How to choose a point of sale (POS) system

How to choose the right POS system for your business, with tips, key features, and insights into Yoco’s POS solutions.

22 Jul 2025

Yoco Editor

Choosing a point of sale (POS) system for your business is an important decision - it becomes the central hub where sales, inventory, payments, and even reporting live.

Here are a few answers to common (and some less obvious) questions that will help you find the right POS - whether that’s Yoco Counter, Table by Yoco, or another system that fits your needs.

Is my business too small to benefit from a POS?

Not at all. Even a small business run by one person can benefit from a POS. Sometimes this kind of set up makes a POS system even more essential, as saving time with automated admin - like with Yoco’s free POS software - lets you focus on growth without adding complexity.

All businesses who sell a product or service can benefit from a POS as long as you find one that fits your needs and budget (if your POS costs you more than you earn, then it is obviously not a great idea).

There is a system to suit everyone.

Can a POS system help me make more money?

Yes, when used intentionally.

Cloud-based POS systems, like Yoco’s, deliver real-time reports, inventory alerts, and streamlined checkout processes, which together help you:

  • reduce costly manual errors and fraud,

  • optimise your best-selling items,

  • track your gross profit, and

  • process more sales faster.

When used right, a POS system can help you cut costs and increase profits.

Will my staff find it too complicated?

Most modern POS systems, like Yoco’s, are designed to be intuitive and require very little training, if any. If your staff can use a cellphone, they will have no problem with a POS system.

Also, mistakes will always happen, but if you have a POS system in place it means you can see exactly what happened and work to rectify it.

Yoco’s POS software comes pre-installed on its hardware, which means you can get set up and start selling in no time.

Cloud-based POS vs. traditional POS: what’s the difference?

Cloud systems store data online, allowing you access your store from anywhere. They’re more scalable, secure, and automatically updated.

Whereas traditional server-based systems store data on local servers and run on a closed internal network (think of a Microsoft word document saved on your PC).

Most POS providers are moving to cloud-based solutions because it is more cost-efficient, and it allows you to run your business from anywhere.

Yoco Counter and Table by Yoco are fully cloud-based, giving you access to real-time data and remote control of your business.

Should I choose an industry‑specific POS?

This depends on the size of your business and the specific features you need.

If you run a restaurant and need table-side ordering and kitchen display systems, Table by Yoco is built for that.

If you own a cafe, retail shop, or a pop-up, something like Yoco Counter or our mobile Khumo and Khumo Print card machines will offer you the simplicity and affordability you need to run your business.

Is integration with other systems important?

Absolutely. Cloud POS solutions integrate smoothly with accounting, e-commerce, and reporting tools, which helps save you time, reduce errors, and prevent potential for fraud.

Do I need a technical specialist to set it up?

Not necessarily. Yoco’s plug-and-play hardware, like Yoco Counter, comes ready to use with no downloads or contracts needed. You can be up and running in minutes.

With some of the larger, more complex systems, you will need a specialist to help you. But many POS systems can be downloaded from your app store, and you can be set up to sell in no time.

What costs should I budget for?

When choosing a POS system, it’s essential to read the fine print. Something that may look like a good deal could quickly end up costing you more than you can afford.

Watch out for:

  • Hardware:

    • Is it a one-off fee per device or will you be charged a monthly fee?

    • Do you need to connect to other devices (such as a card machine), and what are the charges associated with those products?

  • Set up and support:

    • Does the device require a specialist to set up and will this cost extra?

    • For furture support, are there any charges or call-out fees involved?

Yoco offers transparent pricing, and with no hidden fees, you only pay for what you need - hardware and connectivity.

Check out Yoco Counter bundle options and pricing here.

Finally, keep in mind that if you are using a system created in another country, you may encounter price fluctuations due to the exchange rate.

Why cloud POS is the smarter choice in 2025:

  • Low startup costs - no big servers needed

  • Remote access - manage sales and inventory from anywhere

  • Automatic updates & security - always up-to-date and protected

  • Scalable - easily add devices or locations as your business grows

  • Seamless integration- connect with e-commerce, accounting, and reporting tools

The bottom line

A modern cloud-based POS system isn’t just about processing payments - it’s a tool for running your business smarter.

With Yoco Counter, Table by Yoco, or Khumo POS, you get intuitive, scalable, and secure software combined with beautiful hardware, and without manual setup or hidden contracts.

Ready to make the switch? Explore our point of sale solutions or get in touch to learn more.

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