Best POS Machines: The Complete Collection

POS machines developed from the simple cash register or ‘till,’ are effective sales, stock control, and accounting tools. The best POS machines, which are essential to many retail and hospitality establishments, may save a lot of time in all three crucial areas while lowering the possibility of human error.

Given the many options available, selecting the best solution might be difficult. You know you want better inventory management, faster and more accurate transactions, better customer service, and the ability to create precise sales data.

Our selections of the top POS terminals will help you answer the question: “Which is the best POS machine?”

Keep reading!

1. Best POS Machines: A Quick Look

A POS machine is often a terminal or a component of the checkout process that completes the transaction by processing credit or debit cards. Sometimes it’s as small as a mobile device, and other times it’s an entire terminal with a cash register, printer, display monitor, etc.

In fact, there are a lot of special-purpose POS devices between a basic card terminal and an all-inclusive POS system. All the best point of sale terminals must perform some fundamental tasks, regardless of their intended usage.

So, which is the best POS machine? Well, there are a few important things you should think about when deciding:

• Industry-Specific Features: POS systems are required for various businesses. Ensure the point-of-sale system you select offers the particular functionalities your sector needs.
• Pricing & Fees: The POS system machine price may be somewhat costly, particularly when monthly fees, hardware, and software are included. Choose a system that meets your spending limit, and look for expensive add-ons or hidden costs.
• Ease of Use: Nobody wants to spend hours teaching their staff how to use a complex point-of-sale system. Seek for anything with an easy-to-use interface, clear instructions, and excellent customer service.
• Integrations and Add-Ons: You’ll likely want your POS system to work well with other products you use, such as e-commerce platforms or accounting software. Verify that the system you select has the add-ons and integrations you require.

2. Which POS Machine Is The Best? Our Top Pick

2.1. Shopify POS – Best for e-commerce integrations

2.1.1. Overview   

Shopify POS is the best POS system for small businesses to streamline online and in-store sales. 

It provides a wide selection of POS hardware to transform the checkout process completely. Shopify offers a solution for any retail requirement, from portable card readers that offer flexibility for pop-up stores or on-the-go sales to all-in-one POS terminals that integrate several capabilities for bigger establishments.

However, the POS hardware from Shopify is capable of more than transaction processing. It’s about improving your consumers’ whole buying experience by facilitating a smooth transition from selection to purchase. With features that let you monitor sales, inventory, and customer patterns, it’s all about providing you with the tools you need to run and expand your company.

2.1.2. Key features 

• POS smart grid puts your most-used applications, deals, and merchandise close to hand to speed up checkout.
• Smart tracking with automated synchronization and low-stock notifications.
• Physical and digital gift cards for simple sales and redemption.
• Various payment options 

2.1.3. Cost/fee 

• Here’s a summary of Shopify POS’s main hardware prices below:
  • A Chipper 2X BT card reader or Tap & Chip card reader: $49
  • Retail Kit: $219
  • Barcode scanners: from $229  
  • Label printers: from $229 
  • Receipt printers: from $229 
  • Cash drawers: from $139 
• Transaction costs vary based on your subscription plans, starting at 5% + 0¢ 
• Shopify POS Lite, which is a part of your initial Shopify subscription costs, starts at $5/month or Shopify POS Pro at $89/month/location. See the specific POS Lite vs POS Pro comparison here.

2.1.4. Why we pick it 

Shopify POS is unique among the best POS terminals because it integrates seamlessly with Shopify’s e-commerce platform, providing a centralized system for managing customers, sales, and inventory across all sales channels. Thanks to its mobile checkout alternatives, employees can quickly service clients and check out anywhere in the store or at the curb.

Additionally, Shopify POS provides a variety of devices to suit single- and multi-store businesses of all kinds. To explore how these features can benefit your business, please visit and read our in-depth Shopify POS Reviews for more specific details.

2.1.5. Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
– A vast network of third-party apps for new features – Smooth transactions with direct connection with Shopify Payments – Online and offline sales are integrated with a unified commerce solution	– Shopify Payments are restricted in certain markets  – Above-average transaction costs

2.2. Magestore POS – Best for selling omnichannel

Best for	Selling omnichannel
Free trial	7-30 days available
Price from	Starting from $2,599 (One-time payment)
Transaction fee	No transaction fees
Compatibility	iOS & Android
Top 3 features	Intuitive user interface, Offline mode, Loyalty program

2.2.1. Overview

With all the capabilities that a quality point-of-sale system should have, Magestore POS allows retailers to monitor every activity within the store. Several payment options improve consumer convenience: online payment, offline payment, split payment, partial payment, payment later, and custom payment.

Payment terminals that enable Web Application technologies, such as Web API, Cloud API, and Javascript SDK, can be integrated with Magestore POS. With error-free processing, payment totals will be provided instantly to your connected payment device. 

2.2.2. Key features  

• Intuitive and easy-to-understand user interface.
• Offline mode to keep the POS terminals operating smoothly.
• Inventory management for keeping track of your stock flow across all sales channels and locations. 
• The loyalty program helps deliver offerings or discounts to the right people.

2.2.3. Cost/fee  

• Here’s a summary of Magestore’s main hardware, but no prices are displayed, so you need to contact them for precise numbers:
  • Receipt printers
  • USB and Bluetooth barcode scanners
  • Card reader
  • Cash drawer
  • Label printers
• No transaction fees 
• They don’t publicly display their pricing, so you must contact and get a quote from a Magestore business expert. However, according to our research, Magento POS has two versions: CE and EE, with EE starting at $2,599 and CE at $1,299. This is a one-time payment.

2.2.4. Why we pick it 

Magestore POS accepts every in-store payment quickly, easily, and securely, helping you create a seamless shopping experience for your customers.

Accurate and error-free sales and purchase processing is provided for any quantity and kind of items. With its reliable and easy-to-use point-of-sale system, you can make more money faster.

2.2.5. Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
– Intuitive system  – Offline mode – Unlimited online payment gateways – Dedicated support	– High upfront cost – Need initial app installation

2.3. Helcim POS – Best for transparent payment solutions

2.3.1. Overview

Helcim, a payment processing technology, allows you to accept credit and debit cards, as well as other payment methods, online and in person.

Its POS systems include card readers, merchant accounts, and an online payment gateway facilitating e-commerce transactions. This POS terminal also supports inventory control, customer management, and invoicing.

Because of its extensive features and straightforward pricing, Helcim POS is useful for companies looking to increase operational efficiency and optimize payment operations. 

2.3.2. Key features  

• Comprehensive CRM system to manage your sales operations efficiently
• Transmitting digital receipts and efficiently handling inventory management directly from the terminal.
• Accepting tap, chip, and PIN payments.
• Enabling seamless transactions across multiple channels, ensuring businesses maintain a cohesive online and offline presence. 

2.3.3. Cost/fee 

• Here’s a summary of Helcim’s main hardware and its POS system machine price below:
  • Smart Terminal: $329
  • Card Reader: $99
• Transaction costs start at 1.83%+ 8¢ per In-person transaction or 2.27%+ 25¢ per Keyed-in/ Online transaction.
• Helcim has no monthly fees, contracts, or hidden charges like setup or termination fees.

2.3.4. Why we pick it 

Businesses looking for comprehensive administration solutions and effective payment processing may benefit from several features offered by Helcim POS. Its point-of-sale terminal is ideal for counter and mobile environments, and it comes with an extensive feature set that is entirely free of cost.

In particular, Helcim is committed to offering a full range of services to assist businesses in managing their financial transactions and client relationships. It also offers pricing that is clear and honest.

2.3.5. Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
– Cost Efficiency  – No Long-Term Contracts  – Robust Feature Set	– Delayed Deposits  – Limited Hardware Options

2.4. Epos Now – Best for scalability

2.4.1. Overview

Epos Now is one of the best POS machines for retail and hospitality establishments. It stands out as a formidable competitor in the POS industry because of its various features for integrating its payment system to set your company apart.

Accepting credit and debit card payments requires security. As a result, it ensures that all of its card readers comply with PCI standards. Additionally, it automatically syncs your data to safe off-site servers using cloud syncs and employs extremely powerful encryption technology as standard.

With its wide integration capabilities, the platform easily connects with the best POS terminals, enabling tailored solutions that improve productivity. It provides a scalable platform that can change to meet the demands of companies operating in various sectors.

2.4.2. Key features  

• Internal connectors, like Epos Now Delivery and Order and Pay, and APIs for bespoke integrations are easily available.
• Real-time floor plan management and time-at-table tracking for inventory management systems.
• Integrations with over 100 third-party apps, allowing you to use programs like Sage, Shopify, QuickBooks, and Xero. Cloud Accounting for Business
• Increasing customer satisfaction and retention with comprehensive customer profiles and monitoring previous transactions.

2.4.3. Cost/fee  

• Here’s a summary of Epos Now POS’s main hardware prices below:
  • Pro Cash Drawer: $73
  • Caller ID: starting at $120
  • Staff Swipe Cards: $58
  • Barcode scanners: starting at $73
  • Receipt printers: starting at $250
• Transaction costs start at 2.6% + 10¢ (in-person and online).
• Epos Now offers three pricing plans with the cheapest starting at $39 per user/month.

2.4.4. Why we pick it 

Retail and hospitality companies looking for an adaptable and integrated point-of-sale system will find Epos Now a great option thanks to its wide variety of features and adaptability. Its system is particularly designed to support your company’s expansion.

2.4.5. Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
– Fast transaction processing – Good reporting features – Integration flexibility  – User-Friendly interface	– Quite complicated setup  – Occasional system crashes – Contract Limitations

2.5. KORONA POS – Best real-time inventory management

2.5.1. Overview 

As one of the best POS terminals, KORONA POS is designed to serve various industries, such as fast-service restaurants, retail establishments, and ticketing services.  

KORONA POS stands out for its ability to work with high-risk merchant industries, including CBD, wine, liquor, dispensaries, and vape shops. 

Its systems allow you to accept secure chip or contactless payments with the quickest transaction speeds. Its point of sale interfaces with a wide range of contactless and EMV payment terminals without locking merchants into a single credit card processor.

2.5.2. Key features  

• Multi-location management for overseeing operations across different stores.
• Employee management features that enable tracking of staff performance and scheduling.
• Customizable reporting tools that allow businesses to generate detailed and specific reports tailored to your needs.
• Barcode and order automation to streamline the business processes. 

2.5.3. Cost/fee  

• The hardware is sold separately and available for lease. Here’s a summary of KORONA’s main hardware, but no prices are displayed, so you need to contact them for precise numbers:
  • Mobile POS Tablet
  • Receipt Printers
  • Ticket & Inventory Scanners
  • Scanners
  • Credit Card Readers
  • Terminals & Cash Drawers
• No credit card transaction fees.
• KORONA POS has three main pricing options for monthly subscription plans: Core ($59/month), Retail ($69/month), and Add-Ons ($10 to $50 per month(

2.5.4. Why we pick it 

We praise its real-time inventory management features, which allow businesses to monitor stock levels and react quickly to fluctuations in demand.

Furthermore, KORONA POS is the best POS system for liquor stores that provides cutting-edge capabilities to support maintaining ideal stock levels and cutting waste, such as automatic reordering and comprehensive inventory reporting. Its precision and dependability in managing sales transactions further enhance the system’s reputation as a strong point of sale terminal.

2.5.5. Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
– Multiple locations management – Customized POS layout – Robust tools for handling inventory	– Each terminal requires a separate payment – Lack of custom options for reporting

3. Conclusion

Which is the best POS machine? Your budget, integrations, and unique demands will determine the answer for your business. Additionally, before deciding, don’t be scared to try out a few various systems; the majority provide free trials or demonstrations so that you may give them a spin.

Whichever point-of-sale system you use, the most crucial thing is that it streamlines your business operations regarding antiquated or cumbersome payment methods. With the best POS terminals, you can start selling and satisfying consumers immediately.

Modern POS technology tips from this eComStart article can assist your businesses in navigating the competitive market of 2024 and beyond.

4. FAQs