Top 5 Clover POS System Alternatives in 2025

When it comes to running a successful retail, restaurant, or service-based business, having a reliable Point of Sale (POS) system is non-negotiable. One of the most recognized names in the industry is the Clover POS system, known for its sleek hardware, flexibility, and deep integration with payment processing services. However, the Clover POS system may not be the perfect fit for every business. Whether it’s due to pricing, contract terms, or feature preferences, many businesses are now seeking better alternatives.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top 5 Clover POS system alternatives , comparing their key features, pros and cons, pricing models, and what kind of businesses they serve best. If you’re considering switching from the Clover POS system or you’re just shopping around, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

Why Look for an Alternative to the Clover POS System?

Before we dive into the top alternatives, let’s briefly explore why businesses are looking beyond the Clover POS system in 2025.

1. Pricing Concerns

Clover’s pricing structure can be confusing. Many business owners find themselves tied into long-term contracts with additional fees for hardware, software, and payment processing.

2. Hardware Lock-In

The Clover POS system ties users into using proprietary hardware, meaning you can’t just switch to another provider without a full hardware overhaul.

3. Limited Third-Party Integrations

While Clover offers a marketplace of apps, some integrations are limited compared to more open platforms.

4. Ownership and Control

The Clover system is owned by Fiserv, a large payment processor. This means many resellers bundle the POS with their own contracts, often limiting flexibility.

If you’re feeling restricted by these limitations, it might be time to explore other options.

Top 5 Clover POS System Alternatives in 2025

Let’s take a look at the five best Clover POS system alternatives that businesses are switching to in 2025.

1. Square POS

Overview

Square is one of the most popular POS systems for small to medium-sized businesses, and it continues to lead the way in 2025 with an all-in-one platform that includes free POS software, affordable hardware, and no long-term contracts.

Key Features

• Free POS software with essential tools

• Invoicing and online payment support

• Employee and inventory management

• Powerful eCommerce integrations

• Android and iOS app support

Pros

• No monthly fee for the basic POS

• Easy to set up and use

• Transparent pricing

• Works with third-party hardware

• Great for mobile and pop-up shops

Cons

• Limited advanced features on the free version

• Higher processing fees for larger businesses

• Some features require add-on subscriptions

Ideal For:

• Retail stores

• Food trucks and pop-ups

• Freelancers and service providers

• Cafés and small restaurants

Pricing

• Free for basic POS

• Square Plus: $60/month

• Processing fees: 2.6% + 10¢ per transaction

Verdict: If you’re looking for a simple, easy-to-use Clover POS system alternative with no commitment, Square POS is a top contender in 2025.

2. Toast POS

Overview

Toast POS is built specifically for restaurants and foodservice businesses. In 2025, it remains a favorite among quick-service, full-service, and enterprise restaurants thanks to its restaurant-first features and advanced reporting tools.

Key Features

• Menu and table management

• Online ordering and delivery integrations

• Inventory and ingredient tracking

• Payroll and labor management

• Kitchen display system (KDS) support

Pros

• Built exclusively for the food industry

• Offline mode for uninterrupted service

• Customer loyalty and marketing tools

• Real-time analytics and reporting

Cons

• Only works with Toast’s proprietary Android-based hardware

• Higher upfront costs

• Requires a contract for some services

Ideal For:

• Quick-service restaurants

• Full-service restaurants

• Coffee shops and bakeries

• Multi-location franchises

Pricing

• Starter Kit: $0/month (with conditions)

• Core Plan: Starting at $69/month

• Processing fees: Custom rates

Verdict: Toast POS is the perfect Clover POS system alternative for restaurants looking for industry-specific features and robust management tools in 2025.

3. Lightspeed POS

Overview

Lightspeed offers powerful POS solutions for both retail and restaurant businesses. With a cloud-based platform and customizable features, Lightspeed is ideal for growing operations that need flexibility and scalability.

Key Features

• Advanced inventory management

• Multilocation support

• Customer relationship management (CRM)

• eCommerce platform included

• Custom reporting and analytics

Pros

• Feature-rich for complex retail environments

• Excellent inventory tracking

• Strong eCommerce tools

• Works with multiple payment processors

Cons

• Learning curve for new users

• Can be expensive with add-ons

• Some features are locked behind higher tiers

Ideal For:

• Medium to large retail businesses

• Multi-location retailers

• Bike shops, jewelry stores, and boutique businesses

• Upscale restaurants and bars

Pricing

• Retail POS: Starting at $89/month

• Restaurant POS: Starting at $69/month

• Payment processing: 2.6% + 10¢ (negotiable for higher volume)

Verdict: Lightspeed is a powerful Clover POS system alternative in 2025 for businesses that need advanced inventory management, multiple store integration, and robust eCommerce capabilities.

4. Shopify POS

Overview

If you’re already running an online store with Shopify, its POS system is a seamless extension for your brick-and-mortar presence. In 2025, Shopify POS continues to grow as a favorite for omnichannel sellers.

Key Features

• Unified online and in-store inventory

• Integrated customer data

• Smart cart and mobile checkout

• Staff management tools

• Loyalty and gift card programs

Pros

• Seamless integration with Shopify’s online store

• Smart hardware and mobile POS options

• Flexible subscription plans

• Great for omnichannel selling

Cons

• Best features locked behind Shopify POS Pro

• Additional Shopify subscription required

• Processing fees are average

Ideal For:

• Online-first brands expanding into retail

• Pop-up stores and market sellers

• Fashion and lifestyle retailers

• Hybrid eCommerce businesses

Pricing

• Shopify POS Lite: Included in all Shopify plans

• Shopify POS Pro: $89/month/location

• Shopify eCommerce plans: Start at $39/month

• Payment processing: 2.4%–2.7% + 0¢

Verdict: Shopify POS is an excellent Clover POS system alternative for businesses that prioritize unified online and in-store selling experiences in 2025.

5. Revel Systems

Overview

Revel Systems is a robust POS platform designed for larger and enterprise-level businesses. It combines the power of iPad-based systems with enterprise-grade functionality, perfect for high-volume retailers and restaurants.

Key Features

• Cloud-based POS with hybrid offline support

• Multi-unit management

• Inventory and CRM tools

• Custom API access and integrations

• Advanced analytics and reporting

Pros

• Powerful tools for multi-location businesses

• Strong support and onboarding

• Highly customizable

• Secure and scalable

Cons

• Requires a custom quote for pricing

• Longer onboarding process

• Monthly minimum requirements

Ideal For:

• Franchises

• Enterprise retailers

• National restaurant chains

• Businesses needing custom features

Pricing

• Custom quotes only (starts around $99/month per terminal)

• Custom processing rates

Verdict: For larger businesses looking for a high-end Clover POS system alternative with enterprise-grade features, Revel Systems stands out in 2025.

Side-by-Side Comparison of Clover POS System Alternatives

How to Choose the Right Clover POS System Alternative

When deciding which Clover POS system alternative is best for your business, consider the following factors:

1. Business Type

• Are you in retail, foodservice, or both?

• Do you operate multiple locations or a single storefront?

2. Budget

• Do you want to pay monthly, annually, or per transaction?

• Can you afford proprietary hardware?

3. Features Needed

• Do you need advanced inventory tracking?

• Is eCommerce integration important to your sales?

4. Growth Plans

• Are you planning to expand?

• Will you need multi-location support and scalability?

5. Ease of Use

• How tech-savvy is your staff?

• Do you prefer plug-and-play simplicity or advanced customization?

Final Thoughts: Is It Time to Switch From Clover POS System?

The Clover POS system still remains a solid choice for many businesses, especially those already tied into Fiserv’s payment processing ecosystem. However, if you’re looking for more flexibility, better integrations, improved pricing, or a platform that better aligns with your unique business model, one of the alternatives listed above may be a better fit in 2025.

Whether you choose Square, Toast, Lightspeed, Shopify, or Revel, the key is to find a solution that grows with your business and empowers your team to deliver the best customer experience possible.