Top 10 Best POS Systems For Small Business 2024

Leading point of sale (POS) systems go beyond transaction processing. They streamline your daily operations by integrating tools like employee scheduling, customer loyalty programs, and inventory tracking into one unified platform. However, choosing the ideal system can be difficult. That’s why SiSu Freedom evaluated featured vendors based on a variety of criteria to compile a list of the best POS systems for small businesses in 2024.

What is a POS (Point-of-Sale) System?

A POS system, short for the point-of-sale system, encompasses both hardware and software solutions employed for transaction purposes. It aids in tasks ranging from selling products to overseeing inventory and monitoring customer data. These systems can range from simple card readers to comprehensive solutions integrating loyalty programs, scheduling, front-of-house operations, inventory management, customer relationship management (CRM), and e-commerce functionalities.

Businesses across various industries, including retail, restaurants, hospitality, and services, utilize POS systems regardless of their scale. If your business relies on any form of transaction, incorporating a POS system is likely a beneficial choice for you.

What should a POS system include?

While certain features cater more to specific industries, some are universally beneficial. Here are key features to prioritize in your POS system:

• Inventory management: A crucial aspect of any POS system is efficient inventory and order tracking. Ensure your chosen POS system offers comprehensive inventory management capabilities.
• Essential hardware: Adequate hardware is essential for seamless payment processing. Without it, you won’t maximize your POS system’s potential.
• Strong security measures: Considering the handling of customer payment details, prioritize robust security features in your POS system.
• Customer support: Access to 24/7 support can significantly impact your POS system’s performance, ensuring customers always have assistance. Moreover, effective onboarding for new businesses fosters loyalty and trust from the outset.
• Comprehensive reporting: Opt for a POS system that generates detailed sales and inventory reports based on your business performance, empowering you to make informed decisions about product priorities and business growth.

How Much Does a POS System Cost?

The cost of a POS system hinges on the type and features required, typically increasing with more functionalities. Some companies offer POS systems through monthly fees or outright system purchases.

Here are higher-priced POS features:

1. Credit card processing: Monthly fees are common for credit and debit card processing across most POS systems.
2. Inventory management: While some POS systems include inventory management, others mandate a separate system purchase.
3. Customer loyalty programs: Monthly fees are usual for offering customer loyalty programs; often available as an optional add-on rather than an inherent feature.
4. Reporting: Basic reporting comes with most POS systems, while more advanced reports may require higher-tiered plans or third-party integrations.
5. Online ordering: Restaurants aiming for online ordering usually encounter monthly fees in most POS systems, coupled with potential third-party expenses like fees for platforms like DoorDash or Uber Eats.

To mitigate costs, seek POS systems offering free trial periods for system testing before committing long-term. Look for discounts like seasonal promotions or referral programs. However, the most straightforward cost-cutting method is to pay solely for the necessary services.

Additionally, consider hardware expenses like receipt printers and barcode scanners, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars based on quality and functionalities.

After investing in hardware and software, anticipate processing or transaction fees—usually a percentage of the total sale, along with a small per-transaction fee. For instance, if the fee is 2.5% plus 10 cents per transaction, a $100 sale would incur a total fee of $2.60.

Sample Processing Fees for In-Person Transactions

POS System	Monthly Fee Starts At	Transaction Fee Starts At
PayPal Zettle	$0	2.29% + $0.09 per transaction
eHopper POS	eHopper POS	eHopper POS
Shopify POS	$29	2.4% + $0 per transaction
Square POS	$0	2.6% + $0.10 per transaction

How To Use a POS System

After selecting your POS system, familiarizing yourself with its operation is essential. Fortunately, most POS systems are user-friendly, often accompanied by training resources or customer assistance.

For a cloud-based POS, creating an account and logging in is the first step. Then, you can swiftly add products, customers, and employees. These systems usually provide a built-in tutorial for an easy start.

In the case of a self-hosted POS, installation on a computer is necessary. Once installed, you can begin inputting products, customers, and employees. Self-hosted systems typically include a tutorial to aid in the setup.

When dealing with hardware-integrated POS, setting up devices like receipt printers and barcode scanners is more intricate. Sometimes, it may even necessitate the presence of an onboarding specialist to guide you through the process on-site or via phone. Once the hardware is in place, you can commence adding products, customers, and employees.

Once all data is entered, using your POS involves adding items to an order and processing payment—credit cards, debit cards, cash, or checks are commonly accepted.

Following payment processing, a receipt can be printed or emailed to the customer. Some POS systems also permit the sending of text or email receipts.

Reporting is a vital aspect of most POS systems, enabling the tracking of sales, inventory, and employee performance. These insights facilitate informed business decisions. Most systems offer diverse reports like sales, inventory, and employee analysis, with options for custom reports. Utilizing these reports optimally empowers you to glean valuable insights and adapt your business strategies accordingly.

Best POS Systems of 2024

1. Shopify POS: Best for Retail Businesses

Shopify POS claims the pinnacle spot in the Best POS Systems lineup. Extensively adopted by businesses of varying sizes, it shines as adaptable point-of-sale software. This transformative tool converts any mobile device into a dynamic point-of-sale terminal that seamlessly melds with Shopify’s expansive suite of tools and services. Tailored for businesses navigating both online and physical retail landscapes, it facilitates the cohesive aggregation of sales data from these dual avenues.

Moreover, it flaunts a broad spectrum of functionalities addressing inventory management, employee oversight, and the cultivation of robust customer relationships. Its hardware exudes a blend of sophistication and simplicity, housing seamlessly integrated payment processing that elevates user experience.

For enterprises seeking a comprehensive point-of-sale solution, Shopify POS emerges as a stalwart choice, adept at meeting diverse operational requisites.

Features:

• A unified back office: Effortlessly oversee products, payments, and customers across all your selling channels, whether in-store or online.
• An efficient POS app: Tailor Shopify’s POS app to efficiently serve customers both on the sales floor and on mobile.
• Seamlessly integrated hardware: Utilize Shopify POS to accept payments, seamlessly integrating with our range of payment devices.

2. Square POS: Best for Businesses on a Budget

Square POS presents an excellent choice for budget-conscious businesses, devoid of any monthly charges—simply pay a reasonable processing fee of 2.6% plus 10 cents per transaction. It boasts user-friendly operation, requiring no training for a quick start.

Capable of accepting payments in-person, online, via phone, or even at local markets, it extends functionalities to lead collection, email or text marketing, and fostering customer loyalty. Ideal for businesses aiming to broaden their sales horizons beyond physical stores, it seamlessly integrates with Instagram and Facebook while enabling centralized business management.

Recommended for budget-conscious businesses seeking an uncomplicated POS system without monthly fees.

Features:

• User-friendly interface
• Complimentary card reader
• Establishing customer loyalty programs

3. Clover: Best for Integrations

Ranked 3rd is Clover, presenting various plans and pricing options catering to diverse budgets, albeit with high hardware costs. Opting for a Clover Account sans hardware purchase grants a 90-day trial period, offering free monthly software during this trial. With user-friendliness and a plethora of features, it aids businesses of all scales in enhancing transaction management efficiency.

A standout advantage of Clover lies in its integrations. The Clover App Market hosts an extensive array of software applications designed to handle various business aspects. Seamlessly integrating with Clover devices, these apps streamline the initiation process for businesses.

Clover stands out as an excellent point-of-sale system adaptable for businesses of all sizes. Its extensive features and integrations render it a flexible solution tailored to meet the unique needs of any business.

Features:

• App Integration: Clover seamlessly integrates with popular apps like QuickBooks, Time Clock, and Yelp. Its app marketplace offers free and paid integrations for loyalty programs, online ordering, accounting, and scheduling.
• Hardware & Software: The solution includes mobile readers, handheld devices, and countertop tools with scanners and printers. Users can customize features to suit their needs, enabling easy employee management and robust reporting.
• Inventory Management: Businesses can track stock levels, manage perishable goods, and customize menus for restaurants.
• Team Operations: Clover streamlines workforce tasks, allowing role-based permissions, performance tracking, and accurate time and attendance management.
• Reporting & Analytics: Real-time sales data, employee-specific sales tracking, and comprehensive reports aid in understanding top-selling items and sales trends.
• Training & Support: SMB CompuCom professionals offer on-site installation and training for setup guidance.

4. PayPal POS: Best for No Monthly Fee

PayPal Zettle, formerly known as PayPal POS, operates with no monthly fees. Instead, fees are based on a per-transaction fee, which varies depending on the transaction method—whether it’s a card swipe or a receipt. These fees range from 2.29% plus 9 cents per transaction to 3.49% plus 49 cents per transaction. For the first card reader with PayPal Zettle, the cost is $29, while subsequent card readers cost $79 each.

PayPal Zettle is ideal for businesses that prefer to pay per transaction rather than monthly fees.

Features:

• Effortless Checkout: Easily sell products, accept various payments, and facilitate contactless transactions via your phone.
• Streamlined Product Management: Add, price, and manage products efficiently from one place.
• Business Insights: Identify top sellers, manage staff schedules, and track sales activity.
• Quick Access to Funds: Sales revenue swiftly lands in your PayPal Business account, ready for online or in-store use, or easy bank transfers.

5. Lightspeed POS: Best for Customer Loyalty

Coming in at number 5 on the list is Lightspeed POS, which is a user-friendly and adaptable point-of-sale system suitable for businesses of all sizes. The system ensures EMV compatibility and PCI compliance, protecting customer data. With real-time reporting and inventory management, tracking sales and profits is easy.

Lightspeed Subscriptions, equipped with integrated registration and membership tools, simplify customer engagement. Offering exclusive offers, discounts, and monthly product boxes helps increase customer retention. Secure automatic recurring payments to streamline membership and subscription management.

Lightspeed POS is ideal for businesses looking for a customer loyalty program.

Features:

• Extensive Preloaded Catalogs: Access over 8 million items already loaded into the system.
• Efficient Bulk Uploads: Add up to 10,000 stock-keeping units (SKUs) simultaneously.
• Low-Stock Notifications: Receive alerts when inventory levels are running low.
• Unified Inventory Management: Seamlessly manage, update, and generate reports for inventory across physical stores and online using e-commerce tools.

6. eHopper POS: Best for Omnichannel Businesses

The eHopper POS system caters perfectly to small businesses operating across multiple sales channels. Its free plan suits companies with fewer transactions, capped at 300 per month. However, paid plans offer unlimited products and transactions.

Under a one-year contract, paid plans commence at $29.99 monthly, billed annually. For month-to-month contracts, pricing starts at $39.99 per month. Opting for the OmniChannel plan, starting at $39.99 per month (month-to-month), delivers a comprehensive omnichannel experience, offering unique e-commerce and loyalty features not typically available in other plans.

Businesses engaged in in-store, online, and marketplace sales, such as Facebook and Instagram, will discover optimal value in eHopper’s OmniChannel plan.

Features:

• Barcode Integration: Seamlessly integrate barcode systems for efficient inventory management.
• CRM (Customer Relationship Management): Maintain and enhance customer relationships effectively.
• Customer Management: Efficiently manage customer information and interactions.
• E-Commerce Integration: Integrate with e-commerce platforms for streamlined online sales.
• Export Reports in Various Formats: Easily export reports to Excel, Text, or PDF formats for analysis.
• Import/Export Database: Seamlessly manage data by importing and exporting.
• Inventory Management: Effectively monitor and control inventory levels.
• Multi-Location Capability: Manage operations across multiple locations.
• Multiuser Login & Role-Based Access: Ensure secure access control with role-based user permissions.
• Sales Promotion Handling: Manage and implement sales promotions effectively.
• Search Functionality: Easily locate information with a robust search feature.
• Security Measures: Establish strong security measures to safeguard data.
• Vendor Management: Efficiently handle relationships and transactions with vendors.

7. Aloha Cloud: Best for Next-Day Payments

Previously recognized as NCR Silver, Aloha Cloud stands as a cloud-based POS system designed specifically for restaurants. It efficiently oversees both front-of-house and back-of-house operations, aids in customer retention and expansion, and provides actionable business insights. While it offers a free Starter plan, its capabilities are more restricted compared to the paid options. The Pro plan is initiated at $65 per month and includes online ordering functionality.

Features:

• Ideal for Table Service (TS) or Quick Service (QS) Establishments: Tailored for both Table Service and Quick Service establishments.
• Comprehensive Aloha Cloud Applications: All-inclusive applications encompassing reporting, labor management, analytics, theft prevention, guest interaction, security services, online ordering, back office remote tools, and more.
• Efficient and Accurate Food Ordering: Swift and precise entry of food orders.
• Seamless Check and Seat Splitting: Effortless splitting of checks and seats.
• Efficient Management of Multiple Bar Tabs: Streamlined handling of multiple bar tabs.
• Tip and Team Sharing in Table Service Settings: Facilitates tip sharing and team collaboration in table service environments.
• Quick Food Order Modifications: Easily modify food orders with just a few taps.

8. Revel Systems: Best for Hospitality Businesses

Ranked at number 8, Revel Systems stands out for its adaptability and robust features tailored for the hospitality sector. Its POS software encompasses a broad spectrum, ranging from user-friendly point-of-sale operations to efficient employee and customer relationship management. It seamlessly integrates various ordering methods—physical, kiosk, mobile, and online—ensuring a seamless ordering experience for customers.

The ability to oversee multiple locations via a unified dashboard is advantageous for businesses with multiple stores. Internal payment processing, paired with support for diverse payment methods, streamlines transactions. Revel’s fixed processing fee structure aids in effective cost management. Opting for Revel POS hardware guarantees software compatibility, a critical aspect for high-traffic hospitality businesses.

Revel Systems proves suitable for hospitality businesses, particularly those operating across multiple locations.

Features:

• Customizable Menu Creation: Craft a tailored menu that suits your restaurant. Enable easy order modifications and add-ons with a simple touch.
• Efficient Checkout Management: Ensure smooth checkout experiences by utilizing mobile order takers and self-service kiosks, preventing sales loss due to long lines.
• Optimized Front and Back-of-House Hardware Configuration: Configure front and back-of-house hardware setups to boost overall productivity.

9. Erply: Best for Inventory Management

Ranked 9th in the list of best POS Systems is Erply. It differentiates itself through its powerful functionality and flexible applications. Its tiered pricing structure meets diverse business needs, ranging from basic POS needs for small stores to complex inventory systems for larger retailers. The platform’s seamless integration with multiple payment providers and the adaptability of the mobile app are key strengths, facilitating smooth business operations.

Erply’s premium plans offer advanced CRM features and API access, driving improved customer engagement and enabling effective business automation. Furthermore, its extensive customization options and scalability are especially beneficial for business expansion. Demonstrating industry-specific solutions through detailed POS and inventory management systems, Erply has become the preferred choice for many different types of businesses.

Erply is suitable for businesses of various sizes, from small independent stores to large-scale businesses and franchises. However, access to inventory management features requires choosing a paid plan.

Features:

• Returns Tracking: Monitor and manage return processes efficiently.
• Retail Management: Oversee and control various aspects of retail operations.
• Ordering Automation: Automate the ordering process for increased efficiency.
• Customer Account Profiles: Maintain comprehensive profiles of customer accounts.
• Commission Management: Handle and manage commissions seamlessly.
• Barcode Scanning: Utilize barcode scanning for swift and accurate transactions.
• Loyalty Program: Implement and manage loyalty programs effectively.
• Sales Tracking: Track and analyze sales performance comprehensively.
• Gift Card Management: Efficiently manage and track gift card transactions.
• eCommerce Integration: Connect with e-commerce platforms to facilitate online sales.
• Discount Management: Manage and apply discounts efficiently.
• Inventory Management: Effectively monitor and control inventory levels.

10. KORONA POS: Best for High-Risk Merchants

Closing the list is the name “KORONA POS”, it stands out with its comprehensive features specifically designed for high-risk merchants. It offers a robust array that includes e-commerce integration, employee time tracking, loyalty program integration, EMV and mobile payment options, retail inventory management, and CRM capabilities. The system prioritizes flexibility by avoiding contracts or hidden fees and providing unlimited users and sales.

Its remarkable compatibility with high-risk commercial sectors such as CBD, liquor, wine, dispensaries, and vapes sets it apart, addressing the risks that other POS systems usually avoid. KORONA POS prioritizes scalability, ideal for businesses looking to expand or manage multiple stores. In addition, 24/7 professional support service ensures timely support for businesses.

KORONA POS is suitable for high-risk merchants looking for a flat monthly fee instead of transaction-based fees.

Features:

• Tailored to suit your needs.
• Flexible pricing options are available.
• Dependable and robust customer support.
• Unlimited free trial provided.
• Protected by a 60-day money-back guarantee.
• Expert specialists offer free demonstrations.
• No contracts or processor agreements needed.
• All-in-one POS and payment processing platform offered.
• Comprehensive reporting and analytic tools provided.

How To Choose the Best POS System

To select the optimal POS system, start by evaluating whether it offers the necessary tools and functionalities for your current and future business needs. Ideally, a POS should facilitate seamless and cost-effective payment acceptance regardless of sales location or customer payment methods. Additionally, consider the broader pricing structure. Depending on sales volume, it might be worthwhile to choose a higher-priced plan with lower transaction costs.

Consider these essential factors when choosing a POS system:

1. Plans and Pricing: Evaluate various elements related to POS pricing. While there’s typically a monthly service fee, transaction costs vary. Higher monthly fees often correlate with lower transaction fees. Analyze your sales volume to determine the most cost-effective plan. Additionally, factor in costs for purchasing hardware.
2. Software and Hardware: Beyond POS software, consider if you’ll need POS hardware like terminals and card readers, even if not immediately. Anticipate future needs as your business expands.
3. Features: While most POS systems offer similar features, they might have unique offerings tailored to specific industries or use cases. For instance, some systems may facilitate bill splitting in restaurants.
4. Ease of Use: Opt for a POS system that’s straightforward to set up and user-friendly.
5. Customer Support: Often overlooked but crucial, prioritize a system with high-quality, round-the-clock support accessible through various channels like live chat or phone assistance.

These considerations will guide you in selecting the most suitable POS system for your business.

POS Software Features

When selecting a POS system, start by assessing the specific features you require. Are you in need of basic transaction processing, or do you seek more advanced functionalities like loyalty programs, appointment scheduling, inventory management, or email marketing?

Consider these typical features in POS software:

1. Credit card processing: While all POS systems handle credit and debit cards, some might necessitate a specific payment processor, while others allow flexibility in choosing your own.
2. Loyalty: Look for systems offering loyalty programs or gift card capabilities if that’s a priority.
3. Appointment scheduling: For businesses like salons or spas, prioritize systems with online booking and appointment reminder features.
4. Inventory management: If tracking inventory levels is essential, opt for a POS system with inventory tracking, possibly even automated reordering when stocks are low.
5. Customer relationship management (CRM): Systems with built-in CRM functionalities enable tracking customer data, purchase history, and contact information.
6. Reporting: While all POS systems offer reporting, some provide more comprehensive and detailed insights into business performance.
7. E-commerce: If you aim to sell both online and in-store, choose a system with an integrated e-commerce solution, streamlining inventory and order management from a centralized platform.

POS Hardware Features

Apart from software considerations, hardware is crucial when selecting a POS system. The hardware needed varies based on your business type and desired functionalities.

Here are key POS hardware features to consider:

1. Touch-screen display: Common in POS systems, a touch-screen display facilitates easy navigation and data entry within the software.
2. Receipt printer: Essential for issuing receipts to customers, a receipt printer is a fundamental component of any POS setup.
3. Barcode scanner: For barcode scanning needs, opt for a POS system equipped with a barcode scanner.
4. Cash drawer: Another essential component, a cash drawer enables secure storage and organization of cash transactions.
5. Payment terminal: To accept credit and debit cards, a payment terminal is necessary. Some POS systems integrate this terminal, while others require a separate one for transactions.

Types of POS Systems

According to SiSi Freedom’s research, there are many POS systems available, from basic card readers to comprehensive, complete solutions. The ideal POS system for your business depends on your specific requirements.

Here is an overview of the many different types you may encounter:

1. Restaurant POS:
   Designed specifically for restaurants, these systems include features such as table management, kitchen display systems, and online ordering. Many also offer inventory management features for automatic material reordering.
2. Retail POS:
   Aimed at retail businesses, these systems include features such as inventory management, customer loyalty programs, gift cards, and sometimes appointment scheduling and reporting.
3. iPad vending machine:
   Using an iPad as the primary terminal, these mobile POS systems are gaining popularity due to their portability and user-friendly interface. They often include built-in features like credit card processing, scheduling, and receipt printing.
4. Mobile POS:
   Able to operate on mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets, these systems are popular for their portability and quick setup. Popular features include credit card processing, inventory management, and receipt printing.
5. Android vending machine:
   Using Android devices as primary point-of-sale terminals, these systems are gaining traction for their portability and user-friendly interface. Features typically include credit card processing, barcode scanning, and receipt printing.
6. Cloud POS:
   Hosted in the cloud, these systems store data online for easy access from anywhere. They are gaining popularity due to their ease of setup and use, offering features like inventory management, loyalty programs, and gift cards.
7. POS terminal:
   Designed for credit and debit card processing, these terminals have features such as EMV compliance, PCI compliance, and fraud prevention, catering to businesses that need secure payment processing.

POS Systems Rating

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Point-of-Sale vs. Cash Register: Which Is Right for You?

When making a choice, you’ll need to weigh the options between a point-of-sale (POS) system and a cash register. Each has its advantages and drawbacks, so selecting the one aligning best with your requirements is crucial.

POS systems usually come with a higher price tag compared to cash registers, yet they offer an array of enhanced features and functionalities. While cash registers primarily track sales and produce receipts, POS systems extend capabilities to include inventory, customer, employee tracking, and sales analysis. Moreover, POS systems typically include features like loyalty programs, gift cards, and detailed reporting, which cash registers generally lack.

Businesses seeking comprehensive tracking of inventory, customers, and sales, along with the desire to offer loyalty programs and detailed reporting, find POS systems an apt choice. However, for businesses only requiring sales tracking, investing in a POS system might be unnecessary.

Cash registers come at a lower cost but offer fewer features compared to POS systems. They track sales but usually lack capabilities for inventory, customer management, and sales tax tracking. Moreover, they rarely incorporate features such as loyalty programs, gift cards, or in-depth reporting. Nonetheless, they are suitable for businesses focusing solely on sales tracking or those constrained by budget limitations that cannot afford a full-fledged POS system.

Which Small Business POS System Is Right For Your Business?

Finding the right POS system for your small business involves adjusting to the size, type, and financial constraints of your business. SiSu Freedom recommends that: If purchasing a POS system outright is not feasible, explore equipment financing options. Additionally, consider small business financing to secure additional capital for launching or accelerating the growth of your business.

2024 POS System Trends

Several crucial POS system trends for 2024 are emerging, and being aware of these can help keep your business competitive.

Cashless and Touchless Transactions Continue to Gain Momentum

As we step into 2024, two years post the Covid-19 outbreak, hygiene and reducing transmission concerns continue to drive the adoption of touchless payment technologies. Procurement weaknesses in infrastructure persist, making technologies like tap-and-go credit/debit cards and digital wallets accessed via smartphones or smartwatches indispensable.

These methods not only prioritize hygiene but also offer consumers swifter, more convenient, and secure transactions. Their enduring popularity stems from these advantages, persisting beyond the pandemic’s peak. Presently, around 51% of Americans use some form of contactless payments, with 67% of retailers having integrated contactless payment capabilities into their infrastructure by 2020.

More Advanced POS Hardware and Software

The era of bulky, stationary POS systems is behind us. Today, hardware compatible with POS systems is incredibly advanced and mobile, granting increased flexibility to store associates and the entire business. Anticipate witnessing a surge in smartphones, tablets, Bluetooth tech, secure order pickup lockers, electronic shelf labels, and smart self-checkout solutions in 2023.

These advancements in hardware owe their existence to both physical enhancements and technological progress. Without the strides made in the software supporting these devices, their functionality would have been significantly restricted.

Cloud-hosted POS Systems are the Future

We predict cloud-based technology has recently made a big mark in the business world and it is poised to continue shaping things for good through 2024 and beyond. Cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) systems provide smooth updates and can be easily integrated with different parts of the business, ensuring automatic, secure data backup and storage. full. full. Additionally, these cloud-based POS systems are typically cheaper, often following a software-as-a-service (SaaS) approach, helping businesses on tighter budgets.

Increased Mobility

The cloud enables POS systems to function via an internet connection, opening doors for their use on mobile devices. In the past, POS systems were tied to fixed computer stations that relied on physical connections. But now, this software can operate on mobile devices from anywhere, boosting the system’s flexibility and enhancing a business’s productivity.

Improvements in Self-service Kiosks and Infrastructure

As cloud technology evolves, self-service infrastructure is making significant advances. In addition to the familiar self-checkout found in grocery or retail stores, self-service is expanding into other areas such as comprehensive restaurant ordering/payment systems and storefronts. innovative stores where checkout and checkout become unnecessary (think Amazon Go). We predict that: by 2024, these technologies will take center stage due to their convenience, cost-effectiveness, and ability to reduce errors in the ordering and payment process.

Shopping Experience

Personalizing a customer’s shopping journey involves tailoring messages, offers, and products to match their unique behaviors and preferences. Companies can demonstrate their appreciation by proactively guiding customers to their preferred channels, keeping checkout information readily available for added convenience, enabling seamless transitions between apps and communication channels, and automatically connecting them with the most suitable resources to fulfill their needs.

Customers are aware that companies gather their data while they use the internet, and they now anticipate this data will enhance their interactions with the company. It’s certain that businesses will persist in dedicating resources to prioritize these personalized services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best POS for small business?

Forbes Advisor designates eHopper POS as the best POS system for small businesses in 2024. It earns this spot due to its free processing, hardware, and seamless e-commerce integrations, catering perfectly to omnichannel businesses or those operating on a tight budget.

Lightspeed POS secures our second spot for top POS systems, credited for its robust customer loyalty program. Enhance customer retention and spending by offering exclusive deals, discounts, and monthly product boxes, making customers feel valued and important.

Clover clinches our third top spot among POS systems, thanks to its extensive range of third-party integrations. With connections to apps like DocuSign, Xero, Mailchimp, and WooCommerce, it significantly broadens your POS system’s capabilities.

What does a POS system do?

A POS system, comprising both software and hardware, serves businesses by handling payments, sales tracking, inventory management, and linking to other business systems. Through its reporting and analytics features, business owners can make well-informed decisions about their operations.

What are the four types of POS systems?

There are four primary types of POS systems: Legacy (traditional hardware systems located on-site), Tablet-based (using tablets as the primary interface), Mobile (operating on smartphones and mobile devices), and Cloud-based (hosted on the internet, enabling data accessibility from any location).

How do I choose the right POS system for my business?

Picking the right POS system for your business depends on various factors: the type of business you run, your budget, and the essential features. Generally, it’s wise to invest in the best system that fits your budget and has room to grow with your business.

How much does a POS system cost?

The price of a POS system is determined by the features required and the scale of your business. While some systems are free, others can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars per month.

How do I set up a POS system?

The majority of POS systems provide onboarding documentation that guides you through setting up your system. Generally, this involves creating an account, adding products, customers, and employees, and then linking hardware like receipt printers and barcode scanners.

Do I need a POS system?

For a physical store, a POS system proves invaluable in handling inventory, processing payments, and tracking sales data. Even without a physical storefront, a POS system can still be beneficial for managing online orders and shipping.

Can I use a POS with an e-commerce store?

Absolutely, you can utilize a POS system alongside an e-commerce store. Many POS systems seamlessly integrate with well-known e-commerce platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce. This integration enables real-time synchronization of inventory between your POS system and the e-commerce store, allowing you to monitor stock levels accurately.