Restaurant Handheld POS Benefits and Features

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Restaurant handheld POS systems offer numerous benefits and features that can streamline your restaurant's operations and improve customer satisfaction.

With a handheld POS, you can reduce wait times and increase table turnover, allowing you to serve more customers and boost revenue.

One key benefit is the ability to take orders and process payments at the table, eliminating the need for servers to constantly return to the kitchen or a central terminal.

This convenience also helps to reduce errors and improve accuracy, as orders are entered directly into the system and automatically updated in real-time.

Benefits of Restaurant Handheld POS

Implementing a handheld POS system can significantly boost sales productivity by nearly 10.77%, according to research from The Wharton School.

Handheld systems help restaurants turn tables up to 20% faster without asking servers to work harder than they already are, estimates from Toast suggest. This means servers can enjoy the occasional breather while still bringing drinks and food to tables more quickly.

Close-up of a handheld payment terminal printing a receipt, with cash and coins visible.
Credit: pexels.com, Close-up of a handheld payment terminal printing a receipt, with cash and coins visible.

Faster service is just one of the many benefits of handheld POS. With handheld systems, errors due to miscommunication or illegible handwriting are virtually eliminated, leading to fewer mistakes and greater customer satisfaction.

A handheld restaurant POS system minimizes errors dramatically, ensuring the kitchen receives accurate information instantly. This reduces costly errors and improves consistency.

Here are some key benefits of restaurant handheld POS:

  • More tables with less stress
  • Fewer wrong orders
  • Faster, simpler checkouts
  • An avenue for advertising
  • A lifesaver during busy hours

These benefits add up to happier customers and a happier staff. Speedy service, short wait-times, and the chance to save with loyalty points will all turn customers into regulars and spread positive word of mouth.

Key Features of Restaurant Handheld POS

A good handheld POS system should support multiple payment methods, including contactless payments, mobile wallets, and traditional cards with chip or swipe.

This flexibility improves the customer experience and helps reduce wait times by offering quick and secure payment options. It also allows servers to move around the restaurant and interact with customers more effectively.

Here's an interesting read: Square Cash Card Reader

Two baristas work at a coffee shop counter with a cash register and equipment.
Credit: pexels.com, Two baristas work at a coffee shop counter with a cash register and equipment.

Some key features to look for in a handheld POS system include:

  • Smooth integration with popular restaurant management systems like Clover, Square, and Toast
  • Flexible hardware options, including the ability to use existing devices or dedicated handhelds
  • Instant order processing that sends orders directly from the table to your POS
  • AI-driven delivery management that automatically selects the best driver for fast and efficient deliveries

EMV, Magstripe & NFC

A good handheld POS system should accept all major credit cards, including those with chip, pin, swipe, and tap capabilities, as well as mobile payments like Google and Apple Pay.

This flexibility is essential in today's diverse payment landscape, where customers expect quick and secure payment options. A handheld POS system that supports multiple payment methods can improve the customer experience and reduce wait times.

Accepting EMV, Magstripe, and NFC enabled payments is a must-have feature for any restaurant looking to stay competitive. It allows customers to pay with their preferred method, whether it's a traditional card or a mobile wallet.

This level of payment flexibility can be a game-changer for restaurants, especially during peak hours when customers are eager to pay and get on with their day.

For another approach, see: Tap to Pay Restaurant

Flexible

Flexible restaurant handheld POS systems are a game-changer. They allow you to set up quickly and easily, without having to change your hardware or workflows. Simply set it up in the app and start selling, as Example 3 puts it.

Back view unrecognizable diverse restaurant workers surfing modern netbook while sitting ar bar counter in cozy restaurant
Credit: pexels.com, Back view unrecognizable diverse restaurant workers surfing modern netbook while sitting ar bar counter in cozy restaurant

One of the key benefits of flexible handheld POS systems is that they work with a variety of existing devices, including Clover, Square, Toast, and more, as mentioned in Example 1. This means you can use what you already have, rather than investing in new equipment.

Handheld POS devices also give servers the freedom to move around the restaurant and interact with customers more effectively, enhancing the dining experience and encouraging repeat business, as highlighted in Example 4.

Some handheld POS systems even offer the option to use existing devices, while others come with dedicated handhelds, giving you the flexibility to choose what works best for your business. This flexibility is a major advantage, especially for businesses that are already invested in a particular system.

Here are some key features to consider when evaluating a flexible handheld POS system:

  • Works with existing devices or dedicated handhelds
  • Supports multiple payment options, including tap payments, credit cards, and mobile wallets
  • Offers instant order processing and AI-driven delivery management

Portability and Durability

Portability is crucial for staff to move quickly between tables or throughout the restaurant. A lightweight handheld POS system makes this possible.

A good handheld POS system should be robust enough to handle physical demands of a busy restaurant environment. This includes drops or spills, without compromising its performance.

A well-built POS can withstand these challenges, ensuring reliable performance even in the most demanding situations.

Choosing the Right Restaurant Handheld POS

A Woman in White Long Sleeves Tapping Her Phone on a Payment Terminal at the Counter
Credit: pexels.com, A Woman in White Long Sleeves Tapping Her Phone on a Payment Terminal at the Counter

Choosing the right restaurant handheld POS is crucial for providing excellent customer service and staying competitive. Selecting the best handheld POS depends on the restaurant's specific needs.

Smaller establishments may benefit from user-friendly and affordable options like Square, while larger restaurants requiring deep analytics and integrations might prefer solutions like Lightspeed. Peblla is an excellent choice for restaurants looking for a flexible and efficient pos handheld system that enhances service without adding complexity.

To choose the right handheld POS, consider factors such as integration, ease of use, durability, battery life, connectivity, features, support, and cost. Evaluate how easy the POS system is and how much training your staff will need.

Here are some key factors to consider when evaluating handheld POS systems:

  • Integration: Does it integrate smoothly with your existing restaurant POS and third-party software (inventory, scheduling, accounting)?
  • Ease of Use: Is the interface intuitive for your staff?
  • Durability: Restaurant environments are tough. Look for devices resistant to drops, spills, and grease.
  • Battery Life: Ensure the devices can last through a long shift without needing constant recharging.
  • Connectivity: A reliable Wi-Fi or mobile data connection is crucial. Consider offline capabilities for potential network disruptions.
  • Features: Does it offer the specific functionalities you need (split checks, modifier options, tableside payment types, reporting)?
  • Support: What level of customer support and technical assistance does the POS provider offer?
  • Cost: Understand the pricing structure – hardware costs, monthly software fees, and credit card processing rates.

Budgeting $300 to $600 for the upfront cost and $25 to $30 per device each month is a good starting point. Be sure to shop around and test out a POS before immediately jumping on the cheapest option.

Guest Satisfaction

A Woman in Black Shirt Using a Payment Terminal at the Counter
Credit: pexels.com, A Woman in Black Shirt Using a Payment Terminal at the Counter

Guest satisfaction is crucial for any restaurant's success. Guests appreciate not having to wait long for their orders to be taken or their checks to be processed.

Streamlining ordering and payments helps staff focus on hospitality, creating a better experience for guests. This leads to improvements in guest satisfaction and ultimately, increased revenue for the restaurant.

Guests value efficiency and convenience, and a mobile POS system delivers on both fronts. Arming your restaurant staff with this type of tech will help your business see improvements in the following areas:

  • Speed: Guests appreciate not having to wait long for their orders to be taken or their checks to be processed.
  • Accuracy: Orders taken at the table and directly sent to the kitchen are much less prone to errors, instantly improving customer satisfaction.
  • Interaction: Servers equipped with handhelds can spend more time interacting with guests at the table, answering questions about the menu, and providing a more personalized experience.
  • Flexibility: Customers can easily settle the check their way, whether they want to split the bill or use contactless payments like Google Pay or Apple Pay.
  • Security: Tableside payment increases perceived security as the customer’s credit card never leaves their sight.

Revenue Growth

Choosing the right restaurant handheld POS can have a significant impact on your revenue growth. By streamlining ordering and payments, staff can focus on hospitality, leading to increased customer satisfaction.

Faster table turnover is just the beginning. Handheld POS systems can also boost your bottom line by prompting servers with suggested upsells, reducing food waste and comps, and providing data-driven insights to inform business decisions.

Close-up of a point of sale terminal and thermal paper roll against blue background.
Credit: pexels.com, Close-up of a point of sale terminal and thermal paper roll against blue background.

Here are some specific ways handheld POS can increase revenue:

* Upselling prompts can increase the average check sizeReduced waste and comps can save you moneyData-driven decisions can help you identify popular items and peak hours

To take it to the next level, consider integrating your handheld POS with your broader restaurant ecosystem. This can include kitchen display systems, reporting and analytics, reservation and waitlist management, and rewards and loyalty programs.

Assessing Your Needs

Assessing your restaurant's specific needs is crucial when choosing the right handheld POS system. Evaluating your operational workflow will help you identify essential features to look for.

Different types of service, such as full-service, quick-service, or café, will have varying needs that impact your choice of POS. For instance, full-service restaurants may require features like tableside ordering, split bills, and tableside payments.

Consider the number of transactions your restaurant handles daily, especially during peak times. A POS system designed to process high volumes quickly and efficiently is a must-have.

A different take: Pos System Features

Cashier at a Restaurant
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To avoid overpaying for unnecessary features, identify the capabilities that add value to your restaurant type. Focus on selecting a POS system that addresses your immediate needs and offers room for expansion.

Here are some key factors to consider when assessing your needs:

  • Integration: Does it integrate smoothly with your existing restaurant POS and third-party software (inventory, scheduling, accounting)?
  • Ease of Use: Is the interface intuitive for your staff?
  • Durability: Restaurant environments are tough. Look for devices resistant to drops, spills, and grease.
  • Battery Life: Ensure the devices can last through a long shift without needing constant recharging.
  • Connectivity: A reliable Wi-Fi or mobile data connection is crucial. Consider offline capabilities for potential network disruptions.
  • Features: Does it offer the specific functionalities you need (split checks, modifier options, tableside payment types, reporting)?
  • Support: What level of customer support and technical assistance does the POS provider offer?
  • Cost: Understand the pricing structure – hardware costs, monthly software fees, and credit card processing rates.

By considering these factors and your restaurant's specific needs, you'll be able to choose a handheld POS system that enhances service without adding complexity.

Staff Skill Level

Staff Skill Level is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a restaurant handheld POS. A user-friendly interface can make all the difference in minimizing onboarding time and getting your staff up to speed quickly.

Look for systems with a clear and intuitive layout that makes it easy for staff to navigate and perform tasks. This will help reduce errors and increase productivity.

A system with a short learning curve will also save you time and money in training costs. By evaluating the staff skill level required for the POS system, you can ensure a smooth transition to the new technology.

Integration with Existing

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Credit: pexels.com, A cashier using a modern point of sale terminal in a store.

Integration with existing systems is crucial for a seamless handheld POS experience. Your POS system should work harmoniously with your current POS, inventory management, and online ordering platforms.

For instance, Orders.co offers smooth integration with widely-used systems like Clover and Square, allowing for a smooth workflow and preventing data silos. This integration is critical for maintaining a cohesive restaurant ecosystem.

A mobile POS system that integrates well with your existing systems can help you streamline your operations, reduce errors, and increase efficiency. Consider a system that integrates with your kitchen display system (KDS), reporting and analytics, reservation and waitlist management, and rewards and loyalty programs.

Here are some key integration factors to consider:

By choosing a handheld POS system that integrates well with your existing systems, you can create a cohesive and efficient restaurant ecosystem that benefits your staff, customers, and bottom line.

Pricing for Portable

Pricing for Portable POS Systems can be a bit of a challenge, but it's essential to consider the upfront cost, monthly software fees, and credit card processing rates.

A Close-Up Shot of a Cashier Using a Point of Sale System
Credit: pexels.com, A Close-Up Shot of a Cashier Using a Point of Sale System

The upfront cost can range from $300 to $600 per device, and some providers may offer an app that staff can download to their personal phones, eliminating the need for a separate device.

Typically, there's a monthly software fee, which can range from $25 to $30 per device, and it's essential to budget for these costs to avoid any unexpected expenses.

To give you a better idea, here's a rough breakdown of the costs involved:

It's also crucial to test out a POS before immediately jumping on the cheapest option, as reliability and performance are essential factors to consider.

Book Free Demo

If you're serious about finding the perfect restaurant handheld POS system, it's time to take the next step. Book your free demo with Pos Exchange to get the best credit card processing solutions for your business.

Potential for Expansion

As your restaurant grows, it's essential to choose a handheld POS system that can scale with you. This means looking for a system that has the potential for expansion, allowing you to add more devices, handle more transactions, and integrate additional locations without requiring a complete system overhaul.

Aerial view showcasing Dubai's urban expansion with buildings and desert roads at sunset.
Credit: pexels.com, Aerial view showcasing Dubai's urban expansion with buildings and desert roads at sunset.

You'll want to consider a system that can grow with your business, not one that becomes outdated and cumbersome as you expand. A scalable system will save you time and money in the long run, and ensure that your operations remain efficient and smooth.

The best mobile POS system should be able to handle increased traffic and sales without breaking a sweat. This means it should be able to process a high volume of transactions quickly and accurately, without slowing down or freezing.

A system with the potential for expansion will also give you the flexibility to try out new features and integrations as your business evolves. This could include things like online ordering, loyalty programs, or even self-service kiosks.

Here are some key features to look for in a scalable handheld POS system:

By choosing a handheld POS system with the potential for expansion, you'll be able to adapt to changing business needs and stay ahead of the competition.

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Credit: pexels.com, A barista in an apron uses a tablet in a small cafe. Customer interaction at the counter.

Square is a go-to option for small to mid-sized restaurants looking for a user-friendly and cost-effective handheld POS solution.

Square's handheld devices allow for seamless payment processing, tableside ordering, and integration with online ordering platforms.

Peblla is an emerging player in the handheld POS system market, offering restaurants an intuitive and reliable alternative to traditional systems.

Peblla's POS handheld technology enables seamless order processing, mobile payments, and integration with various restaurant management tools.

Clover Flex is a compact yet powerful POS handheld device designed for restaurants that need a versatile, all-in-one solution.

Clover Flex supports contactless payments, digital receipts, and real-time transaction tracking.

Lightspeed's handheld POS solution is particularly popular among full-service restaurants that require advanced reporting and inventory management features.

Lightspeed offers offline mode functionality, allowing restaurants to continue processing orders even when the internet goes down.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Pos System Integration

Implementation and Support

A POS system is only as good as the support behind it, so choose a provider that offers robust customer support and training resources to help your staff make the most of the system's features.

Deliveryman Scanning Payment of Customer with Terminal
Credit: pexels.com, Deliveryman Scanning Payment of Customer with Terminal

Selecting the right POS system can be a daunting task, but The POS Exchange brings over 20 years of restaurant expertise to the table, serving 200,000+ merchants and processing billions annually.

To ensure a smooth implementation, make sure to keep your team looped in on the selection process and set aside time for on-boarding and training. This will help your staff feel confident in their abilities during peak hours.

The POS Exchange offers end-to-end service, from innovative consultation and interactive demos to local installation and 24/7 support. Their mobile iPad POS systems streamline operations with features like order management, bill splitting, and inventory control.

Assess the system's reliability and uptime to ensure it can perform consistently during peak hours without frequent crashes or issues. A strong track record for resolving issues quickly and minimizing downtime is crucial to keep your restaurant running smoothly.

Here are some key things to consider when evaluating a POS system's support:

  • Robust customer support
  • Training resources
  • Reliability and uptime
  • Issue resolution and downtime minimization

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a restaurant POS system cost?

Restaurant POS system costs range from $60-$250 per month for software, plus a one-time hardware cost starting at $700. Learn more about the total cost and how to choose the right system for your restaurant.

How much does spoton handheld cost?

The upfront cost of a Spoton handheld POS system ranges from $259 to $750. For a more detailed breakdown of pricing and features, please refer to our pricing page.

Carolyn VonRueden

Junior Writer

Carolyn VonRueden is a versatile writer with a passion for crafting engaging content on a wide range of topics. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for research, Carolyn has established herself as a reliable voice in the world of finance and travel writing. Her portfolio boasts a diverse array of article categories, from exploring the benefits of cash cards to delving into the intricacies of Delta SkyMiles payment options.

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