Let's find out the differences between a traditional cash register and a POS Cash Register.
The process of processing sales transactions is an integral part of running an online retail business.
Choosing the right cash register system to manage those payments is a crucial decision. There are many cash register systems available.
There is a registration system for every business, no matter how small or large.
There are three types of cash registers:
- traditional cash registers;
- point–of–sale systems;
- mobile POS systems.
We analyzed various cash registers to help you choose the right cash register for your business. To help you make your decision, we also looked at the top POS systems.
What is a POS System?
A POS cash register (also known as a computerized cash register or a system) is more sophisticated than a traditional register.
It is commonly used in small businesses. Modernized systems can do more than print receipts and tally totals.
John Moss, English Blinds CEO, stated that a POS cash register can be a computerized register connected to a larger control system.
It will typically have multiple registers processing sales and taking payments. They even have loyalty programs that allow customers to track their data."
Depending on the features you require, you can either choose a simple POS system, or one with advanced capabilities that integrate with third-party business applications like top accounting programs, and the most popular email marketing services.
A cloud-based POS system can be used on both tablets and browsers. They are affordable and feature-rich.
Fully integrated POS systems can automate business operations and reduce human error, increasing business efficiency.
What is a Mobile POS Cash Register?
Mobile cash registers are also called mobile payment systems and mobile credit card processing systems. They have many of the same functions as standard POS systems.
Mobile systems allow for greater flexibility when processing and managing payments. They can be used on smartphones or tablets.
These devices use near-field communication and quick response barcode configurations, Bluetooth Low Energy, magnetic secure transmission technology, Bluetooth Low Energy, and Bluetooth Near-Field Communication. Mobile payment systems can also use cryptocurrencies and digital wallets.
Mobile POS systems can accept credit card payments. However, cash drawers must be paired with them if cash payments are to be accepted.
Mobile POS systems can be used by mobile businesses such as food trucks and retail shops selling at local events. They also work well for restaurants that accept payment tableside.
What are the Advantages of a POS system for Your Business?
A POS system can be computerized and has clear advantages over a cash register. They all relate to the features of the POS system.
- Inventory management: Inventory can be one of the most important selling points of a POS. The best POS systems integrate inventory management. They automatically track stock changes and can make replenishment easier.
- Data analytics: A digital POS system digitizes sales data to reduce labor costs. Instead of entering receipt information manually into a computer, you can use the data analytics a POS system offers.
- Attendance and time tracking: A POS makes administrative tasks easier. The POS can integrate a time clock, which makes it easier to track employee hours and labor statistics. This could include timers for scheduling mandatory breaks, rotations in stations or duties, and staffing changes to manage sales traffic patterns.
What is the Cost of a POS Cash Register and Where Can You Purchase it?
It is easy to locate cash registers. Many office supply shops have a selection of models available in-store so that they can be bought on the spot.
Although not all models are available in every store location, many models can be found at Office Depot or Staples.
Depending on the features, their prices can range from less than $100 to more than $300. You can also purchase cash registers online through Amazon. They have similar prices.
It is more difficult to find POS devices in a local shopfront. For example, there are very few Office Depot or Staples stores that have POS computers in stock.
Although it may be possible for a local retailer to stock POS systems in stock, many business POS systems can be found online.
POS systems are generally more expensive than cash registers, regardless of where they are purchased. They can start at $300 and easily go up to the thousands.
The price of a POS system will depend on its features. The price of a POS system will usually increase if it has more powerful software, security features, and networking.
What’s a Cash Register?
An electronic cash register is also called a traditional cash register. It's a system that manages sales. A traditional cash register usually includes an adding machine as well as a cash drawer.
These machines are very simple in their capabilities. They add up the cost and applicable sales tax automatically to generate a total. When a receipt has been printed, a cash drawer opens.
Flux Shop Manager Ron Mansfield says that these systems aren’t as practical or popular as they once were due to the rise of new payment methods such as Apple Pay and Bitcoin.
This system is outdated and not suitable for many businesses.
What are the Various Types of Cash Registers Available?
Many systems can be used to process and manage sales transactions.
All cash registers can be classified into one of three types: traditional cash registers; POS cash registers; or mobile POS cash Register systems.
Each option comes with its advantages and drawbacks. The type of system you choose will depend on the size of your business, your industry, your budget, your preferences, and your personal preferences.
What are the Advantages of a Cash Register?
- Simple design: The simplicity of a cash register is one of the greatest benefits. Many cash registers lack networking capabilities. They do not store customer information, which means they can't be hacked. This makes data security much simpler as the only record created in these cases are printed receipts.
- Longevity: Simplicity is also a valuable asset in terms of long-term longevity. Cash registers are simpler without a computer system. This means that there are fewer parts and less chance of them breaking. Noncomputerized cash registers can be repaired much faster than computerized systems. This is especially important if your sales are low in volume.
- Value: The third benefit of a cash register is its value. While the costs of any cash register or POS machine may vary, there are instances when a cash register will provide more return on investment than a system with POS features. This applies to cash registers that are less expensive than POS systems.
Are You Ready to Try a POS or Cash Register?
Traditional cash registers can be more affordable than POS systems. This is good news for small businesses with tight budgets.
- "Moss stated that traditional cash registers can be beneficial if you manage one store with one register and have the time to manually monitor, control, and check stock levels.
- He also said that if you use a traditional register you will need to know the price of every item or have a guide to help you determine it.
- You will also need to know the sales trends and popular items, as well as fluctuations, to get data.
- Moss stated that traditional registers are limited and only appropriate for very specific store owners. "Besides the savings on purchase costs, they offer very few to no benefits and many disadvantages."
Dawsey warns against traditional cash registers in cashless societies. This is due to the shift in fraud accountability to small- and medium-sized businesses, as well as retailers.
Traditional cash registers can create data silos that hinder integration with other business software, even if the business is primarily cash-based.
A POS system is beneficial for all organizations, regardless of their size, and can often be more attractive for your business than a cash register. Your specific requirements and budget will determine the best POS system to fit your business.
You might consider starting with a -free POS system and then moving to a paid version when you have the funds.
Moss stated that many small business owners hesitate to invest in a POS system, as well as the training and support required for its use.
Moss said that POS systems can be repaid many times over in a relatively short period if you look at the bigger picture.
A POS system is a cost-effective investment that will pay off over time. Consider your needs and weigh all pros and cons before deciding if a traditional cashier or a POS system is best for you.