POS software and hardware
How a modern POS fits together
A POS system is more than a screen on the counter. It's software, hardware, payments and integrations working together. Understanding each layer makes it much easier to choose well, and we're here to help with every part.
The four layers
Software, hardware, payments and integrations
Each layer is often supplied by a different company. Getting them to work together is where most of the effort, and most of the problems, lie.
Software
The system your team uses every day
POS software runs on your terminals and in the cloud. It's where orders are taken, products are managed and reports are produced. Most cloud POS software is billed as a monthly subscription.
Sales processing
Orders, payments, refunds, discounts and receipts.
Inventory
Products, stock levels, suppliers and adjustments.
Reporting
Sales, item performance, payments and trends over time.
Staff management
Staff accounts, roles, permissions and activity.
Customer management
Customer records, loyalty and marketing preferences.
Which platform?
We recommend platforms based on your needs, not a single product. POS consultation
Hardware
The equipment on your counter
Hardware is usually a one-off purchase. What you need depends on your space, volume and software. Not every device works with every platform, so compatibility is checked before anything is ordered.
POS terminals
All-in-one touchscreen units for the main counter.
Touchscreen computers
Larger screens for busy counters and bars.
Tablets
Portable ordering at the table or on the shop floor, where supported.
Barcode scanners
Handheld or fixed scanners for retail checkout.
Receipt printers
Receipt and kitchen docket printers.
Cash drawers
Drawers that open automatically on cash sales.
Customer displays
Screens showing order details and totals to customers.
Payment terminals
Card terminals compatible with your POS and payment provider.
We don't list specific models or prices here because the right hardware depends on your chosen software and setup. We'll recommend compatible devices and confirm pricing with you as part of a tailored quote.
Integrations
The systems your POS talks to
Integrations reduce double handling by sharing data between your POS and other tools. Availability depends entirely on the POS platform and the other system involved.
Accounting software
Send daily sales and payment summaries to your accounts.
E-commerce
Share products and stock with an online store.
Online ordering
Receive online and delivery orders into the POS.
Payment providers
Integrated card terminals that receive the amount from the POS.
Loyalty platforms
Rewards and customer engagement tools.
About payments: card payments are processed by your chosen payment provider, not by Tillio. Tillio doesn't process transactions or store card details. We can help you understand your options and pair a compatible terminal with your POS.
Pricing
What affects the cost of a POS system?
We don't publish one-size-fits-all prices because every setup is different. These are the main factors, and we'll explain each one in your tailored quote.
Software subscription
Usually monthly, varying by plan, features and number of registers or locations.
Hardware
Typically a one-off cost that depends on the number and type of devices.
Payment processing
Transaction fees and terminal costs set by your payment provider.
Integrations and add-ons
Some integrations, loyalty tools or online ordering carry their own fees.
Setup and training
Tillio's implementation work, scoped to what your business needs.
Ongoing support
Optional support arrangements, agreed in advance.
Not sure which setup is right for you?
Tell us about your business and we'll help you compare suitable software, hardware and payment options.