Traditional Register vs. an iPad POS2 min read
If you are going to sell products and services direct to your customer and not just online, you are going to need a good point-of-sale system. You have two primary options for your POS system: A traditional POS or an iPad POS. There are many differences between the two, and the best choice for your business depends on your needs and budget.
Here’s what you need to know about the differences between a traditional register POS and an iPad POS:
Size
A traditional register POS can be quite a bulky piece of equipment. It’s a big, square machine that dwarfs even many old-school desktop computers. The register usually includes a cash drawer, which can account for a good deal of its bulk.
On the other hand, an iPad POS is small and fits in the palm of your hand. It weighs a little more than one pound. Even if you mount it on a display, it won’t take up much space. You’ll have more control over the layout of your business and won’t have to clutter up your space with equipment. You can also move the POS anywhere you need it.
Cost
A traditional POS can cost upwards of $20,000, depending on the model and the features it includes. This can be quite a burden for some small businesses or those that are just starting out.
An iPad costs less than $1,000. How much you pay for the POS software depends on the company that provides it and what kind of features it includes. However, you can expect to pay a fraction of the price of a traditional register POS.
Features
Some of the biggest differences between a traditional register and an iPad POS are the features included. For the most part, a register POS won’t be able to do much more than process payments and apply discounts. If it’s connected to a computer, it may also have the ability to look up inventory.
In contrast, an iPad POS has many more features that you can use to manage and grow your business. Some systems will monitor your inventory and automatically submit orders to keep stock at certain levels. Some will also offer marketing features, such as the ability to create custom coupons or e-mail campaigns.
Before you decide on the right POS for your business, make sure you carefully consider all the benefits of each. In most cases, you will benefit more from the new technology that the iPad POS offers.
