5 Best POS Systems for iPad: A Comprehensive Look

Key takeaways

• Shopify POS: Best for seamless integration with an online store and an intuitive user interface.
• Square POS: Best for comprehensive free tier offering, making it ideal for small businesses and startups.
• Loyverse POS: Best for businesses on a budget seeking robust inventory management and customer loyalty features.
• Clover POS: Best for customizable POS with a rich app marketplace, perfect for businesses with unique needs.
• TouchBistro POS: Best for restaurant-specific features, offering an ideal solution for food service businesses.

Why should you use an iPad POS System?

Portability

One of the most significant advantages of an iPad POS system is its high portability. Its compact size allows for easy transport and use, whether at a crowded event, within the confines of a food truck, or during a home service appointment for your salon or spa business. The potential to accept payments on the go is a game-changer, providing a distinct edge over traditional POS setups.

Ease of Use

iPads are renowned for their intuitive user interfaces, and the POS software designed for them is no exception. Training your staff becomes simpler and quicker, reducing downtime and enhancing efficiency. This ease of use also extends to the customer side, ensuring their checkout experience is smooth and satisfying.

Cost-Effective

For small to medium-sized businesses, budget is often a significant constraint. An iPad POS system offers a cost-effective solution when compared to expensive traditional registers. Plus, the ongoing costs are often lower as updates to the software can be downloaded instantly without the need for costly hardware changes.

Robust Functionality

Don’t let the sleek design fool you – iPad POS systems can pack a serious punch when it comes to functionality. Inventory management, real-time sales tracking, customer data management, staff scheduling, and more – these systems can do it all. Most importantly, you can access this data anytime, anywhere, providing unparalleled flexibility.

Integration Capabilities

An iPad POS system integrates seamlessly with other business applications, be it your eCommerce store, bookkeeping software, or customer relationship management (CRM) tools. This feature allows for smoother operations, more accurate data collection, and a comprehensive business overview.

Top 5 POS systems for iPads

Shopify POS

Why We Like It

Shopify POS stands out for its integration capabilities, portability, and user-friendly interface, which aligns perfectly with the requirements of iPad users. What Shopify brings to the table is an all-encompassing retail solution that amplifies the efficiency of your brick-and-mortar operations while dovetailing with your digital storefront. Its inherent strengths lie in its simplicity and flexibility, making it a worthy investment for businesses that need to stay nimble without compromising functionality.

Pricing

• When it comes to pricing, Shopify offers a scalable model, catering to businesses of varying sizes and budgets:
• Basic Shopify: $39 per month
• Shopify: $105 per month
• Advanced Shopify: $399 per month

In addition to these subscription costs, Shopify has specific POS fees:

• Shopify POS Lite: $0
• Shopify POS Pro: $89 per month

Remember, transaction fees vary depending on your selected plan, and there will be hardware costs if you opt for additional devices or peripherals.

Key Features

• Real-time Inventory Management: Shopify POS syncs flawlessly with your Shopify online store. It tracks stock levels across all channels, reducing the risk of overselling and ensuring your inventory is always accurate.
• User-friendly Interface: Shopify POS is renowned for its intuitive design, simplifying the learning process for staff.
• Unparalleled Mobility: Tailored for iPad, Shopify POS allows you to take your business anywhere.
• Superior Integration Capabilities: Shopify POS integrates seamlessly with numerous applications, such as bookkeeping software, customer relationship management tools, and marketing apps.
• Comprehensive Reporting: Shopify POS provides in-depth reporting and analytics, enabling you to track sales, monitor trends, and make data-driven decisions.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Robust integration with online Shopify stores
• User-friendly interface that will reduce training time
• Excellent customer support
• Comprehensive reporting capabilities

Cons:

• Expensive higher-end plans
• Some advanced features only available in the Shopify POS Pro version

Who is Shopify POS best for?

Shopify POS is a stellar choice for a wide variety of businesses. It particularly serves small to medium-sized businesses that require an all-in-one, mobile-friendly solution. Besides, retail owners who wish to synchronize their online and physical stores will find its integration seamless. Also, service industry professionals will appreciate its on-the-go capabilities, while food truck owners and pop-up shop operators will love its mobility and ease of use.

Square

Why We Like It

Square POS’s intuitive interface, robust functionality, and competitive pricing make it a go-to choice for small businesses. It’s particularly useful for those requiring portability. It simplifies transactions, manages inventory, and handles customer relationships - all from a single platform.

Pricing

One of the primary advantages of Square is its straightforward, competitive pricing. The basic Square POS app is free to use, with a 2.6% + 10¢ transaction fee for tapped, dipped, or swiped payments. For manually entered transactions, the fee is 3.5% + 15¢. For those needing more comprehensive features, Square for Retail and Square for Restaurants start at $29 per month per location. Remember, additional hardware costs may apply depending on your specific requirements.

Key Features

• Inventory Management: Square provides real-time inventory tracking, helping you monitor your stock levels directly from your iPad. It saves time and reduces the possibility of human error.
• Sales Reports: Square gives you access to sales reports, empowering you to make data-driven decisions and stay ahead of your competition.
• Customer Directory: This feature lets you keep track of your customers’ buying habits and preferences, which can help personalize their experience and foster loyalty.
• Invoices and Digital Receipts: Create and send professional invoices from your iPad. Plus, customers can receive digital receipts, promoting a paperless and eco-friendly operation.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• User-friendly and intuitive interface
• Competitive pricing for small businesses
• Excellent customer support
• Comprehensive sales and inventory reporting

Cons:

• Additional features require a monthly subscription
• Transaction fees depend on the payment method
• Limited hours for direct support

Who Is Square Best For?

Square POS for iPad is ideal for small to medium-sized businesses looking for a mobile, cost-effective solution. It’s especially beneficial for those in the retail, restaurant, and service industries that require on-the-go payment options.

Loyverse

Why We Like It

Loyverse POS has carved a niche for itself with its ease of use, robust feature set, and affordability. It’s an ideal choice for those requiring mobility, such as event organizers, pop-up shops, food truck owners, or service industry professionals who need on-the-go solutions. It simplifies transactions, manages inventory, and handles customer relationships - all within a single platform.

Pricing

One of Loyverse’s prime selling points is its pricing. The basic Loyverse POS app is free and perfect for smaller businesses. They offer optional paid add-ons like Employee Management at $25 per employee per month and Advanced Inventory at $25 per month, providing flexibility to scale up as your business grows. Remember that additional hardware costs may be incurred based on your specific requirements.

Key Features

Loyverse POS is packed with features that can revolutionize your business operations:

• Inventory Management: Keep track of your stock levels from your iPad, saving you time and minimizing errors, essential for any busy business owner.
• Sales Analytics: Detailed sales reports empower you to make informed, data-driven decisions, helping your business stay ahead of the curve.
• Customer Loyalty Program: This feature lets you track customer purchases and reward repeat customers, fostering brand loyalty and improving customer retention.
• Receipts and Invoicing: You can issue electronic receipts and generate professional invoices straight from your iPad, promoting a paperless and eco-friendly business operation.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• A User-friendly interface makes it easy for staff to get up to speed.
• The affordable pricing structure for small businesses.
• Feature-rich, even at the basic free level.
• 24/7 customer support.

Cons:

• Expensive paid add-ons.

Who Is Loyverse Best For?

Loyverse POS for iPad is an excellent choice for small to medium-sized businesses on a budget and seeking a mobile, affordable solution. It’s particularly suitable for those in the retail and service sectors requiring payment solutions on the go.

Clover

Why We Like It

Clover POS stands out for its ease of use, comprehensive functionality, and flexible pricing, making it an excellent choice for small businesses. It caters particularly to those requiring mobility, such as pop-up shops, food truck owners, event organizers, and on-the-go service industry professionals, by simplifying transactions, managing inventory, and even handling customer relationships from a single platform.

Pricing

Clover offers a flexible pricing model that caters to different business sizes and needs. The cheapest plan costs about $15 per month, and the price can rise to thousands of dollars depending on your chosen service. Besides, additional hardware costs may apply based on your specific needs.

Key Features

Clover POS offers a wealth of features designed to revolutionize the way you operate your business:

• Inventory Management: Clover provides real-time inventory tracking, allowing you to monitor your stock levels directly from your iPad, thus saving time and reducing potential errors.
• Sales Analytics: Clover grants you access to detailed sales reports, enabling you to make data-driven decisions and keep a competitive edge.
• Customer Engagement Tools: This feature allows you to manage customer relationships efficiently by tracking their preferences and buying habits, helping to foster loyalty and increase customer retention.
• Gift Cards and Loyalty Programs: You can generate digital gift cards and manage loyalty programs right from your iPad, offering a great way to incentivize repeat business.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Intuitive interface for easy use and fast learning curve.
• Comprehensive features for managing sales, inventory, and customer relationships.
• Robust customer support.

Cons:

• Higher cost for advanced features and hardware.
• Additional transaction fees may apply.

Who Is Clover Best For?

Clover POS for iPad is a perfect fit for small to medium-sized businesses looking for a mobile, feature-rich solution. It’s especially beneficial for those in the retail and service industries needing on-the-go payment solutions. Whether you’re running a spa, a food truck, or a pop-up shop, Clover offers a comprehensive solution that can unlock your business’s full potential.

TouchBistro

Why We Like It

TouchBistro stands out with its user-friendly interface, robust feature set, and focus on the food service industry. It is designed specifically for those needing a mobile solution with basic features like inventory and customer management.

Pricing

TouchBistro offers several pricing options to cater to different business sizes and needs. You should know that though the pricing starts at $69 per month, you’ll get a custom quote depending on your business needs and size.

Key Features

• Menu Management: Customize and manage your menus directly from your iPad, even enabling you to categorize items, track ingredient-level inventory, and update prices on the fly.
• Tableside Ordering: This feature allows staff to take orders right at the table, increasing efficiency and reducing the risk of errors.
• Sales Reporting and Analytics: Access detailed sales reports to make data-driven decisions, understand customer preferences, and spot trends.
• Staff Management and Scheduling: Efficiently manage your staff schedules, track their hours, and calculate their wages within the platform.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Intuitive user interface designed for the food industry.
• Comprehensive features tailored for restaurant operations.
• Multi-channel and quick customer support.

Cons:

• Expensive add-ons.

Who Is TouchBistro Best For?

TouchBistro is a brilliant choice for medium to large-sized businesses in the food and service industries with a generous budget.

So, what is the best iPad POS system for your business?

After carefully comparing several systems, we’ve found that Shopify POS shines brighter than its competitors, particularly regarding an iPad’s functionality, flexibility, and user-friendliness.

Streamlined User Experience

Where Shopify POS truly excels is in its intuitive interface. Designed with simplicity and efficiency in mind, it’s easy for both seasoned and novice users to navigate. With clear icons, a logical layout, and a responsive design, operating the POS system on your iPad becomes second nature quickly, reducing training time and increasing productivity.

Exceptional Integration and Scalability

Shopify POS seamlessly integrates with the Shopify ecommerce platform. This means your physical and online stores can effortlessly sync, creating a unified platform for inventory, sales, and customer data. As your business grows, Shopify POS can scale with you, whether you’re expanding your online presence or adding new retail locations.

Versatile and Comprehensive Feature Set

Shopify POS offers an extensive range of features, outshining its competitors in breadth and depth. From inventory management, customer profiles, and loyalty programs to in-depth sales reports and analytics, every feature is tailored to enhance your business operations on your iPad. The system’s ability to operate offline ensures your sales never have to stop, even during an Internet outage.

Reliability and Support

Shopify POS boasts robust reliability, minimizing downtime, and maximizing efficiency. Additionally, Shopify offers 24/7 customer support, meaning you’re never alone if a problem arises.

Cost-Effective Solution

Despite offering superior features and functionality, Shopify POS remains competitively priced. With multiple tier options available, businesses of any size and budget can benefit from its powerful capabilities.

However, the choice of the best iPad POS system should depend on your business needs and budget, so we highly recommend you consider what you need carefully.

Methodology: How we evaluated and picked the top 5 POS for iPad

Here’s a breakdown of our testing and ranking process:

1. Research and Shortlisting

Our initial stage involved extensive market research in compiling a list of popular iPad POS systems. We reviewed dozens of systems, studying their features, pricing, user feedback, and market reputation.

2. In-Depth Analysis

Once we shortlisted the potential candidates, we conducted a thorough feature-by-feature analysis. We looked into essential factors such as inventory management, sales reporting, customer relationship management, and ease of use. We evaluated how each system’s features would cater to various business needs and scenarios.

3. Re-evaluation and Ranking

After gathering all this information, we revisited our shortlist and ranked the systems based on all these factors. The systems consistently performing well across all criteria made it to our top 5.

Conclusion

From our shortlisted 5 pos systems for iPad, we hope you can choose the right POS for iPad and transform your business operations, streamline your workflow, and enhance your customer service experience.