Finding the Best POS System for Your Business

A POS system may just be the most important piece of your business because it's what gets you paid, so finding the best one is critical. In this blog, we'll cover the key factors to consider when choosing a POS system, introduce you to different POS system providers, discuss the pros and cons of each, and highlight which business types are the best fit for each provider.

Easy and secure embeded payments with Helcim

We’re thrilled to share that Helcim was featured in a Geekflare article, where we received an amazing 4.2 out of 5-star rating! They also rated us "Best for Payment Processing Solutions." We're incredibly grateful for the recognition and are committed to continuing to offer businesses the tools they need to thrive. 🎉

10 factors to consider when choosing the right POS system for your business

Picking the right POS system is key to running your business smoothly and keeping customers happy. Here are the key factors to consider when choosing the right POS system.

1. Ease of use:

Look for a system that is intuitive and easy to learn, minimizing the time needed for training.

2. Integration capabilities:

Ensure the POS system can integrate with your existing software, such as accounting, inventory, and e-commerce platforms.

3. Payment processing options:

The system should support a variety of payment methods, including credit cards, mobile payments, and online transactions.

4. Customer management:

Choose a POS that offers tools for managing customer data and loyalty programs to enhance customer relationships.

5. Inventory management:

If inventory is a key part of your business, look for advanced features that can help you track and manage stock efficiently.

6. Reporting and analytics:

Detailed reporting and analytics tools are essential for making informed business decisions.

7. Security features:

Robust security measures are crucial to protect sensitive customer and transaction data.

8. Customer support:

Reliable and accessible customer support can help resolve issues quickly and keep your business running smoothly.

9. Scalability:

Make sure the POS system can grow with your business, accommodating more transactions and users as needed.

10. Cost and pricing model:

Evaluate the pricing structure, including transaction fees, subscription costs, and any additional charges. Providers like Helcim, use interchange-plus pricing, which often result in lower processing fees for their merchants.

The different POS system providers

Square

Square has a versatile point-of-sale system tailored for small businesses and mobile vendors. Square offers a blend of hardware and software solutions. Its flexibility allows for both in-store and on-the-go operations, making it a popular choice for businesses seeking a comprehensive POS experience.

Pros	Cons	Business fit
Intuitive and user-friendly interface.	Can be expensive for high-volume merchants.	Small retail business
Flexible hardware options for on-the-go payments.	Difficult to reach human customer support and slow response times.	Food trucks and mobile vendors.
Comprehensive reporting and analytics.	Complaints about fund-holding policies.

Swipe left to see full table.

PayPal

PayPal Zettle offers a user-friendly POS solution designed for small businesses. Its mobile app and card reader make it ideal for on-the-go merchants. The brand's recognition and integration with other PayPal services provide added convenience to merchants who use other PayPal solutions.

Pros	Cons	Business fit
Quick and easy setup, especially for existing PayPal users.	Higher fees for manually entered transactions.	Small online businesses that use PayPal.
Integrates well with e-commerce platforms.	Additional steps required to transfer funds to other bank accounts.	Freelancers and consultants.
Accepts various payment methods, including PayPal payments.	Difficulty using the system when offline.	Non-profits and charities.
Immediate fund availability in PayPal account.	Customer service can be challenging to reach.	Mobile vendors.

Clover

Clover provides a highly customizable POS platform designed to accommodate a wide range of business sizes and industries. With a strong emphasis on feature-rich functionality, Clover offers businesses the ability to tailor the system to their specific needs. Its integration capabilities and scalability make it a suitable option for enterprises looking to grow.

Pros	Cons	Business fit
Customizable and easy to navigate.	Higher upfront costs for hardware.	Restaurants and cafes.
Robust inventory tracking and management features.	Monthly fees and hidden fees can be expensive for small businesses.	Retail stores.
Versatile hardware options.	Some features require additional apps and subscriptions.	Multi-location businesses.
Built-in loyalty program features.	Unfavorable contracts can lock merchants into Clover's ecosystem, limiting flexibility.

Stripe

Stripe Terminal is a developer-friendly POS system that integrates seamlessly with other Stripe services, offering a high degree of customization and reliable hardware options. Known primarily as an online payment processor, Stripe has expanded to include in-person payment solutions, making it ideal for businesses looking to unify online and in-person payments within a single platform. Its focus on developer-friendly tools and APIs makes it a preferred choice for tech-savvy merchants.

Pros	Cons	Business fit
Seamless integration with other Stripe services and APIs.	Not a standalone POS system; needs integration.	Online-first businesses with optional in-person sales.
Highly customizable with developer tools.	May require more technical expertise to set up and customize.	Businesses with strong developer resources.
No monthly software fees.	Customer support can sometimes be less accessible for smaller businesses.	Tech-based companies.
Combines online and in-person payments in one platform.	Lacks advanced POS features.	Subscription-based and SaaS businesses.

Helcim

Helcim provides a POS system perfect for small to medium-sized businesses. With a transparent pricing structure and robust features, Helcim’s POS helps manage payments and customer interactions while enabling merchants save on their processing fees. Helcim’s POS system is built into the Smart Terminal for mobile or stationary setups and a comprehensive software platform, offering flexibility for various business needs.

Pros	Cons	Business fit
Transparent interchange plus pricing model, often resulting in lower processing fees.	Not ideal for very large businesses with complex requirements.	Free virtual terminal and mobile app.
Highly customizable with developer tools.	Limited advanced inventory management features.	Professional services e.g. Accountants, healthcare providers and other service providers.
Offers tools for both online and in-person payments and most payment methods.	Limited loyalty program features.	E-commerce businesses.

How to get started with Helcim’s POS system

Choosing Helcim can help you save on processing fees, boost customer satisfaction, and grow your business. Follow the steps below to get started with Helcim.

Create a Helcim Merchant Account: Sign up quickly with no paperwork, contracts, or signatures needed.
Download the Helcim POS App: Install the POS app via the App Store or Google Play Store on your laptop, tablet, or phone.
Start Collecting Payments: Use the Helcim Card Reader or Smart Terminal for in-person payments or Helcim’s free online payment tools for online transactions.

Switching from another processor? Helcim’s Contract Buyout Program simplifies the process

Finding another payment solution can get tough, so we made the switching process to Helcim a lot easier for you.

Easy transition: Get step-by-step assistance in migrating your products, customer data, and credit card information to Helcim.
Cost coverage: Helcim will waive up to $500 in processing fees to help cover cancellation costs, including early termination fees or equipment leases.
Savings and service: Save around 25% on processing fees with our interchange-plus pricing, and enjoy top-notch human customer service dedicated to your business.

Say goodbye to your current provider and enjoy better service, lower fees, and a range of free payment tools with Helcim's Contract Buyout Program.