Managing a small business often means dealing with slow or outdated processes that hurt the customer experience and your bottom line. For example, if you run a retail store or offer services on-site, you might be stuck using a clunky cash register or an old POS system that can’t keep up with your business’s needs. With a tablet POS or a point-of-sale system that operates on a tablet, you can streamline operations, reduce costs, and serve customers more efficiently from anywhere. How to Choose a Point of Sale System? In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of tablet POS systems for small businesses and help you find the right solution for your operations. 

The POS Exchange can help you achieve your goals by connecting you with top providers of tablet POS systems. Their solutions will help you identify a mobile-friendly POS system that meets your unique business needs, so you can return to what you love—taking care of your customers.

What are Tablet POS Software Solutions & How Can You Benefit Using Them?

A tablet POS system is a powerful tool that combines the flexibility of a tablet with advanced software tailored for the restaurant industry. Unlike traditional cash registers, these systems empower you to streamline your operations efficiently. 

Imagine having the ability to take orders, process payments, and manage inventory all at your fingertips. Tablet POS systems bring unparalleled convenience, enabling your staff to provide faster, more personalized service to your customers.

Types of Tablet POS Systems

There are three main types of tablet POS systems:

1. Traditional Tablet POS Systems: These systems operate on-premises and require a local server. While they offer reliability, they lack the flexibility of cloud-based solutions.
2. Cloud-based Tablet POS Systems: Cloud-based systems store data in the cloud, enabling real-time updates and remote access. They are scalable, cost-effective, and seamlessly integrated with other business applications.
3. Hybrid Tablet POS Systems: Hybrid systems combine elements of both traditional and cloud-based systems. They offer the stability of on-premises solutions and the flexibility of cloud-based systems.

Android Tablets vs. iPads for POS: What’s the Difference?

When comparing Android tablets and iPads for POS purposes, it’s essential to consider factors like:

• Operating system compatibility
• Software availability
• Cost

Android tablets offer more variety in hardware and pricing, while iPads are known for their sleek design and robust app ecosystem. Both have merits, and the choice often depends on your business needs.

What are the Benefits of Tablet POS Systems?

Here are 11 unique advantages of tablet POS over traditional POS:

1. Portability

The main advantage of tablet POS over traditional systems is portability. These incredibly portable systems allow businesses to take payments anywhere on their premises or at off-site events. This flexibility benefits:

• Food trucks
• Pop-up shops
• Restaurants with outdoor seating

2. Cost-Efficiency

Compared to traditional systems, tablet-based solutions are often more cost-effective. Since tablets are generally less expensive than traditional cash registers or desktop computers, you can save on hardware expenses.

3. User-Friendly Interface

A tablet POS typically features an intuitive touch-screen interface, making it easy for employees to learn and use. This can reduce POS software training time and minimize errors during transactions.

4. Customization

Many tablet POS software solutions allow extensive customization to suit your business needs. You can tailor the system to your menu, inventory, and pricing structure.

5. Mobility and Order Efficiency

Restaurant servers and wait staff can take orders directly at the table and send them to the kitchen or bar. This reduces order processing time and enhances customer satisfaction. Furthermore, through Pay at Table Technology integration, customers can conveniently settle their payments right from the comfort of their seats.

6. Real-Time Analytics

Tablet-based POS often provides real-time sales and inventory data through POS analytics. This allows businesses to:

• Make informed decisions
• Track performance
• Adjust inventory levels accordingly

7. Cloud-Based Storage

Most tablet POS systems store data in the cloud, ensuring your information is secure and accessible from anywhere with an internet connection. This facilitates remote management and data backup.

8. Streamlined Checkout

Tablets allow quicker and more convenient checkout processes, reducing customer waiting times and improving overall efficiency.

9. Enhanced Customer Engagement

Tablet POS systems can integrate with customer relationship management (CRM) tools, helping businesses collect valuable customer data and engage with patrons effectively.

10. Inventory Management

Another great benefit of using a table pos is its ease of tracking inventory levels. They can monitor product sales and reorder stock when needed, reducing the risk of overstocking or understocking items.

11. Sustainability

Tablet-based POS systems are eco-friendly, eliminating the need for paper receipts and reducing energy consumption compared to traditional systems.

Related Reading

• POS System Features
• Compare POS Systems for Retail
• Portable POS System
• What Is the Best POS System for Small Business?
• Things to Consider Before You Buy a POS System

9 Best Tablet POS Systems Of 2025

1. Square POS: A Versatile POS Solution for Almost Any Business

Square POS is the best tablet POS system in the industry because it works well for almost any type of business. It’s compatible with iOS and Android tablets, with no upfront costs (except for your tablet). Square doesn’t charge a monthly fee for its software; you even get a free card reader to accept credit cards. 

There are payment processing fees, but you will pay those regardless of which POS system you use. Processing fees vary depending on how you accept payments. Square is an omnichannel solution that you can use for online sales or over the phone.

Here are the rates you should expect per transaction using Square’s POS: 

• In-person: 2.6% plus $0.10
• Online: 2.9% plus $0.30
• Manual key: 3.5% plus $0.15

Free Software with Inventory Management for Small Businesses

Square's free POS software includes inventory management, ideal for restaurants and food trucks. With built-in payment processing, no monthly fees, and compatibility with iOS and Android, it's perfect for solo sellers and small businesses. Additional features are available through app integrations.

Pros:

• Free software & card reader
• Easy to use
• Built-in payment processing
• Inventory management

Cons:

• High processing rates for large volumes
• Unsuitable for high-risk industries

2. Shopify POS: Best for Retail Businesses Selling Online and in Store

Shopify is one of the most well-known tablet POS systems on the market. It offers point-of-sale solutions for many types of business, whether you’re selling online, in-store, or both. In addition to its powerful POS software, Shopify offers its:

• Payment processing solution
• Hardware bundles
• Mobile card readers

Base pricing for Shopify ranges from $39 to $399 monthly, depending on which of the three plans you choose. If you use Shopify Payments to process transactions, you’ll get a discount on fees on higher-priced plans. 

The Shopify Payments rates per transaction are as follows: 

• Basic Plan Online: 2.9% plus $0.30 some text
  • In-person: 2.7% 
• Shopify Plan Online: 2.6% plus $0.30 some text
  • In-person: 2.5%
• Advanced Plan Online: 2.4% plus $0.30 some text
  • In-person: 2.4%

Remember that if you use your merchant account with a Shopify POS plan, you’ll have to pay a 0.5% to 2% fee per transaction, depending on the plan you choose. Regardless of your plan, you’ll get an e-commerce-ready website, unlimited online products you can list, and inventory management of up to eight locations.

Best for Online and In-Store Integration

Use Shopify hardware to turn your iOS or Android tablet into a countertop POS. Your locations sync automatically with Shopify POS so that you can sell and ship items from any warehouse or store location. You’ll also see updated counts across all locations.

Who should use it: Small businesses needing an online and in-store tablet POS solution would benefit from Shopify. You can use your tablet for retail point-of-sale and pop-up events or to sell online with a Shopify website (or your own).

Pros:

• Free trial available 
• Plans designed for growth
• Compatible with iOS or Android tablets
• All plans include an e-commerce site
• Built-in payment processing
• Supports multiple inventories
• Lower transaction fees when you upgrade plans

Cons:

• No free plan
• No free card readers
• Additional transaction fees if you use your merchant account
• Plans get expensive.

3. Loyverse: Free POS Software With Loyalty Programs

Loyverse stands out among tablet POS systems for its free software and included loyalty program, which most other POS software charge extra for. The base POS software is free and compatible with iOS and Android devices. It includes standard POS features like inventory management, multiple payment options, and reporting.

The main reason for choosing Loyverse is its free loyalty program, which offers customer tracking, purchase history, and notes for future interactions. Businesses can set up points systems to encourage repeat purchases, administer loyalty cards, and convert loyalty points into discounts, functioning like a mini customer relationship management (CRM) system.

Free Software with Flexible Add-Ons

Loyverse does not include built-in payment processing, which may be a pro or con. Established businesses with merchant service accounts will find Loyverse a good fit, as it doesn’t charge transaction fees for third-party processors. However, newer companies may find setting up a merchant account challenging, making other POS systems a better choice.

Loyverse only charges for optional add-ons, such as employee management ($25/month per store), advanced inventory ($25/month per store), and integrations ($9/ month per store). These features are available for a 14-day free trial to help businesses determine their suitability.

Who should use it: Loyverse is ideal for established businesses with merchant services accounts seeking a robust loyalty program at no extra cost.

Pros:

• Free plan
• Free trial for add-ons
• Loyalty program included
• Compatible with iOS and Android
• Works for any business type
• Affordable business management add-ons

Cons:

• No built-in payment processing
• Integrations require a paid add-on

4. TouchBistro: Specialty POS Software for Restaurants

TouchBistro is a tablet POS system designed specifically for restaurants. Compatible only with iOS, it’s ideal for food service businesses primarily using iPads for countertops and mobile POS. Pricing starts at $69 monthly, slightly higher than similar tablet POS software. The subscription includes restaurant-specific features not typically found in retail POS systems, such as menu and table management, tableside ordering, and floor plan management. Standard features like reporting, inventory management, integrations, and staff management are also included.

One standout feature is inventory management, which includes recipe logging to help track costs and portions for accurate stock counts and repurchasing. Additional services can be added for a fee, including gift cards, a loyalty program, online ordering, marketing, and reservations, with costs ranging from $25 to $229 monthly.

Designed for Restaurants and iPads

TouchBistro offers a built-in payment processor powered by Chase or the option to retain your existing merchant account provider.

Who should use it: TouchBistro is one of the best restaurant POS systems, designed specifically for food service businesses using iPads.

Pros:

• Good value for money
• Restaurant-specific features
• Add-ons enhance functionality
• Staff management included at no extra cost

Cons:

• Expensive monthly fee
• No details on payment processing rates
• Not suitable for all business types
• Incompatible with Android devices

5. Lightspeed: Advanced Inventory Management Features

Lightspeed is an iPad POS system suitable for various businesses but is particularly beneficial for retailers. While it’s more expensive than many other tablet POS platforms and doesn’t support Android, it stands out for its advanced inventory management features. Beyond standard stock counts, Lightspeed includes built-in purchase ordering, numerous integrated vendor catalogs, and a bulk item import tool.

Lightspeed offers three plans, each providing a single register for cloud-based POS software, built-in payment processing, and 24/7 support. Payment processing rates are consistent across plans at 2.6% + 10 cents per transaction (card-not-present rates are 2.6% + 30 cents per transaction). For lower rates, businesses need to opt for the quote-based enterprise plan. If the standard plans don’t meet your needs, Lightspeed can create a custom POS solution.

Who should use it: Lightspeed is ideal for retailers needing advanced inventory management. While it offers a restaurant-specific version, the base program and omnichannel support are better suited for retail businesses.

Pros:

• Excellent inventory management features
• Competitive built-in payment processing rates
• Custom POS solutions available

Cons:

• Expensive monthly plans
• Incompatible with Android devices
• Upgraded plan required for integrations

6. PayPal Zettle: A POS System With Strong Payment Processing Features

Zettle by PayPal is a mobile POS solution ideal for small to medium-sized businesses, seamlessly integrating with PayPal’s financial services. It provides a user-friendly platform for managing sales, payments, and inventory, which is especially beneficial for companies operating online and in physical locations. 

Zettle is known for its versatility, offering various payment methods (credit/debit cards, contactless, and QR codes) and simplifying inventory tracking. The system supports mobile and in-store payments and provides detailed sales reports, all while offering secure transactions.

Features:

• Versatile Payment Processing: Accepts various payment types.
• Inventory Management: Helps businesses track and manage stock.
• Integration with PayPal: Offers access to a range of PayPal financial tools.
• Mobile & In-Store Payments: Enhances flexibility for businesses.
• Sales Reporting: Provides insights into sales and customer trends.
• Easy Setup: Simple setup for quick payment processing.
• Security: High-level security for safe payment transactions.

Pros:

• Wide range of payment options
• Seamless integration with PayPal
• User-friendly interface
• Portable and convenient for mobile businesses
• Real-time inventory management
• Robust security

Cons:

• Transaction fees can add up for high-volume businesses
• Requires specific hardware for full functionality
• Internet dependency may limit use in areas with poor connectivity
• Limited advanced features compared to other systems
• Account limitations or holds with PayPal
• Customer support can vary in quality

7. Helcim Tablet POS: A Transparent and Affordable Tablet POS System

Helcim offers a compelling, all-in-one tablet POS system with no monthly software fees. Their unique pricing structure, which relies solely on transaction fees starting at 1.86% + 8¢ for in-person transactions, makes it an affordable option for businesses seeking to reduce upfront costs. Hardware can be purchased directly from Helcim or be compatible with third-party devices. The system works seamlessly on both Android and Apple devices.

Key Features:

• Inventory Management: Track stock levels and receive reordering alerts.
• Customer Management: Store and access customer details and purchase history.
• Customizable Checkout: Tailor the checkout experience with custom fields, discounts, and tax settings.

Pros:

• No monthly software fees
• Excellent customer service
• Transparent and competitive processing rates

Cons:

• Lacks industry-specific features compared to some competitors

8. Revel POS: A Versatile System for Complex Businesses

Revel is a versatile tablet POS system that offers a single software plan suitable for retail, restaurant, service, and niche businesses. It is ideal for single and multi-location businesses, with the flexibility to support various functions. Revel also offers numerous compatible hardware accessories, such as weight scales and customer-order monitors, which can sync with kitchen display screens. Furthermore, it integrates with third-party software for specialized needs like drive-through management, liquid inventory management, and security monitoring.

Revel’s all-in-one solution covers various industries, including retail, food service, B2B, and B2C. Its features include online ordering, a customer loyalty program, and detailed business reports. The flexible inventory management system offers features like purchase ordering, vendor management, and stock exchanges between locations.

Pros:

• All-in-one software plan with retail, restaurant, service, and B2B features
• Highly customizable
• Extensive third-party software integrations
• Multiple Revel tablet apps are available

Cons:

• Requires a long-term contract
• Early termination fee
• Can get expensive

9. SumUp Tablet POS: An Affordable and Simple POS System

SumUp POS is a simple, affordable, and user-friendly point-of-sale system for small to medium-sized businesses like cafes, retail shops, and service providers. Its minimalistic hardware and transparent pricing structure make it an attractive option for those seeking an easy-to-use system without complex contracts or hidden fees. SumUp integrates smoothly with its card readers, offering secure payment processing and mobile compatibility for on-the-go management.

Key Features:

• Simple Payment Processing: Secure payments with SumUp’s card readers.
• Inventory Management: Basic tracking to help manage stock levels.
• Mobile Compatibility: Manage sales and inventory through a mobile app.
• Sales Reporting: Insights into sales data and customer trends.
• Employee Management: Tools to manage staff and track individual sales.
• Cloud-Based Technology: Accessible from anywhere for flexibility.
• Integration with SumUp Products: Seamless integration with other SumUp services.

Pros:

• Affordable: Competitive pricing for small businesses.
• Easy to Use: Intuitive interface for quick learning and efficient use.
• Mobile-Friendly: Manage operations remotely via a mobile app.
• Seamless Integration: Works well with other SumUp products.
• No Long-Term Contracts: Pay-as-you-go model with no long-term commitments.
• Secure Payments: High-security standards for transactions.

Cons:

• Limited Advanced Features: Lacks complex features found in larger POS systems.
• Basic Inventory Management: Basic inventory tracking may not meet the needs of larger businesses.
• Hardware Dependence: Relies on proprietary SumUp hardware for payment processing.
• Internet Dependency: Requires stable internet for optimal functionality.
• Customer Support: Some users report limitations in support quality and responsiveness.

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Book a Free Demo With POS Exchange To Learn About Our Customized POS System Solutions Today!

The POS Exchange brings over 20 years of restaurant expertise, serving 200,000+ merchants and processing billions annually. Our tailored POS system solutions help businesses speed up checkouts by 30%, implement dynamic pricing, and manage customer reviews while reducing overhead. Perfect for:

• Full-service restaurants
• Pizza shops
• Coffee houses
• Multi-location enterprises

We offer end-to-end service, from brilliant consultation and interactive demos to local installation and 24/7 support. Our mobile iPad POS systems streamline operations with features like order management, bill splitting, and inventory control. With integrations for business management tools and advanced security measures, we ensure your POS system grows with your business. 

Trust our expertise to help you avoid the common pitfall that affects 38% of new business owners who choose the wrong POS system. Whether managing a busy restaurant, a local café, or operating a multi-location business, The POS Exchange delivers customized POS system solutions that tell your unique business story. Book a free demo with POS exchange to learn about our customized POS system solutions today.

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