel retailers because the built-in barcode scanner updates on-hand counts as you sell, so your team isn’t guessing what’s actually in stock.

You get a full-color touchscreen that’s readable indoors or out, which makes it practical for sidewalk sales, pop-ups, and warehouse racks instead of locking you to a fixed counter.

I also like that you can accept split payments, partial refunds by item, cash, and prepopulated tips from the same device, giving you flexibility at checkout without bolting on extra tools.

Real-time sales and inventory reporting flow back into the Heartland back office, so you can spot fast movers and low stock before they become expensive stockouts.

Heartland Key Features

Beyond the basics, Terminal+ comes with several retail-friendly extras your floor team will actually touch every day.

  • End-To-End Security: EMV, point-to-point encryption, and tokenization protect card data and help you stay PCI compliant.
  • User Roles And Permissions: PIN-based logins and role controls limit who can discount, refund, or access sensitive reports.
  • Multi-Location Support: Manage inventory, transfers, and performance across multiple stores from a central cloud back end.
  • Hardware Flexibility: Pair Terminal+ with Heartland registers, mobile devices, and accessories as your stores grow.

Heartland Integrations

Integrations include AppFront, BigCommerce, Boutique Hub, Davo, Checkmate, Restaurant365, Shogo, QuickBooks Online, and Mailchimp.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Mobile WiFi/4G terminal works for in-store floors, pop-ups, and events.
  • Built-in barcode scanning keeps inventory counts accurate as staff sell.
  • Retail-focused workflows support complex apparel sizes, colors, and variants.

Cons:

  • Card payments rely on network connectivity; no true offline authorization.
  • Pricing details require a custom quote; no transparent published plans.

Best for transparent pricing

  • Free quote available
  • Pricing upon request

ProMerchant is a fit for retailers, restaurants, and service businesses that want modern EMV/NFC-ready terminals without getting locked into long hardware leases.

It’s especially useful if you care about cost control and want options—from basic countertop machines to Clover POS systems and mobile readers—on month-to-month terms.

Why I Picked ProMerchant

I picked ProMerchant because you get EMV and NFC-ready terminals—including Clover devices—without getting tied to hardware leases.

You also get month-to-month contracts and the choice between interchange-plus or cash-discount pricing, giving you control over how you manage fees.

For in-person selling, you can use countertop terminals, mobile readers, or Clover POS hardware, so your setup can match how and where you take payments.

If you also need online payments, the built-in Authorize.Net gateway lets you keep card-present and online processing under one account.

ProMerchant Key Features

Beyond the terminal options and pricing structure, there are a few practical features that matter for day-to-day use.

  • Clover POS Hardware Suite: Access Clover Station, Mini, and Flex for inventory, staff tools, and customer programs on top of card acceptance.
  • Virtual Terminal And MOTO Support: Run keyed transactions from any browser for phone, mail-order, and invoice payments without extra hardware.
  • Mobile Payments App: Use Bluetooth EMV readers and mobile apps to take payments at events, pop-ups, or curbside without losing card-present rates.
  • Cash-Discount And Surcharge Programs: Shift some or all processing costs to customers where permitted, preserving margins on lower-ticket sales.

ProMerchant Integrations

Integrations include Clover POS, Authorize.Net, MX Quick Pay, PayAnywhere, Clover App Market apps such as QuickBooks, Xero, Mailchimp, and Gusto.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Supports Clover POS hardware plus countertop and wireless terminals.
  • Month-to-month contracts with interchange-plus and cash-discount options.
  • Free terminal or mobile reader available with a new merchant account.

Cons:

  • Using Clover POS adds extra monthly software fees on top of processing.
  • Limited upfront pricing details on the website; quotes require sales contact.

Best for restaurants

  • Free demo available
  • From $69/mo

TouchBistro is built for busy restaurants that need a POS terminal built around real service flow, not generic retail steps.

It’s ideal for full-service, fast casual, and bar concepts that rely on iPad-based tableside ordering and menu-level control.

Why I Picked TouchBistro

I picked TouchBistro because its POS is built around the way restaurants actually work—fast tableside ordering, quick check edits, and modifier logic that makes sense during a rush.

You get menu and floor plan tools tied directly into the terminal, so updates hit your servers’ screens immediately.

I also like that online ordering, reservations, and loyalty plug right in, giving you guest-facing features without duct-taping separate systems together.

TouchBistro Key Features

In addition to the restaurant-first POS terminal, there are a few extras operators tend to lean on day to day.

  • Kitchen Display System: Sends tickets directly to kitchen screens with course timing and status tracking.
  • Customer Facing Display: Lets guests see orders and totals instantly to reduce mistakes and voids.
  • Profit Management: Combines sales, invoice, and labor data so you can monitor margins without chasing spreadsheets.
  • Guest Engagement Suite: Includes built-in gift cards, loyalty, and basic marketing tools to drive repeat visits.

TouchBistro Integrations

Integrations include Restaurant365, MarginEdge, QuickBooks, Xero, Sage Intacct, Deliverect, DoorDash Online Ordering, 7shifts, Avero, and MarketMan.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Add-on modules for online ordering, reservations, and loyalty extend functionality.
  • Hybrid offline mode keeps orders flowing during internet drops.
  • Restaurant-focused workflow fits tableside ordering and real service patterns.

Cons:

  • Requires iPad hardware and often multi-year contracts.
  • A la carte modules increase overall system cost.

Best for range of payment methods

  • Free app download available
  • Pricing upon request
Visit Website
Rating: 2.2/5

For retailers and restaurants juggling a mix of cards, contactless, and tips, CardPointe’s encrypted countertop terminals keep in-person payments fast without turning PCI into your full-time job.

It’s a good fit for US-based merchants who want EMV- and NFC-ready hardware tied directly into a unified payment platform.

Why I Picked CardPointe

I picked CardPointe because you can run swipe, chip, tap, and keyed payments from the same terminal, so your front-of-house team doesn’t have to bounce between devices to take every card and wallet.

You get PCI-validated point-to-point encryption and tokenization, which keeps card data off your network so you can cut down your PCI scope instead of buying yet another security tool.

For tipped environments like restaurants and spas, Tip Adjust and Server ID give you practical controls—your staff can reassign and adjust tips on the terminal instead of fixing mistakes in a back-office report.

Setup is intentionally simple: plug in power and ethernet, register the device, and you’ve got a dedicated in-store terminal that still connects to the broader CardPointe platform.

CardPointe Key Features

Beyond the hardware, CardPointe gives your finance and ops teams a few genuinely useful tools tied to every in-store transaction.

  • Virtual Terminal: Take card-not-present payments from any browser, so your team can handle phone orders or back-office invoices without a separate gateway.
  • Mobile App: Use the CardPointe mobile app and compatible readers to extend the same tokenized processing to pop-ups, curbside, or line-busting.
  • Real-Time Reporting: Monitor batches, deposits, and transaction-level details in real time, which makes closing the books and reconciling card sales less painful.
  • Recurring Billing and Account Updater: Run subscriptions or repeat invoices while automatic card updates reduce declines from expired or reissued cards.

CardPointe Integrations

Integrations include Clover POS, QuickBooks, WordPress, WooCommerce, CardPointe Virtual Terminal, CardPointe Mobile App, Oracle, and SAP.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • P2PE and tokenization help reduce PCI scope for in-store payments.
  • Tip Adjust and Server ID support restaurants, bars, and service teams.
  • Accepts swipe, chip, tap, and wallets on encrypted countertop terminals.

Cons:

  • Primarily supports US merchants, with limited international availability.
  • Pricing is quote-based, so costs and markups aren’t visible upfront.

Best for analytics features

  • Free account for GoDaddy users
  • 2.3% + 0¢ if subscribing to other GoDaddy services

For multi-location retailers dealing with a mess of terminals, GoDaddy Poynt gives you a single analytics hub for every device, store, and sales channel.

It’s best for larger retailers and restaurants that care about detailed payment data, not just getting the card approved.

Why I Picked GoDaddy Poynt

I picked GoDaddy Poynt because you can see every terminal’s performance in one dashboard, so you aren’t chasing reports from separate devices or locations. The web portal and mobile app let you drill into sales, payouts, and charge details without waiting for end-of-day exports.

I also like that your in-person rates are simple and competitive through GoDaddy Payments, which can help protect margins when you’re running a lot of in-store volume. Same-day payouts are available too, so if cash flow is tight, you can accelerate access to funds instead of waiting days.

For teams, you can set roles and permissions on the dashboard so managers can access the data and tools they need without exposing everything to front-line staff.

And because the terminals support chip, tap, magstripe, and digital wallets, you keep checkout fast while still collecting the data those analytics rely on.

GoDaddy Poynt Key Features

Here are a few other features worth calling out if you’re focused on POS terminals and in-store performance.

  • Smart Terminal Hardware Options: Choose between countertop dual-screen terminals or compact handheld devices to match line-busting, table-side, or counter workflows.
  • Point Of Sale Plus Plan: Add real-time inventory counts, stock alerts, and lower in-person fees to tie your catalog more tightly to what happens on each terminal.
  • Accessory Compatibility: Connect supported printers, barcode scanners, cash drawers, and other peripherals so your terminals fit into existing checkout or bar setups.
  • POS Bridge And App Center: Use POS Bridge and the Poynt App Center to connect terminals to external POS systems or add apps for scheduling, loyalty, and more.

GoDaddy Poynt Integrations

Integrations include BitPay, QuickBooks Online, QuickBooks Desktop, NCR Aloha, Oracle Micros, Dinerware, and additional third-party apps available through the Poynt App Center.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Flexible hardware and accessories support counter, mobile, and table-side use cases.
  • Competitive in-person card rates with optional same-day payouts for cash flow.
  • Central dashboard shows terminal, store, and channel performance in one place.

Cons:

  • Official support and availability are focused on US and Canadian merchants.
  • Tied to GoDaddy Payments and GoDaddy ecosystem for full feature access.

Best for versatile POS options

  • Free account; just pay for processing fees
  • From 1.74% +10¢ per transaction

Payline Data works well for retailers who want flexible POS hardware without committing to a single device ecosystem.

It’s a fit for stores and service businesses that want interchange-plus pricing paired with reliable countertop and mobile terminal options.

Why I Picked Payline Data

I picked Payline Data because you can choose from proven countertop terminals that combine chip, tap, and swipe on one encrypted device, which cuts down on checkout clutter.

Their mobile smart terminal gives you a handheld reader with WiFi and printing built in, letting your team take payments anywhere on the floor.

I also like that you can plug Payline into existing systems—including platforms like Clover or NCR—so you don’t have to replace your current POS when upgrading payments.

Payline Data Key Features

Here are a few POS-focused features that round out the offering.

  • Customer Loyalty Programs: Run rewards and stored profiles through supported POS systems tied to in-store purchases.
  • Multi-Location Inventory Sync: Keep stock levels updated across stores when paired with compatible POS platforms.
  • Virtual Terminal Access: Take keyed orders from a browser while keeping everything in the same reporting environment.
  • Fast Deposit Funding: Move batches to your bank quickly to improve cash flow reliability.

Payline Data Integrations

Integrations include Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Magento, Authorize.net, NMI, CardPointe, and QuickBooks.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Works with existing POS systems to avoid major hardware replacement.
  • Interchange-plus pricing helps lower effective card costs.
  • Flexible countertop and mobile terminal lineup for retail environments.

Cons:

  • Some integrations depend on third-party POS partners.
  • Hardware purchases add upfront cost beyond processing fees.

Other Options

While the following POS terminals didn’t make it onto my top list, these alternative options that I came across in my research are still worth considering if none of the above options jumped out as the right choice for you.

  1. eHopper

    Mobile terminal

  2. IT Retail

    For grocery stores

Our Selection Criteria For POS Terminals

Here’s how I separate the real contenders from the POS terminal pretenders. Each category below gets a specific weight, so you know exactly what matters most when picking your next point of sale system.

Core functionality (25% of total score)

Every POS terminal needs to nail the basics. Here’s what I look for:

  • Accepts all major payment methods. If it can’t handle EMV, NFC, and swipe, it’s off the list.
  • Real-time inventory management. No more flying blind on stock levels.
  • Reliable receipt printing or emailing. Customers want proof, and so does your accountant.
  • Transaction data is easy to access and export. You shouldn’t need a PhD to pull a sales report.

Additional standout features (25% of total score)

This is where a good POS terminal sets itself apart:

  • Loyalty programs and gift card support. Drives repeat business and bigger carts.
  • Integrated barcode scanner and touchscreen. Fast checkouts, fewer errors.
  • Cloud-based access and mobile POS options. Run your shop from anywhere, not just behind the counter.
  • PCI compliance and robust security. Protects your business and your customers.

Usability (10% of total score)

If your staff can’t figure it out by lunch, it’s not making the cut:

  • Intuitive interface for both staff and customers.
  • Easy setup and minimal training required.
  • Responsive touchscreen and clear prompts.

Onboarding (10% of total score)

Getting started shouldn’t feel like a root canal:

  • Clear documentation and setup guides.
  • Dedicated onboarding support or resources.
  • Migration tools for switching from your old POS device.

Customer support (10% of total score)

When things go sideways, you want answers fast:

  • 24/7 support via chat, phone, or email.
  • Extensive help center and community forums.
  • Quick resolution times and knowledgeable reps.

Value for money (10% of total score)

You shouldn’t need to take out a loan for a decent POS solution:

  • Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
  • Flexible plans for small business and multi-location retailers.
  • Reasonable hardware costs for card readers, receipt printers, and accessories.

Customer reviews (10% of total score)

Nothing beats real-world feedback from operators who’ve been there:

  • Consistent high ratings on reliability and ease of use.
  • Positive feedback on payment processing, inventory management, and reporting.
  • Reports of ongoing improvements and responsive support.

What is a POS Terminal?

POS terminals are electronic devices that let you take payments, track sales, and manage inventory right at checkout.

It connects your hardware—like card readers, barcode scanners, and receipt printers—to your payment processor and inventory management system.

Retail workers and small business owners use them to quickly ring up customers, accept cards and digital wallets, and keep tabs on what’s selling in real time.

They save you from the hassle of juggling multiple tools or dealing with tangled-up inventory by putting everything you need in one spot.

How to Choose Your POS Terminal

Choosing the right POS terminal isn’t about picking whatever’s trending or has the flashiest screen. It’s about matching your business needs, payment methods, and daily realities with a device that actually works for your team and customers.

Here’s how to make a smart, practical decision—without the headaches.

What to doWhy it matters
List your must-have features (e.g., contactless payments, barcode scanner, multi-store support)Avoids wasting money on features you’ll never use or missing the ones you need every day.
Audit your current checkout process and pain pointsPinpoints where your existing POS system is slowing you down or creating errors, so you know what to fix.
Check hardware compatibility and integrationsEnsures the POS terminal works with your payment processor, inventory management software, and any mobile devices you already use.
Compare pricing—look at upfront costs, monthly fees, and transaction ratesHelps you budget accurately and spot hidden costs that can eat into your margins.
Demand a real demo (not just a video) and test with real transactionsConfirms the system is easy for staff to learn, works at your busiest times, and doesn’t choke on your payment mix.
Ask about support and upgrade pathsMakes sure you can get help fast and won’t be stuck with outdated hardware as your business grows.

Features of Great POS Terminals

Your POS terminal needs a few things to make sure your customers stay happy and keep giving you cash. Here are the features to look for:

  • Accepts every major payment method. Chip, swipe, tap, digital wallets, and mobile payments—no customer gets turned away.
  • Real-time inventory tracking. Updates stock levels instantly as sales happen, so you always know what’s on hand.
  • Integrated barcode scanner and receipt printer. Speeds up checkout and reduces manual entry errors.
  • Cloud-based and mobile POS options. Access your sales and reports from anywhere—store, warehouse, or on the go.
  • Built-in security and PCI compliance. Protects sensitive payment data and keeps your business out of hot water.
  • Customizable user permissions. Control who can process refunds, access reports, or manage inventory.
  • Seamless integrations. Connects with your accounting, ecommerce, and loyalty program tools.

Key Benefits of POS Terminals

And, here's what you get out of POS terminals that make the grade:

  • Faster, more accurate checkouts. Shorter lines, happier customers, and fewer mistakes at the register.
  • Better inventory control. Reduce stockouts and over-ordering with up-to-the-minute data.
  • Flexible payment options. Take payments in-store, at pop-ups, or curbside—however your customers want to pay.
  • Actionable business insights. Get clear reports on sales, inventory, and employee performance without digging through spreadsheets.
  • Easier staff training. User-friendly interfaces mean new hires can get up to speed quickly.
  • Improved customer experience. Offer loyalty programs, gift cards, and quick receipts to keep shoppers coming back.
  • Scalable as you grow. Add new locations, devices, or sales channels without switching systems.

Cost & Pricing of POS Terminals

POS terminal pricing is all over the map, so it pays to read the fine print before you sign up. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you budget:

Plan typeAverage priceCommon featuresBest for
Entry-level$100–$500 one-time or $15–$30/monthBasic payment processing, simple inventory, receipt printingSmall businesses, pop-ups
Mid-tier$500–$1,500 one-time or $30–$80/monthAdvanced inventory, barcode scanning, mobile POS, reportingGrowing retailers, multi-location shops
All-in-one/cloud$1,000–$3,000+ setup or $80–$200/monthOmnichannel sales, loyalty programs, integrations, analyticsEstablished retailers, ecommerce, high volume
Custom/enterpriseCustom pricingMulti-store support, dedicated account manager, custom integrationsLarge chains, franchises
  • Transaction fees typically range from 1.5% to 3% per sale, depending on your payment processor and card type.
  • Watch for additional fees: hardware rentals, software upgrades, PCI compliance, and support can add up.
  • Some providers charge per terminal or per location—double-check if you’re planning to scale.
  • Most vendors offer a free demo or trial, but hardware may require a deposit or purchase up front.

If you’re not sure what fits your business, start with a monthly plan and upgrade as you grow. Don’t get locked into a long contract unless you’re sure the system delivers.

POS Terminals FAQs

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about POS terminals:

Can a POS terminal work offline if my Wi-Fi drops?

Yes, many modern POS terminals can work offline. You’ll still be able to process sales, but some features like real-time inventory updates may pause until you’re back online. Always confirm offline capabilities with your provider.

How secure are POS terminals against fraud and hacking?

POS terminals now use strong security measures like encryption, tokenization, and PCI DSS compliance. For best protection, keep your hardware and software updated and train your team on secure practices.

What software integrations should I look for in a POS terminal?

Look for POS terminals that connect with your inventory, accounting, ecommerce, and loyalty systems. Integration reduces manual data entry and makes your business more efficient.

Are there hidden fees or costs with POS terminals that I should watch out for?

Some providers charge extra for setup, software subscriptions, payment processing, or certain integrations. Ask for a complete price list up front to avoid unexpected charges.

How hard is it to train new employees on a POS terminal?

Most modern POS systems are user-friendly and designed for fast training—sometimes in under an hour. Touchscreen interfaces and vendor support can further speed up onboarding.

Do I need different POS terminals for multiple store locations?

Usually not. Many POS platforms support multiple locations under one system, but check hardware requirements and ask vendors about multi-location support before buying.

What kind of reporting should I expect from a modern POS terminal?

Expect reports on sales, inventory, employee performance, and customer insights. Good reporting helps spot trends, manage stock, and make smarter business decisions.


Terminal Decision Time for Retail Pros

If your point of sale terminal is holding you back—slowing down checkout, bungling inventory, or making payment processing a daily pain—it’s time to upgrade.

The right POS system won’t just keep your lines moving and your numbers tidy; it’ll give you the control and insight you need to actually run your business, not just react to problems.

Pick a terminal that fits your real-world needs, supports every payment method your customers throw at you, and scales as you grow. Don’t settle for tech that’s stuck in the past. Your team (and your bottom line) will thank you.

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Sean Flannigan
By Sean Flannigan

Sean is the Senior Editor for The Retail Exec. He's spent years getting acquainted with the retail space, from warehouse management and international shipping to web development and ecommerce marketing. A writer at heart (and in actuality), he brings a deep passion for great writing and storytelling to retail topics big and small.