Choosing the right POS system can change how a restaurant runs. Two of the biggest names today are Toast and Square. Both offer tools to help restaurants take orders, process payments, and manage staff. But which one fits your business best? This guide compares Toast and Square in detail, helping you decide with confidence—even if you’re new to restaurant technology.
Core Features Compared
To start, both Toast and Square cover the basics: order taking, payment processing, and reporting. However, they approach these tasks differently.
| Feature | Toast | Square |
|---|---|---|
| Order Management | Advanced; built for busy kitchens | Simple; works for small venues |
| Payment Options | In-person, tableside, online | In-person, online, mobile |
| Hardware | Custom Android-based terminals | iPad-based; more flexible |
| Menu Customization | Extensive; item modifiers, combos | Basic to moderate |
Toast is designed for restaurants of all sizes but shines in busy, full-service settings. Square is easy for smaller or quick-service places to set up and use.
Pricing And Contracts
Both systems use different pricing models, which matter for beginners.
- Square: No monthly fee for basic POS. Transaction rates start at 2.6% + 10¢ per swipe.
- Toast: Starts at $69/month per terminal. Payment processing fees begin at 2.49% + 15¢.
Hardware is another cost. Toast’s hardware is proprietary, so you must buy or lease from them. Square allows you to use iPads, which can reduce upfront expenses.
Insight: Many beginners forget to budget for add-ons—like online ordering or loyalty programs. Both companies charge extra for these.
Ease Of Use And Setup
Square is famous for quick setup. You can download the app, connect a reader, and start selling in a day. Its interface is simple, with guided steps.
Toast requires more setup time but offers onboarding help. Its interface is deeper, which helps staff handle complex menus or table management.
Example: A coffee shop might open with Square in hours. A steakhouse with multiple servers and menu options may find Toast’s features worth the extra training.
Integrations And Add-ons
Both systems have app marketplaces for extra features:
- Toast: Integrates with payroll, accounting, delivery, and inventory partners.
- Square: Connects with marketing, booking, and eCommerce tools.
Common beginner mistake: Not checking if your existing software (like QuickBooks) works with your POS. Both Toast and Square support many popular tools, but always double-check before buying.
Customer Support
Reliable support matters when you’re busy. Toast offers 24/7 phone and email help. Square offers email, chat, and phone, but live support can be slower during peak times.
Tip: Toast’s support gets high marks from busy restaurants that can’t afford downtime.
Real-world Examples
- Toast: Popular with large restaurants like breweries and diners. Staff can split checks, manage busy kitchens, and use handhelds for tableside orders.
- Square: Favored by food trucks, cafes, and pop-ups. It’s portable and you can start with just a smartphone.
Data And Reporting
Clear reports help owners track growth.
| Reporting Feature | Toast | Square |
|---|---|---|
| Sales Reports | Detailed; customizable | Simple; easy to understand |
| Inventory Tracking | Built-in, advanced | Basic; add-ons available |
| Labor Reporting | Robust; integrates with payroll | Basic |
Toast is better for owners who need deep insights. Square keeps things easy for those just starting out.
Final Thoughts
Toast and Square are both strong choices for restaurants, but the best fit depends on your needs. Choose Toast for complex operations, large menus, and if you need strong support. Go with Square for quick setup, flexibility, and low upfront cost. Remember to think about long-term needs, not just what works today.
For a deeper look at POS systems, check out the Wikipedia POS page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which System Is Better For Small Restaurants?
Square is usually easier for small or new restaurants because of its simple setup and low cost.
Does Toast Only Work With Its Own Hardware?
Yes, Toast uses custom Android hardware. You need to buy or lease their devices.
Can I Use Square For Full-service Restaurants?
Yes, but Square is best for quick-service or small places. Large, complex restaurants may find Toast more powerful.
Is It Easy To Switch From Square To Toast Later?
You can switch, but it takes planning. Menu data and customer history may not move automatically.
Which One Offers Better Customer Support?
Toast generally has faster, more reliable support, especially for busy restaurants. Square’s support is good but less personalized.
