- +44 1924 438238
- sales@ycr.co.uk
- Mon - Fri: 8:30 - 16:30
Top 7 Best POS Systems for Restaurants in 2026
Picking a great POS system can change the way a restaurant works day to day. Choices around payment speed, table management and staff ease all matter more than ever. Some systems promise fast setup with touch screens and simple menus, others focus on helping you learn how each meal sells. Deciding which one fits best is never easy. The search for the right POS could reveal features you did not know you needed or shortcuts that make everything smoother. Which systems stand out this year and which ones offer surprising solutions for busy spots and cosy cafés alike
Table of Contents
YCR Distribution
At a Glance
YCR Distribution is the clear leader for restaurants and hospitality businesses seeking a complete POS partner in the UK. With over three decades of industry experience and a broad catalogue of POS hardware, it combines reliability with rapid fulfilment to keep service running. The company pairs off the shelf terminals and peripherals with in-house software such as Samtouch and EZEEPOS to deliver a single supplier experience that reduces vendor overhead. Choose this if you want a top tier supplier that handles hardware, software and support under one roof.
Core Features
YCR offers a wide range of POS hardware including Windows and Android terminals, kiosks, printers, digital displays and barcode scanners. Their in-house software options like Samtouch and EZEEPOS provide hospitality specific functionality alongside an extensive accessories catalogue for spares and upgrades. Fast next-day delivery and same-day dispatch mean you reduce downtime when replacing kit or expanding sites. Sector coverage includes hospitality, retail, convenience and farm shops so their stock and support reflect real world operational needs.
Pros
- Comprehensive product range: YCR supplies both hardware and software so you avoid juggling multiple vendors and compatibility issues.
- Deep industry experience: Over three decades in the sector means practical knowledge of restaurant workflows and common pain points.
- Custom software options: Bespoke POS software is available to match specialised operations rather than forcing a one size fits all approach.
- Fast delivery and support: Next-day delivery and same-day dispatch reduce the time your business spends offline.
- Sector specific solutions: Their catalogue and support reflect real requirements for cafes, takeaways and full service restaurants.
Who It’s For
YCR Distribution suits restaurant owners, multi site managers, resellers and system integrators who value reliability and local support. If you run a busy kitchen, a chain of cafes or a convenience outlet and need hardware delivered quickly with software that maps to hospitality processes, this is the right partner. IT managers who prefer working with a single supplier for kit, software and parts will save time and reduce procurement complexity.
Unique Value Proposition
YCR positions itself as a total POS solutions provider by combining in-house software, a broad hardware catalogue and logistics that prioritise speed. That combination outperforms competitors who sell either hardware or software alone because YCR removes integration headaches and shortens lead times. Sophisticated buyers choose YCR when they need tailored installations, reliable spare parts supply and a predictable supply chain for rollouts across multiple sites. Limited public specification and contact based pricing are deliberate: they allow YCR to build bespoke quotes matched to operational needs rather than offering generic bundles.
Real World Use Case
A London retail store upgrades terminals, barcode scanners and digital signage to reduce queuing and improve upsell. YCR supplies compatible hardware, installs Samtouch for tills and dispatches spare parts next day so the store stays open during migration. The project completes faster and with fewer compatibility issues than using multiple suppliers.
Pricing
Pricing is not specified on the website and is available upon request through direct contact. This approach supports tailored quotes for bespoke hardware and software packages rather than fixed online pricing.
Website: https://ycr.co.uk
Square
At a Glance
Square is a straightforward payments platform that bundles point of sale software and hardware with business management tools. It suits operators who want a single supplier for tills, card acceptance and basic back office tasks. The system is easy to set up and the hardware options cover counters, handheld devices and card readers. A solid choice for small to medium restaurants that value simplicity and fast deployment.
Core Features
Square combines payments processing with POS software and optional hardware to cover in store and online sales. The platform includes an online store, invoicing and payment links alongside customer management tools such as marketing, loyalty and gift cards. Additional business tools include shift and team management plus funding options like loans and cash advances.
- Payments processing in store, online and remotely
- Point of Sale systems with Square Register, Terminal, Stand, Handheld and Readers
- Online store and e commerce integrations
- Invoice creation and payment links
- Customer management with marketing, loyalty programmes and gift cards
- Business management tools for shifts and team administration
Pros
- User friendly interface makes training front of house staff quicker and reduces till errors in busy service periods.
- All in one system means you can manage payments, sales reporting and basic customer details from the same dashboard.
- Flexible hardware options let you pick a countertop register, a portable terminal or compact readers depending on venue layout.
- Strong global reputation gives access to broad support resources and established reliability for card processing.
- Financial services such as loans and instant transfers help restaurants access short term cash when required.
Cons
- Complex pricing and fee structure can make it hard to forecast costs precisely for mixed card and online sales.
- Additional subscriptions or hardware are required for some advanced features which increases overall cost for fully featured setups.
- Limited customisation for power users means larger operators may find the system restrictive compared with specialist hospitality platforms.
Who It Is For
Square suits small to medium sized restaurants, cafés and mobile caterers that want a practical POS and payments package without heavy configuration. Owners who prioritise speed of set up, clear hardware choices and integrated payment services will find Square straightforward. If you plan rapid expansion and need deep customisation, look carefully before committing.
Unique Value Proposition
Square offers a compact ecosystem that links hardware, POS software and financial services under one brand. The appeal lies in being able to buy tills, accept cards and access basic business tools from a single partner which reduces vendor management for busy owners.
Real World Use Case
A local café uses Square Register to take table orders and card payments, manages staff shifts through the dashboard and launches basic marketing with digital loyalty. When a short term cash injection was needed to refurbish the kitchen the café accessed a short term loan through the same account.
Pricing
Pricing varies with chosen hardware and services. Transaction fees start at 1.65% for card present payments in the EU/EEA and 1.65% plus 1.5% for UK or non EE A cards, with additional costs for online and in person transactions. Account for add on subscriptions and peripheral purchases when budgeting.
Website: https://squareup.com
Lightspeed
At a Glance
Lightspeed is a unified point of sale and payments platform built for businesses that sell in person. It combines inventory management, eCommerce and industry specific tools so a single team can manage tills, stock and online orders. The system is feature rich and scales well for multi site operations, though smaller start ups should weigh cost and training needs before committing.
Core Features
Lightspeed bundles point of sale, payments and online storefronts with industry specific modules for retail, restaurant, golf and wholesale. Key capabilities include eCommerce integration, barcode scanning and inventory controls, advanced marketing and loyalty programmes, real time analytics and API access for custom integrations. The platform supports multi location management, a range of hardware options and offers 24/7 support and onboarding guidance.
Worth considering.
Pros
- Comprehensive industry modules: Lightspeed provides tailored functionality for restaurants, retail and golf which reduces the need for multiple separate systems.
- Scalable and customisable: The platform adapts from single site venues to larger chains so you can add locations and features as your business grows.
- Strong integration options: API access and eCommerce links let you connect Lightspeed to existing tools and online storefronts for a single source of truth.
- Localised global support: A large customer base means local pricing and support are available in many markets which helps when expanding.
- User friendly interface with depth: The dashboard is approachable for staff while still offering advanced reporting for managers.
Cons
- Pricing starts at EUR 99 per month which may be expensive for very small or new businesses when hardware costs are included.
- The breadth of features creates complexity which means staff will require time and training to use the system effectively.
- Some users report challenges during onboarding which can delay full deployment if you lack dedicated IT support.
Who It’s For
Lightspeed suits restaurant owners and managers who plan to operate multiple service channels such as dining room, takeaway and online ordering. It also fits retail chains and venue operators like golf courses that need centralised inventory, sales and reporting. If your priority is a single platform that covers tills, stock and web sales, Lightspeed is a solid candidate.
Unique Value Proposition
Lightspeed’s strength lies in bringing payments, POS and online sales into one platform with industry specific features. That single platform approach reduces reconciliation work between systems and provides unified analytics across locations which helps managers make faster decisions.
Real World Use Case
A retail chain uses Lightspeed to unify inventory, sales and eCommerce across several storefronts. Managers use real time analytics to spot slow moving lines and reallocate stock between shops, while marketing teams run loyalty programmes that work both in store and online.
Pricing
Flexible subscription plans start at EUR 99 per month and progress through tiered options labelled Basic, Core and Plus depending on the features and scale you require.
Website: https://lightspeedhq.com
EposNOW
At a Glance
EposNOW is a practical cloud based POS platform aimed at small and medium sized businesses that need a single system for sales, stock and customer data. It offers straightforward setup and an interface that staff pick up quickly. There are trade offs though, notably around offline capability and transparent pricing. Read on for a balanced view of where it works best and where it falls short.
Core Features
EposNOW combines cloud based POS, inventory management and sales reporting within one platform that can be accessed from tablets and terminals. The platform includes customer management tools and integrated payment processing so you can take card payments without juggling separate providers. Reporting gives basic analytics on sales and stock trends and integrations extend functionality into accounting and third party services.
Pros
- Cloud accessibility lets you manage multiple sites and review sales remotely, which suits multi location operations.
- Comprehensive feature set provides the common tools a small restaurant or cafe needs including stock control and customer records.
- Integrations with payment providers and accounting software reduce manual data entry and help close the day faster.
- User friendly interface speeds staff training and reduces front of house errors during busy services.
- Good customer support options are available to help with setup and troubleshooting when issues arise.
Cons
- Pricing information is not clearly published and pricing appears to be customised so comparing total cost requires direct contact with the vendor.
- Advanced features have a learning curve which means managers will need to invest time in staff training to get full value.
- Offline functionality is limited which can interrupt sales if your internet connection fails during a service period.
Who It’s For
EposNOW suits restaurant owners and small hospitality groups in the UK who want a single cloud based system to handle tills, payments and stock without heavy upfront investment in bespoke hardware. It is especially helpful for businesses expanding to a second site or running occasional pop up events that need remote access to sales data.
Unique Value Proposition
EposNOW packages a broad set of hospitality focused features into a single solution that integrates payments and accounting. That combination reduces the number of suppliers you manage and centralises day to day operations under one dashboard, which saves time for managers juggling multiple tasks.
Real World Use Case
A neighbourhood restaurant uses EposNOW to process table orders, accept card payments and track ingredient levels. Daily sales reports highlight best selling dishes so the manager adjusts orders weekly. When planning a weekend market stall the same till configuration is used, saving time on setup and training.
Pricing
Pricing details are not published on the website and are typically customised to business requirements. You will need to request a quote to get exact costs and any hardware bundles.
Website: https://eposnow.com
EPOS Now
At a Glance
EPOS Now is a scalable point of sale solution aimed at retail and hospitality operators who need cloud based control over sales and inventory. The platform combines cloud based POS software with companion hardware and a suite of reporting tools to help managers monitor performance from anywhere. It presents a clear value proposition for multi site businesses that want centralised reporting and payment integrations. Expect straightforward setup and customer support, though pricing requires direct contact with sales.
Core Features
EPOS Now centres on a core set of features that suit restaurants, cafes and retail outlets. The system offers inventory management, sales reporting and analytics, and hardware such as terminals and printers that work with the software. It also supports integration with payment processors and third party apps to link tills with card machines and back office tools. Cloud access means managers can view reports and adjust settings remotely using a browser or supported device.
Pros
- User friendly interface: The software is simple for front of house staff to learn and reduces training time during busy shifts.
- Comprehensive management features: Inventory tracking, sales analytics and multi site controls provide the tools needed to manage stock and revenue across locations.
- Cloud accessibility for remote management: Managers can view performance and make changes without being on site, which suits chains and franchise owners.
- Good customer support and training options: The vendor offers assistance and training, which helps smaller operators who lack in house IT teams.
- Customisable solutions for different business sizes: Packages and hardware options can be tailored to single sites or larger groups.
Cons
- Pricing details are not transparent without contacting sales, which makes budget planning harder for small businesses.
- Some users report feature limitations in basic plans, so smaller packages may omit tools restaurants expect.
- Dependence on internet connectivity for cloud services can cause disruption if a site has unreliable connections.
Who It’s For
EPOS Now suits Independent restaurants, cafe chains and retail operators that want a single supplier for both hardware and software. If you run multiple locations and need centralised reporting, or you prefer a supplier that offers installation and training, this product matches those requirements. Single site venues with intermittent internet should weigh the connectivity caveat.
Unique Value Proposition
The standout proposition is the combined offering of hardware and cloud based software delivered with vendor support, which reduces the number of third party suppliers you manage. That combination simplifies warranty and service arrangements and keeps procurement in one place. For operators who value a one stop solution with remote reporting, that is compelling.
Real World Use Case
A restaurant chain can use EPOS Now to unify order taking, card payments and stock control across several branches. Managers receive consolidated sales reports daily, which speeds weekly ordering and highlights underperforming menu items. Centralised control also eases menu updates and price changes across all sites.
Pricing
Pricing varies based on hardware and software features; contact sales for detailed quotes. Ask for a breakdown of software tiers and what is included in each to avoid surprises.
Website: https://eposnow.com
Lightspeed
At a Glance
Lightspeed is a unified POS and payments platform built to handle point of sale, inventory and online sales for a range of industries. It suits businesses that need industry specific tools rather than a one size fits all system. The platform scales from single outlets to multiple locations and offers strong support and onboarding. The trade off is variable pricing and a level of complexity that smaller operations may find heavy.
Core Features
Lightspeed provides a suite of functions centred on retail and hospitality operations. Key capabilities include inventory management with order synchronisation, ecommerce integration for online storefronts, and industry specific modules for retail, restaurant, golf and wholesale. The product also offers payments processing and advanced analytics with real time reporting to help you track sales and make stock decisions. API access and integrations allow customisation for more complex setups.
Pros
-
Comprehensive industry specific solutions give you tailored workflows for retail, restaurant, golf and wholesale businesses rather than a generic register.
-
Highly customisable with API and integrations so you can connect accounting, loyalty and third party services to match your process.
-
Strong support and onboarding services help accelerate staff training and reduce the time to live at new sites.
-
Global presence with region specific options and language support makes it a fit for businesses that operate across territories.
-
Scalable for different business sizes and types so you can add locations and registers as you grow.
Cons
-
Pricing details are variable and may include additional fees depending on industry and needs which makes total cost harder to predict for budgeting.
-
Complexity might be overwhelming for very small or new businesses and could require extra training or consultancy.
-
Some features like Lightspeed Capital and advanced integrations may have geographic restrictions which limits access depending on location.
Who It Is For
If you run a retail chain, a busy restaurant, a golf facility or a wholesale operation and you need a single platform for in store and online sales then Lightspeed is worth considering. You will benefit most if you plan to expand to multiple locations or need bespoke integrations for stock control, accounting or loyalty programmes. If you operate a very small single site with minimal tech needs you may find it more than you require.
Unique Value Proposition
Lightspeed combines point of sale with payments and ecommerce in one platform while offering industry specific functionality and strong onboarding. That combination suits businesses seeking a configurable system that grows with them and supports complex inventory and reporting needs.
Real World Use Case
A retail chain uses Lightspeed to manage inventory across multiple stores, process sales online and in store, and analyse sales data for strategic planning. Centralised reporting reduces manual reconciliation and helps the buying team make faster replenishment decisions.
Pricing
Pricing varies by plan with Basic at 99 EUR per month, Core at 149 EUR per month, and Plus at 229 EUR per month. Additional costs apply for extra locations and registers and custom plans are available for multiple locations.
Website: https://lightspeedhq.com
ICRTouch
At a Glance
ICRTouch provides a broad EPoS ecosystem aimed at hospitality, retail, and events. The suite combines core till functionality with mobile order taking and customer self ordering to cover front of house and back office needs. It suits operators who want a single supplier for sales, stock and reservations without stitching together multiple vendors. Expect a proven platform backed by a large UK installed base and three decades of development.
Core Features
ICRTouch bundles all in one EPoS solutions tailored for different sectors and offers real time insights for remote business management. The product set includes PocketTouch for paperless table ordering and the ByTable app for customer self ordering. Kitchen workflow is handled by TouchKitchen and reservations by TouchReservation while mobile stock tools support day to day inventory control. The platform also offers integrations with payment, accounting, staff and property management systems to keep data aligned across your operation.
Pros
- Diverse product range covers tills, kitchen displays, reservations and mobile stock management so you can standardise on one supplier. This reduces compatibility issues between systems.
- Over 30 years of experience shows in the maturity of features and the stability of the software which suits busy hospitality environments. That longevity matters when you rely on continuous trading.
- Large UK installed base with over 180,000 installations provides confidence that local partners and support resources are available across the country. You are not adopting an unproven newcomer.
- Focus on reliability and innovation means regular feature updates and tools designed for hospitality workflows which helps you keep pace with customer expectations.
- Global partner network enables localised support and implementation which simplifies rollout for multi site operators.
Cons
- No public pricing means you must contact ICRTouch for a tailored quote which slows initial budgeting for smaller businesses. This lack of transparency can be frustrating when comparing vendors.
- Complex integrations may require technical expertise to implement which increases dependency on your IT partner or the vendor for full setup. That adds time and cost to deployment.
- Unspecified support levels on the website leave uncertainty about response times and included after sales services which makes it hard to plan for ongoing support.
Who It’s For
ICRTouch suits restaurant, pub and hotel owners and managers who require a scalable EPoS platform that handles tills, kitchen management, reservations and stock. It is a good match for multi site operators or independents who prefer a single ecosystem and access to local implementation partners across the UK.
Unique Value Proposition
ICRTouch offers an end to end EPoS ecosystem that lets you replace several discrete tools with a unified platform. The combination of till software, customer self ordering and kitchen displays positions it as a comprehensive operational solution rather than a single component.
Real World Use Case
A pub uses TouchPoint to record sales at the bar, PocketTouch for table orders, and TouchReservation for bookings. Managers view stock levels and sales in real time which helps with ordering and shift planning.
Pricing
Pricing is not published online and is available on request from ICRTouch. Contact them for a quote tailored to your site count and feature needs.
Website: https://icrtouch.com
Point of Sale (POS) Platforms Comparison
Below is a comprehensive table summarizing key features, benefits, drawbacks, and pricing information for various Point of Sale (POS) platforms reviewed in the article. It aims to assist decision-makers in selecting the most fitting solution for their operational needs.
| Company | Key Features | Advantages | Drawbacks | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| YCR Distribution | Broad POS hardware catalog, in-house software (Samtouch, EZEEPOS). | Comprehensive solutions, fast delivery, sector-specific options, tailored quotes. | Limited public specifications and contact-based pricing. | Pricing available upon request, bespoke packages tailored through direct contact. |
| Square | Integrated payments, POS systems, customer management tools. | User-friendly, all-in-one platform, flexible hardware options, financial solutions. | Complex pricing structure, additional subscriptions required for some features. | Transaction fees starting at 1.65%, additional dependent on hardware and subscriptions. |
| Lightspeed | Unified POS and payments, tailored industry modules, eCommerce. | Comprehensive integrations, scalable, industry-specific functionality. | Higher starting cost, complexity might overwhelm small businesses. | Starting at EUR 99/month, tiered subscription options available with varying features. |
| EposNOW | Cloud-based POS system, inventory management, customer tools. | Cloud accessibility, integrations with accounting software, strong customer support. | Limited offline functionality, customised pricing, advanced feature learning curve. | Pricing details not publicly available; tailored quotes provided upon consultation. |
| ICRTouch | Comprehensive EPoS ecosystem, mobile and self-ordering solutions. | Extensive product range, 30+ years of experience, partnerships for robust support. | Direct consultation required for pricing, complex integration setup. | Pricing not published online; requested tailored to specific operational requirements. |
Discover Reliable and Tailored POS Solutions with YCR Distribution
If you are exploring the top POS systems for restaurants in 2026, you understand the challenges of finding a partner that offers seamless integration, fast delivery, and industry-specific functionality. Whether your goal is to reduce the downtime of your busy kitchens or streamline operations across multiple locations, YCR Distribution delivers precise POS hardware and bespoke software solutions like SAMTOUCH and EZEEPOS designed specifically for hospitality needs. Avoid the frustration of managing multiple vendors by choosing an experienced supplier who supports your business every step of the way.
Experience the advantage of working with a UK-based leader that combines over three decades of expertise with next-day delivery and same-day dispatch services. Visit YCR Distribution today to explore how their comprehensive catalogue of terminals, printers, scanners, and tailored software can enhance your restaurant’s efficiency and customer service. Secure your bespoke quote now and take the first step towards a smoother, more reliable POS system that truly supports your operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors should I consider when choosing a POS system for my restaurant?
When selecting a POS system for your restaurant, consider ease of use, integration capabilities, and specific features tailored to your operations, such as inventory management or customer engagement tools. Assess your staff’s technical proficiency and choose a system that can be set up and operated without extensive training.
How can a restaurant POS system improve operational efficiency?
A restaurant POS system can streamline order processing, reduce wait times, and enhance accuracy in transactions. Implement a system that allows for faster table turnover and real-time inventory tracking to see an improvement in service efficiency within weeks.
What features are essential for a restaurant POS system in 2026?
Essential features for a restaurant POS system in 2026 include cloud-based access, mobile capabilities, integrated payment processing, customer relationship management tools, and detailed analytics. Prioritise systems that offer these functionalities to enhance operational and customer insights.
How can I ensure my POS system is secure for transactions?
To ensure security for transactions, select a POS system that complies with industry standards for data protection and integrates secure payment processing options. Regularly update software and train staff on best security practices to mitigate risks of data breaches.
What type of customer support should I expect from a restaurant POS provider?
You should expect comprehensive customer support, including 24/7 assistance, training resources, and regular software updates. Choose a provider that offers dedicated support for system issues to minimise downtime and maintain service continuity.
Can a POS system help with inventory management in my restaurant?
Yes, a POS system can significantly aid in inventory management by tracking stock levels in real-time and providing alerts for low inventory items. Implement a system with robust inventory features to reduce stock discrepancies and improve order management efficiency.