Restaurant POS Systems by Type
Find the right POS system for your restaurant by browsing our curated categories: SaaS POS, Non-SaaS POS, and Free POS solutions.
Choose the Right POS Type for Your Restaurant
Restaurant POS systems come in different types, each with their own advantages. Explore our categories below to find the best fit for your business needs and budget.
SaaS POS Systems
Cloud-based POS solutions with subscription pricing model, regular updates, and minimal hardware requirements. Ideal for restaurants wanting the latest features with low upfront costs.
Toast POS
A cloud-based restaurant management platform built specifically for the restaurant industry.
Starting at $69/mo
Best For:
- Full-service restaurants
- Restaurants with multiple locations
Lightspeed Restaurant
A cloud-based POS and restaurant management system with powerful analytics and inventory tools.
Starting at $59/mo
Best For:
- Full-service restaurants
- Fine dining establishments
TouchBistro
An iPad-based POS system designed specifically for restaurants with intuitive interface and flexible pricing.
Starting at $69/mo
Best For:
- Independent restaurants
- Cafes and coffee shops
Lavu POS
An iPad-based restaurant management system with flexible features for various food service businesses.
Starting at $59/mo
Best For:
- Quick-service restaurants
- Pizzerias
Traditional (Non-SaaS) POS Systems
On-premise POS systems with one-time license fees and full control over your data and hardware. Best for restaurants with reliable internet connections and those prioritizing data control.
Clover POS
An all-in-one POS solution offering hardware and software with customizable features via apps.
Starting at $39.95/mo
Best For:
- Quick-service restaurants
- Cafes and bakeries
NCR Aloha
A leading on-premise POS system with reliable performance and comprehensive restaurant management tools.
Starting at Custom
Best For:
- Large restaurant chains
- Full-service restaurants
Free POS Systems
Cost-effective POS solutions with free software options, suitable for businesses with tight budgets or those just getting started. Great for small cafes, food trucks, and pop-up restaurants.
Square POS
A versatile POS system with easy payment processing, suitable for businesses of all sizes.
Starting at $0/mo
Best For:
- Small restaurants and cafes
- Food trucks
Talech
A budget-friendly cloud-based POS system with strong inventory management and reporting features.
Starting at $0/mo
Best For:
- Small restaurants
- Quick-service establishments
How to Choose Between POS Types
Deciding between SaaS, traditional, or free POS systems depends on several factors specific to your restaurant:
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Budget Constraints
SaaS: Monthly fees, low upfront cost. Traditional: High upfront cost, low recurring fees. Free: $0 monthly fee with transaction-based pricing.
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Internet Reliability
SaaS requires reliable internet. Traditional works offline. Free options vary.
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Data Control Needs
SaaS: Data in the cloud. Traditional: Full data control. Free: Often limited data ownership.
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Growth Plans
Consider scalability - SaaS often scales easier, Traditional may require hardware upgrades, Free may need replacement as you grow.
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