In today’s rapidly evolving retail landscape, having a flexible, intuitive, and robust point-of-sale (POS) system is not just beneficial — it’s essential. Whether you’re operating a brick-and-mortar shop, selling online, or running a hybrid model, Shopify POS delivers a seamless solution that integrates your sales, inventory, customer profiles, and payments under one roof.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Shopify POS, including features, pricing, plans (Lite vs Pro), hardware options, and how it compares to competitors like Square. We’ll also tackle frequently asked questions (FAQs) around general POS systems to ensure you’re making an informed decision for your business.

What Is Shopify POS?

Shopify POS is a point-of-sale system that allows businesses to sell products in physical locations, such as retail stores, pop-up shops, and markets, while syncing data with their online Shopify store in real time.

It connects your online and offline operations seamlessly — inventory, customers, orders, and payments are all managed in one central platform. Shopify POS is available via:

• Shopify POS App (for tablets and smartphones)

• Shopify POS Go (dedicated handheld POS hardware)

Whether you’re a startup boutique or a growing retail chain, Shopify POS adapts to your needs with tools for inventory tracking, staff permissions, analytics, discounts, returns, and more.

Shopify POS System: Key Features

The Shopify POS system stands out for its unified commerce capabilities. Let’s break down its core features:

1. Unified Inventory Management

Track and manage your inventory across multiple locations and channels from a single dashboard. The system updates inventory in real time, reducing the chances of overselling or stockouts.

2. Omnichannel Selling

Whether you’re selling in-store, online, on social media, or through marketplaces, Shopify POS ensures all channels stay in sync — giving customers a seamless experience.

3. Advanced Checkout Experience

• Customizable smart grid layout

• Barcode scanning

• Discount application

• Split tenders and partial payments

• Local pickup and delivery options

4. Customer Management

Build detailed customer profiles that store purchase history, loyalty data, contact info, and marketing preferences.

5. Staff Management

Assign roles, permissions, and sales goals to individual employees. Monitor performance and track commissions with ease.

6. Powerful Reporting & Analytics

Access detailed reports on daily sales, staff performance, inventory levels, and customer behavior. Insights are customizable and exportable.

Shopify POS App: On-the-Go Flexibility

The Shopify POS app is your mobile hub for in-person selling. It runs on iOS and Android devices and lets you:

• Process transactions anywhere

• Add customer notes and tags

• Scan barcodes with your phone’s camera

• Connect with Shopify POS hardware

This app is ideal for pop-up shops, craft markets, trade shows, and other mobile selling scenarios.

Shopify POS Go: All-in-One Hardware Solution

Shopify POS Go is a handheld device designed for retailers who need a compact, wireless solution that includes:

• Barcode scanner

• Built-in card reader

• Touchscreen for checkout

• Shopify POS App pre-installed

It’s perfect for high-volume or fast-paced retail environments, offering the ultimate mobility and performance.

Shopify POS Lite vs Pro: Which One’s Right for You?

Shopify POS Lite

Included in all Shopify plans, ideal for small businesses or online-first stores with occasional in-person sales.

Shopify POS Pro

Add-on for serious retailers who need advanced functionality, available at $89/month per location. Perfect for businesses with large teams, multiple locations, or extensive in-store operations.

Shopify POS Pricing Breakdown

Shopify POS costs are divided into:

• Shopify Plan Cost (for your online store): Starts at $39/month

• Shopify POS Lite: Free with your Shopify plan

• Shopify POS Pro: $89/month per physical location

• Shopify POS Go Device: $399 one-time fee

• Hardware Kits: From $219 to $1,200 depending on size and accessories

Shopify POS Fees

Transaction fees vary by plan. For example:

• Shopify Payments (credit card processing) fees: Start at 2.4% + 0¢ in-person

• Third-party processors: Additional fees may apply

Shopify POS Hardware Options

Shopify offers a wide range of POS machines and terminals, including:

• Shopify POS Terminal: Touchscreen with card reader and barcode scanner

• Shopify Card Reader: Bluetooth-enabled tap, chip, and swipe support

• Receipt Printers

• Cash Drawers

• Barcode Scanners

Hardware is compatible with Shopify’s iPad stands and Shopify POS Go.

Shopify POS vs Square: A Comparative Look

Verdict:

Shopify POS is better for merchants focused on ecommerce and omnichannel selling, while Square may suit small, service-based businesses.

Benefits of Shopify POS for Retailers

1. Syncs Online & Offline Stores
2. Real-Time Inventory Management
3. Streamlined Omnichannel Sales
4. Employee Performance Tracking
5. Customizable Checkout
6. Detailed Sales Reports
7. Scalability from Small to Enterprise

What is POS in Business?

In business terms, a POS (Point of Sale) is where a transaction occurs between the merchant and customer. It’s not just the physical register — it includes the software, hardware, and backend systems involved in completing a sale.

Shopify POS is one of the most advanced, scalable, and omnichannel-ready systems available today.

FAQs: Point of Sale Explained

What are POS systems?

POS systems are platforms used to complete sales in physical stores. They include hardware (registers, barcode scanners, card readers) and software (inventory, reporting, customer management). Shopify POS is one such system, optimized for ecommerce and retail.

What are POS transactions?

A POS transaction refers to the moment when a customer makes a purchase at a store, paying for goods or services. It includes scanning, payment processing, receipt generation, and inventory deduction.

What are POS skills?

POS skills are competencies required to use POS systems effectively. These include handling transactions, managing inventory, customer service, technical troubleshooting, and using POS software like Shopify POS.

What are POS terminals?

POS terminals are the physical hardware devices used to process payments. Shopify offers all-in-one terminals and mobile solutions like Shopify POS Go.

What are POS machines?

POS machines include terminals, scanners, printers, and card readers that facilitate the transaction process in-store.

What are POS materials?

These are physical or digital materials needed to run a POS system, such as receipts, barcode labels, loyalty cards, signage, and packaging.

What are POS systems for restaurants?

These are specialized POS solutions for the food and beverage industry. Shopify POS can be customized for small cafés, food trucks, or pop-up restaurants, although restaurant-specific platforms may offer deeper features like table management or kitchen displays.

What are POS payments?

POS payments refer to in-store payments made via credit card, debit card, cash, or contactless methods using a POS terminal.

What are POS plans?

POS plans refer to the different subscription tiers offered by POS providers. Shopify POS offers Lite and Pro plans, with Pro including advanced analytics and multi-location inventory.

What are POS sales?

POS sales are the sales made using a point-of-sale system. These are tracked through reports and analytics, helping business owners understand performance and trends.

What are POS in business?

POS in business refers to the system and processes used at the checkout point. It plays a central role in customer experience, inventory management, and financial tracking.

Final Thoughts

Shopify POS is a powerful, scalable, and intuitive solution for businesses of all sizes looking to bridge online and offline sales. With features tailored for modern retail and ecommerce integration, Shopify POS sets itself apart in a crowded market.

If you’re looking to streamline your retail operations, gain deeper insights, and offer a seamless shopping experience to your customers, Shopify POS is the system of choice.

Ready to Get Started?

At eCommerce Republic, we help businesses implement and customize Shopify POS for optimal performance. Whether you’re opening your first retail location or scaling nationwide, our team of experts ensures you’re set up for success.

📞 Contact Us
Phone: +1 917 477 3822
Email: hello@ecommercerepublic.com
Address: 1983 Marcus Ave, Suite 204 New Hyde Park, NY United States

Let’s revolutionize your retail strategy with the power of Shopify POS.