11 Cheapest POS System for Small Businesses in 2024

This blog post will dive into 11 point-of-sale systems to identify the best POS system for small businesses, focusing on cost-effectiveness, functionality, and ease of use to deliver the greatest value for your investment.

Key takeaways

• Shopify POS: Best for comprehensive e-commerce integration and supreme retail-focused features.
• Square POS: Best for offering a free basic plan and wide range of third-party integrations.
• Lightspeed POS: Best for retail and restaurant-specific features and robust inventory management.
• Zettle by PayPal: Best for user-friendly interface and compatibility with other PayPal services.
• Vend POS: Best for multi-store retail businesses with a focus on inventory management.
• Epos Now: Best for scalability and compatibility with various industries.
• TouchBistro POS: Best for restaurant-specific features and tableside ordering functionality.
• Clover: Best for offering an all-in-one hardware and software solution with extensive customization possibilities.
• Toast POS: Best for its specialized features for the food service industry and integrated online ordering.
• Aloha Cloud: Best for advanced table management and scalability in the hospitality industry.
• eHopper POS: Best for budget-friendly pricing and user-friendly interface ideal for small businesses.

11 Cheapest POS Systems for small businesses

Here is the short list of modern POS systems that are carefully curated in terms of value for money for small business owners such as restaurant owners, retail owners, etc.

Shopify POS: The Powerhouse of Retail Management

Shopify POS is a robust solution designed to seamlessly unify online and offline retail operations. With a strong reputation for reliability, versatility, and functionality, Shopify’s POS system offers an impressive array of features that can boost the efficiency of small businesses. The platform empowers small retailers to deliver an outstanding shopping experience while simplifying crucial aspects of business management, which makes it perfect for small business owners.

Pricing

The pricing for Shopify POS is directly tied to your current Shopify subscription plan, which starts at $5 per month. This is because every Shopify plan includes access to basic POS capabilities as a standard feature.

There’s also a point-of-sale (POS) add-on available — ‘Shopify POS Pro.’ This add-on costs $89, per month, per location, and unlocks more advanced functionality.

Key Features

• Unified Commerce: Shopify POS enables retailers to manage their online and offline stores from a single platform, providing real-time syncing of inventory, orders, and customers.
• Inventory Management: Shopify’s POS system offers robust inventory management features, allowing businesses to track stock levels, set up automated reordering, and analyze sales patterns.
• Customer Profiles: Shopify allows businesses to create detailed customer profiles, enhancing CRM efforts and personalizing the shopping experience.
• Mobile POS: Shopify POS is available on both iOS and Android devices, allowing businesses to make sales from anywhere in the store or even on the go.

Reasons to Buy

• Scalability: Shopify POS can grow with your business, making it a suitable option regardless of your business size.
• Ease of use: Shopify POS offers user-friendly UI that allows small businesses to quickly set up and manage their point-of-sale system without extensive technical knowledge.
• Flexibility: The ability to integrate with a wide array of Shopify’s own apps and third-party solutions adds to the platform’s adaptability.
• Reliability: Shopify offers 24/7 support and is known for its reliable performance, which is critical for uninterrupted retail operations.

Reasons not to buy

• Limited Offline Functionality: Shopify POS heavily relies on an internet connection, which can be a drawback for businesses operating in areas with poor connectivity or in situations where the internet goes down.

Square POS: The Versatile Solution

Square POS offers a user-friendly, feature-rich platform that has helped countless businesses manage their sales, track inventory, and record customer interactions.

Pricing

Square offers a free version of their POS software, with additional costs only for payment processing, which starts at 2.6% + 10¢ per tap, dip, or swipe. For more advanced needs, Square for Retail and Square for Restaurants have specific pricing starting at $29 per month.

Key Features

Sales and Inventory Management: Square provides robust sales tracking and inventory management, offering real-time stock alerts, automatic reordering, and advanced sales reports. Customer Directory: The system allows businesses to build a customer directory, useful for managing customer relationships and personalizing interactions.

Integrated Payments: Square POS accepts a wide array of payment methods and comes with built-in payment processing, simplifying the checkout process.

Reasons to Buy

Affordability: Square’s free software and reasonable payment processing fees make it a highly affordable option for small businesses.

Versatility: It offers a versatile POS system, catering to various sectors like retail, restaurants, and services.

Ease of Use: Square’s intuitive design makes it easy for both staff and management to use.

Reasons not to buy

Despite offering a wide range of features and capabilities, Square falls short in terms of advanced features when compared to other available options. The high payment processing fees can accumulate quickly for businesses with high sales volume.

Lightspeed POS: The Detailed Retail Expert

Lightspeed is a POS system designed with a focus on detailed inventory management, making it ideal for retailers with complex or large inventories, such as clothing boutiques or sports equipment stores.

Pricing

Lightspeed pricing starts at $69/month for the basic plan when billed annually. Additional costs for add-ons and more advanced features can apply.

Key Features

Advanced Inventory Management: Lightspeed offers a comprehensive inventory management system, perfect for businesses with numerous product lines or SKUs. Integrated eCommerce: Lightspeed includes built-in eCommerce capabilities, allowing businesses to maintain an online presence alongside their physical store. In-depth Reporting: Lightspeed provides detailed analytics and reporting, allowing businesses to make data-driven decisions.

Reasons to Buy

Detail-Oriented: Lightspeed is an excellent choice for businesses with complex inventories due to its advanced inventory management features.

Advanced Reporting and Analytics: Lightspeed is known for offering various types of reports, helping business owners make the most informed decisions.

Reasons not to buy

For businesses with simpler needs or smaller inventories, Lightspeed’s advanced features and higher cost may not be necessary.

It has a pretty higher upfront cost compared to the other POS systems for small businesses.

Zettle by PayPal: The Portable Powerhouse

Zettle by PayPal, previously known as iZettle, offers a simple yet comprehensive POS system, especially popular with small businesses that value mobility and flexibility.

Pricing

Zettle’s primary advantage is its pricing model - the app is free, and the card reader costs a one-time fee of $29. The transaction fee is a flat 1.75% for card payments, making it highly predictable and straightforward.

Key Features

• Mobile Transactions: With Zettle, businesses can accept card payments on the go using their card reader, ideal for businesses that operate at different locations or even outside their stores.
• Integration with PayPal: Being part of the PayPal family, Zettle allows for easy integration with PayPal’s suite of services, further expanding its capabilities.
• Easy Set-Up: Zettle is renowned for its easy setup and user-friendly interface, making it an excellent choice for businesses new to POS systems.

Reasons to Buy

• Affordability: Zettle’s simple pricing structure and low fees make it an attractive option for small businesses operating on a tight budget.
• Flexibility: The mobile card reader allows businesses to operate flexibly, whether that’s at different locations, outdoor markets, or pop-up events.
• Simplicity: Zettle offers an easy-to-understand platform, ideal for businesses looking for a no-fuss, straightforward POS system.

Reasons not to buy

• While Zettle works well for small businesses, they may struggle to keep up as their business size and complexity grow.

Vend POS: The Multistore Master

Vend is a versatile POS solution designed with multistore retailers in mind. Its features aim to connect and streamline operations across different locations, ideal for growing businesses looking to scale up.

Pricing

Vend’s pricing starts at $89/month, with additional charges for extra registers and premium features.

Key Features

• Multistore Management: Vend allows retailers to manage multiple stores from a single dashboard, with real-time inventory tracking across all locations.
• Customer Loyalty Programs: The system includes built-in customer loyalty programs that helps businesses track customer purchases and offer rewards.
• eCommerce Integration: Vend seamlessly integrates with popular eCommerce platforms like Shopify, allowing businesses to manage both online and offline sales coherently.

Reasons to Buy

• Scalability: Vend’s features are designed to help businesses manage and scale their operations, making it an excellent choice for growing businesses.
• Versatility: Vend integrates with a variety of payment processors, eCommerce platforms, and other business software, offering flexibility and versatility.

Reasons not to buy

• Vend’s higher price point may be a barrier for some small businesses or those with a tighter budget.
• The system’s focus on multistore management might not be necessary for single-location businesses or those with simpler needs.

Epos Now: The Customizable Contender

Epos Now is a versatile and customizable point of sale system that caters to both retail and hospitality sectors. Its system is designed to adapt to the business, making it suitable for a variety of different business models.

Pricing

Epos Now offers a complete system including software and hardware starting at $99. Additional features and services come with custom quotes.

Key Features

• Customizable System: Epos Now offers a range of customization options, allowing businesses to tailor the system to their specific needs.
• Integrated Inventory Management: The system provides advanced inventory management capabilities, including stock level alerts and automated reordering.
• Third-Party Integrations: Epos Now can integrate with various third-party applications, including payment solutions, eCommerce platforms, and accounting software.

Reasons to Buy

• Versatility: The customizable nature of Epos Now makes it suitable for a wide range of businesses, from retail to restaurants and more.
• Ease of Use: Despite its range of features, Epos Now is known for its user-friendly interface and straightforward setup process.
• Customer Support: Epos Now provides 24/7 customer support, which can be invaluable for businesses without dedicated IT support.

Reasons not to buy

• Epos Now might not offer the advanced features like in-depth analytics or inventory management that some businesses may require.

TouchBistro: The Restaurant Revolutionary

TouchBistro is a point of sale system specifically designed for the restaurant industry. Its comprehensive suite of features is tailored to the unique requirements of food service businesses, from quick service venues to full-service restaurants.

Pricing

TouchBistro’s software pricing starts at $69/month for a single license, with discounts available for additional licenses.

Key Features

• Tableside Ordering: TouchBistro enables staff to send orders directly from the table to the kitchen, reducing errors and speeding up service.
• Menu Management: The system allows for easy menu customization, with features like ingredient tracking and cost analysis.
• Floor Plan and Table Management: TouchBistro offers advanced floor plan and table management features, helping optimize seating and turnover.

Reasons to Buy

• Industry-Specific: TouchBistro’s restaurant-focused features can greatly enhance efficiency and service in a food service environment.
• User-Friendly: The system’s intuitive design makes it easy for staff to learn and use, reducing training time.
• Customer Support: TouchBistro offers 24/7 customer support and a wealth of online resources.

Reasons not to buy

• As TouchBistro is designed specifically for the restaurant industry, it may not be the best fit for other types of retail businesses.

Clover: The All-Inclusive Innovator

Clover offers a full-fledged POS system that combines hardware and software into one comprehensive solution. Its flexibility and wide range of features make it suitable for various types of businesses.

Pricing

Clover’s packages range from about $15 to $85, coming with both software and hardware. There’s also a per-transaction fee depending on the payment processor chosen.

Key Features

• Hardware and Software Combo: Clover offers proprietary hardware that’s designed to work seamlessly with their software, providing an all-in-one solution.
• Customizability: Clover’s App Market allows businesses to customize their point of sale system with a variety of apps for different functionalities.
• Advanced Reporting: Clover offers in-depth analytics and reporting, providing insights into sales, inventory, and more.

Reasons to Buy

• All-In-One Solution: Clover’s combined hardware and software solution can simplify setup and operation.
• Versatility: The App Market offers a wide range of add-ons, making Clover adaptable to various business needs.
• Ease of Use: Clover’s system is known for its easy setup and user-friendly interface, making it accessible even to tech novices.

Reasons not to buy

• Clover’s pricing can be more complicated due to the combined hardware and software costs, and the per-transaction fees can add up for businesses with a high volume of transactions.

Toast: The Comprehensive Culinary Companion

Toast is a cloud-based POS system crafted specifically for the food service industry. From fine dining restaurants to casual eateries and cafes, Toast brings an assortment of features to the table that enhance operational efficiency.

Pricing

Toast offers a free basic software package, with additional modules available for an extra cost.

Key Features

• Food Service-Specific Features: Toast provides specialized features such as tableside ordering, menu management, and real-time reporting to cater to the unique demands of the food service industry.
• Online Ordering and Delivery: Integrated online ordering and delivery options enable businesses to tap into the growing trend of food delivery and takeout.
• Inventory Management: Toast offers in-depth inventory management features, allowing businesses to track ingredient-level inventory and reduce waste.

Reasons to Buy

• Industry-Focused: The system is designed with the food service industry in mind, with features specifically tailored to enhance efficiency and productivity in this sector.
• Integrated Online Ordering: The ability to manage in-house and online orders from a single system can be a significant advantage for businesses.
• Comprehensive Reporting: Toast’s detailed reporting can provide valuable insights into business performance and areas for improvement.

Reasons not to buy

• Some businesses may find the cost of additional modules and features higher than expected.
• Toast is very focused on the food service industry, and may not be the best fit for other types of retail businesses.

So, What Is The Cheapest POS System for small business?

POS System	Subscription Fee	Transaction Fee	Hardware Costs
Shopify POS	Starts at $5/month	2.4%-2.9% + 30¢ per transaction	Starts at $49 for the Chip & Swipe Reader
Square POS	Free to at least $29/month	2.6% + 10¢ per transaction	Starts at $49 for the Square Reader
Lightspeed POS	Starts at $69/month	Varies based on payment processor	Not disclosed
Zettle by PayPal	Free	1.75% per transaction	One-time fee of $49 for card reader
Vend POS	Starts at $89/month	Varies based on payment processor	Not disclosed
Epos Now	Starts at $99/month	Varies based on payment processor	Complete system starting at $99
TouchBistro	Starts at $69/month	Varies based on payment processor	Not disclosed
Clover	Starts at $9.95/month	2.3% + 10¢ per transaction	Virtual Terminal is $14.95 per month
Toast	Free to custom pricing	Varies based on payment processor	Starts from $609 for Handheld Starter Kit

Determining the cheapest POS system for small business depends on the features you need and your budget. However, after an in-depth analysis, we highly Shopify POS for small businesses. This is because it provides an excellent balance between affordability and functionality. Starting at $5 per month, Shopify POS comes with an array of impressive features that are especially beneficial for small businesses.

How to Choose the Right Affordable POS System for Small Business

Assessing Your Business Needs

As a small business, your needs differ significantly from those of larger enterprises. You require a system that offers maximum functionality at a minimum cost. You’re likely looking for a POS system that is reliable, easy to use, flexible, and of course, cost-effective. While the most affordable system may seem attractive, it’s vital to consider the long-term value and suitability of your investment to your specific needs.

Evaluating POS System Features

When shopping for an affordable POS system, look for these essential features:

Ease of Use

An ideal POS system should be user-friendly. A simple and intuitive interface reduces the learning curve for staff and ensures efficient transactions, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction.

Inventory Management

Efficient inventory management is a key feature for a POS system in a retail setting. Real-time tracking of stock levels, low stock alerts, and the ability to manage products across multiple locations are beneficial features to look for.

Reporting and Analytics

Detailed reporting and analytics capabilities are crucial for making informed business decisions. POS systems that provide comprehensive sales, revenue, and inventory reports offer valuable insights into the business’s operations.

Customer Management

In the competitive retail landscape, customer satisfaction is key. POS systems that include CRM (Customer Relationship Management) features such as creating customer profiles, tracking customer purchase history, and setting up customer loyalty programs can significantly enhance customer engagement and retention.

Integration

The ability to integrate with other software and tools used in the business is a useful feature. This could include integration with e-commerce platforms, accounting software, email marketing services, or other third-party applications.

Mobility

Depending on the nature of the retail store, a mobile POS option might be beneficial. Mobile POS systems offer flexibility and can facilitate sales events outside of the traditional brick-and-mortar store, such as pop-up shops or trade fairs.

Support

It’s important to consider the reliability of the POS system and the level of customer support provided by the vendor. A system known for its stability and backed by excellent customer service can mitigate the risk of downtime, which can be costly for a retail business.

Considering Total Cost of Ownership

While focusing on the price tag, also factor in the total cost of ownership (TCO). TCO includes upfront costs, transaction fees, hardware costs, and any additional fees for add-ons and integrations. Often, POS systems that seem cheap can end up costing more in the long run due to high transaction fees or pricey add-ons.

Our Methodology

Here is the methodology behind our testing and ranking of the cheapest POS systems for small businesses.

Identifying Key Features

The first step in our process was identifying the features that small businesses need the most in a POS system. These features include sales reporting and analytics, inventory management, customer relationship management, employee management, ease of use, and the ability to integrate with other software such as e-commerce platforms.

Market Research

We researched many POS systems that are specifically designed for small businesses, keeping an eye out for systems that offer the best balance between affordability and functionality. Our list included popular systems like Shopify POS, Square POS, Clover, and more.

Assessing Cost Structures

Understanding the cost structures of each POS system was a crucial part of our methodology. We looked at:

• Initial hardware and installation costs
• Ongoing software subscription costs
• Transaction fees
• Costs of add-ons and integrations

By considering these aspects, we were able to determine the total cost of ownership, which gave us a more accurate understanding of each system’s affordability.

Synthesizing All the Data and Comparing

To do this, we compiled the data in a comprehensive manner that allowed us to see all the features and costs for each system side by side. We used an assortment of tools for data visualization to clearly depict these comparisons.

Ranking

Based on our research, testing, and customer review analysis, we assigned scores to each POS system for affordability, functionality, and user experience. These scores were then used to create a ranked list of the cheapest and most effective POS systems for small businesses.

Cheapest POS System for Small Business: Frequently Asked Questions