There are several free point-of-sale (POS) systems in the market, each one offering different sets of functionalities to efficiently run a business. The ideal free POS software can handle payments, produce reports, manage sales, inventory, and customer relations at almost zero cost. With savings, business owners can take more steps to improve business operations.
The best free POS software for small businesses are:
- Square: Best overall free POS software for small businesses, including retailers and restaurants
- Loyverse: Best for hybrid retail and restaurant businesses
- Siiopa: Best free Android POS software for restaurants
- eHopper: Best for markets and grocers
- Imonggo: Best for small businesses with limited inventory
How We Evaluated Free POS Software
The goal of this buyers’ guide is to identify which POS systems provide the best features without any upfront cost, and we narrowed our list of 36 types of software down to eight forever-free systems. We then compared those eight POS systems based on price, additional features included in the free plan—such as retail and restaurant functionalities—and ecommerce integrations. We also considered general POS features including sales-type, inventory management, and reporting functions. Finally, we had our retail experts evaluate the eight POS systems from their personal knowledge of the software.
Based on our evaluation criteria, Square emerged as the best free POS system for small businesses, receiving the highest overall score from our grading system for free POS software (4.26 out of 5). Our scoring system focused on finding the software with the most optimal features out of the box and value-for-money upgrades. Final rankings show a list in line with our personal recommendation based on our experience testing different software and working with small businesses that use POS systems every day.
Click through the tabs below for a more detailed breakdown of our evaluation criteria.
30% of Overall Score
While we require the system to offer a free-forever plan, we also wanted paid options that are under $50 per month because these systems should provide the most value for money as businesses expand. We then checked if the free plan included unlimited inventory listings and transaction processing. We also gave points for systems that offer any type of free hardware. Finally, we assigned high marks for POS systems that don’t have any kind of startup-related fees.
20% of Overall Score
We wanted a POS system to have the key general features included in its free option. We looked at its ability to handle different tenders without having to purchase any upgrade. We also looked for the availability of inventory, employee CRM and loyalty management features, including the level of customization allowed in the free plan, if any. Lastly, we wanted to make sure that it includes a reporting function so business owners have access to key information they need for making business decisions.
20% of Overall Score
We checked for specific restaurant and retail functionalities, as well as ecommerce integrations. We also evaluated each software’s ability to handle business expansion using multi-location management tools and access to integrations and APIs without additional cost.
10% of Overall Score
A POS software should be easy to use and require little to no training to start processing sales. We gave high marks to systems that provide the best customer service with its free plan. We also gave additional points for systems that work on app and web browsers, as well as those that are compatible with more than one operating software, which allows businesses to choose the systems they are most comfortable with. Finally, we awarded points for cloud-based solutions and those that can process transactions offline so that users are not interrupted from making a sale and can still access reporting data from anywhere.
20% of Overall Score
This section evaluates each system’s overall performance from a professional standpoint and reflects how highly we would recommend the software to our readers. We gauge the standout features and determine whether or not the software and hardware options offer a good overall value for its price. I also awarded points based on my personal experience interacting with the software and the company’s customer support.
Square POS
PROS
- Unlimited transactions and inventory processing
- Free online store
- Includes a free magstripe reader
- Works on both iOS and Android
CONS
- Limited inventory functions
- Unable to manage inventory and CRM in offline mode
- Can only view and download reports
- Cannot create and print bar code labels
| RATING CRITERIA | Pricing | 4.88 | OUT OF | 5 |
| General Features Included in Free Option | 3.5 | OUT OF | 5 | |
| Additional Features in Free Option | 3.25 | OUT OF | 5 | |
| Ease of Use | 4.5 | OUT OF | 5 | |
| Expert Score | 5 | OUT OF | 5 |
Square POS provides the most robust features for a free POS software and provides a level of customization most users would only find in paid plans. It allows for handling multiple types of tender and offers a free online platform so that users can expand their customer base even on social media. Square earned a 4.26 out of 5, getting the highest marks for pricing, ease of use, and expert evaluation. However, Square’s limited inventory and employee tools prevented the software from gaining a perfect score.
Also of note, in addition to Square POS, which is the best overall POS software for small businesses, Square has forever-free plan options for Square for Retail and Square for Restaurants, meaning there is a free POS plan for almost every business type.
Square POS Free Plan Features and Limitations
Users can start taking payments with Square POS as soon as they download the free app on their mobile device. However, there are processing fees incurred for every transaction. Square’s payment processing rate is 2.6% + 10 cents for card-present transactions and 2.9% + 30 cents per online transaction.
- POS overview: Process unlimited number of transactions and upload unlimited products. Manage business operations for multiple locations and unlimited number of users.
- Upfront cost: None. The free plan includes a free magstripe card reader that can be attached to a smartphone and serve as a payment terminal. Use alongside any existing iOS or Android device to manage other business functions.
- Ease of use: Compatible on both iOS and Android platforms. Operates on a smartphone, tablet, PC, or Mac and is accessible through a browser or on the app.
- Inventory management: Set low stock and out-of-stock alerts. Track inventory from multiple locations. Scan bar codes and use it to search for inventory.
- Ecommerce: Create a free online store or ordering page. Orders, inventory, and customers automatically sync with POS sales. Offer options for pick up, delivery, and shipping to customers. Social selling through integration with Instagram.
- Payment processing: Accepts cash, check, credit card, and touchless payments. Create, send, and manage invoices.
- Customer management: Automatically create customer profiles, and recognize shoppers based on their payment data. Save contact information and send digital SMS or email receipts, which can also be used to collect customer feedback.
- Report generation: View data on sales, employees, inventory, customer behavior.
- Employee management: Employee management on Square’s free version is limited to setting employee logins.
When to Upgrade
Square’s free plan works best for any type of small business with its customizable features. It also offers upgrades that add advanced features to your free software. For example, Square for Retail’s Plus plan is $60 per month and is rated as one of the best overall retail POS systems.
Consider upgrading your plan to a paid version when:
- You want more control over a steadily increasing inventory
- You need a custom domain and want to save on shipping labels for your growing online orders
- You have a steadily increasing sales volume and want to save on payment processing fees
Loyverse
PROS
- Supports product variants
- Strong CRM features
- Runs on both Android and iOS
CONS
- Limited inventory management tools and software integrations
- Ecommerce integration is a paid add-on
| RATING CRITERIA | Pricing | 4.75 | OUT OF | 5 |
| General Features Included in Free Option | 3.25 | OUT OF | 5 | |
| Additional Features in Free Option | 2.75 | OUT OF | 5 | |
| Ease of Use | 4.5 | OUT OF | 5 | |
| Expert Score | 4.69 | OUT OF | 5 |
Loyverse is our top free POS software of choice for small restaurants that also like to sell retail products. The free plan offers unlimited processing of inventory and sales transactions, supports the adding of variants in its product listings, and includes its full suite of CRM features.
In our evaluation, Loyverse scored a 4.01 out of 5, coming in behind Square. It earned high marks for ease of use and expert score, while the lack of ecommerce integration and limited inventory features prevented Loyverse from taking the top spot in our rankings.
Loyverse Free Plan Features and Limitations
Loyverse POS runs on both iOS and Android platforms, so users with compatible smartphones and tablets can start using the system at no extra cost. Transaction fees for accepting credit cards depend on your card processor of choice as these are non-integrated. Loyverse has partnered with Worldpay, SumUp and CardConnect for its US-based account holders.
- POS overview: Unlimited transactions and unlimited inventory upload. System can be used to manage multiple locations and give access to unlimited users. Comes with a free loyalty program and customer-facing display app.
- Upfront cost: Loyverse POS can be used with any mobile device to immediately record cash payments. Startup business owners will have to purchase a separate card reader to accept card payments.
- Ease of use: Runs on both iOS and Android platforms and operates on a smartphone, tablet, PC or Mac.
- Inventory management: Somewhat limited functionality. Manually add items, upload images, categorize products, and set low stock notifications.
- Ecommerce: No built-in integration. Works with WooCommerce but requires purchasing a separate add-on.
- Payment processing: Card payments and contactless available upon separate purchase of hardware.
- Customer management: Create customer profiles. App available for customer download to send discounts and other promotions.
- Report generation: View sales trends, employee shifts, taxes, and popular items.
- Employee management: Not features available in the free Loyverse plan
When to Upgrade
While Loyverse POS can adapt to both retail and restaurant businesses, we recommend the system for multi-concept and pay-at-the-counter restaurants like food trucks, cafes, and bake shops. The system supports variant listings of products where items can be categorized into multiple versions such as size and colors. There are no prepaid plans, but users who want improved features can purchase its employee management add-on that costs $5 per employee, per month and advanced inventory features for $25 per month.
Consider purchasing their upgrades for advanced features when:
- You want to open your business to online customers
- Your business is growing and you require more employees to handle customers
- You have plans to open more store branches for your business
Siiopa
PROS
- Android-based
- Built-in menu and order management features
CONS
- Limited to single location
- Inventory management and online ordering are add-ons
- No customer service available
| RATING CRITERIA | Pricing | 4.75 | OUT OF | 5 |
| General Features Included in Free Option | 3 | OUT OF | 5 | |
| Additional Features in Free Option | 1 | OUT OF | 5 | |
| Ease of Use | 3.5 | OUT OF | 5 | |
| Expert Score | 4.06 | OUT OF | 5 |
Siiopa is the cloud-based alternative of Floreant POS, a popular open-source POS, and our most recommended system for single-location startup restaurants. At its core, Siiopa POS offers cloud-based data storage, built-in menu features, and order management tools. Android fans will also love that this system runs on Android mobile smartphones and tablets.
Based on the criteria we’ve set for evaluating free POS systems, Siiopa earned a score of 3.39 out of 5, with high marks for pricing and ease of use. However, the lack of inventory management, ecommerce integration, and multi-location management in its free version prevented Siiopa POS from getting a higher score.
Siiopa POS Free Plan Features and Limitations
Siiopa POS users can immediately start taking cash payments right after setup. Restaurants can integrate card payments through the Authorize.Net payment gateway, which is compatible with most payment processors.
- POS overview: Unlimited transactions and inventory upload. Single location only.
- Upfront cost: Will need to open a separate merchant account and purchase card reader hardware.
- Ease of use: Cloud-based data storage and runs on Android tablets and smartphones. Can process payments while offline. No customer support.
- Inventory management: Limited to menu management.
- Ecommerce: Only available as an add-on.
- Payment processing: Accepts cash and card transactions through Authorize.Net. Split tickets and checks.
- Customer management: Available as an add-on.
- Report generation: View data on sales, employees, inventory, customer behavior.
- Employee management: Single role users only.
When to Upgrade
Siiopa POS’ core features are directed toward restaurant businesses; and because multi-location management is only available in the paid version of the software, we recommend this system for small, single-location restaurants. Users looking for advanced restaurant features and inventory management can upgrade to ORO POS with plans that start at $19.99 per terminal, per month. However, growing businesses might be better served by one of our recommended restaurant POS systems.
Consider upgrading your plan to a paid version when:
- You want more payment options such as chip and EMV payments
- You intend on expanding to additional locations and hire more employees
- You want to improve kitchen management and table service
- You need more control over inventory
eHopper
PROS
- Unlimited inventory and transactions
- Easy to use
- Sell products by weight
CONS
- Loyalty and ecommerce features are only available in paid plans
- Very basic reporting
- No customer support
| RATING CRITERIA | Pricing | 4.88 | OUT OF | 5 |
| General Features Included in Free Option | 2.25 | OUT OF | 5 | |
| Additional Features in Free Option | 0.75 | OUT OF | 5 | |
| Ease of Use | 3.5 | OUT OF | 5 | |
| Expert Score | 3.75 | OUT OF | 5 |
eHopper is a cloud-based POS software designed for specialty shops. It’s compatible with iOS, Android, Windows, and Poynt hardware. eHopper offers detailed inventory management features, including the ability to sell items by weight, plus features for order tracking, customer management, payment processing, and a time-clock. It also offers a cash-discounting tool to help businesses achieve zero-cost payment processing and features to accept EBT payments.
Based on our criteria, eHopper earned an overall score of 3.16 out of 5, with outstanding marks for pricing and ease of use. However, the lack of ecommerce integration, loyalty features, and customer support prevented eHopper from earning additional points.
eHopper Free Plan Features and Limitations
eHopper’s free POS system comes with most of the basic retail functionalities—including multiple tender processing, inventory management, customer management, order tracking, and reporting tools.
- Upfront cost: None if you run a cash-based business. Otherwise, users can sign up for a separate merchant account with non-integrated payment processors.
- Ease of use: Cloud-based data storage and can run on Windows, iOS, and Android. Can process payments while offline.
- Inventory management: Does not include low-stock alerts
- Ecommerce: Only available for premium subscribers.
- Payment processing: Can process cash transactions, EBT payments, split payments, assign or include taxes, manage tips, email, or print receipts. You will need a separate merchant account.
- Customer management: Add, manage, and update customer profile, add notes, view transaction history, import and export customer list.
- Report generation: View, filter, export inventory, sales, purchase orders, taxes and tips, inventory aging, and serial items tracking reports.
- Employee management: Limited to time tracking, clock in/out, and only available in paid subscription plans.
When to Upgrade
eHopper’s free POS software works well for single-location, brick-and-mortar stores. An upgrade to its paid plan—which includes ecommerce integrations, loyalty programs, and multi-location management—will be necessary as your business grows. While eHopper is a great free grocery POS, growing businesses might need a more robust grocery software.
Consider upgrading your plan to a paid version when:
- You want to expand your business by opening additional locations
- You want to start selling online
- You want to build your customer base with a loyalty program or marketing strategy
Imonggo
PROS
- Simple user interface
- Runs on both desktop and mobile device
- Extensive knowledge base
CONS
- Limited to 1,000 transaction lines per month
- No integrated card payments
- No phone support
- Limited to 1 user and 1 location
| RATING CRITERIA | Pricing | 3.25 | OUT OF | 5 |
| General Features Included in Free Option | 2.5 | OUT OF | 5 | |
| Additional Features in Free Option | 2 | OUT OF | 5 | |
| Ease of Use | 3.5 | OUT OF | 5 | |
| Expert Score | 3.75 | OUT OF | 5 |
Having tested the software through its 30-day trial, we found Imonggo as the best free POS for businesses with limited inventory. The inventory management tools and reporting functions available in its forever-free version is just right for managing the day-to-day of small businesses and startups.
We gave Imonggo an overall score of 2.65 out of 5, and the outstanding marks for ease of use and expert score. Two reasons prevented Imonggo from ranking higher in our POS scoring system, namely: its products and transaction limitations. Imonggo’s free plan is limited to 1,000 transaction lines per month. Transaction lines are product lines on a bill or invoice. Transaction lines for purchasing from suppliers also count toward your monthly total.
Imonggo’s free plan also does not offer integrated payment processing, phone support, or ecommerce integrations.
Imonggo Free Plan Features and Limitations
One of the most glaring limitations of Imonggo’s free software is its lack of card payment capability. Users will need to upgrade to its paid version in order to start processing card transactions. Fortunately, Imonggo’s premium plan is inexpensive, and users will have the option to choose between Vantiv and Authorize.Net for its payment processor.
- POS overview: Limited to single location and single user access. Up to 1,000 products and 1,000 transaction lines per month.
- Ease of use: Browser-based and can run on any PC. There’s also an app version of the software for iOS, and a dashboard to view reports from an iOS or Android smartphone.
- Inventory management: Manually add and edit product name, price, cost, and description. Categorize products using tags. Receive and adjust inventory. Track purchase orders. View inventory summary and conduct physical counts.
- Ecommerce: Only available for premium subscribers.
- Payment processing: Cash transactions only for free plan. Option to use a non-integrated card processor with a separate merchant account.
- Customer management: Customer profiles and purchase history, email receipts, and email marketing.
- Report generation: View customizable daily sales summary and profit charts. Track customer purchases and best selling items.
- Employee management: Single role and single access only.
When to Upgrade
Imonggo’s forever-free POS software can efficiently handle cash-based small businesses and startups like boutiques and specialty shops. It can also work well for running popup stores and booths for trade events. It offers an option to upgrade to a premium plan for $30 per month, per branch to get access to features such as unlimited transactions and inventory, ecommerce integration and card processing.
Consider upgrading your plan to a paid version when:
- You want to offer card payment options to your customers
- You have inventory that’s quickly growing beyond the 1,000 limit
- You want to increase your monthly sales volume or open another location
Bottom Line
A good point-of-sale system doesn’t have to be expensive; however, most free POS systems come with some limitations. We ensured that our top picks for the best free POS software would allow users to start any type of small business with minimal startup costs and no monthly software fees.
Square is the best free POS system for small businesses because it offers a sophisticated software bundle that’s easy to use and can grow with your business. Built-in payment processing, a free online store, and free customer feedback tools—in addition to standard checkout and business management features—also make Square the best overall value. Visit Square to create a free account.
