Different Types of Retail POS Systems

There are various types of retail POS systems on the market today. Some are more specialized, while others offer a more general solution. Depending on your business needs, it may better suit one type of system for you than another. Here is a look at some of the most common types of retail POS systems and what they offer.

5 Types of Retail POS Systems

 

Retail point-of-sale (POS) systems are used to track transactions at a retail location. There are several POS systems, such as a kiosk, cash register, and mobile (tablet or smartphone). Each type has unique features that make it suitable for different retail settings.

  1. Kiosk-Based POS Systems:

Kiosk-style point of sale (POS) systems are set up in public areas, like airports or trade shows. They provide customers with the option to pay at their convenience using cash, credit cards, debit cards, or gift cards. This kind of system operates much like an ATM. First, customers swipe their cards at the kiosk to enter their payment information. Then, once the transaction is complete, customers take their receipt and proceed with their day.

  1. Cash Register Systems:

Cash register POS systems are used in traditional retail environments where cashiers operate registers that interact one-on-one with customers.

Retailers who rely on cash register systems need to make sure their equipment is compatible with the POS software used in their business. It includes Micros Fidelio and Retail Pro. If compatibility issues arise, retailers must either replace the existing registers or upgrade their POS system to continue using the same equipment.

  1. Mobile POS Systems:

Mobile point-of-sale solutions are ideal for retail locations that rely on a mobile workforce or change store locations frequently. It is known as a “mobile point of sale system” because it uses a mobile device, such as a tablet or smartphone.

Retailers who need to run mobile point of sale must choose mobile POS software and card reader hardware. Some retailers use cloud-based software but purchase their card reader equipment. In contrast, others prefer all-in-one systems that handle both one device’s software and hardware needs.

  1. Tablet & Mobile POS Displays:

Tablet-style point of sale (POS) systems use tablets as the main hardware component. Retailers can choose from a wide variety of tablets, including Android- and iOS-based devices.

The retailer’s access point of sale (POS) software connects tablet hardware to a wireless network. Some systems allow retailers to purchase their tablets and download necessary POS apps. In contrast, others use specific tablet models purchased from the provider.

Retailers who choose this point-of-sale system can run special promotions at various locations using tablet POS displays. Retailers can also use tablet hardware for mobile point of sale systems, common in the foodservice industry.

  1. Traditional Point of Sale Systems:

Traditional POS systems, such as those used in grocery stores, require a cashier to swipe cards and interact with customers one-on-one. This system requires specialized hardware and software and is relatively expensive compared with kiosk and mobile POS systems.

Grocery stores and other retailers that use traditional POS systems typically work with a retail solution provider to ensure compatibility between their hardware and software. Retailers must also train employees to operate the system, which can be time-consuming.

According to the experts at Lightspeed HQ, “Manage all your appointments without needing to leave the eCom back office.” If you need a new Retail POS System, contact them today.

 

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