Choosing the right point-of-sale (POS) system for a restaurant or bar can boost efficiency, accuracy, and guest satisfaction. This guide highlights five solid options that fit small to mid-sized establishments, from all-in-one touch-screen solutions to portable handheld devices. Each entry notes who it’s best for, and why it stands out, with practical cautions to consider before you buy. This article targets restaurant owners, bar managers, and quick-service operators seeking dependable POS hardware with restaurant-ready features.
Summary at a glance:
- Touch Screen Computer POS System for Restaurant Bar — Best for full-service venues needing an integrated kitchen order flow.
- Square Handheld — Best for tableside service and mobile payments on the go.
- Volcora Dual-Touch POS Terminal — Best for compact counters and multi-screen visibility.
- Square Register POS System (White Glove) — Best for quick deployment and ready-to-use corporate-ready setups.
- 19″ Touch Screen POS System — Best for larger display with built-in ordering and printers.
Touch Screen Computer POS for Restaurant Bar
This all-in-one POS package centers on a 17-inch touch display with built-in software and a complete system, including a PC controller. It comes with a secure cash drawer for organized transactions. Best for: mid-sized tableside and front-of-house operations in full-service settings where a single, reliable terminal handles orders, payments, and back-office tasks. Limitation: the system’s size may require counter space in tighter front-of-house layouts.
Square Handheld — Portable POS
Square Handheld enables payments, tableside ordering, and barcode scanning in one compact device. It is designed to withstand splashes and dust, with a long-lasting battery and offline payment capability. Best for: mobile or service-exposed environments such as outdoor patios, hotel dining, or busy service floors where staff mobility matters. Caution: offline capabilities depend on network status; plan for occasional connectivity gaps.
Volcora Dual-Touch POS Terminal
Volcora combines a 15.6-inch customer-facing display with an 11.6-inch operator panel, powered by Windows 11 Professional and a robust Intel Core i5 CPU. It’s compact, sturdy, and adaptable for quick-service or dine-in venues that need clear, multi-screen order visibility. Best for: spaces where staff and customers benefit from dual touchscreens and a modern OS. Limitation: configuration may require technical setup for network and peripherals.
Square Accounts Only — Square Register POS System
This pre-programmed, all-in-one solution is designed for retailers and eateries that want quick setup with white-glove onboarding. It ships with account-ready configuration and ongoing U.S.-based support. Best for: new Square accounts and operators seeking a fast, guided deployment in cafés, bakeries, or small restaurants. Caution: the promotional pricing applies to new accounts and requires activation through Advantage POS Store; ongoing costs depend on Square services.
19″ Touch Screen POS System for Restaurant or Bar
This 19-inch POS setup emphasizes a large display for navigation and operation, with a built-in cash drawer and integrated software. Best for: larger counters or venues requiring a roomy interface for staff and comprehensive back-office management. Limitation: larger footprint may not suit very compact bars or kiosks.
Volcora 15.6″ POS Terminal — Hardware Only
Volcora’s 15.6-inch terminal is designed to save counter space while offering a high-visibility touchscreen. Best for: small businesses that want a sturdy, space-efficient POS with reliable hardware. Caution: as a hardware-only option, you’ll need to pair it with compatible software and peripherals separately.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Space and layout: Consider counter depth and the need for a dual-screen setup. If space is tight, a compact or wall-mounted option may work better.
- Mobility vs. stationarity: Handheld and portable POS devices excel for tableside service and events, while desktop-style terminals are ideal for front-of-house orders and kitchen integration.
- Software integration: Ensure the POS supports kitchen printers, tableside ordering, and receipt generation. Verify compatibility with existing hardware (printers, cash drawers).
- Offline and connectivity: Devices with offline payments or robust offline mode reduce disruptions during network outages.
- Security and cash handling: Look for secure cash drawers, proper user access controls, and audit trails for transactions.
- Future needs: Choose a system scalable to more locations, additional registers, or expanded features like loyalty programs and reporting.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What should I consider when choosing a restaurant POS? Space, mobility, software compatibility, offline capabilities, and security are critical to daily operations and future growth.
- Are all-in-one POS systems easier to deploy? Yes, they typically offer streamlined setup and bundled peripherals, which reduces installation time.
- Is a dual-screen POS beneficial for staff? Dual screens improve order accuracy and customer interaction by separating staff input from customer-facing displays.
- Do portable POS devices withstand restaurant environments? Many models are designed for splash and dust resistance, but verify IP ratings and battery life for your shift length.
- Can I switch from one POS vendor to another? Some systems offer migration paths, but verify data export/import options and potential downtime.
- What is the best option for a small café? A compact, affordable, and quickly deployable system with tableside capability is usually ideal for cafés and small eateries.