Shopify POS System: Complete Guide to Costs, Hardware, and Seamless Selling

Today’s businesses need seamless integration between digital and physical operations, and that’s where the Shopify POS system shines. Combining powerful software and intuitive hardware, Shopify’s point of sale enables merchants to manage sales, inventory, and customer data across channels, delivering a unified shopping experience. Below, we explain what the Shopify POS really is, how to use it, and what are its main competitors.

Unlike traditional POS systems, Shopify POS syncs seamlessly with your Shopify admin, offering real-time updates for inventory and customer data. This integration lets businesses provide personalized service, apply in-store discounts, and process returns for online purchases — all with ease.

In addition to that, we describe Shopify POS hardware, including card readers, cash drawers, and barcode scanners. For those using external systems, we explain how tools like the Import & Export Tool for Shopify automate inventory transfers, ensuring consistency across platforms.

You’ll also discover a comprehensive breakdown of Shopify POS costs below. Whether you’re running a pop-up shop or scaling a large operation, Shopify POS’s flexible plans, from Lite to Pro, provide tailored solutions for businesses of any size. Let’s get started.

What Is the Shopify POS System?

The Shopify POS system is the platform’s hardware and software solutions that create a crucial bridge between the digital and physical realms. Designed for modern businesses, it enables merchants to integrate online and offline sales seamlessly, delivering the convenience of omnichannel commerce in one cohesive platform.

The Role of a POS System in Retail

A point-of-sale (POS) system is more than just a tool to process transactions — it’s the operational heart of any retail environment. It manages inventory, tracks sales, and helps businesses engage with customers effectively. Traditional POS systems often fail to provide the flexibility required for today’s commerce landscape, which spans physical stores, pop-up shops, and online storefronts. This is where Shopify’s innovation comes into play.

Why Shopify POS Stands Out

Unlike generic POS solutions, the Shopify POS system offers a tightly woven integration with Shopify’s e-commerce platform. This means inventory, sales, and customer data are synced in real time across all sales channels. Whether a customer browses your online store in the morning and decides to buy in person later that day, Shopify ensures the experience feels seamless.

For example, Shopify point of sale enables merchants to view online purchase histories, apply exclusive in-store discounts, and process returns regardless of where the item was originally purchased. These features make it an invaluable tool for retailers looking to cater to the expectations of today’s digitally savvy shoppers.

The Power of Omnichannel Retail with Shopify POS

In retail where convenience often dictates loyalty, omnichannel commerce has become essential. With Shopify POS, merchants can unify their operations, delivering a consistent brand experience whether customers shop online, in-store, or through mobile channels. This isn’t just a tech trend — it’s the foundation of competitive retail strategy.

As the lines blur between online and offline shopping, businesses equipped with Shopify’s POS system are uniquely positioned to thrive. Its user-friendly interface, robust analytics, and seamless integration make it a standout solution for both small boutiques and large retail chains.

By offering a unified approach to sales, inventory, and customer management, the Shopify POS system transforms the way businesses operate, setting them up for success in an omnichannel retail world.

Shopify POS Hardware: Tools for Seamless In-Person Sales

The magic of the Shopify POS system lies in its ability to blend the digital and physical aspects of retail, and a key part of that success is the hardware that powers it. From sleek card readers to robust cash drawers, the hardware for Shopify POS transforms any retail space into a fully functional, tech-driven operation.

One of the standout features of Shopify’s point of sale is its compatibility with mobile devices. By pairing an iPad or smartphone with Shopify’s card reader, businesses can create a portable checkout system that’s perfect for markets, festivals, or even busy retail floors. However, there are a few more items that you can use to streamline your point-of-sale routine.

Below is a curated list of recommended devices, each integral to efficient point-of-sale operations with Shopify POS:

Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader. This compact Shopify POS hardware device enables merchants to accept chip and contactless payments, including Apple Pay and Google Pay. Its wireless design ensures mobility across your store.

Star Micronics’ 14″ Cash Drawer. A durable and secure cash drawer that integrates seamlessly with Shopify POS, providing organized storage for cash transactions.

Star Micronics Bluetooth Receipt Printer. This printer offers wireless connectivity, allowing for quick and efficient receipt printing and enhancing the customer checkout experience.

Socket Mobile 2D Barcode Scanner. A handheld Shopify POS hardware scanner that swiftly reads product barcodes, expediting the checkout process and improving inventory management.

Shopify Retail Stand for iPad. This stand securely holds your iPad, transforming it into a professional checkout station while maintaining a sleek countertop appearance.

For a comprehensive selection of Shopify POS hardware, including additional accessories and device specifications, visit Shopify’s official hardware store.

Shopify offers proprietary hardware, designed specifically to work seamlessly with its POS system. From straightforward setup to guaranteed compatibility, Shopify’s hardware provides a worry-free solution for merchants new to in-person sales.

However, the Shopify POS system is also flexible enough to integrate with third-party equipment. Retailers who already have existing tools — such as barcode scanners or receipt printers — can often use them with Shopify’s point of sale, saving costs while maintaining functionality.

How to Sell In-Person with Shopify POS: A Step-by-Step Guide

Bridging the digital and physical shopping worlds has never been easier than with the Shopify POS system. It provides the tools to manage in-person sales with precision and ease. Here’s how to get started.

Step 1: Set Up Your Shopify POS Account

Begin by downloading the Shopify POS app, available for both iOS and Android devices. Once installed, log in with your Shopify account credentials.

If you’re new to Shopify, creating an account is straightforward. Follow the prompts to set up your store, choose a pricing plan, and select the Shopify POS Lite or Pro option based on your business needs.

Pro Tip: Choose the Pro plan if you require advanced features like in-depth analytics, staff management tools, and customized permissions.

Watch this video to get more information on how to set up your Shopify POS account:

Step 2: Add Products to the System

Adding products is seamless with Shopify POS. Simply:

1. Navigate to the Products section in your Shopify admin.
2. Enter product details like name, description, price, and SKU.
3. Assign your new product to the point of sale location.
4. Assign inventory levels to ensure accurate stock tracking.

Follow our guide to learn more: How to Add Products to Shopify.

For merchants with a large product catalog, bulk uploads can save time, allowing you to import multiple products simultaneously. Shopify’s synchronization feature ensures your in-person and online inventory stay perfectly aligned.

Key Feature: Inventory sync reduces overselling and provides real-time updates on stock availability.

Step 3: Configure Tax Settings for Shopify’s Point Of Sale

Accurate tax calculations are vital for compliance and customer transparency. In Shopify, tax settings can be customized based on your location:

• Access Settings > Taxes and Duties in your Shopify admin.
• Define tax rates by region or product type.
• Enable automatic tax calculation for areas with specific requirements.

Step 4: Process Payments Seamlessly

Shopify’s point of sale supports multiple payment methods, from cash to card payments and digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay. Here’s how to process a transaction:

1. Open the Shopify POS app and add products to the cart.
2. Select the customer (optional) to personalize the sale.
3. Choose the payment method and follow the prompts for card or contactless transactions.
4. Issue a receipt — printed or emailed — to finalize the sale.

Watch this video for more information on how to create orders and process payments with Shopify POS

Step 5: Leverage Shopify POS Features for Better Insights

Beyond processing sales, Shopify POS provides tools to enhance your business operations:

• Customer Profiles: Automatically save customer information for personalized follow-ups and loyalty programs.
• Sales Insights: Access real-time analytics to identify best-selling products and peak sales times.
• Staff Accounts: Manage employee permissions and track individual performance.

As you can see, selling in person with Shopify POS is more than just making a sale; it’s about creating an integrated retail experience that blends convenience with customer engagement. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your business is not only operational but optimized for success.

Refer to the official manual for more details:

Shopify POS System Cost: Plans, Features, and Pricing

Understanding the costs associated with Shopify POS is essential for making an informed decision tailored to your business needs. So, let’s break them down.

Shopify POS Subscription Plans

Shopify offers two subscription tiers for its POS system: Lite and Pro. Each is designed to cater to different types of businesses. The following table compares both Shopify POS plans side by side:

Shopify POS Hardware Costs

In addition to the subscription, businesses must invest in hardware for Shopify POS, tailored to their operational scale:

• Shopify Tap & Chip Card Reader: $49
• Retail Kit (Card Reader + Dock): $219
• Barcode Scanners: Starting at $299
• Receipt Printers: Starting at $299
• Cash Drawers: Starting at $139
• iPad Stands: Starting at $149

While these are Shopify’s proprietary options, third-party hardware is also compatible, offering budget-friendly alternatives for those already equipped with retail hardware.

Hidden Fees and Additional Costs

While the Shopify POS system avoids nickel-and-diming merchants, there are potential additional costs to consider:

• Payment Processing Fees: Shopify Payments charges between 2.4%–2.9% + 30¢ per transaction, depending on your Shopify plan.
• Third-Party Payment Gateways: Using non-Shopify payment processors incurs additional fees (0.5%–2%).
• Software Add-Ons: Advanced integrations or customizations may require extra subscriptions.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Small Businesses vs. Larger Retailers

Choosing the right Shopify POS plan and hardware is a balancing act of cost versus functionality. Let’s what to expect for small merchants and bigger retailers.

For Small Businesses: The Lite plan combined with a card reader provides an affordable entry point for brick-and-mortar or pop-up operations. The average monthly cost is typically around $5–$89 but may be higher depending on additional hardware.

For Larger Retailers: The Pro plan, while more expensive, offers a substantial return on investment. For businesses with multiple locations, the average monthly cost can range from $121 to $488+, depending on the chosen Shopify plan, number of locations, and additional hardware investments.

Whatever your choice, Shopify’s point of sale provides a clear path to streamlining your retail experience. If you want to know more about the expenditures associated with running an e-commerce store, check our Shopify Costs Breakdown.

Integration with Third-Party POS Systems: Expanding Your Options

Lightspeed POS

While the Shopify POS system is a robust solution for in-person sales, some businesses require additional flexibility. Whether it’s leveraging an existing POS setup or integrating specific features, Shopify offers seamless compatibility with a range of third-party POS systems, ensuring your operations remain efficient and connected.

Pros & Cons of Third-Party POS Systems for Shopify

Shopify’s open ecosystem allows businesses to integrate their e-commerce store with popular third-party POS solutions like Square and Lightspeed. These integrations let merchants combine Shopify’s powerful online sales tools with the unique strengths of external POS systems.

The pros of using third-party POS systems with Shopify include:

• Custom Functionality: Third-party systems often include niche features, such as advanced table management for restaurants or specialized ticketing systems for event venues.
• Familiarity: Businesses already using a third-party POS can avoid retraining staff or overhauling their current workflows.
• Broader Hardware Support: Some third-party systems support specific hardware setups not natively compatible with Shopify.

And these are the negative consequences of leaving the Shopify ecosystem for a third-party POS:

• Additional Costs: Many third-party integrations come with subscription fees or transaction costs.
• Complex Setup: Integrations may require technical expertise, especially when syncing data between systems.
• Limited Feature Overlap: Certain Shopify-exclusive features, such as native inventory syncing, might not work as seamlessly with third-party POS systems.

Top Third-Party POS vs Shopify POS

Despite these challenges, Shopify’s compatibility ensures businesses can tailor their setup to suit their unique needs without sacrificing the benefits of Shopify’s powerful platform. Popular third-party POS systems for Shopify include:

1. Square POS is a versatile and user-friendly option for small businesses and pop-up shops. Its features include in-depth sales analytics, a simple checkout process, and compatibility with a wide range of hardware.
2. Lightspeed POS is ideal for restaurants and large-scale retailers needing advanced features. It offers table management, employee scheduling, and robust reporting tools.
3. Toast POS is tailored for food and beverage businesses, providing restaurant-specific features. This solution includes kitchen display systems, menu engineering, and real-time inventory updates.
4. Clover POS is known for its hardware versatility and wide range of payment options. Features include customer management tools and loyalty program integrations.

These systems provide Shopify merchants with the flexibility to expand their capabilities while leveraging Shopify’s core strengths. To help you decide which one best fits your needs, here’s a side-by-side comparison of Shopify’s point of sale and the mentioned third-party systems in terms of monthly cost, integration with Shopify, ease of use, and simplicity of hardware setup.

If you’re exploring both third-party POS options and a new e-commerce platform, be sure to check out our curated list of Shopify alternatives.

Streamlining Inventory Transfers with the Import & Export Tool for Shopify

One of the most significant challenges of integrating a third-party POS system is managing inventory across platforms. This is where the Import & Export Tool for Shopify steps in to save the day.

This tool simplifies inventory management by automating data transfers between Shopify and external POS systems. Key features include:

• Scheduled Transfers: Set automated schedules to update inventory levels across platforms, ensuring consistency in stock availability.
• Custom Mapping: Align inventory fields between Shopify and the third-party POS system to avoid discrepancies and ensure data integrity.
• Error Reduction: The tool minimizes manual errors, saving time and ensuring accuracy in product listings and inventory counts.

For businesses juggling multiple systems, this tool is a game-changer, transforming what was once a tedious process into an efficient, automated workflow.

Final Thoughts: Is Shopify POS the Right Choice for You?

The Shopify POS system isn’t just a tool; it’s a strategic extension of Shopify’s ecosystem, designed to bridge the gap between online and in-person retail seamlessly. For businesses striving to create a unified shopping experience, Shopify POS offers a solution that’s both powerful and intuitive.

By integrating online and offline sales, automating inventory management, and providing deep customer insights, Shopify’s point of sale equips businesses with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly omnichannel retail environment. Its flexible subscription plans—Lite for startups and Pro for enterprises—ensure scalability as your business grows, while its hardware ecosystem delivers simplicity and reliability.

For small businesses or pop-up shops, the Lite plan paired with Shopify’s streamlined hardware is an affordable and effective entry point. Larger retailers, on the other hand, will appreciate the advanced features of the Pro plan, which justify its cost by unlocking enhanced analytics, staff management, and omnichannel capabilities.

If your operations demand specialized tools or you’re already invested in a third-party POS system, Shopify’s compatibility ensures you won’t have to compromise. With tools like the Import & Export Tool for Shopify, even complex inventory transfers can be automated and optimized. Contact us now to get more information on how to integrate your POS with Shopify.

To determine if the Shopify POS system aligns with your business goals:

1. Start with a Free Trial: Explore Shopify’s platform risk-free to see how its features fit your needs.
2. Consult Shopify Experts: Reach out for guidance on choosing the right plan, setting up hardware, and integrating existing tools.
3. Evaluate Your Growth Potential: Consider how Shopify POS can scale with your business as it grows.

Shopify POS isn’t just a point-of-sale system; it’s a gateway to creating a seamless and modern retail experience. Whether you’re selling from a storefront, a festival booth, or your living room, the Shopify POS system ensures that every sale works smarter, not harder. With its balance of affordability, scalability, and innovation.

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