What are Square Alternatives and who needs them?
If you’re running a business—whether it’s a cozy coffee shop, a boutique retail store, or an eCommerce platform—you’ve likely heard of Square. It’s a popular point-of-sale (POS) and payment processing platform known for simplicity and fast setup. But here’s the catch: as your business grows or diversifies, you may find that Square doesn’t check all the boxes anymore.
That’s where Square alternatives come in. These are tools and platforms that offer similar or even superior features—from inventory management and sales analytics to advanced eCommerce integration and lower processing fees. Whether you’re seeking better pricing, more customization, or just a platform that scales with your brand, exploring Square alternatives can be a smart move .
List of Top 8 Square Alternatives & Competitors 2025
1. Shopify POS
Feature-Rich eCommerce and Retail Hybrid
Shopify POS is a powerful POS system that integrates seamlessly with Shopify’s eCommerce platform. It’s ideal for businesses selling both in-store and online.
It offers features like smart inventory management, unified analytics across channels, and staff performance tracking. Shopify POS is great for retailers who need a centralized solution to handle sales, customer engagement, and shipping from one dashboard.
Pricing:
Starts at $29/month for the Basic plan, but Shopify POS Pro (with advanced features) is $89/month per location.
Benefits:
- Unified inventory for online and offline sales
- Intuitive interface for quick training
- Excellent third-party app support
- Built-in marketing and CRM tools
2. Clover
Customizable Hardware and Software Combo
Clover is known for its modular POS system, allowing businesses to choose the hardware and software package that fits them best. From restaurants to salons and retail stores, Clover tailors itself to your industry.
With features like real-time reporting, customer loyalty programs, and employee management, Clover is ideal for small to medium-sized businesses that want flexibility and control over their POS systems.
Pricing:
Hardware starts at $49/month. Software subscriptions range from $14.95 to $49.95/month depending on the plan.
Benefits:
- Extensive app marketplace
- Scalable for different business sizes
- Reliable customer support
- Compatible with many payment processors
3. PayPal Zettle
A Simple Yet Efficient POS System
Formerly known as iZettle, PayPal Zettle is great for startups and small businesses that need a quick and easy setup. It’s well-integrated with PayPal, making it a top choice for businesses already using PayPal for transactions.
Features include inventory tracking, simplified checkout experiences, and multi-user access. The mobile card reader is compact and perfect for on-the-go vendors and pop-up shops.
Pricing:
No monthly fee; card reader costs $29. Transaction fees are 2.29% + $0.09 per swipe.
Benefits:
- Fast setup and PayPal integration
- No subscription costs
- Compact mobile hardware
- Detailed sales reports on mobile or web
4. Toast POS
Designed Specifically for Restaurants
If you’re running a restaurant, cafe, or bar, Toast POS might be your best bet. Built specifically for the foodservice industry, Toast combines POS features with table management, online ordering, and delivery integrations.
Toast offers in-depth analytics, kitchen display systems, and tip pooling features that many general POS platforms don’t provide.
Pricing:
Starts at $0/month for Starter Kit (with pay-as-you-go hardware). Custom plans available for larger setups.
Benefits:
- Industry-specific tools for hospitality
- Contactless payments and ordering
- Loyalty and gift card programs
- Excellent support for staff scheduling
5. Lightspeed POS
High-End POS with Advanced Inventory Features
Lightspeed POS is ideal for businesses that need detailed inventory tracking, such as high-volume retailers and specialty stores. It includes advanced stock management, customer profiles, vendor catalogs, and omnichannel sales capabilities. It’s also popular among golf courses and hospitality venues thanks to industry-specific tools.
Pricing:
Starts at $89/month for retail. Custom pricing for restaurants and golf clubs.
Benefits:
- Enterprise-grade inventory features
- Omnichannel capabilities
- Built-in CRM tools
- Integration with accounting software like QuickBooks
6. QuickBooks POS
Best for Businesses Already Using QuickBooks
For QuickBooks users, their POS system is a natural extension. This platform works well for retail stores and helps bridge sales data with your accounting platform seamlessly.
It offers customer tracking, inventory management, and multi-store support. However, note that QuickBooks POS is being sunsetted in 2025, but many still use it during the transition period.
Pricing:
One-time fee ranging from $1,200–$1,900 depending on the edition.
Benefits:
- Direct QuickBooks integration
- Simple setup for existing users
- One-time purchase (no monthly fees)
- Good offline functionality
7. SumUp
Minimalist POS with Low Fees
SumUp is popular in Europe and expanding globally due to its no-frills payment processing and simple POS tools. It’s perfect for microbusinesses and freelancers who need to accept card payments without the commitment of a monthly subscription.
Its POS app allows for product catalog creation, tax tracking, and receipt generation—all from your smartphone or tablet.
Pricing:
No monthly fee. Card reader is $39. Transaction fee is 2.75% per swipe.
Benefits:
- No contract or monthly fees
- Portable and easy to use
- Great for freelancers and mobile vendors
- Accepts all major cards including Apple Pay and Google Pay
8. Helcim
Transparent Pricing and All-in-One Tools
Helcim is gaining attention for its transparent pricing model and robust feature set. It’s an all-in-one solution for small to medium businesses, offering in-person and online payments, invoicing, inventory, and customer portals. What sets Helcim apart is its interchange-plus pricing, meaning you get clear visibility into processing costs—a rarity in this space.
Pricing:
No monthly fee. Processing fees are interchange + 0.3% + 8¢ (for in-person), and interchange + 0.5% + 25¢ (for online).
Benefits:
- No long-term contracts
- Transparent fee structure
- All-in-one business platform
- Ideal for businesses scaling operations
Also Read: Automating Email Marketing for WooCommerce: A Complete Guide
How to Choose the Right Square Alternative
With so many great Square alternatives , selecting the right one depends on your specific business needs. Start by evaluating your industry type—retail, restaurant, service-based, or mobile—and match it with a solution that offers industry-specific features.
Next, consider your budget. Some platforms offer no monthly fees but charge higher transaction rates, while others provide more advanced tools with a monthly subscription.
Also, think about scalability. Will this platform grow with your business? Can you add more users, locations, or integrations easily? Don’t overlook customer support either. Responsive and knowledgeable support can save you headaches in the long run. Lastly, check if it integrates with tools you already use like accounting software (QuickBooks), marketing tools, or eCommerce platforms.
Time to Power Up Your Business Tools
In today’s competitive landscape, businesses need POS systems and payment processors that align perfectly with their growth plans. While remains a solid option, the market is packed with impressive Square alternatives that offer greater flexibility, transparency, and scalability. Whether you’re looking for powerful retail tools, restaurant-specific functionality, or simply lower transaction fees, there’s a Square alternative designed to support your unique business journey. Take the time to explore, compare, and test a few options—and make 2025 the year you streamline your operations and boost your bottom line.
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