Best Shopify POS Alternatives
The best alternatives to Shopify POS, ranked by rating and value.
We compared 4 Shopify POS alternatives. Square is the top pick at 4.5/5 (from Free). 3 have a free plan. 1 rate higher than Shopify POS itself (4.4/5).
Why look for a Shopify POS alternative?
Shopify POS rates 4.4/5 and is genuinely strong at seamless with shopify — most people switch because of a specific trade-off:
- •Pro tier per location
- •Best only if on Shopify
Shopify POS alternatives compared
| Tool | Starts at | Rating | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shopify POS (the original) | Free | 4.4/5 | Shopify merchants going omnichannel |
| Square | Free | 4.5/5 | Retail, food & omnichannel SMBs |
| Toast | Free | 4.4/5 | Restaurants & food service |
| Lightspeed | $89/mo | 4.2/5 | Retail & multi-location |
| Clover | Free | 4.1/5 | Retail, restaurants & services |
The best Shopify POS alternatives, ranked
Unified online + in-person payments
Why switch: Great for in-person. Best for Retail, food & omnichannel SMBs.
POS built for restaurants
Why switch: Built for restaurants. Best for Restaurants & food service.
POS for retail & restaurants
Why switch: Strong inventory. Best for Retail & multi-location.
Flexible POS with an app marketplace
Why switch: Great hardware. Best for Retail, restaurants & services.
Pick by priority
Best rated → Square
4.5/5 across 12,600 reviews. Great for in-person.
Free option → Square
Has a genuine free plan — the cheapest way to test a switch.
Closest fit → Square
Our top overall pick for people leaving Shopify POS. Suits Retail, food & omnichannel SMBs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best alternative to Shopify POS?+
Square is our top-ranked Shopify POS alternative, rated 4.5/5 and starting at Free. Great for in-person is its standout strength, and it suits Retail, food & omnichannel SMBs.
Are there free alternatives to Shopify POS?+
Yes — Square, Toast, Clover offer a free plan. Paid tiers unlock more, but the free tier is enough to test the fit.
Why do people look for Shopify POS alternatives?+
The most common reasons are: pro tier per location, best only if on shopify. Shopify POS still rates 4.4/5, so the right move depends on which trade-off matters to you.
Which Shopify POS alternative is rated highest?+
Square at 4.5/5, versus 4.4/5 for Shopify POS.