Small business owners understand the importance of a reliable point-of-sale (POS) system for managing sales, inventory, and customer data, as well as accepting payments from various sources.
However, many POS systems come with monthly fees that can quickly add up, especially for small businesses on a tight budget.
Fortunately, there are POS systems available that don’t require a monthly fee. These systems can be a great option for small businesses looking to save money on their POS expenses. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at POS systems with no monthly fees, including their features, benefits, and drawbacks. And we’ll also provide some tips for choosing the right POS system for your business.
Overview of POS Systems with No Monthly Fee
If you’re a small business owner, you know that every penny counts. That’s why finding a POS system with no monthly fee can be a game-changer. In this section, we’ll give you an overview of POS systems with no monthly fee and highlight their benefits and common features.
Benefits of a One-Time Fee POS
One of the most significant benefits of a one-time fee POS system is that you don’t have to worry about monthly payments eating into your profits. Instead, you make a one-time payment for the hardware and software, and you’re good to go. This can be especially helpful for businesses that are just starting or those that have seasonal fluctuations in their sales.
Another benefit of a one-time fee POS system is that you have more control over your data. Since you’re not using a cloud-based system, you don’t have to worry about your data being stored on someone else’s servers. This can be a significant advantage for businesses that deal with sensitive customer information.
Common Features in Fee-Free POS Solutions
While the features of a fee-free POS system may vary depending on the provider, there are some common features that you can expect to find. These include:
- Inventory management: This feature allows you to track your inventory levels, set reorder points, and receive alerts when stock is running low.
- Sales reporting: With sales reporting, you can track your sales trends, identify your best-selling products, and see which items are not selling well.
- Customer management: This feature allows you to store customer information, track purchase history, and create customer profiles.
- Payment processing: Most fee-free POS systems support payment processing, allowing you to accept credit and debit cards, as well as other payment methods like PayPal and Apple Pay.
In conclusion, a POS system with no monthly fee can be a great option for small businesses looking to save money and have more control over their data. While the features of these systems may vary, you can expect to find common features like inventory management, sales reporting, customer management, and payment processing.
Selecting the Right POS System
When selecting a POS system with no monthly fee, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you choose the right system for your business. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Evaluating POS System Capabilities
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a POS system is its capabilities. You want to make sure that the system you choose has all the features you need to run your business efficiently. Some of the key capabilities to look for include:
- Inventory management: A good POS system should have the ability to track your inventory levels in real-time, so you can easily reorder products when necessary.
- Sales reporting: You should be able to generate reports that show you how much you’re selling, what your most popular products are, and other key metrics that can help you make informed business decisions.
- Payment processing: Your POS system should be able to accept a variety of payment types, including credit cards, debit cards, and mobile payments.
Compatibility with Business Operations
Another important factor to consider is how well the POS system you choose will integrate with your existing business operations. Some things to keep in mind include:
- Hardware compatibility: Make sure the POS system you choose is compatible with the hardware you already have, such as barcode scanners, cash drawers, and receipt printers.
- Software integration: If you use other software programs to manage your business, such as accounting or inventory management software, make sure the POS system you choose can integrate with those programs.
- Staff training: Consider the level of training your staff will need to use the system effectively. Look for a system that is easy to use and requires minimal training.
Upfront Costs vs. Long-Term Savings
Finally, when choosing a POS system, it’s important to consider the upfront costs versus the long-term savings. While a system with no monthly fee may seem like a good deal, you’ll want to make sure you’re not sacrificing quality or features for a lower price. Consider the following:
- Upfront costs: Look at the upfront costs of the POS system, including any hardware or software you’ll need to purchase.
- Long-term savings: Consider the long-term savings you’ll realize by using a POS system that helps you manage your inventory, track sales, and process payments efficiently. A good POS system can help you save time and money in the long run.
By evaluating the capabilities of the POS system, its compatibility with your business operations, and the upfront costs versus long-term savings, you can choose the right system for your business.
Top POS System with No Monthly Fee
Here is a list of the best POS System with No Monthly Fee
Square
Square POS is a free point-of-sale software that offers a comprehensive and user-friendly platform for businesses to manage their sales, inventory, and customer data. With over 4 million merchants using Square, it’s a reliable choice for businesses of all sizes and types.
Pricing and Transaction Fees
Square POS has no monthly fee, and the transaction fees are as follows:
- In-person transactions: 2.6% + 10¢ per transaction
- Online transactions: 3.5% + 15¢ per transaction
- Keyed-in transactions: 3.5% + 15¢ per transaction
Pros
Advanced Inventory Management
Square POS offers a robust inventory management system that allows businesses to track their stock levels, monitor product variants, and receive low-stock alerts.
User-Friendly Interface
The intuitive interface of Square POS makes it easy for businesses to navigate and manage their sales, inventory, and customer data.
Customizable
Square POS allows businesses to customize their POS system with various hardware options, including receipt printers, cash drawers, and barcode scanners.
Integrated Payment Processing
Square POS offers integrated payment processing, which eliminates the need for a separate payment processor.
Cons
Limited Customer Support
Some users have reported difficulty in getting help from Square’s customer support team.
Fees for Additional Services
While Square POS has no monthly fee, some additional services, such as payment processing and hardware, may incur extra fees.
Limited Integrations
Square POS has limited integrations with third-party apps and software.
User Review
“Square POS has been a game-changer for my business. The inventory management system is robust, and the user interface is easy to navigate. The payment processing fees are reasonable, and the customer support team is responsive.”
Square POS is a reliable and robust POS system that offers a comprehensive platform for businesses to manage their sales, inventory, and customer data. With its user-friendly interface, advanced inventory management, and integrated payment processing, Square POS is an excellent choice for businesses of all sizes and types. While it has some limitations, such as limited customer support and fees for additional services, Square POS is a top choice for businesses looking for a POS system with no monthly fee.
Loyverse
Loyverse POS is a free, intuitive, and cloud-based point-of-sale software that empowers businesses to manage sales, inventory, and customer data seamlessly. With over 1 million businesses in 170 countries using Loyverse, it’s a reliable choice for businesses of all sizes and types.
Pricing and Transaction Fees
Loyverse POS has no monthly fee, and the transaction fees are as follows:
According to Loyverse’s official website, the following add-ons are offered ¹:
- Manage multiple stores, sales analytics, inventory management, loyalty program: free
- Loyverse KDS (Kitchen Display System): free
- Loyverse CDS (Customer Display System): free
- Employee management: $25 per store per month
- Advanced inventory: $25 per store per month
- Integrations: $9 per store per month
- Integrated payment providers available in over 30 countries
- Non-integrated payments possible with user’s preferred merchant service provider
Pros
Seamless Data Syncing
Loyverse POS offers automatic syncing of data, sales, and inventory changes, ensuring smooth daily operations.
Advanced Inventory Management
Loyverse POS provides real-time stock tracking, low stock alerts, and easy stock transfer between stores.
Aggressive Analytics
Loyverse POS offers 24/7 access to real-time sales analytics, enabling users to track profit, average sales, and revenue.
Employee Management
Loyverse POS allows employees to clock in and out conveniently, and users can track sales by employee and determine best performers.
Cons
Limited Employee Management
The free version of Loyverse POS only allows one user, the store admin, to use the POS system.
Additional Fees for Add-ons
While Loyverse POS is free, additional features such as employee management and advanced inventory management come with a fee.
Limited Integrations
Loyverse POS has limited integrations with third-party apps and software.
User Review
“Loyverse has been a game-changer for my business. The inventory management system is robust, and the analytics tools are easy to use. The customer support team is responsive, and the POS system is easy to navigate.”
Loyverse POS is a powerful and scalable POS system that offers a comprehensive platform for businesses to manage their sales, inventory, and customer data. With its seamless data syncing, advanced inventory management, and aggressive analytics, Loyverse POS is an excellent choice for businesses looking for a POS system with no monthly fee. While it has some limitations, Loyverse POS is a top choice for businesses seeking to streamline their operations and grow their customer base.
PayPal Zettle
PayPal Zettle is a free mobile POS system that allows businesses to accept payments and manage their sales, inventory, and customer data seamlessly. With over 1 million businesses using PayPal Zettle, it’s a reliable choice for businesses of all sizes and types.
Pricing and Transaction Fees
PayPal Zettle has no monthly fee, and the transaction fees are as follows:
- Debit and credit card transactions: 2.7% + 30¢ per transaction
- PayPal payments: 2.9% + 30¢ per transaction
- International transactions: additional 1.5% fee
Pros
Convenient Payment Processing
PayPal Zettle allows businesses to accept payments anywhere, anytime, using their mobile device.
Advanced Inventory Management
PayPal Zettle offers real-time inventory tracking, low stock alerts, and easy stock transfer between stores.
Seamless Integration with PayPal
PayPal Zettle integrates seamlessly with PayPal, allowing businesses to manage their payments and sales in one place.
Robust Security
PayPal Zettle offers robust security measures, including encryption and fraud detection, to ensure secure transactions.
Cons
Limited Employee Management
PayPal Zettle has limited employee management features, making it less suitable for large teams.
Additional Fees for Add-ons
While PayPal Zettle is free, additional features such as advanced inventory management and employee management come with a fee.
Limited Integrations
PayPal Zettle has limited integrations with third-party apps and software.
User Review
“PayPal Zettle has been a game-changer for my business. The payment processing is convenient and secure, and the inventory management system is robust. The integration with PayPal is seamless, and the customer support team is responsive.”
PayPal Zettle is a convenient and secure POS system that offers a comprehensive platform for businesses to manage their sales, inventory, and customer data. With its convenient payment processing, advanced inventory management, and seamless integration with PayPal, PayPal Zettle is an excellent choice for businesses looking for a POS system with no monthly fee. While it has some limitations, PayPal Zettle is a top choice for businesses seeking to streamline their operations and grow their customer base.
Helcim POS
Helcim POS is a free, transparent, and user-friendly point-of-sale software that offers businesses a comprehensive platform to manage their sales, inventory, and customer data. With its flexible pricing and robust features, Helcim POS is an attractive choice for businesses of all sizes and types.
Pricing and Transaction Fees
Helcim POS has no monthly fee, and the transaction fees are as follows:
- Swipe, dip, or tap: 2.38% + 8¢ per transaction
- Keyed-in transactions: 3.5% + 8¢ per transaction
- Online transactions: 2.9% + 8¢ per transaction
Pros
Transparent Pricing
Helcim POS offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees or surprises.
Advanced Inventory Management
Helcim POS provides real-time inventory tracking, low stock alerts, and easy stock transfer between stores.
Robust Security
Helcim POS offers robust security measures, including encryption and fraud detection, to ensure secure transactions.
Excellent Customer Support
Helcim POS offers 24/7 customer support through phone, email, and chat.
Cons
Limited Employee Management
Helcim POS has limited employee management features, making it less suitable for large teams.
Limited Integrations
Helcim POS has limited integrations with third-party apps and software.
Steep Learning Curve
Helcim POS may require some time to get used to, especially for users without prior POS experience.
User Review
“Helcim POS has been a game-changer for my business. The transparent pricing and advanced inventory management features have saved me time and money. The customer support team is responsive and helpful.”
Helcim POS is a transparent and affordable POS system that offers businesses a comprehensive platform to manage their sales, inventory, and customer data. With its transparent pricing, advanced inventory management, and robust security, Helcim POS is an excellent choice for businesses looking for a POS system with no monthly fee. While it has some limitations, Helcim POS is a top choice for businesses seeking to streamline their operations and grow their customer base
Toast POS
Toast POS is a top-rated, restaurant-specific point-of-sale software that offers advanced features and robust hardware options, making it an ideal choice for food businesses seeking to streamline their operations. With its reasonable pricing and impressive features, Toast POS is a popular choice for restaurants of all sizes.
Pricing and Transaction Fees
Toast POS offers five main pricing plans, with transaction fees as follows:
- Quick Start Bundle (Free): 2.99% + 15¢ per transaction
- Core ($69/month): 2.49% + 15¢ per transaction (card present), 3.5% + 15¢ per transaction (card not present)
- Growth ($165/month): 2.49% + 15¢ per transaction (card present), 3.5% + 15¢ per transaction (card not present)
- Toast New Restaurant Basics ($110/month): 2.49% + 15¢ per transaction (card present), 3.5% + 15¢ per transaction (card not present)
- Custom Plan (Custom pricing): 2.49% + 15¢ per transaction (card present), 3.5% + 15¢ per transaction (card not present)
Pros
Extremely Easy to Use
Toast POS is extremely easy to use, with an intuitive interface and robust features.
Advanced Inventory Management
Toast POS offers real-time inventory tracking, low stock alerts, and easy stock transfer between stores.
Robust Reporting Features
Toast POS provides detailed reporting features, including sales summaries, location overview, and performance filtering.
Niche Specifications
Toast POS offers niche specifications for certain types of restaurants, making it an ideal choice for food businesses.
Cons
Limited Hardware Compatibility
Toast POS is only compatible with Android devices, limiting its accessibility for iOS users.
No Integrated Payment Processing
Toast POS does not offer integrated payment processing, which can be a drawback for some businesses.
Limited Support Options
Toast POS lacks support options, including live chat and email support.
No Barcode Setup
Toast POS does not offer barcode setup, which can be a limitation for some businesses.
User Review
“Toast POS has been a game-changer for my restaurant. The ease of use and advanced inventory management features have saved me time and money. The reporting features are also impressive.” –
Toast POS is a restaurant-specific POS system that offers advanced features, robust hardware options, and reasonable pricing. While it has some limitations, Toast POS is an excellent choice for food businesses seeking to streamline their operations and grow their customer base. With its ease of use, advanced inventory management, and robust reporting features, Toast POS is a top choice for restaurants of all sizes.
eHopper POS
eHopper POS is a free, flexible, and user-friendly point-of-sale software that offers businesses a comprehensive platform to manage their sales, inventory, and customer data. With its robust features and scalable pricing, eHopper POS is an attractive choice for businesses of all sizes and types.
Pricing and Transaction Fees
eHopper POS has no monthly fee, and the transaction fees are as follows:
- Swipe, dip, or tap: 2.5% + 10¢ per transaction
- Keyed-in transactions: 3.5% + 10¢ per transaction
- Online transactions: 2.9% + 10¢ per transaction
Pros
Flexible Pricing
eHopper POS offers flexible pricing options, including a pay-as-you-go plan with no monthly fee.
Advanced Inventory Management
eHopper POS provides real-time inventory tracking, low stock alerts, and easy stock transfer between stores.
User-Friendly Interface
eHopper POS has an intuitive interface that is easy to navigate, even for users without prior POS experience.
Robust Reporting Features
eHopper POS offers detailed reporting features, including sales summaries, inventory reports, and employee performance tracking.
Cons
Limited Employee Management
eHopper POS has limited employee management features, making it less suitable for large teams.
Limited Integrations
eHopper POS has limited integrations with third-party apps and software.
Steep Learning Curve
eHopper POS may require some time to get used to, especially for users without prior POS experience.
User Review
“eHopper POS has been a game-changer for my business. The flexible pricing and advanced inventory management features have saved me time and money. The user-friendly interface is also a plus.”
eHopper POS is a flexible and user-friendly POS system that offers businesses a comprehensive platform to manage their sales, inventory, and customer data. With its flexible pricing, advanced inventory management, and robust reporting features, eHopper POS is an excellent choice for businesses looking for a POS system with no monthly fee. While it has some limitations, eHopper POS is a top choice for businesses seeking to streamline their operations and grow their customer base.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best free POS systems for small businesses?
There are several free POS systems available for small businesses, each with its own set of features and benefits. Some of the most popular options include Square POS, Stripe POS, PayPal Zettle, and Loyverse POS. Each of these systems offers a range of features, including inventory management, sales reporting, and customer management, among others.
Can you recommend a POS system that doesn’t require a monthly subscription?
Yes, there are several POS systems available that do not require a monthly subscription. Some of the most popular options include Square POS, Stripe POS, PayPal Zettle, and Loyverse POS. These systems are free to use, with no monthly fees or hidden charges.
How do POS systems with no monthly fee make money?
POS systems with no monthly fee typically make money by charging a transaction fee on each sale. For example, Square POS charges a transaction fee of 2.6% + 10¢ per transaction for in-person sales, and 2.9% + 30¢ per transaction for online sales. Other systems, like Stripe POS, charge a flat transaction fee of 2.9% + 30¢ per transaction.
Are there any POS solutions available that do not charge for credit card processing?
Yes, there are some POS solutions available that do not charge for credit card processing. For example, Square POS charges a flat transaction fee, regardless of the type of credit card used. Other systems, like PayPal Zettle, charge a slightly higher transaction fee for certain types of credit cards, but do not charge an additional processing fee.