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When it comes to POS systems, choosing the right one for your small business can be challenging in a market overflowing with competition. With so many features, extras, and pricing structures available, what’s the best way to go for a small business?
Luckily we’ve put together this short list of the top five POS systems for small businesses so you don’t have to waste hours endlessly browsing ads and websites. These five POS providers stand for quality, security, affordability, and ease of use.
1. Square POS
Square is one of the most popular POS options available with thousands of users all over the world. Square works either in-store or online and even provides the option of setting up a Square e-commerce page on your own custom website. Your customers will be able to order and pay for items from your store directly within Square’s POS software; keeping you updated and your customer’s information secure.
When you sign up for a Square account, the company will send you one of their card readers for free. This is an excellent option for small businesses that are just getting started with POS systems, as it has relatively low startup costs and the software is feature-rich and easy to use.
The basic cost to operate Square for your business is 2.75% on all transactions; also a perfect option for businesses that are just starting out and can’t afford the monthly premiums of some other high-end POS solutions. You can also purchase a Square Terminal for just $399; relatively cheaper than other POS terminals.
2. Vend HQ
With 20,000 businesses and counting, Vend HQ is one of the most trusted POS solutions available today. Vend works with both Mac and PC, so no matter what hardware you choose, your POS system will be working at maximum capacity all day long. There’s no need to purchase Vend-specific hardware; the software works with just about anything you can throw at it. Whether you use a POS system for payment processing only or as an inventory management tool as well, Vend is the tool for you.
You can also use Vend to run your online payment processing, and its versatility is one of its best features. With a dedicated support staff, you can contact Vend with any compatibility issues regarding your hardware or software, and the team is always ready to help.
Vend starts out at just $99/month billed annually for small retailers. For chain stores or franchises, you can opt for the Pro plan, which will cost you about $129/month per store.
3. Lightspeed
Lightspeed works with any device you prefer, so you’ll get to pick the hardware your store runs on. With customer profiles, purchase history, and customer categories, you’ll get to know your customers better than ever. Lightspeed is focused on creating a simple yet powerful POS solution to bring you closer to your customers while successfully managing your inventory in an efficient and easy way.
Lightspeed can integrate with your order catalogs, helping you create orders and even providing low-stock reminders so you never run out of your customer’s favorite products. Lightspeed accepts a wide variety of payment methods, keeping you in touch with your customer base by providing flexible payment options.
You can acquire Lightspeed for only $99/month. You’ll get a register, personalized onboarding, 24/7 support, and free updates. This is, without a doubt, one of the best values in POS software.
4. ShopKeep
If you want an iPad-based POS system you can trust, ShopKeep is it. This powerful POS solution is simple and easy to use, designed by people who have been on the other end of the POS experience. Simplifying sales and stock management ensures your sales processes are efficient and you’re not stumbling over your POS software during checkout.
ShopKeep will keep you informed anytime, anywhere, with its ShopKeep pocket app. Manage your business on the go or in the comfort of your own home with this lightweight and simple app. Overall, ShopKeep has some amazing features that should be standard with any POS and a price tag that fits small businesses.
ShopKeep starts out at around $69/month per register, making it an incredible value for startups and small businesses alike.
5. PayPal Here
PayPal has created its own POS system that’s definitely worth trying out if you’re a small business owner. With live customer support and no long-term commitments, this is the perfect option for those small businesses looking for a simple transaction-based POS solution for their store.
You’ll get a free card reader when you sign up for PayPal Here, and once you download the app to your mobile device, you can get started right away processing just about any payment methods your customers bring to the table. Portability and a well-deserved reputation make this service one of the best.
For each transaction, you’ll be charged 2.7% of the value of the transaction for card swipes, 3.5% + $0.15 for keyed-entries, and 2.9% + $0.30 to invoice.
Conclusion
POS systems are abundant in today’s retail world, but not every system is equal in terms of quality and security. These five systems have a reputation for excellent services and value and will help keep your business running efficiently for as long as you use them. Be sure to factor in the cost of your POS system into your monthly budget. If you’ve never created a business budget before, hiring a financial advisor can help get you turned in the right direction.