
Part of the reason you'll pay more for a POS system is that the vendor you buy from will handle the setup and installation - and may even train you on the basics of using the system.

Without any requirement for a computer or networking, you can find standalone cash registers that can handle the needs of a very small business for $100 to $500. On the other hand, if your budget is strapped, cash registers are much less expensive to purchase.Want to know which of your items is the hottest seller? What's a dead item that should be pulled from the shelf? Standard POS reports make it easy to get at that data. POS systems also provide a level of inventory management that is nonexistent with basic cash registers.POS systems let you analyze your sales data over different date ranges, by category or location, and in almost any other way you can think of. While electronic cash registers can give you basic cash out report that will tell you your total sales figures for the day, that's usually about all they can do. The primary difference is that POS systems let you do much more after the sale.Both let you ring up customers and track how much you've sold of various items. They both usually have cash drawers, programmable item keys, price displays, receipt printers, and credit card swipe slots. For one thing, don't let the terminology confuse you: POS systems and cash registers have a lot in common.If you're still considering your options, here's a look at some of the differences: If you're looking to buy a cash register, we recommend going directly to business electronic outlets like Staples where you can get a good deal on a cash register. Not every business needs a POS system: modern electronic cash registers can provide many of the same benefits and are easier on your budget.


Just a cash register or a POS system: which is right for your business?
