The Best POS Systems for Bars

From local pubs to high-end cocktail lounges, bars around the world depend on point-of-sale (POS) systems to simplify operations, enhance patron experiences and maintain well-organized sales data. The right system can facilitate tab management, streamline the ordering process and even aid in inventory control, thus ensuring that every aspect of the operation runs smoothly and efficiently, even during the busiest shifts.

Searching for the best POS system amid the various options in the market can be overwhelming, so we did the work for you. We’ve carefully curated these top selections based on the criteria most vital to bar owners, including affordability, user-friendliness, hardware choices, software compatibility and mobile functionalities.

In recent years, the landscape for POS systems has undergone substantial transformations, driven by technological advancements and a general downward trend in pricing. What once required a substantial investment in hefty equipment can now be achieved with much simpler, streamlined solutions, such as tablet interfaces or smartphone attachments. This evolution has opened up new avenues, making POS systems financially and logistically attainable for establishments ranging from small local taverns to expansive bar chains.

The exact cost of installing a POS system in your bar can depend on a variety of factors, including the specific hardware and software options offered by the provider. Cloud-centric configurations may involve monthly fees, which could range from nominal to over $200. Hardware costs could reach $1,200 for a top-tier register setup, which might include elements such as a credit card processor, digital signature tools and a receipt issuer. Conversely, a simpler approach might require only a card reader to function with existing mobile technology, thereby minimizing overhead.

As you choose a POS system for your bar, it’s important to keep in mind the potential return on investment and long-term business impact. It’s not just about the upfront cost; it’s about choosing a system that will improve efficiency and foster a better customer experience, which can increase your bar’s profitability in the long run.

Most POS systems provide essential functionalities, but not all of the leading options cater to the specific needs of bars. Identifying the key features that are essential for your bar will allow you to discover the right POS solution tailored to your requirements.

These key POS system features should factor into your decision:

Hardware

POS hardware can vary greatly depending on your bar setup. Before you invest in a POS provider, ensure that it offers all of the hardware you’d like to include in your configuration. At a bare minimum, you will need a card reader and mobile device, but you will likely also have to invest in other hardware, like a cash register, receipt printer, signature capture device and display screen.

Inventory Management

Bars need to track a variety of products, such as beer, liquor, wine, nonalcoholic beverages and sometimes food. Choosing a POS system with strong inventory management means you can get real-time updates on product stock levels and track your bestsellers. This way, you can avoid overstocking something that is going to sit on the shelf or understocking your regulars’ favorite beverages.

Reporting

The POS system you choose should offer extensive reporting features and analytics to help you understand employee performance, sales trends, inventory and other useful data. These POS reports can help you make data-driven business decisions that improve your bar’s long-term performance.

Integrations

Your bar likely uses tools such as an accounting system, marketing software and CRM software. The top POS providers integrate with the tools you’re already using and share data with one another so you can streamline business operations and get a more holistic picture of your company’s health.

Mobile Apps

POS mobile apps allow you and your employees to conduct transactions from anywhere, whether you’re moving from table to table at your establishment or pouring drinks at a community event. A mobile app for your POS system can speed up the checkout process and reduce lines, thereby enhancing the overall customer experience.

Not sure how to begin selecting the right POS system for your bar? Follow these steps to make an informed decision based on your needs.

1. Evaluate your hardware and software requirements.

Start by figuring out what your bar really needs. If you have a small, casual bar, you probably just need something simple and affordable. But if your place is bigger or you have many bars or locations, you’ll need a more advanced system. Think about how many sales you make, how you want to track your stock, how you plan to connect with customers and if you have multiple bars whose sales you need to track.

2. Research the best POS systems for bar owners.

Looking at online reviews of POS systems that bar owners recommend can help you narrow down your options. Pages such as this one offer a more detailed look at each system, allowing you to compare them side by side to choose the best one.

3. Take advantage of demos and free trials.

Once you’ve picked a few POS systems you’re curious about, try them out if you can. Many companies let you try their products for free or show you how they work with an online demonstration. Testing them helps you find the one that’s both useful and easy for your bar staff to use.

4. Talk to vendors directly.

POS system providers should be able to give you more information that might not be clear from their ads. Contact each of your top choices directly and ask how the platform would fit your bar’s needs. It’s also wise to inquire about costs, agreements and any parts of the system you’re not sure about.

5. Weigh the pros and cons of your top choices.

After you check out product demos and talk to individual vendors, look at your top choices and decide which will provide the best long-term value for your bar. Think about the price and any extra charges, like fees per sale. Also, consider whether the system can handle your bar’s future growth. Pick a POS system that fits your bar now but can also scale with your business so you don’t have to start over in the future.

A POS system designed with bar owners’ needs in mind can boost operational efficiency and improve the customer experience. Here are a few key benefits you’ll enjoy with the right POS system for your bar:

Increased Speed and Efficiency

On busy nights, speed is crucial. A bar-focused POS system facilitates rapid transactions, allowing your staff to serve more customers in less time. Integrated systems can streamline the ordering process, making it easy to add or modify orders directly from a tablet or mobile device.

Streamlined Inventory Management

An intuitive POS system can be a huge help with inventory management as you keep track of the stock levels of various liquors, mixers and other supplies. This means you can easily identify when it’s time to reorder products and, in turn, prevent potential revenue loss and minimize waste.

Enhanced Customer Experience

A specialized POS system can substantially improve the customer experience. A modern POS system can accommodate a range of payment preferences, such as simplifying bill splitting for larger parties or facilitating contactless payments, thereby ensuring a smooth and satisfying end to your patrons’ visit.

Detailed Reporting and Insights

With a robust POS system, bar owners can access a treasure trove of data and insights, including sales reports, most ordered drinks and customer preferences. This data can guide business decisions by helping you tailor your services and offerings based on customer behaviors and preferences.

Greater Flexibility and Scalability

A good POS system will grow with your business. Modern systems are designed to be scalable, allowing you to easily add new features and integrations as your needs evolve.