Top Toast POS Alternatives That Will Transform Your Business Today

So, you're exploring hospitality point of sale (POS) systems for your amazing business. There’s a lot to choose from, and it can be a bit overwhelming.

 You might have come across Toast POS—it’s pretty well-known in the restaurant industry. But is it the right choice for you? Maybe yes, maybe no.

If you’re interested in exploring other options, hang tight. We’ll cover everything you need to know about selecting the perfect POS and highlight our top Toast POS alternatives. Spoiler alert: there's some great stuff coming up. By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of which POS system could be your new best friend in 2024.

What to look for in a restaurant POS system

Here’s the lowdown on what to look for:

• Ease of use: You want something that’s simple to use. Your staff shouldn’t need a degree in tech to figure it out.
• Speed: A good POS should be quick. No one likes waiting forever for a sale to process.
• Menu management: Make sure it’s easy to update your menu. You should be able to add, remove, or change items without a hassle.
• Payment options: Look for a system that handles different payment types (we're talking credit cards, mobile payments, pay by link) whatever your customers use.
• Inventory management: It should help you keep tabs on what you have in stock. That way, you won’t run out of key items unexpectedly.
• Customer service: Check if they offer good support services.
• Reports and analytics: The system should give you useful insights into sales and performance.
• Integrations: Make sure it works well with other tools you use, like accounting software, online ordering, a customer loyalty program, and delivery apps.
• Pricing: Find something that fits your budget.
• Scalability: If you plan to grow, get a system that can grow with you.

Cloud-based point of sale systems vs. restaurant management software

Cloud-based POS systems are all about handling sales and transactions online. You can check your sales and inventory from anywhere with an internet connection. They’re easy to update and usually come with a monthly fee. So, if you want something flexible and straightforward for processing payments, this is your jam.

On the other hand, a restaurant management system (AKA restaurant management software or a restaurant management platform) does a bunch of stuff beyond just sales, like managing reservations, staff schedules, and inventory. It might cost more and be a bit trickier to set up, but it’s great if you need a full-on management tool for your whole restaurant.

Why businesses are looking for Toast POS alternatives

Businesses are on the lookout for Toast POS alternatives for a few reasons. First, their pricing can be a bit of a mystery. With scalable packages and a pay-as-you-go model, it’s tough to figure out exactly how much you’ll end up spending. This can lead to some unwelcome surprises on your bill.

Another issue is the cost of canceling or switching plans. If you decide Toast isn’t working for you, it can get pretty expensive to make a change. That’s a big turnoff for many businesses.

Lastly, Toast has a not-so-great rating with the Better Business Bureau, and their online presence isn’t the best for answering questions or solving problems. If you’re worried about getting good support when you need it, that’s a big deal. These factors push businesses to look for other POS systems that offer clearer pricing, lower switching costs, and better support.

Top Toast POS Alternatives

Epos Now

First up on our list of Toast alternatives is us, Epos Now. We’re known as a great option in the cloud-based POS scene, especially within retail, as well as the food and beverage industry. Our POS software covers everything you need to run your biz—loyalty programs, customer management, online ordering, online delivery, and inventory management. Plus, our systems are super easy to use. You can get everything set up in no time, and we’ve got solid security to keep your data safe.

We launched in 2011, thanks to our founder Jacyn Heavens. After struggling to find the right POS while working in a bar, Jacyn decided to create something better. Now, we’re helping businesses all over the world—from the UK and US to Canada, Australia, and beyond— run smoothly.

One of our coolest features is Epos Now Payments, our integrated payment solution. You can handle all kinds of payments through one terminal, making transactions faster and reducing mistakes. Everything is managed from one place with fixed-rate payment processing and no sneaky fees, so you’ll have a clear idea of your costs.

Our cloud-based system also rocks at inventory tracking. You’ll always know what’s in stock with real-time updates, item and order tracking, and automatic reordering. It saves you time and keeps your inventory in check.

With our employee tools, you can handle scheduling, time tracking, and set sales goals. You can even control who sees what with customizable permissions.

Check out our AppStore for extra features. Want a loyalty program? Need to manage deliveries or sync with QuickBooks and Mailchimp? We’ve got apps for that:

• Epos Now Loyalty: Build and manage customer loyalty programs.
• Epos Now Delivery: Handle your delivery orders.
• Order & Pay: Let customers order and pay from their devices.
• QuickBooks: Sync your sales and financial data.
• Mailchimp: Automate your email marketing.

Epos Now has perfect POS systems for hospitality professionals or retailers. With our payment processing, real-time inventory tracking, and staff management tools, you’ll have everything you need to keep your business running smoothly. And if you need any help, our awesome customer service team is always here for you.

Lightspeed POS

Lightspeed is a robust POS system that's been around for over ten years and is used by big names like Five Guys and Goodwill. It works well for retail, restaurants, bars, and e-commerce. You can use it on the cloud, in your web browser, or via their iOS app. Here’s what Forbes has to say about it:

Pros:

• 24/7 support: You can get help anytime you need it.
• Account manager: You get a dedicated manager for your account.
• Inventory management: Keeps your stock organized and up-to-date.

Cons:

• Pricey: It costs more than some other options.
• Long contracts: You’re tied into lengthy agreements.
• Hard to cancel: Cancelling can be a real hassle.

Square POS system

Next up is Square POS, a cloud-based system packed with features designed to simplify your business operations. It handles mobile payments, has a super easy hardware setup, and offers tools to manage both your team and customers. You’ll also get detailed reports and it integrates well with major accounting systems. Here’s the lowdown on Square POS, based on a Forbes review:

Pros:

• Free to start: You can get started with Square POS at no cost, which is great if you’re trying to keep initial expenses low.
• No monthly fees in the basic plan: The basic plan has no monthly fees, making it a solid choice if you’re on a tight budget.
• Lots of hardware options: There are plenty of hardware choices to match your setup needs.

Cons:

• Account freezing: Sometimes Square accounts can get frozen due to suspicious activity, which can be frustrating if it happens unexpectedly.
• Not ideal for high-volume transactions: If you’re processing a lot of transactions, Square might not be the most cost-effective option because of its fees.
• No phone support: Square doesn’t offer phone support, so if you prefer talking to someone directly when issues arise, this could be a drawback.

SumUp POS

SumUp POS is a system that's been catching attention, especially in Europe, and it’s now making its way across the US. It’s great for handling credit card payments and offers a variety of hardware and software options to suit different needs. Since it started in 2012, it's now used by millions of businesses worldwide. Here’s the scoop on SumUp:

Pros:

• Lower fees: SumUp has transaction fees that are lower than most other systems.
• Handles international cards: You can process payments from cards all over the world.
• Free 30-day trial: You can give it a spin for a month without committing.

Cons:

• No high-risk merchants: If you’re in a high-risk industry, SumUp might not be the best fit.
• Limited phone support: Phone support is available only Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Virtual terminal required: If you need to process payments remotely, you’ll need to apply separately for a virtual terminal.

Zettle POS

Zettle is PayPal’s upgraded card reader and POS system, replacing the older PayPal setup. It comes with a lot more features than PayPal ever offered, and the old system is being phased out soon.

With Zettle, you can handle payments directly through your PayPal account with no monthly fees. You’ll only pay 2.29% plus $0.09 for each card or contactless transaction. It works well with Bluetooth card readers, mobile terminals, and iPad setups. Here’s what Forbes says about Zettle:

Pros:

• No monthly fees: You can start using Zettle without any subscription charges.
• Lower processing fees: It’s more affordable compared to the old PayPal Here.
• Multiple payment options: It lets you accept credit, debit, contactless payments, and even Venmo.
• Unified tracking: All your payment details are neatly stored in one PayPal account.

Cons:

• Needs internet: A reliable cellular or Wi-Fi connection is necessary to keep it running smoothly.
• Fewer add-ons: It doesn’t have as many extra features or integrations as some other systems.
• Limited eCommerce and accounting integrations: There are fewer options for connecting with online sales platforms or accounting tools.

Benefits of switching to Epos Now

Switching to Epos Now is a total no-brainer for a bunch of reasons:

• Dedicated account manager: When you make the switch, you get your own account manager who’s all about your business. This isn’t just some random support person. This person knows your setup and what you need. They’ll help you get everything going and sort out any problems. Think of them as your personal tech buddy, always there with custom advice and solutions. No more wasting time figuring stuff out yourself or dealing with generic help. They’re focused on making sure you get the best out of your POS solution so you can spend more time running your business and less time stressing over tech issues.
• Personalized onboarding: Setting up with Epos Now is all about what you need. We don’t just give you a standard setup and call it a day. We’ll work with you to make sure everything fits your business. From getting your hardware and software sorted to training your team, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also help link up with any other tools you’re already using.
• Custom POS system bundle: With Epos Now, you’re not stuck with a one-size-fits-all POS system. We’ll help you create a setup that’s just right for your business. We offer industry-specific POS systems, whether you’re in retail or hospitality. Whether you need special hardware for a restaurant, unique POS software for retail, or specific integrations for eCommerce, we’ve got it. We’ll focus on what’s important to you and build a system that meets your needs without making you pay for stuff you don’t use.
• Flexible payment processing: Our payment processing is super flexible. You can accept card payments, contactless transactions, and more. Our range of card machines can handle it all. This means you can offer your customers the payment methods they prefer, which can help boost your sales and keep them happy. Plus, managing payments is easy with detailed reports to track transactions and handle your money.

Switching steps from toast

Thinking about ditching Toast for a new POS system? Here’s a laid-back guide to make the switch as smooth as possible:

• Figure out what you need: First, think about what you’re missing with Toast and what you want in your new system. Do you need better inventory management, more payment options, or just better reports?
• Pick your new POS: Restaurant owners, it’s time to check out different POS systems and see which one suits your needs. Compare features, prices, and read reviews to find the best fit for you.
• Export your data: Grab all your data from Toast. Download your customer info, inventory details, and sales records.
• Set up your new system: Get your new POS system ready to go. Follow the setup guide from your new provider, which might involve new hardware and software.
• Import your data: Upload all your old data into the new system.
• Connect your tools: Make sure your new POS integrates with any other tools you’re using, like accounting software or your online store.
• Train your team: Show your staff how to use the new system and make sure they’re comfortable with it before you make the switch.
• Test everything: Run some tests to check that payments, inventory updates, and reports are all working properly. Keep an eye out for any issues.
• Go live: Switch over to your new POS system and keep an eye on things to catch and fix any problems early on.

TIP: Check out some of our other alternatives guides like Talech alternatives and Shopkeep alternatives and SumUp alternatives.