Struggling to choose between Clover and Square for your company’s POS system? The decision can be tough with so many options out there. But fear not, we’ve got the expertise to guide you through the process.
Our thorough evaluation covers all aspects of Square and Clover’s POS solutions, including software, hardware, and pricing.
Keep reading for a deep dive into the features that will help you make an informed choice.
Quick Verdict:
Square emerges as the top choice in this comparison, offering a user-friendly and versatile POS solution suitable for diverse business needs. With a free software plan and a variety of affordable hardware options, Square is a clear winner.
Square vs Clover: The Overview
Both Square and Clover are reputable companies providing powerful point of sale software, hardware, and payment solutions. Square shines for its versatility and affordability across various industries, while Clover excels in industry-specific applications.
For those seeking an all-encompassing POS system with support for omnichannel selling and specialized tools, Square is the go-to choice. On the other hand, Clover is tailored for businesses in sectors like personal services, retail, and dining, offering advanced features to meet specific industry needs.
| Clover POS | Square POS | |
|---|---|---|
| Features | Clover offers top-notch payment processing solutions for service providers and restaurants, covering everything from payments to inventory management. | Square boasts an extensive feature set, including various payment processors, inventory management, employee tools, and loyalty programs. |
| Best for | Clover caters to niche industries with advanced modular features, ideal for service providers and restaurant owners. | Square is perfect for businesses in need of an affordable and user-friendly POS for in-person and online transactions. |
| Pricing | Clover offers tailored pricing packages based on individual company needs, necessitating direct contact for pricing details. | Square’s software is free to access, complemented by budget-friendly hardware solutions like magstripe card readers starting at $10. |
| Transaction fees | Clover’s transaction fees range from 2.4% to 2.6% plus 10 cents for card-present transactions, without complete transparency on other processing fees. | Square’s fees begin at 2.6% plus 10 cents for card-present transactions, potentially getting expensive for some transactions. |
| Hardware pricing | From Clover Go at $49 to all-in-one solutions, Clover offers a range of hardware options to cater to different business needs. | Square’s hardware is among the most budget-friendly, with options like credit card processors for $29 and magstripe readers for $10. |
| Payment processing | Clover supports various payment methods, including contactless payments and custom payment options. | Square accommodates split payments, invoices, various card payments, and gift card processing. |
| Customer support | Clover provides excellent customer service via phone, chat, and email, with dedicated customer onboarding assistance. | Square offers extensive self-service resources as well as phone, chat, and email support options. |
POS Software Features on Square and Clover
Quick verdict: Square outshines with its wide array of user-friendly software features, from payment processing to building online stores effortlessly. Simplistic design and exceptional functionality make Square a top contender.
Today’s POS solutions revolve around two key components: software and hardware. Both Square and Clover deliver cloud-based software solutions, ensuring accessibility across devices with internet connectivity.
Functionality-wise, both offer integrated payment processing, inventory management, customer service tools, and offline payment capabilities, making them reliable choices for businesses.
Square POS Software Features
Square stands out for its simplicity paired with a rich set of advanced features, catering to various business needs. Whether it’s Square POS for Restaurants or Retail, the cloud-based platform seamlessly integrates with diverse hardware solutions for seamless operations.
From versatile payment processing to customizable checkouts and robust customer service and security features, Square’s software covers it all. Ecommerce integration, employee management, and analytics tools further enhance its appeal.
Additionally, Square offers modular add-ons like Square Online, Square Invoices, and various integrations for automating workflows.
Clover POS Software Features
Clover closely rivals Square in POS software capabilities, featuring cloud-based technology and integrated payment processing and management tools. Industry-specific solutions make it a preferred choice among businesses.
Customization options, robust security features, and extensive reporting and analytics capabilities further enhance Clover’s appeal. Industry-specific modules and hardware options ensure tailored solutions for varying business needs.
Clover vs. Square: POS Hardware Options
Quick Verdict: Clover impresses with a wider array of hardware solutions, including innovative options like Clover Flex, while Square’s affordability makes it a top choice for budget-conscious businesses.
After assessing software features, hardware considerations come into play. While both Clover and Square support sales through mobile devices and tablets, additional hardware may be required for secure card processing.
Square offers a range of cost-effective hardware solutions, including Square Terminal and Square Reader, catering to various business types. On the other hand, Clover provides diverse hardware options, from Clover Go to Clover Station Duo, offering tailored solutions for different business sizes.
Customer Support and Service Solutions
Quick Verdict: Clover edges past Square in customer service quality, offering faster and more intuitive support. While both companies provide similar support options, Clover’s superior reputation for customer service sets it apart.
Customer support is crucial in navigating POS solutions efficiently. Clover and Square both offer extensive support resources, including FAQs, guides, email, chat, and phone support.
Clover’s help center and support services are highly praised by users, while Square also delivers exceptional customer support across various channels. However, Clover’s slightly better reputation for customer service garners it an edge over Square.
Clover vs Square: The Pricing Plans
Quick Verdict: Square emerges as the more affordable choice for small businesses, offering free software and website options, along with cost-effective hardware solutions. Clover, on the other hand, may have higher subscription costs, making Square a clear winner in terms of pricing.
When considering a POS system, pricing is a critical factor to weigh. Square’s transparent pricing and affordable options, including free software and budget-friendly hardware, make it an attractive choice for startups and small businesses.
Square’s Pricing Plans
With straightforward pricing and free software access, Square stands out for its affordability. Transaction fees are competitive, and advanced solutions like Square for Restaurants are available at reasonable rates.
Hardware options cater to various price points, ensuring flexibility for businesses. Square’s all-in-one solutions and additional fees for specific modules offer additional customization.
Clover Pricing Plans
Clover’s pricing model includes diverse hardware options at varying price points, complemented by transparent transaction fees. Subscription costs may vary based on modules and services required, necessitating direct contact for detailed pricing.
While Clover offers a starting plan at a lower price point, other plans can be more expensive, requiring careful consideration based on business needs.
The Verdict: Which POS Should You Use?
Both Square and Clover present strong POS solutions suitable for various business requirements. Square’s user-friendly interface and affordability make it an ideal choice for all-in-one POS needs.
If you’re in a specific industry requiring advanced features, Clover’s tailored solutions and diverse hardware options might be the way to go. Ultimately, the choice boils down to your business’s unique needs and preferences.
