Best POS Terminals for Small Businesses
Not all POS terminals are created equal. Whether you’re running a coffee shop, salon, or mobile service business, the right terminal can improve checkout speed, reduce errors, and even lower processing fees. This guide breaks down the best POS terminals for small businesses in 2025 — based on features, reliability, and processor compatibility.
Clover Station Solo
★★★★★ 4.8
Best For: Full-service retail, restaurants, salons
Monthly Fee: $39.95+
Hardware Cost: $1,349+
Processing Fees: Varies by provider
Features:
- 14” touchscreen display
- Receipt printer + cash drawer compatibility
- Custom apps via Clover App Market
Pros:
- Sleek, all-in-one unit with large touchscreen
- Works out of the box with printer and cash drawer
- Access to the Clover App Market for add-ons
- Strong fit for restaurants and retail operations
Cons:
- Can only be used with Clover-approved processors
- High upfront hardware cost (~$1,300+)
- Monthly software fees may apply
Square Terminal
Best for:
Mobile + countertop combo
Key Features:
All-in-one, portable, built-in receipt printer
Processor
Square
Tip: Many processors offer free or discounted terminals with new merchant accounts — but always read the contract first.
What Is a POS Terminal?
A POS (Point-of-Sale) terminal is a hardware device used to accept in-person card payments. Most modern POS terminals include:
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EMV chip reader
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Contactless (NFC) support for tap payments
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Receipt printer or scanner
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Touchscreen or PIN pad for input
They help with more than just payments — often including tools for receipts, tipping, and basic inventory.
Types of POS Terminals
1. Countertop POS Terminals
Best For: Retail stores, restaurants
Popular Models: Clover Station, Dejavoo Z11, Ingenico Desk/5000
2. Mobile & Wireless Terminals
Best For: Food trucks, mobile services, events
Popular Models: Square Terminal, PayAnywhere Smart Flex
3. Smart POS Systems
Best For: Growing businesses needing analytics, inventory, and loyalty tools
Popular Models: Clover Mini, Toast POS, Shopify POS
How POS Terminals Are Priced
| Pricing Model | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Flat-rate | Hardware may be bundled into processing fee (e.g., Square: 2.6% + 10¢) |
| Interchange-plus | Transparent rates, terminals typically sold upfront or leased |
| Subscription-based | Monthly fee for wholesale processing; terminals may be included (e.g., Stax, Dharma) |
❌ Avoid leasing terminals unless the ROI is obvious. Leases often come with long, expensive contracts.
🔗 Recommended Processors with POS Support
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Square – Fast setup, no monthly fees, great for new businesses
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Clover – Full-featured POS system with an app marketplace
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Helcim – Transparent pricing, cloud-based smart terminals
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Stax – Subscription model ideal for established, high-volume shops
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Dharma Merchant Services – Ethical pricing and hardware for SMBs
POS Terminal Features Checklist
Before you choose a terminal, consider:
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✅ EMV + NFC support
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✅ Built-in receipt printing or email option
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✅ Connectivity (Wi-Fi, Ethernet, 4G)
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✅ Inventory + customer tracking
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✅ Loyalty and rewards integrations
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✅ Software updates and upgrade paths
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a POS terminal and a card reader?
A POS terminal is more robust — with inventory, receipts, and tipping options — while a card reader simply processes payments.
Do I need a POS terminal for a small business?
Not always. If you only do a few transactions per month, a mobile reader might work. But POS terminals offer better scalability and professionalism.
Which POS is best for restaurants?
Clover and Toast are top choices — both offer features like kitchen display systems, menu management, and tip handling.