Point-of-sale (POS) systems are critical for businesses looking to streamline operations, improve customer service, and manage inventory. Here's a rundown of notable brands and their standout features:
Point of Sale (POS) systems streamline sales, track inventory, and improve customer management across industries like retail, restaurants, salons, and healthcare. Here's an overview of essential features, types of systems, and audience-specific solutions.
Top POS Brands
- POS Nation
- Focus: Customizable systems tailored to industries like retail and restaurants.
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Strength: Adaptability to specific business needs.
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Harbortouch
- Focus: Electronic cash registers and credit card processing terminals.
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Strength: Award-winning service and reliability.
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Upserve
- Focus: Restaurant management and operations.
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Strength: Offers control over employees, guests, and operations via smartphones, tablets, or computers.
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AccuPOS
- Focus: Accounting system integration.
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Strength: Works seamlessly with major software like QuickBooks and Sage, ensuring time and cost efficiency.
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SunrisePOS
- Focus: Versatile POS systems for desktops, iPads, and tablets.
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Strength: Online ordering options for modern businesses.
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POS World
- Focus: Hardware solutions including barcode readers and touchscreens.
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Strength: Affordable pricing with free U.S. shipping.
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Gotmerchant
- Focus: Credit card processing services.
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Strength: Integrates easily with accounting software like QuickBooks.
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POS Guys
- Focus: Retail, restaurant, salon, and mobile POS solutions.
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Strength: Financing options available for approved customers.
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TouchSuite
- Focus: Payment processing and accounting integration.
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Strength: 24/7 customer support.
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BarcodesInc
- Focus: Barcode scanners, inventory software, and label printing.
- Strength: Partners with top brands like Motorola and Honeywell.
Features to Consider When Buying a POS System
- Inventory Management
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Real-time tracking and integration with e-commerce.
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Reporting Tools
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Generate sales reports and analyze trends easily.
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Customization
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Tailor solutions for appointments, shipping, or industry-specific needs.
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Ease of Use
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Simple setup, intuitive operation, and fast employee training.
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Integration
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Sync with accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks) and customer management tools.
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Mobility
- Options for on-the-go sales with tablets or mobile apps.
Who Benefits from These POS Systems?
- Retailers: Simplify checkout, manage inventory, and track sales trends.
- Restaurants: Handle reservations, split checks, and monitor peak hours.
- Salons/Spas: Manage appointments, pricing, and employee commissions.
- Healthcare Providers: Track patient payments, insurance claims, and co-pays.
Final Considerations
When selecting a POS system, evaluate:
- Scalability: Can it grow with your business?
- Customer Support: 24/7 availability is a major plus.
- Pricing: Consider both upfront costs and subscription fees.
Use this guide to narrow down your options and select the perfect POS system to meet your business needs in 2017 and beyond!
Next: Read 2500+ consumer guides to shopping, electronics, appliances, home services, cars, money and more.
Top POS System Providers
- POS Nation
- Features: Customizable solutions for retail and restaurant industries, 24/7 tech support, three-year warranty.
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Best For: Small businesses needing tailored setups.
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Upserve
- Features: Designed for restaurants, supports menu management, sales tracking, and staff management.
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Best For: Restaurants of all types.
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Harbortouch
- Features: Offers electronic registers, credit card processing terminals, and free hardware programs.
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Best For: Businesses seeking affordable payment processing and POS equipment.
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AccuPOS
- Features: Integrates with QuickBooks and Sage accounting software, streamlining financial management.
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Best For: Businesses needing strong accounting integration.
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SunrisePOS
- Features: Includes hardware, software, installation services, and training.
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Best For: Businesses needing comprehensive setup and support.
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BarcodesInc
- Features: Provides barcode scanners, inventory software, and label printing.
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Best For: Businesses with a focus on inventory and labeling.
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Gotmerchant
- Features: Offers bundled POS and credit card processing solutions with a free 30-day trial.
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Best For: Small businesses wanting a low-cost entry into POS.
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TouchSuite
- Features: Designed for salons and spas, offers payroll, marketing, and document management tools.
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Best For: Service-based businesses.
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Kounta
- Features: Cloud-based, supports offline operation, e-commerce integration, and scalable solutions.
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Best For: Small to mid-sized businesses.
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PDQ POS (Signature Systems)
- Features: POS for restaurants, online ordering, loyalty programs, and e-wallets.
- Best For: Restaurants and dining establishments.
Key Features to Look For in POS Systems
- Inventory Tracking
- Tracks stock in real-time, integrates with e-commerce for instant updates.
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Supports end-of-day reconciliations.
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Data Collection and Reporting
- Collects customer demographics, busy times, and sales trends.
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Generates detailed reports to monitor sales, cash flow, and promotions.
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User Friendliness
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Simple training, easy inventory management, and intuitive administrative controls.
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Customization
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Appointment booking, gratuity management, and shipping charge options for tailored needs.
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Mobility
- Mobile POS for expos, in-store roaming checkouts, and line-busting solutions.
Types of POS Systems
- Cash Registers: Basic systems for small, straightforward operations.
- Desktop POS: Comprehensive systems with terminals, scanners, and receipt printers.
- Mobile POS: Compact, tablet-based systems for on-the-go businesses.
- Cloud-Based POS: Software-centric systems offering flexibility and remote access.
- Custom-Built POS: Tailored for niche businesses needing specific features like weight scales or tax calculators.
Businesses That Benefit from POS Systems
- Retail Stores: Track sales, minimize errors, and handle large customer volumes efficiently.
- Restaurants: Manage reservations, split checks, and improve customer service.
- Salons & Spas: Handle appointments, pricing, and stylist commissions with ease.
- Health Services: Manage appointments, billing, and insurance reimbursements.
FAQs on POS Systems
- How much does a POS system cost?
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Range: $1,000 - $7,000. Costs include hardware, software, and monthly service fees.
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What's the difference between POS and EPOS?
- POS: Standard cash register system.
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EPOS: Electronic and digital systems offering advanced functionality.
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What to consider when buying a POS system?
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Business size, product catalog, number of locations, integration needs, and mobility.
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What are the benefits of POS systems?
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Improved efficiency, accuracy, inventory management, and streamlined accounting.
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How do you set up a POS system?
- Follow setup instructions for software and hardware, customize buttons for merchandise, and test for quick customer interactions.
A POS system is essential for modern businesses to streamline operations, track data, and enhance customer experiences.
Next: Read 2500+ consumer guides to shopping, electronics, appliances, home services, cars, money and more.
