Best POS Hardware 2021: A Complete Guide

For an effective and optimally functioning point of sale (POS) system, it is vital you use the best POS hardware components. The general concept of POS systems has evolved dramatically over the years, from basic cash registers invented in the late 1800s, to modern cloud-based and mobile POS systems. Initial versions of POS systems were primarily used by selected stores and restaurants, but now are utilised by nearly all businesses dealing directly with customers. This includes retail stores, grocery shops, hospitals and clinics, commercial offices, hospitality, cafes and more.

The premise of POS systems remains the same – to conduct transactions and process payments, however, speed has improved, and a plethora of additional functionalities are supported. The POS hardware you use will influence the capabilities of your POS setup, which is why it is important to choose only from the best. Whether you have been using a POS system for years, or are buying one for the first time, research and reading reviews can help you make a well-informed decision.

As the applications and popularity of POS systems has grown, so has the competition amongst POS manufacturers. There are now a wide range of POS hardware components available in the market, due to which it can be challenging to find the best POS hardware. In addition, the best POS hardware will vary depending upon your business setup, needs, and budget. Since POS hardware components can be expensive and have a long life-span, it is advisable to choose each component carefully so that you get the best fit for your needs.

Here is a complete guide to help you find the best POS hardware 2021.

POS Hardware Components

First, it helps to understand what are the basic components of a POS system, and which components you need. POS systems are immensely versatile and flexible. Depending upon the level of complexity and features you want, you can expand the number of hardware components in your POS setup. The hardware components should be able to input the product details, process desired payment methods, and print out receipts as required.

The most commonly used hardware components of a POS system are operating systems or POS terminals, monitors, barcode scanners, cash drawers, and receipt printers. These POS hardware components are connected, linked with a POS software, and setup at checkout lanes. Additional components can include weighing scales, and self-service kiosks.

For smaller businesses, another option of a POS setup is to use a cash register. In contrast to typical POS systems, a cash register does not require POS software and has multiple POS hardware components built-in. These built-in components include a cash drawer, keyboard, operating system, display screens, and receipt printer. Extra components such as barcode scanners, EFTPOS Paper Rolls, and other payment provers can be connected with the cash register. However, a cash register supports far less features than a typical POS system that uses POS software.

If you are planning on setting up an entirely new POS setup, then a POS bundle is a great option. These bundles are available at a discount and include different individual POS hardware components that are all compatible. The POS bundles are available for dedicated operating systems and are also available for specific POS software types. With a POS bundle, you save time and money in buying each component separately.

How to Select POS Hardware?

When you are setting up a POS system, the hardware components will likely be the single biggest one-time costs involved. Most leading POS software providers will have recurring subscription-based costs, but the best POS hardware would need to be purchased upfront. Choosing the best POS hardware is important so that you can benefit from all the features your POS software offers, and have a POS setup with low running costs.

As the ideal POS system will vary from business to business, here are some aspects to consider when selecting POS hardware:

1. Compatibility - What compatibility should the POS hardware have?

Typical POS systems are a combination of multiple POS hardware components and POS software, which is why compatibility is essential. All the individual components need to be compatible with the POS software. If you already have decided on a particular POS software to use, make sure that all the POS hardware components you select are compatible with it. If you are yet to finalise which POS software you want to use, choose POS hardware components that have similar compatibility, so that they can be used together.

In general, it is advisable to select POS software before purchasing POS hardware. Keep in mind, that even if you select POS software in advance, you can change the software provider whenever required, especially if your business needs change. POS hardware components are compatible with multiple software types, so it is not necessary to stick with one specific software provider if you are not satisfied with it.

2. Number of Checkout Points – How many checkout lanes do you need to support?

An important factor influencing your POS hardware setup is how many checkout points you want to support. While a single POS software subscription can be enough for your entire POS setup, the number of hardware components will multiply for each checkout point. If you want to install self-service kiosks in addition to traditional POS systems, then dedicated hardware components would be required. All the checkout points would need to be equipped with POS terminals, barcode scanners, cash drawers, payment processors, and receipt printers.

The number of checkout points will depend upon the size of the establishment, the amount of customer traffic you expect, and the average time taken for each transaction. If you are expecting rapid growth in the near future, or are expanding the business, you can consider investing in additional POS hardware components for future checkout points. Buying multiple hardware components or POS bundles at one time can give you greater cost savings.

3. Mobility Requirements – What are your mobility expectations from the POS system?

With the advancements of technology, POS systems no longer have to be fixed to one location, and instead can be mobile, known as mPOS. They feature an operating system in the form of an iPad, tablet, smartphone or other mobile device, along with wireless printers and electronic payment systems. A mobile POS is also a useful way to setup instant checkout points if you do not want permanent additional checkouts.

An mPOS offers greater flexibility, is cost effective, facilitates personalised customer support, and is well suited for businesses with limited staff. Depending on the needs of your business, you can consider incorporating mobile elements to your POS system, or opt for an entirely mobile model. As your business needs change, you can easily expand from a mPOS to a fixed POS setup, or start with a fixed setup and support a few mPOS elements as needed.

4. Business Needs – What are your unique business needs that the POS system should meet?

POS systems are used by a vast range of industry verticals that deal with customers, from restaurants to retail, and hospitality to service-based businesses. Depending upon your niche and business requirements, you can adapt your POS system. When you assemble a POS system, you have the flexibility to choose items that suit your specific business needs.

Based on your end-use applications of the POS system, consider the size, appearance and durability of the POS hardware components, their features, and any additional or peripheral items. The size and appearance of POS hardware components may seem superficial, however, if you have a particular ambience and look you want to maintain, the size and appearance can matter.

Durability requirements also depend on environment, for example, restaurants may need POS hardware with higher temperature and humidity performance. Features of POS hardware can include Bluetooth or wireless capabilities, NFC functionality, support for automation or restricted access, and more, depending upon the particular component. Peripheral equipment might be weighing scales for grocery stores, payment terminals, customer displays, label printers, and touch screen devices.

5. Budget – What is your overall budget for your POS system and POS hardware?

POS systems are available in a variety of price points, and you can find a setup that suits virtually every budget. Nevertheless, the initial purchase and instalment costs can be substantial, so before deciding on the POS hardware components to buy usb cable, consider your overall budget. Investing in a good quality POS system, including POS hardware components and software, can bring you significant benefits in the long run. Good quality POS systems will require less upkeep and maintenance, while supporting a wide range of functionalities.

When you formulate a budget for your POS system, keep in mind the size of the busines, the number of components required, the features available and potential for expansion. For the POS hardware components, there are minimal running costs after the initial purchase, except for basic consumables such as printer paper, inks, or internet. Weigh out the expenses for the POS equipment as compared to the benefits of the POS system. If you have a limited budget, you may need to compromise on a few features, but you can still get a sturdy POS setup. With a larger budget, you can get longer lasting POS hardware components with more features.

6. Reviews – How are the reviews for the POS hardware components you are considering?

Reviews, ratings and feedback are a common consideration for consumer purchases, and are also useful when it comes to buying POS hardware components. As the line between B2B and B2C eCommerce blurs, you can find a lot of reviews and ratings for POS hardware components online. Compared to manufactures and advertisements, POS experts and other consumers can give you more accurate feedback on POS hardware components. Through expert guidance, you can trust that you are purchasing the best POS hardware components for your business, even without detailed knowledge of POS equipment technicalities.

When you consider reviews, always make sure that the reviewer is genuine and reliable, and holds authority and experience in the domain. Check for feedback on the performance of the POS hardware components, needs for maintenance, and customer support. Also view feedback for the brand that has manufactured the POS hardware. There are several established brands in the POS market, including Zebra, Epson, Star Micronics, and Nexa. While it may feel safer to go with a reputed and famous brand, you may also find excellent POS hardware components from lesser known brands. Reviews and expert guidance can help you find components to build the best POS system.

Best POS Hardware 2021

Whether you are looking for an entirely new POS system with new hardware components, or are expanding an existing POS setup, always look for the best  POS hardware available. Good quality hardware components are essential if you want the best POS system. Here is a comprehensive list of some of the top POS hardware components currently available in the market.

POS Terminals

The POS terminal is also known as an operating system or register, and is a core component of the POS system. All the different POS elements are connected to the POS terminal and are operated from the operating system directly. The POS software is also installed and accessed through the operating system. Most typical POS setups will require an operating system, but it can be replaced with a cash register if you do not want a POS software-based system.

When it comes to POS terminals, you can use generic tablets, iPads, laptops and desktop computers, or opt for a dedicated POS terminal device. Although it can be cost saving to use a pre-existing device for your POS needs, having a dedicated terminal is a better option. With a dedicated device, you can keep all POS data and activities consolidated and accessible to those who would require it.

Some of our top recommendations for POS terminals are:

NEXA J150 15" PCAP POS Terminal

The Nexa J150 POS terminal is a great choice for retail and hospitality industries, but is useful in any modern POS environment. It comes with a 15-inch bezel free touch screen with projected capacitive touch that resists damage from scratches, tears and physical wear. Other specifications include a Fanless Intel J1900 Quad Core 2/2.4GHz CPU, 4 GB RAM, 4 USB ports, and 3 RJ45 RS232 ports.

It has smooth curved surfaces giving it a classy look and a metal base for extra stability and flexible setup. The POS terminal can be installed on counter tops or even on wall or pole mounts, saving counter space while supporting excellent accessibility. The Nexa J150 is sturdy, space-saving, and aesthetically pleasing, while still providing top-notch functionalities with a 2-year warranty. If you want a compact, cost-effective and versatile POS terminal, consider this option.

NEXA NP-1652 POS Terminal

The Nexa NP-1652 is a premium level POS terminal well suited for busy environments, retail, restaurants, hospitality and service-based industries. It comes with a 15-inch IP65 front bezel projected capacitive touch panel and an optional rear 10-inch LCD display integrated RFID reader, so that authorised operators can log-in quickly. It has a Fanless Intel J1900 CPU Up to 2.4GHz Quad Core with upgradable 64GB SSD, 4GB RAM upgradeable to 8GB, and pre-installed Windows 10 IOT operating system

Made with sturdy aluminium construction and a slimline metal case, the Nexa NP-1652 can easily fit into small spaces, helping you save space overall. It can be mounted on a wall or on a pole, and a stand with a hinge is included at the base of the POS terminal and at its screen for additional flexibility. The base has a removable portion where some printers can fit, further reducing the space footprint of the POS system. Reliable and long-lasting, the NP-1652 is a good choice for fast POS operations, and has a 3-year warranty.

NEXA NP-2160 15" POS Terminal

Another excellent offering by Nexa, the NP-2160 is an advanced level POS terminal with sleek and stylish look, well suited for retail, hospitality, and busy modern POS environments. At a competitive price, it offers a wide range of high-end features, such as a toolless motherboard/RAM/SSD replacement in 45 seconds and a PCAP touch 64 GB of RAM. It has an Intel Celeron J1900 Quad Core CPU 2Ghz with 2.4Ghz burst and a 15-inch projected capacitive touch panel 1024 x 768 Screen.

Having a slim and slender design with a robust aluminium-zinc alloy case, there is a dual hinge feature with which the entire terminal can be folded down to 6.5cm thick. A hidden power supply further adds to its visual appeal by removing clutter, without distracting from the functionalities. If you are looking for a sleek and sturdy POS terminal that can blend into classy settings, try out the Nexa NP-2160, which comes with a 3-year warranty.

POS Monitors

A monitor is the visual interface of the POS system and where users can see what is happening during the transaction. They show everything from the product names and identification numbers to the prices, taxes, savings, totals and any other programmed information. The monitor is generally attached to the POS terminal or operating system.

Many POS terminals come with monitors attached and tablets/iPads have the screen built in. However, having an additional monitor available serves dual purposes. It can be setup to be customer facing, so that customers can follow along the POS transactions, increasing their confidence and reducing time in double-checking the transaction. Extra monitors are also useful if you want a particular sized screen or a mobile interface for your existing POS terminal.

Some of our top recommendations for POS monitors are:

VPOS 137 Touch Monitor

The VPOS 137 is a 17-inch touch screen monitor with a 5 wire ELO resistive touch panel and TFT LCD display, well-suited for modern POS environments with limited space. It features a user-friendly design and is flexible, with the screen adjustable from 4 to 90 degrees. Slim and light-weight, for further space saving the monitor can be mounted to the wall.

Apart from use as a standard display monitor, it can be connected with magnetic card readers, finger print scanners, and flush mount VFD screen for a more comprehensive POS solution. The monitor has 1280 x 1024 resolution and brightness of 250 cd/m2, with a power consumption of 20W. If you are looking for a good quality and large touch screen monitor that is space saving, then the VPOS 137 is a good option, and comes with a 3-year warranty.

NEXA OT-17TB Touch Monitor

The Nexa OT-17TB is a sturdy and robust 17-inch touch screen monitor ideal for busy retail, business, and hospitality environments that require a durable and reliable display. It has a solid and heavy weighted base to increase its stability and prevent wobbling, while supporting up to 35 million touches in its lifetime.

The monitor can be mounted on the wall or a pole and has a built-in USB hub so that multiple devices can be connected to the monitor at one time. It integrates with the POS terminal via a single USB connection. For additional functionalities, the monitor has optional support for integrated MSR, rear VFD, and customer facing LCD displays. If you are looking for a sturdy and reliable touch screen monitor that is long lasting, the Nexa OT-17TB is a good choice, and has a 3-year warranty.

Barcode Scanners

For retailers, grocery stores and any other business dealing with the sale of products, a barcode system is integral, and a vital component of that is a barcode scanner. By using barcodes, businesses can streamline inventory management, optimise logistics, effectively manage resources and gain greater insights into sales. Each individual product is labelled with a barcode, and when a barcode scanner reads the label, it identifies all the information stored against that particular barcode.

At checkout points, barcode scanners are used to read the barcodes, so that the POS system can record the product details and price. Barcode scanners are important to maintain speed and accuracy at the point of sale, as they reduce the need for staff to manually punch in details of each product. There are a variety of barcode scanner available, and they differ based on scanning technology used and the types of barcodes that can be scanned. Keep in mind the barcodes you are currently using when you consider a barcode scanner.

Some of our top recommendations for barcode scanners are:

Zebra LS2208 Barcode Scanner

Previously known as the Symbol and Motorola LS2208 barcode scanners, this Zebra barcode scanner is made to last, and is ideal for retail, warehouse, and hospital environments. A lightweight and ergonomic handheld scanner, it has a working range of a maximum of 17 inches, and can be used continuously and rigorously throughout the day. It is a bi-directional scanner with aggressive scanning capabilities and a wide working range so that users can capture data quickly and accurately, saving time and effort.

With the multiple on-board interfaces, it can be seamlessly integrated with a variety of POS systems and comes with plug and play compatibility with Windows and Mac operating systems. Due to the patented single board construction, the frictionless liquid polymer scanning element P100 barcode scanner, and scratch-safe glass exit window, the durability is high and downtime is minimal. If you are looking for a sturdy barcode scanner that can withstand rigorous and continual use, the Zebra LS2208 is a good choice and comes with a 5-year warranty.

Zebra CS3070 Bluetooth Barcode Scanner

A part of the Zebra CS3000 series of portable and user-friendly barcode scanners, the Zebra CS3070 Bluetooth barcode scanner known for its high-speed and accurate scanning. As a wireless Bluetooth barcode scanner with extended battery support and large memory capacity, it is ideal for warehouses, retail, logistics, supermarkets, and other bulk scanning purposes. With the batch mode, you can capture large volume bulk scans to upload later on, while the Bluetooth mode allows you to transfer each barcode as it is scanned.

The barcode scanner can read 1D barcodes only, but can store over one million scans with the in-built memory and attach date/time stamps at the moment of each scanning. It has a Li-Ion battery and a single battery recharge over USB supports 24 hours of batch mode scans and 12 hours of Bluetooth scans. The maximum scanning distance is 45-inches and the scanner can be wall-mounted as well for greater flexibility. If you are looking for a wireless barcode scanner with fast scanning capabilities for 1D barcodes, try out the Zebra CS3070.

Honeywell Voyager 1250g Barcode Scanner

A popular model from Honeywell’s industry-leading Voyager series of scanners, the Voyager 1250g barcode scanner is fast and has an extended depth of field for greater convenience. It can decode standard 1D and GS1 DataBar symbols, and can read even poorly printed and damaged barcodes making it suitable for busy POS environments such as supermarkets, retail, and warehousing. It can scan from distances of up to 23 inches away and is drop resistant from 1.5 metres.

The scanner can be used hands-free by setting it up on the easy to assemble stand, and installation is simple through a plug and play setup. It has multiple interface options, including USB, RS232, keyboard wedge, and IBM RS485 support through the adapter cable. The CodeGate(R) Technology enables greater accuracy when scanning as users can confirm the barcode before transmitting data. If you are looking for a barcode scanner with excellent accuracy and handsfree support, then consider the Honeywell Voyager 1250g which comes with a 5-year warranty.

Other Options for Scanners

• Honeywell Voyager 1450g barcode scanner: An omnidirectional area-imaging scanner, the Voyager 1450g comes equipped to scan 1D barcodes and can be upgraded to scan PDF and 2D barcodes as well. Apart from printed barcodes, this scanner can be used for codes and coupons on mobile device screens, and is backed by a 5-year warranty.

• Zebra DS2208 scanner: Affordable and easy to use, the Zebra DS2208 can scan 1D, 2D, QR and data matrix barcodes, offering you great versatility. It comes with a hands-free stand and is compatible with Windows, iOS and Android devices. It can also scan barcodes from mobile device screens and has a 5-year warranty.

Cash Drawers

Over the years, many payment modes have gained popularity, including credit/debit card payments and mobile wallets, however, nothing can take the place of cash transactions. Accordingly, cash drawers are still an important part of POS systems. These cash drawers are used to store and dispense cash during cash transactions.

A cash drawer features a removable tray with different compartments and sections to store currency notes, coins, cheques and receipts. Even when other payment modes are used, their receipts are typically stored into the cash drawer. Made out of metal for increased durability and security, cash drawers typically open when they receive a specific order from the POS system, or manually. When you selecting a cash drawer, consider the volume of cash transactions your POS system handles and the level of security required.

Some of our top recommendations for cash drawers are:

Nexa CB-710 Cash Drawer

A part of the Nexa CB-700 range designed for space constrained environments, the Nexa CB-710 cash drawer is compact and sturdy, with the same reliability and robustness of larger Nexa cash drawers. It has a narrow footprint with 4 note and 8 coin compartments and dual front media slots for receipts and cheques. The small size makes it ideal for businesses with less space, or those who have minimal transactions in cash.

The cash drawer is compatible with all leading receipt printers and can be integrated with an industry standard RJ12 connector. With sturdy steel construction and inserts of ABS plastic, it can be used for over 1 million transactions, and has a 2-year warranty. For greater security, the cash drawer has a locking bar and a 3-position key lock. If you are looking for a space-saving, strong and reliable cash drawer for minimal cash transactions, consider the Nexa CB-710 cash drawer.

VPOS EC410 Cash Drawer

The VPOS EC410 is a mid-size cash drawer with a removable tray having 5 note compartments, 8 slots for coins and 2 slots for additional media. It comes in 12V and 24V variations and is well suited for retail, hospitality, restaurants and other POS environments with a relatively average amount of cash transactions. An additional undercounter bracket can be used to store the cash drawer beneath a counter, making it more discreet and safer.

Made out of solid steel, it has steel runners, Derlon rollers and a 3-year warranty. The cash drawer connects with a receipt printer. It comes with a 1.6 M RJ12 cable to connect it with a receipt printer. Every time a cash sale is tendered the cash drawer opens automatically and can also be opened using the provided keys. If you are looking for a sturdy mid-size cash drawer with easy connectivity, consider the VPOS EC410 cash drawer.

VPOS EC350 24V Cash Drawer

Another small yet sturdy cash drawer option is the VPOS EC350 cash drawer, which has a solid steel construction and a sleek two-tone appearance. It is ideal for retail, restaurant and other modern POS environments that where there are minimal cash transactions. Due to the classy appearance of the cash drawer, it can be kept in the open, or mounted beneath a counter using additional brackets to save space and increase security.

The cash drawer uses steel runners and Derlon rollers and has space for 4 note holders, 8 slots for coins, and 2 slots for additional media. It has a 2M cable with a RJ12 connector to link the cash drawer with standard receipt printers and has a 24V solenoid. The compact size of the cash drawer and sturdy construction makes it well-suited for POS setups with limited space. It has reliable performance and comes with a 3-year warranty. If you are looking for a sleek, sturdy and compact small-size cash drawer, consider the VPOS EC350.

Nexa CB910 Cash Drawer

The Nexa CB910 is a part of the successful CB900 range of cash drawers, and is a sturdy mid-size cash drawer made of steel with polyurethane rollers. It is ideal for retailers, restaurants, hospitality and other POS applications with a small to medium frequency of cash transactions. With an additional under counter mounting bracket, the cash drawer can conveniently be setup below the counter for extra convenience and security.

The cash tray insert is made out of shatter resistant plastic and has 5 large compartments for notes, 8 compartments for coins and 2 media slots. The cash drawer is compatible with all leading receipt printers and has interface support for RJ11 and RJ12 cables. It has a lifecycle of more than 1 million transactions and comes with a 2-year warranty. It can be opened electronically and manually, and has a 3-position lock system for security. If you are looking for a heavy-duty mid-size cash drawer that is sturdy and reliable, then consider the Nexa CB910 cash drawer.

Receipt Printers

A standard part of the purchasing process is generating receipts for the transaction, and so having a good quality receipt printer is necessary to have the best POS system. Even though many businesses are moving towards digital receipts, having a printed receipt offers multiple benefits. A printed receipt gives clarity regarding the transaction, enables easy returns and refunds, and also establishes branding for the business.

There are two broad categories of receipt printers based on printing technologies; thermal printers and impact printers. Thermal printers use heat to print the receipt design and are fast and cost-effective, although not suitable for warm environments such as restaurants. There are two types of receipt printers, direct thermal printers that use heat-sensitive paper and no ribbons, and dot matrix printers that have heat-sensitive ribbons on standard paper. Impact printers use traditional dot matrix technology and are slower and louder than thermal printers, but can print multiple receipts at a single time and the receipts have greater durability.

When selecting a receipt printer, consider the speed with which you require printing, the amount of duplicate receipts, running costs, purpose of the printer and the desired durability of the receipts.

Some of our top recommendations for receipt printers are:

Epson TM-U220 Impact Receipt Printer

A successor to the Epson TM-U210 receipt printers, the TM-U220 is easy to use, powerful, versatile and fast. As an impact receipt printer with 9-pin serial impact dot matrix technology, it can print one original and one copy receipt together. It is an ideal receipt printer for restaurant, café, hospitality and service-based businesses and has a wall mounting option to save space in crowded environments. The printing speed is 6 lines per second, and dual colours can be printed, with the final receipts having excellent durability.

This printer offers the flexibility of printing receipts of widths 58 mm, 69 mm, and 76 mm, and has a reliability of 18 million lines. It is fully compatible with most POS software and apps, and is easy to install and use. The drop-in paper loading feature is time saving and makes paper replacement effortless. It comes with access to Epson’s range of interfaces, including ethernet, serial, parallel and wireless connectivity (with the help of a dongle). If you are looking for an impact receipt printer for fast and easy double layer receipts, choose the Epson TM-U220.

Epson TM-T88VI Thermal Printer

Fast, user-friendly and reliable, the Epson TM-T88VI is direct thermal receipt printer that boasts of impressive mobile connectivity, with the ability to be connected with multiple devices simultaneously. It is versatile and well-suited for applications in retail, restaurants, bars, cafes, hospitality and other POS environments. Small and compact, the printer can be set up in any surrounding, whether horizontally or wall-mounted. It is immensely reliable with a print-head life of 200km and auto cutter life of 3 million cuts.

This printer can be used for receipts with widths of 58 mm and 80 mm, with a printing speed of up to 350 mm per second. It has advanced paper saving functions to reduce paper wastage by 49% without affecting receipt quality. The printer has triple interface connectivity and supports proximity-based printing, enabling it to print receipts directly from the internet, smartphones, and tablets, in addition to the POS system. If you are looking for a versatile, cost-effective and fast printer that has excellent connectivity, then choose the Epson TM-T88VI Thermal Printer.

Epson TM-T82 Intelligent Receipt Printer

Another excellent receipt printer by the Epson brand is the TM-T82II intelligent receipt printer that is straightforward to use with mobile and standard POS systems without need of drivers. It has multiple interfaces including ethernet, USB, parallel and serial, and also supports printing from nearly any device. This printer is ideal for low-volume high definition receipts and is well-suited for retail, restaurants, hospitality and other businesses using a cloud-based POS system as it supports cloud services.

With this direct thermal printer, you gain access to a wide range of online capabilities in a small compact size that can easily be installed vertically with a wall mounting. It can print graphics, text and coupons at speeds of 200mm/second while offering reduced paper usage by up to 30%. The printer is easy to use and maintain with drop-in paper loading, auto-cutter and status LED. It has a reliability of 60 million lines and an auto-cutter life of 1.5 million cuts. If you are looking for an easy to use and reliable receipt printer for a cloud-based POS system, consider the Epson TM-T82 intelligent receipt printer.

Star Micronics TSP143 Receipt Printer

A successor to Star Micronics well-known TSP100 series of receipt printers is the Star Micronics TSP143, an affordable, fast and reliable receipt printer with excellent connectivity. Widely used by retailers, restaurants and fast-paced POS environments, it is a direct thermal printer with a speed of 250mm/second. It supports receipt widths of 58mm and 80mm with a printing resolution of 203 DPI and has an auto decurl feature to prevent curling of receipts.

The printer is compatible with Windows, iOS and Android systems with connectivity options including Ethernet, LAN, USB, Bluetooth and direct linking with Apple devices using the Apple Lightning Cable. Operating costs are low since the printer can use thin paper and does not require ribbons. It comes with unique futurePRNT technology giving you access to more POS tools and enabling you to design custom receipts and modifications and implement them directly from the printer. If you are looking for an easy-to-use, fast and cost-effective receipt printer that can design custom receipts, consider the Star Micronics TSP143.

Bixolon SRP-330 Receipt Printer

A great entry-level direct thermal receipt printer that does not compromise on quality is the Bixolon SRP-330. With a compact size and versatile printing capabilities it can be used for ticket and coupon printing in addition to standard receipts. It is well-suited for retail, hotels, hospitality, restaurants and other POS environments requiring an efficient yet space-saving receipt printer. It has triple interface support for USB, serial and Ethernet and can easily be connected with existing POS systems.

The printing speed is 220mm per second with a print resolution of 203 DPI and supports receipt widths of 58mm and 80mm. The printer can be used to print fonts, graphics barcodes, and logos, and can be setup anywhere, including on a wall mount. The thermal printer head has a reliability of 150km and the auto-cutter has a lifecycle of 1.5 million cuts. With the paper saving feature, you can save up to 25% on paper wastage, while also saving money on ribbon costs. If you are looking for a versatile, good quality and reliable receipt printer, then choose the Bixolon SRP-330.

Other Options for Receipt Printers

• Epson TM-T82III: An efficient and reliable receipt printer with serial and USB interfaces, the Epson TM-T82III is easy to use and great for environments with low volumes of POS transactions.

• Epson TM-T82IIIL: A cost-effective and user-friendly printer, it can be used for printing text, graphics, logos, coupons and barcodes while saving paper wastage by 30%. With a built-in power adapter, Epson T82IIIL is well-suited for retailers and restaurants.

• Epson TM-m30: A compact and space-saving bluetooth scanner printer with ePOS-Print SDK capabilities, it can accept print commands from any mobile device. It is ideal for retail, warehouses, hospitality and businesses using mobile POS systems.

• Star Micronics TSP654: Capable of accepting orders from online sales, and having fast printing speeds with a small footprint, this receipt printer supports multiple interfaces. If you currently have offline and online sales or are planning to expand into eCommerce, this is a great receipt printer.

• Star Micronics TSP743: A high definition printer with fast printing speeds and multiple interface support, the Star Micronics TSP743 has minimum downtime and is ready to use straight out of the box. It supports unattended printing, can be connected to any existing POS, labelling or ticketing system, making it ideal for any busy environment.

• Star Micronics SP742: Reliable and efficient, the Star Micronics SP742 is a dot matrix printer designed for high heat and humidity environments. It produces crisp and clear receipts, and can easily be integrated with traditional POS systems.

• Posiflex AURA 8800: A lightweight, compact and sturdy receipt printer, the Posiflex AURA 8800 can be setup horizontally and vertically to print receipts, barcodes, QR codes, and coupons. It is ideal for restaurants and hospitality businesses that require a space-saving yet efficient receipt printer.

POS Bundles

For an effective POS system, you need to have the best POS hardware. A POS system involves multiple hardware components, and it can take time, money, and effort to find compatible hardware that suits your needs. If you are setting up a new POS system, an easier alternative is to purchase a POS bundle. A POS bundle includes multiple POS hardware components that are compatible, and the cost is generally lower as well.

By purchasing a bundle, you save efforts in researching, get a discount, and have guaranteed to be compatible hardware components. There are several types of POS bundles available, depending upon the number of included POS hardware components and consumables. These bundles can be POS software specific, industry specific, operating system based, and payment mode based. When selecting a POS bundle, check if you already have any POS hardware components, and make sure that the POS software is compatible.

Some of our top recommendations for POS bundles are:

Vend POS Bundles

Established in 2010, Vend is a popular cloud-based POS software provider specialising in retail POS systems. Boasting of an immensely user-friendly interface that requires minimal training for operation, Vend is compatible with a wide range of POS hardware components. Apart from POS, it has features for inventory management, multi-outlet functionality, real-time reporting, eCommerce integration capabilities and excellent customer support.

If you are currently using Vend POS software or are planning to use it, you can find dedicated Vend-compatible POS bundles. There are Vend compatible POS bundles available both for iPad-based setups and general POS systems. The bundles feature different combinations of products such as receipt printers, cash drawers, barcode scanners and consumables like POS paper rolls. The Vend POS bundle can also be supplemented with additional items as required.

Shopify POS Bundles

Famous for its eCommerce platform, Shopify is also popular for its POS software. The Shopify POS software is available in a dedicated brick-and-mortar sales format for offline sales, or an online and offline hybrid form for effectively manage sales online and offline. The features depend upon the subscription package chosen, and are also available for mobile POS systems. There are dedicated features for checkouts, payments, staff management, inventory management, analytics, and marketing and you get 24/7 support.

Whether you have already selected Shopify as your POS software provider or are planning to subscribe, a Shopify-compatible POS bundle will help. The Shopify-specific bundles include cash drawers, receipt printers, consumables, and barcode scanners. Depending upon the size of your business and expansion plans, you can supplement the POS bundle with additional items, or purchase multiple bundles to setup extra checkout points. Shopify is iOS compatible and can be linked with an iPad for an easy to use POS system.

Kounta POS Bundles

Kounta is an Australia-based software company and its flagship product is the popular cloud-based Kounta POS software. The Kounta POS system is designed for the hospitality and food & beverage industries, and is widely used by restaurants, bars, bakeries, cafés, breweries, food retailers, hotels, and food trucks. It is highly customisable and easy to use, with real-time updates and support for online and in-store orders. It tracks performance in real-time, helps manage ingredient inventory and provides full analytics on business sales. Kounta can be integrated with other POS technologies and has 24/7 support.

There is great flexibility when it comes to Kounta POS software and it can be used with iOS, Android, Windows and other leading devices. Kounta POS bundles are available in general POS settings and specifically for iPad-based systems. Common components of the  POS bundles are receipt printers, cash drawers, consumables, barcode scanners, extra monitors, iPads, and iPad wall mounts. There are specialised bundles available for hospitality industries, Bluetooth supporting POS bundles, and bundles with additional receipt printers for restaurant and kitchen use. The POS bundles for the food & beverage industry include hardware components that are durable in high temperatures and humidity.

Cash Registers

A popular alternative to traditional POS systems, especially for small to mid-size businesses, is a cash register. With a cash register, there is no need for multiple POS hardware components or dedicated software. A cash register is a single machine that has several components to carry out transactions effectively, by indicating prices, accepting payments, storing cash, and printing receipts.

Typically, cash registers include a main keyboard, display screen, attached cash drawer and receipt printer. Barcode scanners and payment processers can be added on to the main cash register. Although cash registers do not offer the insights and features available with POS systems and POS software, cash registers are durable, easy to manage, secure, inexpensive and long-lasting. They are commonly used by small retail shops, markets, convenience stores, small cafes, restaurants, and mobile businesses.

If you are looking for a cash register, consider the size of the keyboard, display and cash drawer, the type of printer, and the number of optional ports supported.

Some of our top recommendations for cash registers are:

SAM4S ER-180U Basic Cash Register

A great entry-level cash register, the Sam4s ER-180U is a compact and space saving single station cash register that is ideal for small retail and hospitality businesses. The keyboard has 48 raised keys with 16 departments and 500 Price Look Ups (PLU) to support faster transactions. The thermal printer can incorporate department names and customisable messages on the receipts, and automatic receipt printing can be turned off when desired.

The cash register is overall easy to use, and due to its compact size, can be placed anywhere. It has a large 8-digit LED display to help avoid errors in transactions, and there is an optional customer display available. The memory data storage capacity is 90 days and there up to 4 types of taxes can be programmed at a time. A small sized cash drawer is included with 4 compartments for notes and 4 sections for coins, but the cash register also supports larger cash drawers with more compartments. If you are looking for an entry-level cash register that is compact and sturdy, consider the Sam4s ER-180U.

CASIO SE-G1M Cash Register

A successor to the Casio 140CR cash register, the Casio SE-G1M is a sturdy yet affordable cash register with a thermal printer and a full-sized cash drawer. It is well-suited for retail and restaurant POS environments that have frequent cash transactions, and also supports charge and cheque payments. The cash register is quick to setup with an interactive menu and has a multipurpose tray for greater organisation.

The cash register comes with a large LCD display at a height of 25mm for greater visibility in confirming transactions. The thermal printer is quiet and has easy drop-in paper loading, and the receipts can be customised with additional messages, phone numbers and the store name. The keyboard is antimicrobial and supports 999 PLUs and 24 departments and the cash drawer is full sized and has 4 compartments for notes, and 8 sections for coins. If you are looking for an easy to use cash register that is quick to setup and has a full-size cash-drawer, consider the Casio SE-G1M.

CASIO SES400 Cash Register

A relatively more advanced cash register, the Casio SES400 is sleek, stylish and fully functional, ideal for retailers, hospitality, restaurants, and small shops. The cash drawer has 4 note compartments and 8 slots for coins while the keyboard has 25 programmable department keys and 3000 pre-set product keys. The cash register has two serial ports, where barcode scanners and EFTPOS payment processors can be connected.

There is a large multi-line display for the operator with reference of up to 5 items and the subtotal to correct any errors. Meanwhile, the rear popup display for customers displays the last item name, price and subtotal of the transaction. The SD card feature enables data backup, restoration and exporting of sales details through .csv files. The thermal printer can be used for fully customisable receipts with graphics, and can print copy receipts or be switched to journal printing mode. If you are looking for a feature-rich cash register with SD backup facility and dual displays, try the Casio SES400.

Conclusion

If you want to have the best POS system, then it is necessary to have the best POS hardware. At the end of the day, a POS system is only as good as its individual components, including the hardware and software. While the importance of POS software is undeniable, it is easier to switch when needed, whereas POS hardware involves a greater investment and can be expensive to replace. Accordingly, it is vital to choose the best POS hardware when you are setting up a new POS system, or upgrading components of an older setup.

Searching for the best POS hardware components can be challenging, especially if you do not have in-depth knowledge of the various hardware components. Luckily, with the internet there are plenty of resources and recommendations available, but it is important to follow only reliable and experienced sources. Our list of recommended POS hardware components includes only the best, and is a great guide for setting up an effective and efficient POS system.

At POS Sales, we bring to you an all-inclusive range of POS hardware components and consumables, so that you get the best POS system. Reach out to our team today to discuss your POS needs.