
Choosing the right POS system in Canada can be overwhelming, especially with the numerous options available. There are over 100 POS system providers in Canada, each offering unique features and pricing plans.
A key consideration is the type of business you have. For example, if you're a retail store, you'll want a POS system that can handle inventory management and customer loyalty programs. In contrast, a restaurant may prioritize a POS system with table management and online ordering capabilities.
In Canada, many businesses prefer cloud-based POS systems due to their scalability and flexibility. According to a survey, 70% of Canadian businesses prefer cloud-based POS systems over on-premise systems.
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Best POS Systems in Canada
If you're looking for a reliable POS system in Canada, you've got plenty of options. Helcim POS is a great choice for service businesses, offering a hosted payment page builder and custom invoice builder.
For businesses with large inventory management needs, Lightspeed Retail is a top pick. It's designed to handle complex inventory management, making it a great option for businesses with a lot of products.
You can also consider Clover POS, which offers no-fee third-party payment processing and durable POS hardware. TouchBistro is another great option, especially for single-location restaurants and food trucks, and it starts at $69 per user per month.
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7 Best
When choosing a POS system for your Canadian business, you want to find the best one that suits your needs. Here are the top 7 POS systems in Canada that are worth considering.
Helcim POS is a top pick for service businesses, offering a hosted payment page builder and excellent custom invoice builder. It's also free, making it a budget-friendly option.
For low-cost options, Square POS is a great choice, with no monthly fees for hardware or software. It's perfect for small businesses or those just starting out.
Clover POS stands out for its customization options, allowing businesses to tailor their POS system to their specific needs. It's also great for large inventory management, making it a top pick for retailers.
Lightspeed Retail is another top pick for large inventory management, with features like automatic inventory tracking and reporting. It's a great option for businesses with complex inventory needs.
Shopify POS is a great choice for businesses looking to expand into e-commerce, with seamless integration between online and offline sales. It's also a top pick for businesses with multiple locations.
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TouchBistro is a top pick for single-location restaurants and food trucks, with features like online ordering and reservation management. It's also a great option for businesses with limited technical expertise.
Revel POS is a top pick for chain and franchise restaurants, with features like centralized inventory management and reporting. It's a great option for businesses with multiple locations and complex inventory needs.
Here's a quick summary of the top 7 POS systems in Canada:
Moneris
Moneris offers a POS system tailored to various business types, including retail, restaurant, professional services, trades, not-for-profits, and enterprise-level businesses.
Moneris' POS system is designed to meet the specific needs of each business type, ensuring a seamless transaction process.
Moneris' solutions are perfect for retail businesses, providing a streamlined checkout experience for customers.
For restaurants, Moneris' POS system simplifies orders and payments, making it easier to manage a busy kitchen.
Moneris' professional services solution is ideal for businesses that require a high level of customization and flexibility.
Trades businesses can benefit from Moneris' POS system, which streamlines invoicing and payment processes.
Not-for-profit organizations can also use Moneris' POS system, which helps manage donations and other transactions.
Moneris' enterprise-level POS system is designed for large businesses, providing advanced features and scalability.
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POS System Reviews
At SoftwareSuggest, we take pride in offering unbiased and verified user reviews based on user ratings and feedback. Our ratings and reports are free from paid placements, so you can trust the information you're getting.
We've reviewed various POS systems, and one that stands out is Helcim's software.
Comparison
When choosing a POS system, it's essential to consider the costs involved. Some systems, like Helcim POS and Square POS, offer free or $0 monthly pricing, while others, like Shopify POS, can cost upwards of $2,300 per month.
The monthly pricing for POS systems varies greatly, ranging from $0 to $2,300. Helcim POS and Square POS are two systems that offer flexible pricing plans.
Here's a breakdown of the monthly pricing for some popular POS systems:
Payment processing fees are another crucial aspect to consider. Some systems, like Square POS, charge a flat rate of 2.6%-2.8%, while others, like Revel POS, charge a rate of 2.49% + $0.15.
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POS hardware costs can also add up, with prices ranging from $69 to $899. Helcim POS, for instance, offers a range of hardware options, including a device that costs between $129 and $399.
Ultimately, the best POS system for your business will depend on your specific needs and budget. Be sure to research and compare different systems before making a decision.
Square
Square is a popular point-of-sale (POS) system that offers a range of features and pricing plans to suit different businesses. It's known for its ease of use and setup process, making it a great option for companies that want to get started quickly.
Square offers three distinct software plans for retail, restaurant, and service-based businesses. These plans include industry-specific features such as advanced inventory management for retailers and order course management for restaurants.
The cost of using Square varies depending on the plan you choose. For retail businesses, costs range from $0 to $79+ per month per location, while restaurants pay between $0 and $60+ per month. Service-based businesses can expect to pay between $0 and $85 per month per location.
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In-person payment processing rates with Square are 2.5% for major credit card transactions and 0.75% + $0.07 for Interac debit transactions. Online and invoice payment processing costs 2.8% + $0.30 per transaction.
Square hardware costs range from $69 for the Square card reader to $899 for the Square Register. All Square users get free features such as accepting any payment type, a free website builder, and mobile POS app to accept payments on the go.
Here are some of the key features you can expect from Square:
- Accept any payment type at the register, on a mobile device, and online
- Free website builder for retail sales, food ordering, and/or appointment scheduling
- Sell on social media and marketplaces like Etsy
- Pickup, local delivery, and shipping management
- Mobile POS app to accept payments on the go
- Discounts and coupons
- Employee management (up to five team members)
- Connect to your Google Business Profile to get found in location-based search results
These features are just the tip of the iceberg, and Square offers many more to help you run your business efficiently.
Revel
Revel is a popular POS system designed for midsize and larger businesses, especially those in the hospitality industry. It offers a customizable business management solution and enterprise-level multi-location reporting.
Revel's best features include drive-thru headset, order confirmation display, and digital signage integration, as well as kitchen display and expo screens to manage all order types. It also offers third-party delivery service integrations, customizable self-ordering kiosk screens, royalty payment management, and centralized and franchise location-specific reporting.
Revel's pricing is quote-based, and it's generally more expensive than other POS options on the market. Some of Revel's biggest clients include Lazeez Shawarma (225 locations) and Chatime (97 locations in Canada alone).
Revel requires a standard three-year contract, which has a substantial termination fee, so be sure it's the right option for you before committing.
POS System Features
When choosing a POS system, it's essential to consider the features that will help your business thrive. One key feature to look for is customer relationship management tools, which can help you build strong relationships with your customers.
Some POS systems, like AmberPOS, offer advanced customer relationship management tools that allow you to track customer details and analyze their purchasing trends. This can help you tailor your marketing efforts and improve customer loyalty.
A POS system should also have features that make it easy to manage your inventory, such as AmberPOS's inventory management feature. This can help you keep track of your stock levels and avoid overstocking or understocking.
Here are some must-have features to consider:
- Customer and inventory management
- Credit card processing
- Staff management
- Marketing according to customer trends
- Various payment integration methods
Some POS systems, like Cash Register Express Software, also offer features like customer loyalty and permission levels. These can help you streamline your operations and improve customer satisfaction.
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Large Inventory Management
Lightspeed Retail is a top choice for large inventory management due to its highly customizable and easy-to-use inventory manager.
The inventory manager can be easily uploaded and categorized, making it perfect for department stores, wholesale businesses, and even stores that offer rental items.
You can also identify shrinkage across multiple locations with Lightspeed Retail, which is a huge time-saver.
AmberPOS software offers advanced inventory management features that help track inventory levels and automate ordering processes.
With AmberPOS, you can create purchase orders and automatically complete them across multiple vendors, saving a lot of time on ordering.
This feature is especially useful for midsize to large retailers who need to manage complex inventory systems.
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Cash Register Software
Cash Register Software is a crucial component of any POS system, and there are several features to look out for when choosing the right one for your business.
You should build a monthly software budget to ensure you can afford the cash register software you need. This will also help you narrow down your options and make a more informed decision.
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A good cash register software should allow for customer and inventory management, as well as customer loyalty and permission levels. This is especially important for small and medium-sized businesses in Canada, where Cash Register Express Software is a popular choice.
Some cash register software, like AmberPOS, also offers customer relationship management tools to help you build strong relationships with your customers. This can include tracking personal details and analyzing purchasing trends.
If you're looking for a cost-effective option, consider a software like Tagrain, which offers flexible pricing plans and a forever free plan with the option to upgrade.
Here are some key features to look out for in a cash register software:
- Customer and inventory management
- Customer loyalty and permission levels
- Credit card processing and staff management
- Marketing according to customer trends and various payment integration methods
By considering these features and doing your research, you can find the perfect cash register software for your business and streamline your operations.
What Is A
A POS system is a computerized system that handles transactions for a business. It's like a digital cash register that keeps track of sales, inventory, and customer information.

A POS system typically includes hardware components such as a touchscreen monitor, a barcode scanner, and a credit card reader. These components work together to process transactions quickly and accurately.
The system also includes software that manages inventory levels, tracks customer purchases, and generates sales reports. This software is usually cloud-based, making it accessible from anywhere with an internet connection.
POS systems often come with integrated features like inventory management, customer relationship management, and employee management. These features help businesses streamline their operations and make informed decisions.
By using a POS system, businesses can reduce errors, increase efficiency, and improve customer satisfaction.
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Shopify and eCommerce
Shopify is a great option for Canadian businesses looking to manage their eCommerce and in-person sales. It offers strong multichannel selling features, built-in international sales features, and scalable eCommerce and POS solution.
One of the key benefits of Shopify is its ability to manage inventory across all sales channels, making it easy to keep track of stock levels and avoid overselling. Additionally, Shopify provides automated shipping tracking and discounts for popular shipping carriers like DHL Express, USPS, and UPS.
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Shopify's pricing is competitive, with payment processing rates ranging from 2.4%-2.9% for online transactions, and a flat rate of $0.10 for Interac debits. However, businesses that don't qualify for Shopify Payments may incur a 0.2%-2% transaction fee.
Here are the key features of Shopify's eCommerce solution:
- Accept major debit and credit cards, digital wallets, PayPal, and Venmo
- Mobile POS app on iOS and Android devices
- Professional online store builder
- Social media and online marketplace sales
- Buy online for in-store pickup, local delivery, and shipping
- Start exchanges and returns online
- Automated inventory sync for all sales channels
- Shipping tracking for businesses and customers
- Discounts for DHL Express, USPS, and UPS shipping
- Automated local currency and language conversion for online stores selling in multiple countries
- 8,000+ add-on apps on Shopify App Market
Shopify for eCommerce
Shopify for eCommerce is a solid choice for businesses looking to sell online. It offers a beautiful online store builder with in-store pickup and delivery capabilities.
One of the key benefits of Shopify for eCommerce is its automated multichannel inventory and shipping management. This feature ensures that your online and in-person sales are always up-to-date and accurate.
With Shopify, you can accept major debit and credit cards, digital wallets, PayPal, and Venmo. This makes it easy to process payments and expand your customer base.
Shopify's mobile POS app is available on both iOS and Android devices, making it easy to take payments and manage your business on the go.
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Shopify's online store builder is professional and easy to use, even for those with no coding experience. Plus, it integrates seamlessly with your in-person sales data.
Here are some of the key features of Shopify's online store builder:
- Accept major debit and credit cards, digital wallets, PayPal, and Venmo
- Mobile POS app on iOS and Android devices
- Professional online store builder
- Social media and online marketplace sales
- Buy online for in-store pickup, local delivery, and shipping
- Start exchanges and returns online
- Automated inventory sync for all sales channels
- Shipping tracking for businesses and customers
- Discounts for DHL Express, USPS, and UPS shipping
- Automated local currency and language conversion for online stores selling in multiple countries
- 8,000+ add-on apps on Shopify App Market
Overall, Shopify for eCommerce is a powerful and flexible platform that can help you grow your business and reach new customers.
Shopify strengths and weaknesses
Shopify POS offers robust features for small-business owners who want to sell both online and in person. You can customize the smart grid interface of your app, check out customers on the go, offer custom discounts, and send digital receipts.
One of the biggest strengths of Shopify is its ease of use. The software to process credit card payments in person is non-laggy and easy to navigate. This makes it perfect for businesses that need to process payments quickly.
Shopify also offers a free credit card reader that can read chips, which is a convenient feature for businesses on-the-go. The charge on the reader lasts for well over a day, making it perfect for situations where access to power is limited.
However, one of the major weaknesses of Shopify is its high price tag. Compared to the competition, Shopify POS is expensive and may not be worth the cost for some businesses.
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Touch Local Product
TouchBistro Local Product is a game-changer for retail operations, offering an intuitive POS system that enhances customer service and simplifies inventory management.
One of the standout features of TouchBistro Local Product is its streamlined approach to retail operations, allowing businesses to operate more efficiently and focus on what matters most - customer service.
Starting at just $69 per user per month, billed annually, TouchBistro Local Product is an affordable solution for businesses looking to upgrade their retail operations.
By automating retail POS tasks, businesses can save time and reduce errors, freeing up staff to focus on providing exceptional customer experiences.
With its user-friendly interface, TouchBistro Local Product is easy to learn and use, even for those without extensive technical knowledge.
If you're looking for a reliable and efficient POS system, TouchBistro Local Product is definitely worth considering.
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Pros and Cons
If you're in the market for a POS system in Canada, you're likely looking for something that's easy to use and set up. Square POS is known for its ease of use and setup process, which can get you up and running quickly.
Some POS systems, like TouchBistro, offer a single platform that brings all your business information together. This can be a huge time-saver and make it easier to access the information you need.
However, not all POS systems are created equal. For example, Square POS has limited modularity, which means it may not be suitable for certain industries. Additionally, some features, like the billing module, come at an extra cost.
Here are some key pros and cons of POS systems in Canada:
It's worth noting that some POS systems, like Focus POS, are user-friendly and simple for staff to learn. However, the installation process could be improved.
Return
Return can be a hassle, but Lightspeed Retail makes it relatively smooth. You can start returns and exchanges online, then ship or bring items back into the store.
The software also allows you to accept all payment types, including gift cards and store credit, making it easier to process returns and exchanges. This feature is especially useful for customers who prefer to return items in person.
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Lightspeed Retail's return policy is flexible, and you can set minimum inventory levels to ensure you don't run out of stock. Low-stock alerts will notify you when it's time to restock.
Here are some key features to consider when it comes to returns:
Overall, Lightspeed Retail's return features make it easier to manage returns and exchanges, and provide a better customer experience.
Pros and Cons of Squares
Square is a popular point-of-sale (POS) system that has both its advantages and disadvantages. The ease of use and setup process makes it easy for businesses to get started quickly, reducing the time from setup to implementation.
Square's detailed reports provide key information on the fly, and their mobile apps are highly regarded. You can even set up the system with zero cost if you bring your own tablets, all you need is the app and a card reader.
However, modularity is limited, and Square POS cannot be used in certain industries, such as the hospitality industry. This can be a significant drawback for businesses that don't fit into Square's narrow scope.
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There are also hidden costs to add modules, such as a billing module, which can add to the overall cost. This can be frustrating for businesses that expect a comprehensive solution.
In terms of pricing, Square's plans range from $0 to $79+/month/location, depending on the type of business. This can be a cost-effective option for many businesses, but it's essential to factor in the costs of add-ons and modules.
Here's a breakdown of Square's pricing plans:
In-person payment processing rates are 2.5% for major credit card transactions and 0.75% + $0.07 for Interac debit transactions. Online and invoice payment processing costs 2.8% + $0.30 per transaction.
Square offers a range of features, including free features like accepting any payment type, a free website builder, and mobile POS app. Paid plans include industry-specific features like advanced inventory management for retailers and order course management for restaurants.
It's worth noting that Square's hardware costs range from $69 to $899, depending on the type of device you need.
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Touch Bistro Pros and Cons
Touch Bistro is a popular POS software that offers a range of benefits for businesses. It brings all the information of your organization onto a single platform, allowing you to access details of employees' working schedules, remaining stock, and payment status anytime and anywhere.
The software is designed to be user-friendly, making it easy for staff to learn and use. This is reflected in its integrated modules, such as Receipts and order management, POS invoicing, and Order tracking, which are all accessible from the screen of your iPad.
One potential drawback of Touch Bistro is that the app support can stop working at times, although reinstalling the app usually resolves the issue.
Overall, Touch Bistro is a solid choice for businesses looking for a reliable and user-friendly POS system.
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Choosing a POS System
Choosing a POS system can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available in Canada. To start, you'll need to build a monthly software budget to determine how much you're willing to spend on a POS system.
Consider your industry and decide on your must-have features, such as inventory management or virtual terminal capabilities. This will help you narrow down your options and find a system that meets your specific needs.
For businesses providing one-time or recurring services, Helcim may be a good choice. Similarly, if you're a B2B or B2G business looking for lower payment processing rates, Helcim is worth considering.
Retailers with multiple sections or departments may benefit from using Lightspeed Retail. This system is particularly well-suited for businesses offering niche services like rentals, repairs, or appointments.
If you're looking for a POS system with no-fee third-party payment processing, Clover POS may be the way to go. Additionally, if you need durable POS hardware or add-on software features, Clover is a good option.
Here's a quick rundown of some key features to consider when choosing a POS system:
Ultimately, the best POS system for your business will depend on your specific needs and industry. Be sure to research and compare different options before making a decision.
Types of Cash Registers
There are several types of cash registers available in the market, each with its own unique features and benefits.
For small businesses, a simple point-of-sale (POS) system like the one used by a local coffee shop can be a great option.
In Canada, many retailers opt for electronic cash registers, which are faster and more accurate than traditional mechanical models.
Hardware Guide
The hardware guide is a crucial part of choosing the right cash register for your business. You can expect to pay between $49 and $799 for the equipment, depending on the brand and features you choose.
If you're looking for a low-cost option, consider Square POS, which starts at $0/month for the equipment. However, be aware that the equipment cost can range from $49 to $799.
Helcim POS offers a more transparent pricing model, with no monthly fees for the equipment. However, the equipment cost can range from $99 to $329.
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Lightspeed Retail also offers a range of equipment costs, from $199 to $329, depending on the plan you choose.
In general, it's a good idea to factor in the cost of equipment when choosing a cash register, as it can range from $49 to $1,799.
Here are some specific equipment costs for popular cash register brands:
Ultimately, the cost of the equipment will depend on the specific features and plan you choose. Be sure to factor it in when making your decision.
Types of Cash Registers
There are several types of cash registers, each designed for specific business needs.
Electronic cash registers are the most common type, using a digital display and keyboard for easy transactions.
Mechanical cash registers, on the other hand, rely on a mechanical system to process transactions, often found in small, low-volume businesses.
Point of Sale (POS) systems are a type of cash register that integrates with inventory management and customer loyalty programs, ideal for high-volume businesses.
Touchscreen cash registers offer a user-friendly interface and are often used in restaurants and bars due to their simplicity and ease of use.
POS System Costs
POS system costs can vary depending on the components you need. Canadian POS systems typically include three main components: POS software, POS hardware, and payment processing fees.
POS software costs range from $0 to $517+ per month for cloud-based solutions. This cost can add up quickly, especially for businesses with multiple locations or high sales volumes. Some POS systems, like Square, offer free in-person POS software.
POS hardware costs can range from $49 to $899+ for card readers and POS registers. You'll need to consider your business's specific needs and budget when choosing your POS hardware. For example, a small retail store may only need a basic card reader, while a restaurant may require a more advanced POS system with a touchscreen display.
Payment processing fees can range from 2% to 4% per transaction, depending on your business's size and industry. These fees can add up quickly, so it's essential to factor them into your overall POS system costs. Here are the estimated costs for Canadian POS systems:
- POS Software: $0-$517+/month
- POS Hardware: $49-$899+
- Payment Processing: 2%-4% per transaction
Keep in mind that add-ons like POS loyalty programs, online ordering, and accounting software integrations can also increase your monthly pricing.
E
Epos Now is a great option for retail businesses, offering a comprehensive all-in-one POS software. It's perfect for small and medium-sized businesses.
Epos Now has everything a retail business needs, including inventory management, retail accounting, customer management, and data analysis. These features make it a top-notch software in Canada.
Epos Now is designed to automate the entire retail store system, making it an efficient choice for businesses. It's available at affordable prices, making it a great value for the features it offers.
Epos Now is a great option for retail businesses that want a hassle-free experience. It's a perfect solution for businesses looking to streamline their operations.
Cost of Living in Canada
Living in Canada can be expensive, but did you know that the cost of a POS system can vary depending on the type of business you have? Canadian POS system costs include three main components: POS software, POS hardware, and payment processing.
The cost of POS software can range from $0 to $517+ per month for cloud-based options. This can add up quickly, especially for small businesses. I've seen some entrepreneurs struggle to make ends meet due to high POS software costs.
To give you a better idea, here's a breakdown of the estimated costs:
- POS Software: $0-$517+/month
- POS Hardware: $49-$899+
- Payment Processing: 2%-4% per transaction (on average for smaller businesses)
Add-ons like a POS loyalty program, online ordering, and accounting software integrations can also increase your monthly pricing. Be sure to factor these costs into your budget when choosing a POS system.
POS System Information
A POS system is software and hardware that, when combined, allows businesses to take orders on a screen, accept digital payment types with a card reader, manage inventory, and view sales reports.
Helcim is a popular choice for small businesses in Canada, offering a free plan with a range of features including in-person POS software, an online store builder, subscription manager, and customer account manager, all for $0.
To choose the right POS system for your business, it's essential to build a monthly software budget, as the cost can vary depending on the features and hardware you need.
The cost of using Helcim's payment processing services includes in-person fees of 1.82% + $0.08, online & keyed-in fees of 2.48% + $0.25, and ACH/eCheck payments fees of 0.25% + $0.05, with a fee cap of $6 per transaction.
Some businesses may also want to consider using Helcim's Fee Saver option, which passes all fees onto customers, or Level 2/3 Interchange Optimization, which can save up to 1%+ on interchange fees on qualifying Level 2/3 payments from B2B and B2G customers.
To get an idea of your expected payment processing rate, you can use Helcim's transparent payment processing rate calculator on their website, which takes into account your business's industry, average monthly sales volumes, average transaction size, and percentage of in-person and online sales.
Here are the payment processing rates for Helcim:
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