Top 5 EPOS Providers in the UK: Features, Pricing & Pros/Cons

Why Choosing the Right EPOS Provider Matters

That’s easy – an EPOS system is more than just a way to take payments; it’s the nerve centre of your business operations. From simple tasks like managing inventory and sales to more in-depth things like improving customer service and streamlining staff tasks, we’re confident that the right EPOS can make a big difference to your success.

We also know that with numerous options available on the market, it can be hard and daunting to make the right choice. So, we’ve narrowed down the top 5 EPOS providers in the UK based on their performance, affordability, features, and suitability for various business types.

1. Square – Best for Startups and Small Businesses

Pricing: Free software; hardware from £19

Best For: Cafés, retail stalls, salons, service providers

Features:

Free POS software with powerful tools
Mobile-friendly (works on iPad or smartphone)
Integrated card reader and payments
Free online store integration
Inventory, staff and sales tracking

Pros:

✅ No monthly fees for basic plan

✅ Extremely easy to set up and use

✅ Seamless hardware and payment integration

Cons:

❌ Limited advanced inventory options for larger businesses

❌ Higher transaction fees (1.75% per card payment)

📌 We think Square are perfect for micro-businesses or those just starting out.

2. Zettle by PayPal – Best for Mobile and Pop-Up Businesses

Pricing: Free software; card reader £29

Best For: Mobile traders, food vans, market stalls

Features:

All-in-one POS and payment system
Works on smartphones and tablets
Inventory library and barcode scanning
Integrates with PayPal, Xero, Shopify

Pros:

✅ Great for on-the-go businesses

✅ Low hardware cost and no monthly fees

✅ Trusted PayPal integration

Cons:

❌ Limited back-office functionality

❌ Not ideal for multi-location businesses

📌we think Zettle are the top pick for flexible traders who want mobility and ease of use.

3. Epos Now – Best for Hospitality & Retail Chains

Pricing: From £25/month + hardware

Best For: Pubs, restaurants, hair salons, multi-site retailers

Features:

Customisable EPOS for various industries
Stock control and customer management
Integrates with over 100 apps (Xero, QuickBooks, Deliveroo)
Cloud-based system with 24/7 access

Pros:

✅ Industry-specific modules for hospitality or retail

✅ Works across multiple locations

✅ Great support and training options

Cons:

❌ Extra fees for some integrations

❌ Hardware costs can add up

📌 We think that Epos Now are ideal for growing businesses that need flexibility and scale.

4. Lightspeed – Best for Advanced Retail Features

Pricing: From £39/month

Best For: Fashion boutiques, gift shops, and multi-store retailers

Features:

Powerful inventory management and analytics
eCommerce and CRM integration
Multi-location support
Customisable sales reporting

Pros:

✅ Excellent for stock-heavy businesses

✅ Smooth online/offline integration

✅ Intuitive interface and cloud access

Cons:

❌ Higher starting price point

❌ Requires more setup and training

📌 We think Lightspeed are best for retailers with complex stock needs or both online and physical sales.

5. Shopify POS – Best for eCommerce + Bricks & Mortar

Pricing: From £5/month (Lite) or £65/month (Pro)

Best For: Online-first businesses with physical stores

Features:

Unified sales dashboard for in-store and online
Smart inventory sync between locations
Mobile POS apps and hardware
Custom checkout and customer profiles

Pros:

✅ Seamless Shopify store integration

✅ Scalable for growing businesses

✅ Cloud access and powerful eCommerce tools

Cons:

❌ Best features locked behind higher-tier plans

❌ Designed primarily for Shopify users

📌 We think Shopify are perfect for brands expanding from online to physical retail.

Our Final Thoughts: Which EPOS Provider Is Right for You?

We think that at the end of the day, choosing the best EPOS system depends on your business size, industry, budget, and future plans. For startups, Square and Zettle are cost-effective and easy to use and if you’re looking for scale and advanced functionality, Epos Now or Lightspeed offer powerful tools. For online-focused businesses, Shopify POS is definitely the natural choice.

💡 Ready to compare EPOS systems? Use our free comparison tool to find the perfect fit for your UK business and start taking smarter, faster, and more secure payments today.