US BUYER’S GUIDE · 5 PRODUCTS

Point of Sale

Does the system fit your checkout, inventory and location workflow at the full operating cost?

Compare US point-of-sale systems for retail, hospitality and service businesses, including hardware, inventory and connected sales.

Research desk · Oct 20, 2026 · Methodology

YOUR SHORTLIST STARTS HERE

Compare the options.

Sort by

Highest documented score first. Fit adds up the 28 feature checks below, including AI, across documented plans. Entry price does not include every capability. Unknown evidence appears as a range.

Product / good fit for	Pricing context	Documented fit	Next step
Square Small operators connecting checkout and everyday business workflows.	$0.00location/monthFree	74–100/100 documented fit 74% evidence coverage	Full research →
Shopify Merchants seeking a shared catalog across online and retail channels.	$29.00store/month · billed annuallyBasic	73–100/100 documented fit 73% evidence coverage	Full research →
Toast Hospitality operators evaluating a connected front- and back-of-house system.	Custom quoteconfigured location packageConfigured Toast	64–100/100 documented fit 64% evidence coverage	Full research →
Lightspeed Retail Inventory-focused retailers comparing multi-location operations.	Custom quoteconfigured retail packageBasic / Core / Plus	59–100/100 documented fit 59% evidence coverage	Full research →
Clover Local businesses evaluating a supported hardware package.	Custom quoteconfigured hardware and software packageConfigured Clover	51–100/100 documented fit 51% evidence coverage	Full research →

BEYOND A FEATURE CHECKMARK

How deep does the capability go?

Choose up to 3 for a closer look →

28 weighted checks: core capabilities contribute 32 points and workflow depth contributes 68. AI is included at the weight shown for this category. Expand Evidence for scope and sources, or ask for the same demonstration from each supplier.

Show checksShowing fewer rows does not change the score.

Point of Sale features for all 5 products
Feature / base weight	Square 74–100/100 documented fit Core capabilities32 / 32 pts10/10 checks with established status Workflow depth41.9–68 / 68 pts10/18 checks with established status	Shopify 73–100/100 documented fit Core capabilities29.6–32 / 32 pts9/10 checks with established status Workflow depth43.2–68 / 68 pts9/18 checks with established status	Toast 64–100/100 documented fit Core capabilities32 / 32 pts10/10 checks with established status Workflow depth32–68 / 68 pts6/18 checks with established status	Lightspeed Retail 59–100/100 documented fit Core capabilities32 / 32 pts10/10 checks with established status Workflow depth27.2–68 / 68 pts6/18 checks with established status	Clover 51–100/100 documented fit Core capabilities24–32 / 32 pts7/10 checks with established status Workflow depth27.2–68 / 68 pts5/18 checks with established status
Core capabilityIn-person checkout4.8 points · Create an in-person sale and accept a connected payment.	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Square POS provides checkout and integrated payment acceptance. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Shopify POS connects in-person checkout to the commerce platform. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Toast provides restaurant checkout and payment hardware. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Retail checkout and integrated payment acceptance are documented. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Clover supplies POS hardware and sale-processing software. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Core capabilityRefunds & returns4.8 points · Process refunds or returned sales through the supported POS workflow.	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Square documents customer refunds and their effect on transfer activity. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence The Shopify POS app supports processing customer returns and refunds. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Refunds can be issued in Toast POS or Toast Web by an authorized employee. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Retail POS documents full and partial refunds and exchanges. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Clover documents full or partial refunds tied to a POS order or payment. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkPartial sale refunds7.2 points · Refund selected items or an amount below the original sale total. Ask for a demonstration Refund one item and show the updated sale and refundable balance. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported7.2 / 7.2 pts Evidence Selected items or custom amounts can be refunded from an existing sale. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported7.2 / 7.2 pts Evidence POS supports selected-item or custom-amount refunds against the original sale. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported7.2 / 7.2 pts Evidence Partial refunds are supported; an additional refund on the same card payment is restricted. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported7.2 / 7.2 pts Evidence Retail POS documents partial refunds and exchanges. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported7.2 / 7.2 pts Evidence The refund API supports partial amounts against an existing payment. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkOffline sale recovery7.2 points · Capture a sale or eligible payment offline and synchronize it after connectivity returns. Ask for a demonstration Disconnect a terminal, record an eligible sale, then show synchronization. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported7.2 / 7.2 pts Evidence Eligible offline payments synchronize when connectivity returns; authorization may subsequently fail. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported7.2 / 7.2 pts Evidence Eligible offline checkout records synchronize after reconnection; payment limitations apply. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported7.2 / 7.2 pts Evidence Offline card payments are stored and submitted after reconnection; authorization is deferred. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–7.2 / 7.2 pts Evidence The reviewed documentation does not establish this specific workflow: offline sale recovery. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported7.2 / 7.2 pts Evidence Clover devices record eligible payments offline and report their offline status. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Core capabilityProduct or menu catalog3.2 points · Manage sellable items, variants, categories or menu modifiers.	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Catalog and item-management tools are documented. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Online and physical selling share a product catalog. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Restaurant menu-management capability is documented. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence The retail inventory catalog includes product management. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Manage items, categories and modifiers, including bulk edits. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Core capabilityStock or menu availability3.2 points · Track retail stock or control the availability of restaurant menu items.	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence The POS product documents inventory management. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence The platform documents shared inventory. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Inventory and menu availability scope depends on selected modules. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Inventory and purchasing functions are documented. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence The catalog includes online availability controls for items. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkLow-stock or availability alerts4.8 points · Surface a low-stock threshold or item-availability warning to staff. Ask for a demonstration Reach an item threshold and show the alert or availability warning. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Not verified0–4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence The reviewed documentation does not establish this specific workflow: low-stock or availability alerts. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence POS shows stock availability; inventory alert apps add direct low-stock notifications. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence The 86 report displays out-of-stock items and quantities below a configured threshold. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence The reviewed documentation does not establish this specific workflow: low-stock or availability alerts. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Item availability supports stock counts and low-stock alerts. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkStock adjustment history4.8 points · Inspect recorded inventory adjustments or stock movements for an item. Ask for a demonstration Adjust an item quantity and locate the resulting movement record. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Inventory History records adjustment types including receipt, deduction and recount. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Inventory adjustments retain a product and variant history. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence The reviewed documentation does not establish this specific workflow: stock adjustment history. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Item history exposes stock movement records; rollout availability varies by account. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence The reviewed documentation does not establish this specific workflow: stock adjustment history. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source
Core capabilityStaff access controls3.2 points · Give staff or managers defined access to POS operations.	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Staff-control scope depends on the selected bundle. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Advanced staff permissions require POS Pro. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Manager permissions separately control finding checks and refunding payments. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence X-Series provides configurable roles controlling sales, returns, register operations and data access. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Staff role and permission details need feature-specific evidence. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source
Core capabilityMultiple-location oversight3.2 points · Operate or report on more than one business location.	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Advanced location controls depend on the selected bundle. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence POS Pro is priced separately per location for advanced retail controls. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence The pricing catalog offers multi-location management. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Location scope depends on the purchased configuration. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence The pricing offer explicitly supports expansion to multiple locations. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkManager authorization for sensitive actions4.8 points · Require manager permission or an approval step for sensitive POS actions such as refunds. Ask for a demonstration Attempt a restricted refund as a cashier and demonstrate manager authorization. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Refund actions require the relevant owner or team-member permissions. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence POS permissions can require manager approval for returns and sensitive actions. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Refunds require the relevant manager permission. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Roles control returns, register operations and other sensitive sales actions. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Void and refund operations are restricted to authorized staff. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkConsolidated location reporting4.8 points · Compare or aggregate sales across multiple business locations. Ask for a demonstration Show combined sales and drill into a specific location. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Not verified0–4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence The reviewed documentation does not establish this specific workflow: consolidated location reporting. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence The reviewed documentation does not establish this specific workflow: consolidated location reporting. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Enterprise reports aggregate locations; some cash and card reports remain single-location. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence The reviewed documentation does not establish this specific workflow: consolidated location reporting. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence The reviewed documentation does not establish this specific workflow: consolidated location reporting. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source
Core capabilityOnline selling or ordering2.4 points · Accept orders through a connected online store or ordering channel.	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Online sales are connected with in-person selling. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence The platform includes the online storefront channel. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Online ordering and delivery connections are documented. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Connected ecommerce options are documented. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Clover Online Store provides an online selling channel. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Core capabilityConnected catalog or order data2.4 points · Share catalog, stock or orders between the POS and an online channel.	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence The POS supports connected online and physical channels. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Shared catalog and stock connect online and in-person sales. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Online ordering is connected to the restaurant platform. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence The connected eCom workflow synchronizes returned orders with Retail POS. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Connecting an existing webstore can require the SKU IQ add-on. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkOnline pickup fulfillment3.2 points · Handle an online order through a pickup preparation and completion workflow. Ask for a demonstration Place an online pickup order and move it through preparation and collection. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Order Manager supports online order preparation, cancellation and fulfillment management. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence POS roles include preparing and completing pickup orders. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence The reviewed documentation does not establish this specific workflow: online pickup fulfillment. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Connected eCom orders support store pickup fulfillment. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Online Ordering connects pickup orders to the Clover inventory and POS workflow. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkReturn an online sale in store4 points · Process a return or refund of a connected online order from the store workflow. Ask for a demonstration Find an online order at the POS and return one item. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence Order Manager can refund connected online orders from the supported order workflow. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence The POS returns workflow can refund connected orders, subject to return permissions. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–4 / 4 pts Evidence The reviewed documentation does not establish this specific workflow: return an online sale in store. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence X-Series can refund a connected Lightspeed eCom sale. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–4 / 4 pts Evidence The reviewed documentation does not establish this specific workflow: return an online sale in store. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source
Core capabilityAI questions about business results2.4 points · Ask AI questions using sales, stock or operating data.	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Square AI answers questions from merchant business data; the product is labeled beta. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Sidekick uses store context for business assistance. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Toast IQ answers performance questions using platform data. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Lightspeed AI answers sales and inventory questions. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence A specific AI interface for business-data questions was not verified. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source
Core capabilityAI operational recommendations2.4 points · Receive documented AI suggestions for reports, stock or other store operations.	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Square AI provides business and neighborhood insights supporting operating decisions; beta labeling applies. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence The reviewed Sidekick record does not specify a concrete POS operational recommendation. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Toast IQ documents operational suggestions and supported actions. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Lightspeed AI suggests reports and surfaces stock insights. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence AI operational recommendations were not verified; optional app claims are insufficient. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkAI grounded in operating records3.2 points · AI uses the merchant actual sales, stock or business records in its response. Ask for a demonstration Ask AI a stock or sales question and show the business data used. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Square AI analyzes actual merchant business data and refreshes saved data charts; beta labeling applies. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Sidekick analyzes actual store sales, customers, stock and order data. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Toast IQ checks the current location stock and menu-item quantities. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Lightspeed AI uses store inventory and sales context for retail analysis. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence The reviewed Clover documentation does not establish an AI store-data answer workflow. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkHuman control over POS AI4 points · Review proposed AI changes or control assistant access before operational changes take effect. Ask for a demonstration Show an AI suggestion and where staff approve it or disable access. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Not verified0–4 / 4 pts Evidence The reviewed documentation does not establish this specific workflow: human control over pos ai. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence Proposed order changes are applied only after staff review and click Update order. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–4 / 4 pts Evidence IQ stock actions are documented; a pre-commit approval or disable control was not established. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–4 / 4 pts Evidence The reviewed documentation does not establish this specific workflow: human control over pos ai. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–4 / 4 pts Evidence A documented operational AI approval or access-control workflow was not established. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkRevert a promotion created with AI2.5 points · Demonstrate “Revert a promotion created with AI” with a sample record; show the result, permissions and required plan. Ask for a demonstration Demonstrate “Revert a promotion created with AI” with a sample record; show the result, permissions and required plan. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source
Depth checkPark and resume an unpaid basket on another device2.5 points · Demonstrate “Park and resume an unpaid basket on another device” with a sample record; show the result, permissions and required plan. Ask for a demonstration Demonstrate “Park and resume an unpaid basket on another device” with a sample record; show the result, permissions and required plan. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence Open Tickets saves an unpaid order so it can be edited and resumed on signed-in devices. US documentation; Open Tickets add-on; compatible Square POS hardware/apps; invoice limitations apply. Official documentation · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source
Depth checkApply quantity-based price breaks at checkout2.5 points · Demonstrate “Apply quantity-based price breaks at checkout” with a sample record; show the result, permissions and required plan. Ask for a demonstration Demonstrate “Apply quantity-based price breaks at checkout” with a sample record; show the result, permissions and required plan. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source
Depth checkDeduct container tare when selling by weight2.5 points · Demonstrate “Deduct container tare when selling by weight” with a sample record; show the result, permissions and required plan. Ask for a demonstration Demonstrate “Deduct container tare when selling by weight” with a sample record; show the result, permissions and required plan. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source
Depth checkRoute items to separate preparation stations2.5 points · Demonstrate “Route items to separate preparation stations” with a sample record; show the result, permissions and required plan. Ask for a demonstration Demonstrate “Route items to separate preparation stations” with a sample record; show the result, permissions and required plan. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source
Depth checkAllocate tips by employee hours or role2.5 points · Demonstrate “Allocate tips by employee hours or role” with a sample record; show the result, permissions and required plan. Ask for a demonstration Demonstrate “Allocate tips by employee hours or role” with a sample record; show the result, permissions and required plan. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence Eligible plans distribute tips using recipient, transaction, hours-worked or job-percentage rules. US; Shifts Plus or eligible Premium subscriptions; tip-distribution permissions and configuration required. Official documentation · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source
Depth checkInspect a gift card's balance and redemption history2.5 points · Demonstrate “Inspect a gift card's balance and redemption history” with a sample record; show the result, permissions and required plan. Ask for a demonstration Demonstrate “Inspect a gift card's balance and redemption history” with a sample record; show the result, permissions and required plan. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source
Depth checkRecord reasons for complimentary or voided items2.5 points · Demonstrate “Record reasons for complimentary or voided items” with a sample record; show the result, permissions and required plan. Ask for a demonstration Demonstrate “Record reasons for complimentary or voided items” with a sample record; show the result, permissions and required plan. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence Configured reasons can accompany complimentary items and voided tickets and remain in reporting. US documentation; configure comp/void permissions and reasons in supported Square POS products. Official documentation · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source

WHAT WE MEASURE

The criteria behind the score.

The established 20 checks contribute 80 points. Eight new operational checks contribute 20 points. AI checks are included in their own group and are excluded when AI priority is set to zero. These assess documented capability scope, not measured performance. Adjust group priorities in the comparison tool.

See the complete calculation →

Checkout & payment workflow 24%
Fast, understandable sales and refund workflows are the operational foundation.
Inventory or menu management 16%
Stock, modifiers and catalog handling must match the business type.
Staff & location controls 16%
Permissions and multi-location oversight become important as teams grow.
Online & connected sales 12%
Connected orders reduce duplicate catalogs and reconciliation work.
AI insights & assistance 14.5%
Assess documented business-data assistance, not an unrelated marketing claim.
Operational detail 17.5%
Specific workflow, integration and control checks beyond the established rubric.

THE PRACTICAL BUYER’S GUIDE

How to choose point of sale.

Point of sale is where software, payment processing, hardware and staff behavior meet. A boutique, a restaurant and a service business all accept payments, but their day-to-day requirements differ substantially. Start by naming the sales workflow and the failure modes you must handle. A low software price can hide hardware, processing, location or add-on costs. Compare the complete setup: terminals, printers, scanners, subscriptions, payment terms and online channels. AI reporting may help an owner spot a pattern, but it cannot compensate for a checkout flow that staff struggle to use during a busy period.

Test your busiest workflow on the proposed hardware

Bring a cashier or shift manager to the demo. Run a purchase with a discount, split tender, return and missing barcode or modifier. For hospitality, include the exact ordering and fulfillment sequence you use rather than evaluating a retail checkout screen. Ask what works during an internet interruption and what must wait until reconnection. Request a written hardware list with installation, replacement and warranty assumptions. The system should make ordinary mistakes recoverable by the right staff member, without giving every employee unrestricted access to refunds or sensitive reports.

Compare the full location economics

Use a consistent number of locations, registers, staff accounts and online orders for every quote. Add payment processing, loyalty, messaging, delivery integrations and any required hardware financing. Confirm whether a promoted software price assumes use of the vendor's processing service or a longer commitment. Estimate the cost of adding a second location before choosing the first. If a reseller supplies the package, identify who owns the contract and support relationship. A single brand can be sold through different commercial arrangements, so a website headline is not a substitute for the actual offer.

Keep the catalog and reporting connected

Demonstrate how an item, variant, price change and return move between store and online channels. Test whether stock is reserved consistently and how a transfer between locations is recorded. Ask the finance team to reconcile a day's sales with the deposit and fee report. For AI insights, use a concrete question about stock or sales and inspect the underlying date range and records. A useful assistant must respect what the user is allowed to see. Treat vendor growth or revenue claims as examples, and measure whether the tools reduce your own reporting and ordering effort.

What changes the total cost?

Software per location or register, staff access and specialist modules.
Hardware, installation, financing, support and replacement devices.
Processing rates, online orders, loyalty, messaging and third-party integrations.

Where purchases go wrong

Evaluating restaurant and retail systems as interchangeable because both take cards.
Ignoring hardware and processor commitments when comparing software subscriptions.
Assuming that online and store inventory synchronize without testing returns and transfers.

Bring these questions to the demo

Can a staff member complete our busiest sale and correct a mistake?
What remains usable offline, and what happens when connectivity returns?
Which contract covers hardware, payment processing and support?
Can we trace an AI insight to the actual items, dates and sales records?

Questions buyers ask

Is free POS software really free to operate?

A no-subscription plan can still charge for payment processing, hardware and optional services. Compare the complete operating cost for your transaction volume and locations. Free can be a good starting point when its workflow fits, but it is not a complete cost statement.

Do we need a retail-specific or restaurant-specific product?

Choose according to workflow. Retail often emphasizes variants, purchasing and stock transfers; hospitality may emphasize menus, modifiers and kitchen flow. Ask each vendor to demonstrate your real process rather than treating these labels as a ranking.

Should AI determine the POS decision?

It should be one factor. Documented insights or task assistance can save work, but checkout reliability, staff permissions and accurate inventory remain central. Confirm the AI's availability and data scope in your proposed edition, then test it alongside the operational workflow.

Point of Sale

Compare the options.

Square

Shopify

Toast

Lightspeed Retail

Clover