For most small businesses, Square Register is my best overall pick in this roundup because it is a purpose-built checkout system, while the Square Terminal is a more compact option for mobile or counter service. The Clover Mini stands out for shops that want a bundled setup with a cash drawer and barcode scanner. The main tradeoff is between a ready-to-use POS ecosystem and lower-cost or hardware-only terminals that may need more setup and compatible software. Screen size, peripherals, payment workflow, and room to grow matter as much as the register itself. Read on for the full breakdown and a guide to choosing the right fit for your business.
Key Takeaways
- Square Register and Square Register (2nd Generation) lead the purpose-built choices in this lineup; compare their generation and included setup details before deciding between them.
- Square Terminal suits a compact checkout or mobile workflow better than the larger countertop registers, but its form factor is less suited to a multi-screen station.
- Clover Mini and the bundled all-in-one systems can reduce peripheral shopping, while hardware-only Volcora terminals leave software selection and setup to the buyer.
- Tablet-based POS kits can keep a setup simple and compact, but buyers should verify app compatibility, tablet inclusion, and how peripherals connect.
- Restaurant and bar workflows need more than a touchscreen: the dedicated system with kitchen order printers is aimed at order routing, unlike general retail-oriented registers.
| SumUp POS Lite 13-Inch Touchscreen Point of Sale System |  | Best for Low-Commitment Setups | Screen size: 13 inches | Stand material: Die-cast aluminium | Software: Free pre-installed POS software with automated updates | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| MRBOSS iOS POS Software with 2¼-Inch Receipt Printer for iPad and iPhone |  | Best for Mobile and Delivery-Oriented Businesses | Printer width: 2¼ inches | Compatible devices: iPad, iPhone, cash drawers, barcode scanners, and cloud printers | Mobile app platforms: iOS and Android | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Square Register Point-of-Sale System |  | Best Overall for a Ready-to-Use Checkout | Displays: Two touchscreen displays | Payment types: EMV chip, NFC/contactless, and magstripe | Offline mode: Supports taking payments when Wi-Fi is unavailable | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SmartPOS 129 All-in-One Cash Register and POS System |  | Best Complete Hardware Bundle | Cashier display: 15-inch touchscreen | Customer display: 15 inches | Included hardware: Cash drawer, thermal printer, and handheld barcode scanner | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| MEETSUN POS Cash Register System with 15-Inch Touchscreen and Thermal Printer |  | Best for Windows-Based Retail Management | Main display: 15-inch touchscreen | Customer display: 11.6 inches | Printer: Built-in 2 1/4-inch thermal receipt printer | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Volcora Retail and Restaurant POS Terminal Machine for Small Business, Windows 11 Professional, Intel N97 CPU, 15.6″ Touch Screen, Black (Hardware Only) |  | Best for Windows-Based POS Setups | Operating system: Windows 11 Professional | Processor: Intel Processor N97 | Memory: 8 GB | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Volcora Dual-Screen POS Terminal with Windows 11 Pro |  | Best for Customer-Facing Checkout | Operating system: Windows 11 Professional | Processor: Intel Core i5 | Memory: 4 GB | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Clover Mini Wi-Fi POS System with Cash Drawer and Barcode Scanner |  | Best for a Compact, Bundled Checkout | Model: Clover 2nd Generation, Part CM3 | Connectivity: Wi-Fi | Included accessories: Cash drawer and barcode scanner | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Touchscreen POS Cash Register with Built-In Thermal Printer |  | Best All-in-One Register Bundle | Main display: 15 inches, 1024 × 768 | Customer display: 11.6 inches | Processor: Intel Core i5 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Square Terminal All-in-One Credit Card Machine |  | Best for Portable Payments | Dimensions: 5.6 × 3.4 × 2.5 inches | Weight: 14.7 ounces | Battery: Included lithium-ion battery | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| POS System for 10-Inch Amazon Fire Tablets with Receipt Printer, Cash Drawer, and Stand |  | Best for Fire Tablet Setups | Tablet compatibility: 10-inch Amazon Fire tablets | Included hardware: Register base, thermal receipt printer, cash drawer, and stand | Software: Datio POS app | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Square Register (2nd Generation) Point-of-Sale System |  | Best Overall for a Ready-Made Counter | Brand: Square | Model number: A-SKU-0908 | Displays: Dual responsive touchscreens | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SmartPOS NX2 All-in-One POS System for Small Business |  | Best for Processor Choice and Included Hardware | Model: SmartPOS NX2 POS Bundle | Cashier display: 15.6-inch touchscreen | Included components: Customer-facing display, cash drawer, wireless barcode scanner, and thermal receipt printer | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Touchscreen POS System for Restaurants and Bars with Software and Kitchen Order Printers |  | Best for Restaurants with Kitchen Tickets | Display: 17-inch touchscreen | Operating system: Linux | Included components: PC controller, built-in POS software, cash drawer, receipt printer, and kitchen order printer | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
SumUp POS Lite 13-Inch Touchscreen Point of Sale System
The SumUp POS Lite suits a small shop or service counter that wants a dedicated screen without taking on a fixed software fee or contract. Its 13-inch touchscreen and aluminium stand provide a compact checkout station, while the included software handles sales, item catalogs, and reports with automated updates. Compared with the Square Register, it has a simpler, smaller hardware setup rather than separate seller and customer displays. That can work well when counter space is limited, but buyers who want customers to review purchases on a second screen may prefer Square. SumUp’s no-fixed-fee approach gives owners more flexibility, though card reader payments carry a 2.6% + 10 fee. That transaction cost is a meaningful tradeoff for businesses processing frequent card sales.
Pros:- No fixed monthly fees or binding contract stated
- Free pre-installed POS software manages sales, catalogs, and reports
- Automated software updates reduce manual upkeep
- 13-inch touchscreen and aluminium stand create a dedicated checkout station
Cons:- Card reader payments incur a 2.6% + 10 fee
- Does not list a customer-facing display, cash drawer, or receipt printer
- Smaller screen and simpler hardware bundle offer less checkout equipment than Square Register
Best for: Small retailers, market sellers, and service businesses seeking a dedicated touchscreen POS with no fixed monthly software fee or binding contract.
Not ideal for: High-volume card businesses focused on transaction costs, or stores that need a customer-facing display and bundled checkout peripherals.
- Screen size:13 inches
- Stand material:Die-cast aluminium
- Software:Free pre-installed POS software with automated updates
- Card reader payment fee:2.6% + 10
- Package dimensions:15.05 x 12.01 x 5 inches
- Item weight:6.11 pounds
- Manufacturer:SumUp
Our verdict“Choose SumUp POS Lite if you want a straightforward, contract-free touchscreen setup and can accept the stated card payment fee.”
MRBOSS iOS POS Software with 2¼-Inch Receipt Printer for iPad and iPhone
MRBOSS iPOS is aimed at cafes, takeout counters, and small operators who want mobile ordering tools alongside a receipt printer. Its app covers inventory, tax calculations, reports, and customizable receipts, while QR ordering and stated Uber Eats and DoorDash integrations can connect counter sales with delivery workflows. Compared with the SumUp POS Lite, MRBOSS puts more emphasis on mobile platforms and ordering channels, rather than a dedicated touchscreen terminal with pre-installed POS software. The tradeoff is a less clearly defined hardware package: the listing gives a printer width but not its model or connection method, and the stated remote support and iCloud access last only one month. Buyers should confirm device compatibility and printing setup before relying on it for a busy checkout line.
Pros:- Mobile apps are listed for both iOS and Android
- Includes inventory management, tax calculations, and store reports
- QR code ordering and Uber Eats and DoorDash integrations support food-service workflows
- Cloud printing and a 2¼-inch receipt printer are included in the described setup
Cons:- Printer model and connection details are not specified
- Remote support and iCloud access are described as lasting one month
- Unlike the SumUp POS Lite, the listing does not clearly describe a dedicated POS touchscreen or stand
Best for: Small cafes, takeout shops, and food businesses already using iPads or phones that want QR ordering and delivery-platform tools.
Not ideal for: Retailers seeking a clearly specified, ready-to-run register bundle or businesses that need ongoing remote support included.
- Printer width:2¼ inches
- Compatible devices:iPad, iPhone, cash drawers, barcode scanners, and cloud printers
- Mobile app platforms:iOS and Android
- Listed features:Ordering, customizable receipts, tax calculations, inventory management, store reports, and QR code ordering
- Delivery platform integration:Uber Eats and DoorDash
- Support:One month of remote support
- Software updates:Free updates
Our verdict“Pick MRBOSS if mobile ordering and delivery integrations matter more than a fully specified countertop register.”
Square Register Point-of-Sale System
The Square Register earns this spot by combining payment processing, POS software, and two touchscreens in one checkout system. The separate seller and customer displays let staff manage a sale while shoppers review and pay onscreen, a more complete front-counter experience than the single-screen SumUp POS Lite. It accepts chip, contactless, and magstripe payments, and its offline mode can help keep transactions moving when Wi-Fi drops. Item management, sales tracking, and a customer directory give small businesses useful operating tools without the less-defined setup details of the MRBOSS iPOS. The tradeoff is that cash drawers and printers are sold separately, so the register is not a complete hardware bundle like SmartPOS 129. Its hardware is also approved only for use in its intended country.
Pros:- Combines hardware, POS software, and payment processing
- Two touchscreens provide separate seller and customer views
- Accepts EMV chip, NFC/contactless, and magstripe payments
- Offline payment support can help maintain checkout during Wi-Fi outages
Cons:- Cash drawer and receipt printer are sold separately
- Hardware is approved only for use in its intended country
- Less bundled checkout equipment than SmartPOS 129
Best for: Small retailers and service counters that want an integrated POS and payment system with a customer-facing screen and multiple payment methods.
Not ideal for: Businesses needing a full register bundle out of the box, or operators who plan to use the hardware outside its approved country.
- Displays:Two touchscreen displays
- Payment types:EMV chip, NFC/contactless, and magstripe
- Offline mode:Supports taking payments when Wi-Fi is unavailable
- Model number:A-SKU-0665
- Package dimensions:17.5 x 16.5 x 9 inches
- Item weight:5.9 pounds
- Warranty:2-year limited warranty
Our verdict“Choose Square Register for an integrated, dual-screen checkout, provided you are comfortable sourcing the cash drawer and printer separately.”
SmartPOS 129 All-in-One Cash Register and POS System
SmartPOS 129 is the most fully outfitted counter package in this group: it includes a cashier touchscreen, customer display, cash drawer, handheld barcode scanner, and thermal printer. For a retailer opening a fixed checkout station, that bundle can reduce the effort of sourcing separate peripherals. Its stated integration with over 50 card processors also gives owners more processor options than the Square Register listing, which centers on Square’s integrated payment setup. A free initial setup call and Retail360 mobile app add onboarding and product-scanning tools. The tradeoff is scale: at 53.9 pounds and 21 x 22 x 35 inches, this is a substantial system, unlike the compact SumUp POS Lite. The battery requirement is another maintenance point, and buyers should verify processor compatibility and workflow fit before installation.
Pros:- Bundles cashier and customer displays, cash drawer, scanner, and thermal printer
- Lists integration with over 50 card processors
- Includes an initial setup call
- Retail360 mobile app supports product scanning and price updates
Cons:- Large, heavy footprint is less suited to compact or mobile businesses
- Included lithium-ion battery adds a maintenance consideration
- Unlike Square Register, the listing does not specify supported payment types or offline payment capability
Best for: Brick-and-mortar retailers setting up a permanent checkout station who want the main register peripherals bundled together and broad processor integration.
Not ideal for: Market sellers, small counters, or businesses prioritizing portability and a compact footprint.
- Cashier display:15-inch touchscreen
- Customer display:15 inches
- Included hardware:Cash drawer, thermal printer, and handheld barcode scanner
- Card processor integrations:Over 50
- Mobile app:Retail360
- Dimensions:21 x 22 x 35 inches
- Weight:53.9 pounds
- Battery:1 lithium-ion battery included
Our verdict“Choose SmartPOS 129 when you want a broad, ready-made retail checkout bundle and have room for its full-size footprint.”
MEETSUN POS Cash Register System with 15-Inch Touchscreen and Thermal Printer
MEETSUN POS combines a Windows register with the core hardware and software a small retailer may need: a touchscreen, customer display, thermal printer, cash drawer, and barcode scanner. Its software is described as covering sales, inventory, promotions, reporting, and taxation, making it a more retail-management-focused option than the simpler SumUp POS Lite. The bundle also goes further than Square Register on included peripherals, though Square specifies offline payments and a two-year limited hardware warranty while MEETSUN lists only a 90-day hardware warranty. The processor description is unclear—it is identified as Intel Celeron and also described as I5—so buyers should verify the exact configuration before purchase. Lifetime software service is stated, but the short hardware warranty makes support expectations worth checking.
Pros:- Includes touchscreen, customer display, thermal printer, cash drawer, and barcode scanner
- Retail software covers sales, inventory, promotions, reporting, and taxation
- Windows operating system may suit shops already using Windows-based workflows
- Lifetime software service is stated, with no monthly software fee stated in the description
Cons:- Hardware warranty is limited to 90 days
- Processor description is inconsistent, listing Intel Celeron and also I5
- Does not list offline payment support, unlike Square Register
Best for: Small retailers who want a Windows-based register with bundled scanning, receipt printing, cash handling, and inventory tools.
Not ideal for: Businesses that need a longer stated hardware warranty, clear processor specifications, or a compact mobile setup.
- Main display:15-inch touchscreen
- Customer display:11.6 inches
- Printer:Built-in 2 1/4-inch thermal receipt printer
- Processor:Intel Celeron; source description also refers to I5
- Memory:8 GB RAM
- Storage:128 GB SSD
- Included components:Cash drawer, barcode scanner, and POS software
- Operating system:Windows
- Warranty and software service:90-day hardware warranty; lifetime software service
Our verdict“Choose MEETSUN if bundled Windows retail tools matter most, but confirm the processor details and warranty coverage before committing.”
Volcora Retail and Restaurant POS Terminal Machine for Small Business, Windows 11 Professional, Intel N97 CPU, 15.6″ Touch Screen, Black (Hardware Only)
The Volcora makes the most sense for a small business that already has POS software and wants a Windows 11 Pro terminal rather than a bundled register. Its Intel N97 processor and 8 GB of RAM give it a stronger memory setup than the dual-screen Volcora, which has only 4 GB, while the 15.6-inch display leaves room for larger on-screen buttons and menus. Two serial ports and four USB ports also help when connecting existing peripherals. The tradeoff is that this is hardware only: you need to choose and configure software, payment processing, and accessories separately. Its 128 GB SSD may also constrain a business keeping substantial data locally. Compared with the Square Terminal, this is a fixed, customizable workstation, not a portable payment-and-receipt device.
Pros:- Windows 11 Pro and Intel N97 processor suit a configurable POS workstation
- 8 GB RAM is more generous than the dual-screen Volcora’s 4 GB
- Four USB ports and two serial ports support a range of peripherals
- Foldable metal base helps keep the counter footprint compact
Cons:- No POS software, printer, scanner, or cash drawer is included
- 128 GB SSD may be limiting for large locally stored inventories or records
Best for: Small retailers or counter-service shops already choosing Windows-compatible POS software and connecting their own peripherals.
Not ideal for: Owners who want a ready-to-run checkout bundle with printer, cash drawer, and software included.
- Operating system:Windows 11 Professional
- Processor:Intel Processor N97
- Memory:8 GB
- Storage:128 GB SSD
- Display:15.6-inch capacitive touchscreen, 1366 × 768
- Ports:2 serial, 4 USB, HDMI, audio input, LAN, DC 12V
- Warranty:Limited lifetime warranty
Our verdict“Choose this Volcora if you want a Windows terminal to build around your own POS software and accessories, not a complete register kit.”
Volcora Dual-Screen POS Terminal with Windows 11 Pro
The dual-screen Volcora is aimed at shops that want customers to see the checkout flow on a dedicated display without adding a separate screen. Its 11.6-inch customer display can make item and transaction visibility easier at the counter, while the 15.6-inch main touchscreen gives staff a larger workspace. Like the single-screen Volcora, it offers Windows 11 Pro and broad peripheral connectivity, but its 4 GB of memory is half the other model’s 8 GB. That makes the single-screen unit the safer pick for a software-heavy setup, while this one prioritizes customer visibility. Neither Volcora includes POS software or checkout peripherals, so buyers still have to assemble the system. Choose it for the second screen, not as an out-of-the-box register.
Pros:- Dedicated 11.6-inch customer display supports more visible checkout interactions
- 15.6-inch touchscreen gives staff a roomy primary interface
- Multiple USB and serial ports support attached POS equipment
- Limited lifetime warranty and US-based support are listed
Cons:- 4 GB of memory is modest for a Windows POS terminal
- No POS software or checkout peripherals are included
Best for: Small retailers and service counters that want customers to view transactions on a separate display and can supply their own software and peripherals.
Not ideal for: Businesses running memory-intensive POS software or seeking a bundled system with a printer, scanner, and cash drawer.
- Operating system:Windows 11 Professional
- Processor:Intel Core i5
- Memory:4 GB
- Storage:128 GB
- Displays:15.6-inch touchscreen and 11.6-inch customer display
- Resolution:1366 × 768
- Ports:2 serial, 4 USB, HDMI, audio input, DC 12V, Ethernet
- Warranty:Limited lifetime warranty
Our verdict“Pick this over the single-screen Volcora when customer-facing display space matters more than having 8 GB of memory.”
Clover Mini Wi-Fi POS System with Cash Drawer and Barcode Scanner
The Clover Mini package suits a small counter that needs more than a payment terminal: it includes a cash drawer and barcode scanner, along with payment processing and business-management functions such as inventory and payroll. That makes it a more assembled checkout option than either Volcora terminal, which leaves software and accessories to the buyer. Its Wi-Fi connectivity and compact design can help where counter space is tight, though the listed 30-pound item weight makes it worth checking the actual setup footprint and handling needs. The main limitation is processor commitment: a merchant account through Powering POS is required, and the system cannot be tethered to a Station or Mini using another processor. Unlike the portable Square Terminal, this is a more complete checkout package with a provider-specific constraint.
Pros:- Cash drawer and barcode scanner are included
- Supports payment processing and business-management functions
- Compact design can suit counters with limited surface space
- Wi-Fi connectivity avoids a required wired network connection
Cons:- Requires a merchant account through Powering POS
- Available only to US-based businesses
- Cannot tether with a Station or Mini using a different merchant processor
Best for: US-based small retailers that want a compact Clover checkout with a cash drawer and barcode scanner included and are comfortable using Powering POS.
Not ideal for: Businesses that need to choose their own payment processor, operate outside the US, or link devices across different processors.
- Model:Clover 2nd Generation, Part CM3
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi
- Included accessories:Cash drawer and barcode scanner
- Merchant account:Required through Powering POS
- Power source:DC
- Compatible devices:Desktop, laptop, smartphone
- Item weight:30 pounds
- Availability:US-based businesses
Our verdict“Choose the Clover Mini bundle if you want included checkout hardware and accept its required payment-provider arrangement.”
Touchscreen POS Cash Register with Built-In Thermal Printer
This register is the most self-contained choice in this group for a small shop that wants checkout hardware and POS functions together. It includes POS software, a built-in thermal printer, a customer display, and a barcode scanner, plus a keyboard, mouse, and starter paper. That reduces the separate purchasing and setup work required by the hardware-only Volcora terminals. The 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB SSD provide a defined base for the included system, while its 15-inch main screen has a comparatively modest 1024 × 768 resolution. The 18-pound, 16.5-inch-wide unit also takes more counter space than the portable Square Terminal. Buyers should confirm that the included software fits their workflow; this is less flexible than selecting a Windows terminal and separate applications.
Pros:- POS software includes retail and restaurant functions such as billing and order management
- Built-in 58 mm thermal printer reduces separate hardware needs
- Customer display and barcode scanner are included
- Keyboard, mouse, and thermal paper are supplied
Cons:- Main display resolution is 1024 × 768
- Fixed 18-pound unit takes more space than the Square Terminal
- Included software may offer less setup flexibility than a hardware-only Windows terminal
Best for: Small retail or restaurant operators who want a fixed register with included POS software, receipt printing, and barcode scanning.
Not ideal for: Mobile sellers, very tight counters, or businesses that want to select their own POS software and payment setup.
- Main display:15 inches, 1024 × 768
- Customer display:11.6 inches
- Processor:Intel Core i5
- Memory:8 GB RAM
- Storage:128 GB SSD
- Printer:Built-in 58 mm thermal receipt printer
- Included accessories:Barcode scanner, keyboard, mouse, 10 rolls of thermal paper
- Dimensions and weight:16.5 × 10 × 15 inches; 18 pounds
Our verdict“Choose this register if you value an included printer, scanner, customer display, and POS software more than portability or custom software choice.”
Square Terminal All-in-One Credit Card Machine
The Square Terminal is the clear choice here for a business that takes payments away from a fixed checkout counter. Its built-in battery, cordless operation, and receipt printer combine payment acceptance and receipt handling in a device weighing under a pound. That is a sharp contrast with the fixed Volcora terminals and the bundled touchscreen register, which are designed around a permanent counter. The Terminal accepts major credit and debit cards, and its listed chip-card processing time is about two seconds. It is less of a full POS workstation, though: the product details focus on payments and receipts rather than the inventory, customer, and reporting tools described for the touchscreen register. Square services may require a subscription, and processing rates are not specified here.
Pros:- Cordless operation with a built-in battery supports checkout away from a counter
- Payment acceptance and receipt printing are combined in one device
- Supports major credit and debit cards
- 24/7 fraud prevention and phone support are listed
Cons:- Not a full workstation like the Volcora terminals or touchscreen register
- Square business services may require a subscription
- Payment processing rates are not specified in the provided details
Best for: Food trucks, market vendors, mobile service providers, and small shops that need cordless card acceptance and printed receipts.
Not ideal for: Businesses that need a full-size touchscreen register, extensive local peripheral connections, or a stated processing-rate comparison before choosing a provider.
- Dimensions:5.6 × 3.4 × 2.5 inches
- Weight:14.7 ounces
- Battery:Included lithium-ion battery
- Operation:Cordless with built-in battery
- Supported payments:Major credit and debit cards
- Chip-card processing:About 2 seconds
- Receipt printing:Built-in
- Support:24/7 fraud prevention and phone support
Our verdict“Choose the Square Terminal for portable card payments and receipts, but pick a touchscreen register if you need a broader fixed-counter POS setup.”
POS System for 10-Inch Amazon Fire Tablets with Receipt Printer, Cash Drawer, and Stand
This bundle suits a small retailer or quick-serve counter that already prefers a 10-inch Amazon Fire tablet and wants the essential checkout hardware in one package. It includes a register base, thermal receipt printer, cash drawer, and stand, while the Datio POS app supplies the sales software. Unlike the Square Register (2nd Generation), it does not include an integrated dual-screen system, so you can build around a compatible tablet rather than a dedicated register. That flexibility comes with added setup steps: the tablet is sold separately, and the app requires a $64 monthly subscription. The no-long-term-contract policy and option to track cash sales with your own terminal may appeal to operators who value flexibility, but buyers should confirm the payment workflow and ongoing software cost before choosing it.
Pros:- Includes a register base, thermal receipt printer, cash drawer, and stand
- Designed for compatible 10-inch Amazon Fire tablets
- No long-term software contract; cancellation is available anytime
- Supports Datio payments or cash-only tracking with an existing terminal
Cons:- A compatible tablet must be purchased separately
- Datio POS software requires a $64 monthly subscription
- Payment processing depends on Datio payments or a separate terminal
Best for: Small retailers and quick-serve operators who already own or specifically want a compatible 10-inch Amazon Fire tablet and need a cash drawer and receipt printer.
Not ideal for: Businesses seeking a ready-to-use register with included tablet hardware or those unwilling to pay a recurring $64 software subscription.
- Tablet compatibility:10-inch Amazon Fire tablets
- Included hardware:Register base, thermal receipt printer, cash drawer, and stand
- Software:Datio POS app
- Software subscription:$64 per month
- Contract:No long-term contract; cancel anytime
- Payment setup:Datio payments via Worldpay or own terminal for cash-only tracking
- Tablet included:No
Our verdict“Choose this bundle if you want to build a counter setup around a compatible Fire tablet and accept the separate tablet and monthly software costs.”
Square Register (2nd Generation) Point-of-Sale System
For a small business that wants a dedicated countertop register rather than a tablet-based kit, the Square Register (2nd Generation) is the most balanced pick in this group. Its dual responsive touchscreens give staff a sales interface while letting customers view their side of checkout, and built-in software covers sales, inventory, and customer management. It also supports offline selling, which can help keep transactions moving during an internet outage. Compared with the Fire-tablet bundle, this is a more integrated setup; unlike the SmartPOS NX2, its listed features do not include a cash drawer, barcode scanner, or receipt printer, so check what your business needs to add. Its 12.5-pound, corded design is intended for a fixed counter, and the hardware is approved only for its intended country of sale.
Pros:- Dual touchscreens provide separate staff and customer views
- Built-in software supports sales, inventory, and customer management
- Can continue selling offline
- IP54-rated design resists spills and dust
Cons:- Hardware is approved only for its intended country of sale
- Corded power and 12.5-pound weight make it a fixed-counter choice
- The listed package does not specify included cash-drawer or printer hardware
Best for: Small retailers and service businesses that want a dedicated countertop system with staff and customer-facing displays, plus built-in sales and inventory tools.
Not ideal for: Businesses outside the hardware’s intended country of sale or operators who need a portable register or a bundle listing a cash drawer, scanner, and printers.
- Brand:Square
- Model number:A-SKU-0908
- Displays:Dual responsive touchscreens
- Weight:12.5 pounds
- Power:Corded electric
- Connectivity:Bluetooth, USB, and Wi-Fi
- Offline selling:Supported
- Software capabilities:Sales, inventory, and customer management
Our verdict“Pick the Square Register if you want a polished, dual-screen countertop system and its country restrictions and hardware bundle fit your business.”
SmartPOS NX2 All-in-One POS System for Small Business
The SmartPOS NX2 is a strong fit for a small retailer that wants a broad hardware package without committing to one listed card processor. Its 15.6-inch cashier touchscreen is paired with a customer-facing display, cash drawer, wireless barcode scanner, and thermal receipt printer, so it arrives better equipped for product checkout than the Square Register (2nd Generation), whose listing emphasizes the register and software rather than those peripherals. Support for more than 50 card processor integrations gives an established business room to match the system to its payment setup. The free Retail360 app adds mobile inventory and price adjustments, which can help staff handle routine product updates away from the till. The tradeoff is physical scale: at 47.4 pounds, this is a substantial installation, not a compact counter or portable POS.
Pros:- Includes cashier and customer-facing displays, cash drawer, wireless scanner, and receipt printer
- Integrates with more than 50 card processors
- Free Retail360 app supports inventory, product scanning, and price adjustments
- No forced subscriptions or hidden fees, according to the product description
Cons:- The 47.4-pound system is bulky to install and relocate
- Requires a lithium-ion battery
- The large package dimensions may not suit compact checkout counters
Best for: Independent retailers with barcode-based inventory who want a bundled checkout station and flexibility to choose among many card processors.
Not ideal for: Mobile sellers, small counters, or businesses that need a lightweight system they can relocate frequently.
- Model:SmartPOS NX2 POS Bundle
- Cashier display:15.6-inch touchscreen
- Included components:Customer-facing display, cash drawer, wireless barcode scanner, and thermal receipt printer
- Card processor integrations:Over 50
- Mobile app:Free Retail360 app for inventory management, product scanning, and price adjustments
- Package dimensions:25 x 21.5 x 14.5 inches
- Weight:47.4 pounds
- Battery:Requires one lithium-ion battery
- Manufacturer:Petrosoft
Our verdict“Choose the NX2 if processor flexibility and a complete retail checkout bundle matter more than a compact, easy-to-move footprint.”
Touchscreen POS System for Restaurants and Bars with Software and Kitchen Order Printers
This package is the clearest restaurant-focused option here: it pairs a 17-inch touchscreen and built-in POS software with a cash drawer, receipt printer, and dedicated kitchen order printer. Support for quick-service, bar, and table tabs gives it a broader service fit than the SmartPOS NX2, which is configured around retail inventory and barcode scanning. Cable or Wi-Fi connectivity offers some choice in how the station joins the network, and the included setup support and ongoing phone help may suit owners who want assistance getting a restaurant system running. The compromises are its 37.7-pound, 18 x 17 x 17-inch package and Linux-based controller. A restaurant with existing software or peripherals should check compatibility before purchase, since Linux may not fit every established setup.
Pros:- Includes touchscreen, controller, cash drawer, receipt printer, and kitchen order printer
- Supports quick-service, bar, and table tabs
- Offers cable or Wi-Fi connectivity
- Includes 30 days of premium setup support and an ongoing help line
Cons:- The 37.7-pound package is bulky and not suited to frequent relocation
- Linux may require compatibility checks with existing software and equipment
- The listed package dimensions call for substantial counter or installation space
Best for: Small restaurants, bars, and quick-service operators that need table or bar tabs and a dedicated printer for kitchen orders.
Not ideal for: Retailers focused on barcode inventory, businesses with strict compatibility needs, or operators who need a lightweight, portable terminal.
- Display:17-inch touchscreen
- Operating system:Linux
- Included components:PC controller, built-in POS software, cash drawer, receipt printer, and kitchen order printer
- Supported workflows:Quick-service, bar, and table tabs
- Connectivity:Cable or Wi-Fi
- Package dimensions:18 x 17 x 17 inches
- Weight:37.7 pounds
- Setup support:30 days of premium support and remote assistance
- Ongoing support:Phone help line
Our verdict“Choose this system if kitchen ticket printing and restaurant-style tabs are central to your workflow and Linux compatibility checks out.”
How We Picked
I ranked these point of sale systems for small business by how well their stated hardware and setup match common checkout needs: taking payments, handling receipts, supporting cash or barcode workflows, and fitting limited counter space. I also looked at whether each option presents itself as an integrated system, a bundled kit, or hardware that depends on separately selected software. Those differences affect setup effort and the likelihood of compatibility questions before purchase.
The ranking favors options with a clearly defined small-business role and a more complete path to checkout, then places specialized or hardware-dependent systems according to the buyer they serve. A larger screen or more accessories did not automatically move a product higher: the benefit needs to match the business workflow. Product listings do not establish every detail of payment processing, software fees, included components, or regional support, so I treat those as verification points rather than assumed strengths.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Point Of Sale Systems For Small Business
Before choosing a register, I would map the daily checkout routine and the equipment already on hand. The right system is the one that fits the way you sell, not simply the one with the biggest screen or the longest accessory list.
Match the POS to Your Sales Workflow
Start by listing the steps in a typical sale: scanning items, entering modifiers, splitting payments, applying discounts, and sending orders to staff. A retail counter may depend on barcode scanning and a cash drawer, while a café may need quick item entry and kitchen routing. Buying for a workflow you might adopt later can add hardware and setup you do not need now. Ask whether the POS software supports the specific tasks you perform, rather than assuming a touchscreen register does. If you sell both in person and online, check whether inventory and sales data can sync across channels. The best fit reduces repeated entry and workarounds during busy periods.
Check What Is Included—and What Is Not
Product names that say “system” or “all-in-one” do not always mean the same set of components. Confirm whether the tablet or terminal, receipt printer, cash drawer, barcode scanner, and cables are included, and whether they work together out of the box. A hardware-only terminal, such as the Volcora options in this roundup, may give you more software choice but also puts compatibility research on you. Bundled kits can simplify purchasing, yet a bundle is less useful if it lacks a peripheral your operation relies on. Check the exact model and listing contents before ordering, especially when several generations or configurations share a product name.
Understand Payments, Software, and Ongoing Costs
The register is only one part of the cost of running a POS. Verify payment processing availability, transaction terms, software subscriptions, and any charges tied to extra locations or features directly with the provider. A system that appears inexpensive to set up may require separate software or payment services, while a more integrated option may limit your choice of providers. Ask how refunds, offline sales, tips, and end-of-day reconciliation work, since these can affect both labor and cash flow. Do not compare systems using hardware alone; compare the costs and capabilities of the complete checkout arrangement. Get current terms in writing before committing.
Choose Screen Size and Station Layout for the Space
A large touchscreen can make menus easier to read and reduce input errors, but it occupies more counter space and may be awkward for a narrow stall or mobile setup. Compact choices such as Square Terminal and Square Register are designed for a different footprint than 15-inch or dual-screen terminals. Measure the usable counter area, including room for customers to pay and staff to handle bags or orders. For shared checkout, a customer-facing display can clarify totals and payment steps, but only if the layout places it at a useful angle. Think about cable routing, power outlets, and how the station will be cleaned as well as screen size.
Plan for Growth, Reliability, and Support
Choose for the next stage of the business without paying for capacity that will sit unused. If you expect to add staff, locations, or product lines, check user permissions, reporting, inventory tools, and the process for adding another register. A locally dependent setup may need a backup plan for internet or power interruptions; ask what continues to work during an outage and how transactions sync afterward. Confirm warranty coverage, technical support hours, and replacement options before a busy season, not after equipment fails. A simple single-counter shop may favor ease of operation, while a growing team may value administration and support more. Reliability depends on the full system—including software, network, peripherals, and service—not just the terminal.
Separate Retail, Table Service, and Mobile Needs
POS systems can look similar while supporting very different service patterns. Retail sellers should check barcode and inventory workflows; restaurants should verify modifiers, table management, tips, and kitchen ticket routing. The dedicated restaurant and bar system in this roundup includes kitchen order printers, a feature that addresses a different need from a general checkout register. Mobile sellers may prefer a compact terminal or tablet kit, but should check battery life, connectivity, and payment options for use away from a counter. Avoid choosing a restaurant setup just because it has more hardware, or a retail setup because it has a larger display. Buy around the way orders move through your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose Square Register or Square Terminal for a small shop?
I would choose between them based on the checkout station, not just the brand. Square Register is the better starting point for a fixed counter where a dedicated register is central to daily sales. Square Terminal is more compact and may fit a small counter or mobile checkout better. Check the exact included components and current software and payment terms for the model you plan to buy. If you need barcode scanning or a cash drawer, confirm compatibility and whether those accessories are included.
Can I use a POS terminal listed as hardware-only without buying its own software?
Possibly, but only if the terminal supports the POS software you plan to run. Before purchasing, check the operating system, processor requirements, connection ports, and the software provider’s supported-device list. Also confirm how the system will handle payment processing, receipt printing, and peripherals; a working screen does not guarantee a complete checkout setup. Hardware-only options can suit buyers who already have a software plan or want control over vendor selection. They can create extra setup work if you are starting from scratch.
Is a tablet-based POS kit a good choice if I already own a tablet?
It can be, if the kit supports your tablet’s exact model and operating system and the POS app meets your needs. Confirm whether the advertised package includes a tablet or only a stand and peripherals, since listings can vary. Check how the printer, drawer, and scanner connect, and whether those devices work with the app you intend to use. A tablet you already own may keep equipment simple, but it also becomes part of the checkout system and may need to remain available for business. Plan for a backup device or a way to keep selling if the tablet needs repair.
What should a restaurant check before buying a POS with kitchen printers?
Confirm that the software can route orders to the right printer by station, such as bar, grill, or prep area. Check support for modifiers, course timing, voids, and order updates, since printer hardware alone does not provide those workflows. Ask how kitchen tickets behave if the network goes down and whether the system records a clear status for each order. Make sure the printers, paper, and connection method suit the kitchen environment and placement. A restaurant-specific setup can be a better fit than a general register, but only when its software matches the service model.
How can I tell whether a bundled POS system will be cheaper to run?
Compare the full operating setup rather than the bundle label. Add the costs of software, payment processing, accessories, support, and any extra registers or locations you expect to use. A bundle may save time and reduce compatibility risk, while a hardware-only system may offer flexibility but require separate purchases and configuration. Ask providers for current written terms and identify which features require an ongoing plan. The lower initial equipment cost is not a reliable guide to the total cost of operating the POS.
Conclusion
For most small businesses seeking a defined countertop setup, Square Register is my best overall recommendation; compare it with Square Register (2nd Generation) by checking the exact model and included equipment. For a compact counter or mobile checkout, I would shortlist Square Terminal. Buyers prioritizing a bundled register setup can compare Clover Mini with the all-in-one kits, while a shopper seeking flexibility and already prepared to choose software may prefer a Volcora hardware-only terminal. For a beginner, I would favor a clearly packaged system with compatible peripherals and straightforward setup over a bare terminal. Restaurants and bars should look first at the dedicated system with kitchen order printers; its focused workflow is a better match than a general retail register. My final check would be software compatibility, payment terms, and what is actually included in the specific listing.
