Choosing the right QSR POS system is crucial to the success of your fast food or quick-service restaurant business.
You’re likely already aware of this fact and have done some initial research on software review sites.
But if you’re like me when I first started, you may still feel overwhelmed by the many options.
The QSR POS software market has grown tremendously, with hundreds of systems now available.
While having many choices is positive, it can make selecting one difficult. When I researched this, I often ended up more perplexed than informed. One user’s perspective might not match your specific QSR needs.
And while software companies promote their products, they may not provide a fully balanced view.
To bring some clarity, I spent months extensively reviewing the top-rated QSR POS systems. I looked at their features, capabilities, and user feedback.
Now, I’ve compiled everything into this updated 2023 overview, designed to simplify your research process. With this guide examining the pros, cons, and key factors, you can zero in on the best QSR POS system for your business.
The Top 5 QSR POS Systems In 2023
- Toast – Best online ordering and delivery system
- Lightspeed – Best advanced analytics features for multi-units
- Square – Best for smaller QSRs looking for a subscription-free system
- SpotOn – Best marketing automation and website creation tools
- TouchBistro – Best for ease of use and integrated loyalty features
Why Use A Quick Service Restaurant POS System?
In a fast-paced food service environment, a Quick Serve Restaurant (QSR) POS system serves as an all-inclusive tech solution.
It’s designed to make your operations smooth and efficient, going beyond just managing transactions. It integrates with different aspects of your restaurant operations, improving efficiency and amplifying customer experience.
A QSR POS system’s key features include managing orders, processing payments, tracking inventory, and analyzing data. An added benefit is its ability to sync with online ordering platforms, loyalty programs, and marketing tools. This gives you a centralized system for overseeing various facets of your business.
Toast
The most innovative POS system on the market
Best for QSRs that want advanced online ordering, take-out and delivery features.
- Rapid development of new features
- Robust online ordering system
- Includes a free starter plan
- Android only
- Locked into Toast payment processing
Over recent years, Toast has emerged as a significant player in the restaurant commerce industry by rapidly growing and gaining attention through notable acquisitions. In fact, one could say that Toast has become a game-changer. So, it’s no surprise that they have been named one of the most innovative companies of 2023 by Fast Company (Source).
What makes Toast a tough competitor among other POS systems is its feature-rich platform. Some of these functionalities include payment processing, online ordering, inventory, and menu management, marketing and customer loyalty programs, employee management, labor, and food cost control, and business reporting, among others.
Toast aims to become a comprehensive restaurant commerce system. It also positions itself as a one-stop shop for quick-service restaurants.
One of the best things about Toast is that even with its array of awesome features, it still maintains a reasonable pricing structure. Indeed, it is one of the top Point of Sale (POS) systems for QSRs available in the market.
Here is the pricing plan for the Quick Start Bundle, Core, and Growth plan:
Quick Start Bundle: Starting at $0/month
A great match for food trucks or single-location cafes, this shop-and-go option includes initial hardware and our basic POS software. Features include cloud-based point of sale and hardware setup including one terminal (additional charges apply for subsequent devices).
Core Plan: Subscription starting at $69/month
Ideal for any restaurant looking to streamline operations and provide faster service, with flexible options to meet your specific needs. This package includes powerful cloud-based point of sale with reporting and analytics, simple, flat rate payment processing with real-time fraud monitoring, mobile dining solutions, including digital menus and mobile payments, and 24/7/365 customer care, with installation support.
Growth Plan: Subscription starting at $165/month
A software bundle including online ordering and delivery software for restaurants looking to add more revenue streams. This plan includes everything in Core, plus Toast Online Ordering, Toast Delivery Services, and Toast TakeOut App.
Please note that additional features and software are available for each plan, and you can pair each plan with a hardware setup of your choosing.
Credit card processing fees: You cannot opt to use a third-party payment processor as Toast will handle all credit and debit card transactions for you.
Toast believes that customers should receive more than just transaction reports from their card processor. To achieve this goal, they combine their card processing service with technology that engages with customers.
The information gathered from customers can then be used by restaurants to understand them better and create more targeted marketing campaigns.
As for the fees, Toast customizes the rates for processing card transactions based on the specific needs of your restaurant.
Toast is available in the US, Canada, UK, and Ireland.
Toast Flex is a handheld device constructed for you to swiftly take orders and process payments. Its design is spill-resistant, allowing you to conveniently manage contactless payment types like swipe, dip, or tap.
Designed for smaller establishments such as coffee shops and restaurants with minimal counter space, Toast Go is an all-in-one portable device. You can take orders, process payments, and print receipts without swapping gadgets.
Toast Kiosk offers your customers a self-ordering experience. They can pick their dishes using a large, interactive touchscreen display. Particularly beneficial for quick-service restaurants, this device plays a helpful role in reducing wait times and enhancing the customer experience.
The Toast Terminal is a comprehensive countertop setup, covering a touchscreen display, card reader, cash drawer, and receipt printer, all ready to go.
Toast Display, a customer-facing setup, supports you in managing restaurant orders. It gives you the ability to monitor orders in real-time and handle your inventory.
Bear in mind, that hardware costs differ based on the configuration you opt for, and some devices come included in certain plans. Should you require a tailored quote, you should reach out directly to the Toast team.
Where Toast Stands Out For Quick-Service Restaurants
Toast POS is designed specifically for quick-service restaurants, offering many features that will help your operations and enhance the dining experience for your guests.
Integrated Online Ordering System: With this feature, you can allow guests to order whenever and wherever they want. This system also improves order accuracy and reduces inventory waste.
And, it’s commission-free for your restaurant, making it a cost-effective solution for expanding your sales channels. It’s easy to set up and fully integrated with your Toast POS, ensuring that online orders seamlessly fit into your workflow.
Durable Touchscreen POS Terminals: These terminals are built to handle the fast-paced environment of a quick-service restaurant. They support various payment methods, including credit card and mobile payments, ensuring a smooth transaction process for your guests.
Self-Service Kiosks: The kiosks simplify the guest experience by allowing them to customize their orders. These kiosks streamline front-of-house operations by freeing up staff to handle other tasks, improving overall efficiency.
Kitchen Display System (KDS): The KDS is a key component of Toast. Designed to handle the heat and pace of a restaurant kitchen, the KDS integrates with Toast Go, ensuring that items are fired directly to the KDS as soon as the guest orders.
This means your kitchen can start preparing items seconds later, improving efficiency. The KDS also aggregates all orders from kiosks, online ordering, and third-party channels, providing a unified view of all incoming orders.
Toast Mobile Order and Pay: This feature allows your guests to browse the menu, order, and pay directly from their mobile devices. With a custom QR code, guests can scan and order, providing a contactless and convenient dining experience.
Loyalty Programs, Email Marketing, and Reporting: The integrated loyalty programs allow guests to accrue points with each swipe of their card. Toast also supports email marketing directly integrated with the POS, driving customer engagement.
Additionally, the system provides integrated reporting and analytics, allowing you to keep track of your performance in real-time and make informed decisions about your offerings.
Where Toast Falls Short
- Locked into Toast Payment Processing: Users are required to use Toast’s in-house credit card processing solution, restricting their ability to shop around for potentially better or more affordable alternatives.
- Add-ons Can Get Expensive: While Toast POS offers a range of valuable add-ons to help restaurants enhance their operations, these extra features often come with additional costs. These expenses might be prohibitive, especially for small or start-up establishments looking to maintain a low-budget operation.
- Not Very Transparent Pricing: Another downside of Toast POS is the lack of transparent pricing information on the website, including the various hardware bundles and add-on features. This can make it difficult for potential clients to compare Toast POS with other providers.
- Only Available in a Few English-speaking Countries: Toast is only available in a select few English-speaking countries, limiting access for restaurants operating outside these markets. This geographical restriction may make Toast POS less desirable for global or multi-national brands looking for a comprehensive solution across all their locations
Toast Review Summary
In conclusion, Toast is a comprehensive solution that not only allows you to implement online ordering but also provides a range of features to streamline your operations, drive more revenue, improve order accuracy, and reduce inventory waste. It’s a powerful tool that enhances the dining experience for your guests and provides you with valuable insights and growth opportunities.
More information on Toast:
My detailed Toast Review provides an even more in-depth look into this POS system.
And finally, to try Toast out, head over to pos.toasttab.com
Lightspeed
Cleverly crafted POS with exceptional design
Best for QSRs seeking powerful inventory, data insights, and retail features.
- Ease of use & interface design
- Reporting & analytics
- E-commerce capabilities
- Limited offline functionality
- Not the cheapest option
Lightspeed Restaurant is a powerful, cloud-based POS system designed specifically for the restaurant industry and its speed, strong online ordering, delivery, and e-commerce features make it a great choice for quick-service restaurants.
Lightspeed Restaurant Essentials: $90/month (annual plan $69/month)
Features include: Menu manager, Mobile access, Takeout and delivery orders, Integrated payment processing, Reporting and analytics, Inventory, 24/7 support, Dedicated account management, Table Mode. 1 register.
Lightspeed Restaurant Plus: $246/month (annual plan $189/month)
All Essentials features, Loyalty program, Gift cards
Lightspeed Restaurant Pro: $516/month (annual plan $399/month)
All Plus features and Advanced insights, Advanced inventory. 1 register.
Additional registers +$34/mo
Add-on pricing starting at $12/month
Premium add-ons starting at $39/month
Transaction fees: 2.6% plus 10 cents per card-present transaction with Lightspeed Payments. Third-party payment processors are also available.
*Pricing at the time of publishing this guide. For the most current pricing, contact Lightspeed.
Lightspeed Restaurant POS is currently available in the US, Canada, UK, Ireland, Germany, France, Belgium, The Netherlands, Spain, Italy, and Australia.
There are several hardware options available for restaurants. These include an iPad hardware kit that includes a receipt printer, cash drawer, and kitchen printer but does not include an iPad or payment terminal.
There is also a Lightspeed iPad Stand by Vault, which is a restaurant-grade stand designed to mount an iPad securely.
In addition, there are several payment terminals available, including the Verifone e285, Verifone P400, and Verifone 400m, which all support tap, swipe, and dip payments and the e285 also supports tip entry and signature capture.
For a full list of supported hardware options, Lightspeed provides more information.
Where Lightspeed Stands Out for QSRs
Real-time Insights and Data-driven Decision-making
Lightspeed unlocks real-time insights with every integrated transaction, empowering you to make faster, data-driven decisions. You can optimize your menu, track customer behavior, and identify top-performing staff.
Ordering Options
Lightspeed offers various ordering options to provide more convenience for your guests and open up additional revenue streams. Whether it’s online ordering, tableside ordering, or QR code ordering. These options allow guests to order in the way that suits them best, enhancing their overall dining experience.
Multi-location Management
If you operate multiple restaurant locations, Lightspeed allows you to manage all of them from one platform. You can easily keep track of guest data and reports across locations and make changes to all menus. Lightspeed POS ensures that you have centralized control and real-time visibility across all your locations.
Self-Order Menu and Self-Ordering Kiosks
With Lightspeed, you can offer a Self-Order Menu feature that allows customers to place their own orders. This feature can increase order size and improves customer service. It can be used at tables or as a self-ordering kiosk, and setting it up with your existing Lightspeed Restaurant menu is easy.
Customer Facing Display (CFD)
Lightspeed includes a Customer Facing Display (CFD) feature, providing transparency to your customers during the checkout process. The CFD visually presents the full breakdown of their order, ensuring that guests can be confident they are paying for the right order. It displays item details, subtotal price, tax percentage and total, and order number for takeaway mode.
Delivery Feature
Lightspeed has a delivery feature designed specifically for quick-service restaurants. With the rise of food delivery apps, Lightspeed allows you to adapt to the changing behavior of customers.
The delivery service consolidates online orders from platforms like UberEats, Skip The Dishes, or DoorDash onto one screen, making it easier for you to manage orders and deliver to customers wherever they dine.
Order Anywhere Feature
Lightspeed’s Order Anywhere feature provides a safe and streamlined service for quick-service restaurants. Whether customers are dining in or ordering to go, this feature allows guests to pay via QR code, eliminating wait times for the bill and the need to download apps. Customers can order straight from their phones, simplifying the ordering process for takeout.
Kitchen Display System (KDS)
Lightspeed’s Kitchen Display System (KDS) improves staff communication and simplifies your workflow. The KDS displays ticket times, color-coded orders, and real-time updates to keep track of turnaround and ensure a seamless workflow. It digitizes your production centers, reducing mistakes and gathering data on production times. The KDS brings clarity and efficiency to your kitchen operations.
Where Lightspeed Falls Short
- Price: Lightspeed Restaurant POS is more expensive than some other POS systems on the market. While the system offers a range of features and benefits, the cost may be a barrier for some restaurant owners, especially those who are just starting out.
- Limited Customization: While Lightspeed’s interface is user-friendly, it may not offer as much customization as some restaurant owners would like. For example, some users have reported that it’s difficult to customize the layout of the order screen, which can impact efficiency during peak hours.
Lightspeed Review Summary
In conclusion, Lightspeed Restaurant is a powerful tool that enhances the dining experience for your guests and provides you with valuable insights and growth opportunities. With its customizable features, real-time data insights, and streamlined ordering options, Lightspeed can help your quick-service restaurant thrive.
More information on Lightspeed:
My detailed Lightspeed Review provides an even more in-depth look into this restaurant POS system.
And finally, to try Lightspeed for free, head over to lightspeedhq.com
Square
Best for smaller QSRs looking for a subscription free system
Take orders on a free Square Online website and manage them directly from the Square KDS while organizing curbside pickup and delivery.
- Subscription free plan
- No long term contracts
- Integrates with the Square ecosystem
- Lacks some advanced features
- No on-site support
Square for Restaurants provides a tailor-made POS solution for quick-service restaurants, facilitating every aspect of running and expanding your business.
You can simultaneously manage multiple QSRs, unifying operations, payroll, and staffing. And, benefit from the intelligent routing and reporting capabilities to enhance order accuracy and minimize errors.
With Square Online, you can accept orders on your free personalized website and manage them seamlessly using the Kitchen Display System (KDS), enabling curbside pickup and delivery.
Furthermore, Square offers marketing tools to connect with customers and heighten sales. Effortlessly design, send, and monitor email and social media campaigns while implementing a loyalty program to reward your regulars.
Free plan: There’s no monthly fee, but there is a transaction fee for each in-person sale. 2.6% + 10¢ for swiped or tapped card transactions. 3.5% + 15¢ when the card number is keyed in. Online payment: 2.9% + 30¢ per transaction.
Plus: Includes more advanced features designed specifically for restaurants. $60/month for one device per location. +$40/month per added countertop POS device. (+ processing fees).
Premium subscribers get everything in the Plus subscription and custom pricing for add-ons like Square Payroll, Square Marketing, and Square Loyalty.
Example pricing of some add-ons:
Square Payroll +$35/mo then $5/mo per employee
Square Loyalty From $45/mo per location
Square Marketing From $15/mo per location
(Hardware is not included in the subscription. See hardware costs in the section below).
Contract length
A key advantage of Square’s payment processing is the absence of long-term subscriptions, providing flexibility in the usage of its services. You can opt for month-to-month payments and easily cancel your subscription anytime without penalties.
As a result, you can experiment with different business strategies while staying agile and adaptable to changing market conditions.
The Square app is available worldwide. Card payment acceptance is available in the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, the United Kingdom, the Republic of Ireland, France and Spain (Source).
The Square Terminal can read all types of cards. You can use it for everything from taking payments to accessing your Square POS system to printing receipts to using all the features of Square’s app. The price for the terminal is $299.
Square Reader for Contactless and Chip: Restaurants can now process payments more easily with the new Square Reader, which has improved Bluetooth connectivity, enhanced security, and longer battery life.
Square Stand Restaurant Station with cash drawer, receipt printer, and kitchen printer.
Restaurant Mobile POS Kit for Square for Restaurants. Includes a Square Reader for contactless and chip (2nd generation), a phone case, and a Samsung Galaxy A32.
The Square Register is a countertop setup and a fully integrated point-of-sale system. No extra tablets or apps are required. Includes a touchscreen card terminal facing the customer and a built-in card reader. Costs $799.
Where Square Stands Out For QSRs
Square for Restaurants provides a speedy and efficient Point of Sale system that is designed specifically for quick-service restaurants like yours. With conversational modifiers and real-time menu updates, you can quickly enter orders and stay on top of a busy service. Repeat orders can be done in just a few taps, ensuring that you can keep up with the demands of your fast-paced environment.
Syncing the Front and Back of the House with Square KDS
The Square Kitchen Display System (KDS) keeps your entire restaurant in sync, managing the rush and reducing costs with digital tickets. It allows you to handle all your orders from one screen, ensuring that food is prepared and packaged correctly. By eliminating unnecessary communication between the table and the kitchen, your waitstaff can focus more on providing excellent customer service.
Multiple Ordering Options to Improve Convenience
Square has a variety of ordering options to provide convenience for both you and your customers. With integrated online ordering, you can take orders on your restaurant’s website without paying commissions.
The system supports delivery, curbside pickup, and self-serve ordering, seamlessly integrating with the restaurant POS and Square KDS. These options simplify the ordering process and open up additional revenue streams for your business.
Efficient Order Management with Order Manager
Square for Restaurants features the Order Manager tool, which consolidates all your online and mobile orders in one place. It eliminates the need to swipe through multiple tablets to organize your orders manually, saving you time and reducing errors. Whether the orders come through your Square Online site or third-party delivery partners, they are pushed directly to your POS and KDS, ensuring smooth order management.
Marketing Tools for Engaging Customers
Square has excellent marketing tools to help you engage with your customers and promote your offerings. You can create, send, and track email and social media campaigns, tailor messaging to target specific groups and get real-time reports to see the performance of your promotions. These tools can help you drive traffic to your online and physical stores and build a loyal customer base.
Detailed Data and Custom Reports for Informed Decision-making
Data reports are available to help you understand all aspects of your business. You can view real-time sales on your POS, run reports based on various metrics, and receive alerts when inventory is low. These insights allow you to identify trends, address potential issues proactively, and make informed decisions about your business operations.
Loyalty Program to Boost Sales
The loyalty program can reward repeat customers and increase sales. Customers can easily sign up at checkout, and you can track and compare loyalty and non-loyalty sales. The system also allows for the use of Square Gift Cards to boost sales and attract new customers. Reward levels can be set based on items purchased, visits, or the amount spent, providing an incentive for customers to return.
Integrated Payroll for Efficient Staff Management
Square for Restaurants offers full-service payroll integration with your Square POS. This allows you to track hours and tips, automate payroll tax filings and withholdings, and offer employee benefits like health insurance. With this integrated system, you can effectively manage your staff and ensure accurate and timely payments.
Where Square Can Improve
- Limited Advanced Features: Square for Restaurants may lack some advanced features offered by other POS systems, such as in-depth inventory management and comprehensive reporting tools
- Complex Reporting: The reporting features are causing concerns because they lack sufficient detail and are complex, making it difficult to search for specific information. Additionally, the process of reconciling sales to receivables is lengthy.
- Lack of On-Site Support: Square for Restaurants does not provide on-site support, which may not be suitable for businesses that rely on in-person assistance.
Square Review Summary
In conclusion, Square for Restaurants is a great solution for fast-paced quick-service restaurants. With its efficient POS system, syncing of the front and back of the house, multiple ordering options, marketing tools, detailed data and reporting, loyalty program, and integrated payroll, Square provides many necessary tools to help your business succeed.
More information on Square:
My detailed Square for Restaurants Review provides an even more in-depth look into this restaurant POS system.
And finally, to try Square out, head over to squareup.com
SpotOn
Feature rich all-in-one POS solution with modern QSR-specific features
Best marketing automation and website creation tools.
- Wide selection of hardware devices
- Low credit-card processing fees*
- No long term contracts
- Limited offline functionality
- Requires SpotOn devices
- *Requires SpotOn Payment for low fees
SpotOn is developing into one of the leading cloud-based restaurant POS systems.
All the core restaurant POS features and hardware devices that you would expect are included as well as many advanced features and add-ons.
In fact, I think it’s notable how many features and hardware choices SpotOn has, considering it’s a relative newcomer in the restaurant POS scene.
Customer support is a priority for SpotOn and they have personalized setup and training tailored to your specific needs. Their team provides in-person installation and training and has 24/7 support.
The company was founded in 2017 and is headquartered in San Francisco. SpotOn serves the restaurant, sports, entertainment, and retail markets, with a primary focus on the restaurant and sports/entertainment sectors.
The system’s price starts at $25 per month, but there are some conditions to consider. To take advantage of this low rate, customers must sign up for SpotOn’s payment processing services. If you do not use their payment processing services then you will be charged $195 per month for access to the software.
SpotOn charges a commission of 1.99% + $0.25 for regular transactions, which is quite low, but 2.99% + $0.25 for reward, corporate, international, and keyed-in card transactions.
The pricing for SpotOn’s POS system varies depending on the package and hardware and can include:
- $25/month for the software (including payment processing)
- $195/month for the software alone (without payment processing)
- $65/month for SpotOn’s restaurant-specific features
Some examples of add-on pricing:
- $65/month for a customer loyalty add-on
- $65/month for a website add-on
Other notable add-ons include marketing, payroll
Please note that the specific pricing for SpotOn can vary depending on the package and hardware. It’s recommended to contact SpotOn directly for a custom quote based on your business’s unique needs.
Hardware pricing varies by device and promotions may apply. Other prices may depend on what agreement you can reach with SpotOn depending on your requirements. Although SpotOn charges a setup fee, they do not openly display the cost on their website.
Considering all of the features offered by SpotOn POS, the price may still be worth it. SpotOn Payments has very low commission rates, so for some types of restaurants, this can be a good deal.
At the moment SpotOn is only available in the US.
Your restaurant’s success is deeply intertwined with your choice of hardware. I believe that SpotOn’s hardware, a cornerstone of the complete solution it provides, could be a transformative asset to your operations.
Handhelds: Experience the advantage of speed and simplicity with SpotOn’s handheld point-of-sale (POS) systems. Compatible with your iOS and Android devices, these handheld systems also support peripherals like barcode scanners, cases, and Bluetooth printers.
These handheld devices come with two functionalities – order only or full payment, enabling your staff to process orders or payments swiftly, from any location within your establishment. Tailored for ease of use, they are available in various sizes, and include cases, belt hooks, and hand straps.
Kiosks: Invest in enhancing customer experience with SpotOn’s self-service kiosks. These tools are engineered to eliminate long queues and serve more customers, offering personalized interactions. Quick add buttons, favorites, add-to-cart button scrolls are only some of the features that expedite the ordering process.
There is an added benefit: the kiosks suggest combos, add-ons, and upsell items, stimulating revenue increment. You can select from different models – countertop, freestanding, and outdoor – with screen sizes of 15″ and 22″.
Kitchen Displays: SpotOn’s Kitchen Display System (KDS) augments your operations, presenting real-time order tracking. As soon as an order is placed, it heads directly to the kitchen, paving the way for customization. Your orders or individual items are also efficiently routed to dedicated stations.
Payment Devices and Accessories: SpotOn offers a variety of accessories like cash drawers, payment devices, barcode scanners, scales, and customer-facing displays. What makes it better is the ability to integrate them easily with leading payment providers, without overhauling your existing workflows.
To sum up, SpotOn’s arsenal of hardware devices offers an all-encompassing suite to meet any restaurant’s requirements. If you’re considering a POS solution tailored precisely for the food and beverage sector, SpotOn can become your ideal partner.
New SpotOn Hardware Devices for 2023
Announced in May 2023, SpotOn’s latest line of restaurant POS hardware includes devices such as the 15.6” Station, the 10” Counter, and the 6.5” Handheld.
User-friendliness is built into these devices: the updated software and larger screens on the Station and Handheld simplify menu and modifier navigation. For easy navigation, the Handheld’s user interface now clusters menu items, enables search, illustrates floor plans, and provides table status updates.
The new lineup of SpotOn’s hardware devices, set to launch later this year, promises to boost SpotOn’s standing in the restaurant POS market. Here’s a sneak peek into why:
Customization and Flexibility: The new devices offer multiple configurations, adjusting to the evolving needs of your restaurant. Choose the Station with an option of an attached or detached guest-facing display, a base payment reader, or a side-mounted payment reader. This customization ensures you select a setup that ensures streamlined operations.
Efficiency and Speed: Sporting an 18% larger touchscreen display and an easy-to-hold leather strap, the Handheld empowers seamless tableside payment. The Counter, specifically designed for quick-service restaurants and cafes, accommodates contactless and dip payments and includes an optional guest-facing display for enhanced speed and precision.
Durability and Reliability: Equipped with high-definition touch screens, these are IP54-rated devices, ensuring protection against dust and drink spills, making them reliable and durable.
Enhanced Customer Experience: These devices are primed to augment customer satisfaction. To illustrate, the Handheld’s screen rotates to face the customer during payment, whilst the Station and Counter’s customer-facing displays boost order accuracy and speed up checkout.
Future-Proofing: SpotOn has collaborated with FIS to evolve into a payment facilitator for its customers, offering improved control over payment processing. Furthermore, this partnership enables tokenization, facilitating SpotOn customers to understand their patrons’ preferences and buying habits for highly personalized experiences.
In conclusion, these new additions promise to strengthen SpotOn’s hardware portfolio with their superior customization, efficiency, durability, and user experience. Backed by robust support and service, the new devices are future-proof, making SpotOn an even more competitive player in the restaurant POS market.
Where SpotOn Stands Out For Quick-Service Restaurants
Online Ordering and Delivery Services
For quick-service restaurants looking to expand their online presence, SpotOn has an online ordering system that eliminates costly commissions from third-party apps. SpotOn Delivery, powered by DoorDash, gives you access to the DoorDash delivery network for a low flat fee, allowing you to offer delivery services without the need to hire and manage your own drivers.
Integrated Digital Loyalty Rewards Program
SpotOn’s POS system includes an integrated digital loyalty rewards program that drives repeat visits and increases sales. By offering loyalty rewards, you can encourage your guests to visit more often and build a loyal customer base.
Comprehensive Reporting
SpotOn offers comprehensive reporting with over 90 fully-interactive reports. These reports provide you with comprehensive data on sales and labor by hour, product mix, employee sales, station sales, and transactions. This enables you to make smarter decisions for your business based on data-driven insights.
SpotOn POS Hardware Devices
SpotOn has a wide variety of hardware options suitable for the needs of quick-service restaurants. These options include touchscreen stations, handheld devices, customer-facing displays, self-service kiosks, and kitchen display systems. The hardware is designed to be robust and reliable in a restaurant environment.
SpotOn Serve is a handheld POS device that can be used to take orders curbside, tableside, or anywhere else you want to interact with guests. It sends orders to the kitchen in real-time and accepts payments on-the-spot with an EMV, Apple Pay, and Android Pay card reader.
SpotOn’s Kitchen Display System (KDS) improves kitchen productivity by funneling orders from your POS stations directly to your KDS. It features real-time order tracking and efficient order routing, boosting the number of orders your kitchen can fulfill and improving your kitchen’s workflow.
SpotOn offers self-service kiosks that eliminate lines, serve more guests, and maximize labor efficiency. These kiosks provide a highly customizable and intuitive ordering experience that makes ordering fast and easy for your guests.
Where SpotOn Falls Short
SpotOn has some limitations that may make it less attractive to specific businesses.
- It only works with SpotOn’s hardware, which could disadvantage businesses that have already invested in other POS hardware or prefer a different hardware provider.
- Using payment processing services other than SpotOn’s can be expensive. SpotOn charges a commission of 1.99% + $0.25 for regular transactions, which is quite low, but 2.99% + $0.25 for reward, corporate, international, and keyed-in card transactions.
- The POS system of SpotOn is dependent on the cloud and the offline functionality is not as robust as for example that of TouchBistro
- SpotOn offers various add-on features such as loyalty programs and website building, these add-ons can make the overall cost of the system high.
SpotOn Review Summary
In conclusion, SpotOn offers a comprehensive suite of features designed to meet the unique needs of quick-service restaurants. From personalized setup and training to integrated loyalty rewards, robust hardware and software solutions, online ordering and delivery services, efficient kitchen display systems, comprehensive reporting, handheld POS devices, and self-service kiosks.
More information on SpotOn:
My detailed SpotOn Review provides an even more in-depth look into this restaurant POS system.
And finally, to try SpotOn out, head over to spoton.com
TouchBistro
Designed by restaurant industry veterans
Best for independent QSRs looking for a well designed, easy-to-use, and feature-rich POS with integrated loyalty features.
- Fast & easy-to-use
- Tab management, bill splitting & table transfers
- Excellent offline functionality
- Fewer integrations than competition
- Somewhat limited reporting features
TouchBistro is an excellent choice for independent full-service restaurants but has also been proven effective at helping QSRs manage their business.
Not only does it offer a visually appealing and intuitive design, but it also has an abundance of features. It further offers the convenience of a hybrid cloud/server system, giving you peace of mind knowing that your data is always accessible and secure.
Ease of use: TouchBistro is one of the easiest POS systems to use. It is easy to use and you can learn it in a short time. TouchBistro is great for people who want something quick and easy to work with.
New employees don’t have to waste precious time going through an extensive tutorial – if they are familiar with an iPad, then they can easily figure out TouchBistro. You can customize your menus and interface with this tool which will help you speed up your processes in the long run.
I like the modularity of the TouchBistro pricing structure. You get a good deal at a low price and can choose from the selection of add-on options as your business grows.
Here is the pricing plan for TouchBistro and its add-ons:
Monthly subscription fee: Starts at $69/month for up to two setups
Add-on pricing (starting at):
- Online ordering: $50/month
- Reservations: $229/month
- Gift cards: $25/month
- Marketing: $99/month
- Loyalty: $99/month
TouchBistro Payments (US only)is powered by Chase and provides pricing through an innovative cost plus pricing model. The solution supports all major credit and debit cards, as well as swipe, dip, tap, and digital wallet payments from Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.
TouchBistro Payments also offers an offline payments mode, allowing you to continue taking payments even when their internet is down.
Payment processing fees depend on if you use TouchBistro Payments (US only) or one of the available payment processing partners like Square. You’ll be able to use different payment processors depending on which one offers the lowest rate.
For example, Square charges the following: 2.6% +10¢ per transaction.
Please note that hardware and additional fees may apply to these prices. It’s recommended to contact TouchBistro directly for a custom quote.
TouchBistro is available in the US, Canada, the UK, Mexico, and over 100 other countries. (TouchBistro Payments is only available in the US).
TouchBistro supports iPads, iPad Pro, or the iPad Mini and runs best on devices from 2018 or later. These tablets are used to take orders and process payments table-side.
A TouchBistro setup can include an iPad stand, receipt printer, card reader, router, and modem.
TouchBistro also sells accessories, such as a Self-Service Kiosk, customer-facing display, KDS, and Digital Menu Boards. TouchBistro may also make use of third-party hardware such as cash drawers, card readers, and receipt printers.
Customizable Additional Hardware: Depending on the unique needs of your restaurant, you can mix and match different POS equipment such as cash drawers and receipt printers.
Hardware Setups for Different Venue Sizes: TouchBistro offers tailored hardware configurations based on the venue size and type of your restaurant. Whether you have a small or large venue, they have hardware solutions designed to fit your specific needs.
Integrated Hardware Support: TouchBistro also offers dedicated implementation specialists to provide round-the-clock support for your hardware.
TouchBistro suggests always purchasing the latest iPad models for the best experience and longevity of support. While they provide iPad stands, they also offer the flexibility for you to use your own. Their iPads are compatible with any iPad stands, allowing you to choose a stand style that aligns best with your restaurant’s look and feel.
Where TouchBistro Stands Out for QSRs
Data Access and Analytics
TouchBistro’s comprehensive reporting and analytics features allow you to explore more than 50 different cloud reports from any device. These reports provide essential details such as sales by specific menu items, inventory tracking, and cost of goods sold. This can aid you in uncovering and addressing potential hidden operational issues.
Online Ordering and Improved Customer Engagement
TouchBistro simplifies the process of accepting pickup and delivery orders through its Online Ordering System. You’re able to take orders directly from your own website or order.tbdine.com without the worry of commission fees.
The orders go directly from your website to your POS in real time, eliminating the hassle of manual order entry. The POS system notifies you instantly when an order arrives online, helping you accept orders without delay.
Marketing and Personalized Loyalty Programs
The integrated Marketing and Loyalty tool assists you in launching compelling, value-centric campaigns that encourage customers to return. This unified platform gives you the power to use guest data for targeted online promotions and advanced email marketing.
Acting as a robust customer relationship management (CRM) platform, the Loyalty Program captures valuable data such as visit frequency, average spend, order history, and birthdays. This data opens the door to deeper insights into your customers’ preferences, allowing a more personalized dining experience.
Customizable Customer Web App
TouchBistro’s customizable Customer Web App enables your customers to earn, redeem, and monitor their rewards using their own devices. Additionally, you can tailor your loyalty program based on guest spending habits and purchased items, helping shape a rewards system that aligns with your business model and customer base.
The system automatically assigns loyalty points and rewards according to purchase details. Moreover, it gives you valuable insights via detailed reports on your rewards and loyalty programs, helping you make informed, data-driven decisions.
Where TouchBistro Falls Short
While it is a highly regarded system, there are some areas for improvement and potential drawbacks to consider.
- Limited integrations: While TouchBistro has some integrations available, it may not have as many options as other POS systems. This could be a limiting factor for businesses that require more extensive integrations with other software and platforms.
- Limited reporting: There are certain areas where the reporting features need improvement to generate more useful sales, employee performance, and inventory reports.
More information on TouchBistro:
My detailed TouchBistro Review provides an even more in-depth look into this POS system.
And finally, to try TouchBistro out, head over to touchbistro.com
Summary: Choosing the Right POS System for Your QSR
Toast POS shines with its unique design tailor-made for quick-service restaurants. It provides durable touchscreen terminals essential for fast-paced settings. Designed to make operations more efficient, Toast POS features an integrated online ordering system, self-service kiosks, and mobile dining solutions. These are all meant to enhance the customer experience. Its Kitchen Display System (KDS) consolidates orders from various sources, thereby helping improve kitchen productivity.
The most innovative POS system on the market
Best for QSRs that want advanced online ordering, take-out and delivery features.
- Rapid development of new features
- Robust online ordering system
- Includes a free starter plan
- Android only
- Locked into Toast payment processing
Lightspeed offers a highly customizable POS system, allowing you to modify menus, workflows, and floor plans according to your needs. This system empowers you with data-driven capabilities, providing real-time insights for smart decision making. This feature assists in refining operations and fostering business growth. The integration of Lightspeed with delivery services, multiple ordering options, and KDS helps boost customer experience and kitchen efficiency.
Cleverly crafted POS with exceptional design
Best for QSRs seeking powerful inventory, data insights, and retail features.
- Ease of use & interface design
- Reporting & analytics
- E-commerce capabilities
- Limited offline functionality
- Not the cheapest option
The POS system from Square emphasizes seamless transactions and operational coordination between the front and back of the house. This coordination is facilitated by the Square Kitchen Display System (KDS). Offering many ordering options adds to customer convenience, and the Order Manager tool makes order management easier. Additionally, Square’s marketing tools can engage customers more effectively, drive more traffic, and increase sales.
Best for smaller QSRs looking for a subscription free system
Take orders on a free Square Online website and manage them directly from the Square KDS while organizing curbside pickup and delivery.
- Subscription free plan
- No long term contracts
- Integrates with the Square ecosystem
- Lacks some advanced features
- No on-site support
The strength of SpotOn lies in its personalized setup and training. This ensures that the system suits each restaurant’s unique needs. It offers an integrated digital loyalty rewards program to encourage customer retention. SpotOn’s robust hardware/software solution streamlines operations, while its online ordering, delivery services, and Kitchen Display System promote revenue growth and enhance productivity.
Feature rich all-in-one POS solution with modern QSR-specific features
Best marketing automation and website creation tools.
- Wide selection of hardware devices
- Low credit-card processing fees*
- No long term contracts
- Limited offline functionality
- Requires SpotOn devices
- *Requires SpotOn Payment for low fees
TouchBistro places a strong emphasis on ease-of-use. Key features include online ordering capabilities, marketing tools for better customer engagement, and loyalty programs to encourage repeat visits. The integration with the POS system simplifies order processing and promotes efficiency.
Designed by restaurant industry veterans
Best for independent QSRs looking for a well designed, easy-to-use, and feature-rich POS with integrated loyalty features.
- Fast & easy-to-use
- Tab management, bill splitting & table transfers
- Excellent offline functionality
- Fewer integrations than competition
- Somewhat limited reporting features
