Best EPOS System in the UK (2026 Guide): Top Picks, Features & How to Choose

Choosing the right EPOS (Electronic Point of Sale) system is one of the most strategic decisions for UK businesses — whether you run a café, retail shop, hospitality venue, or multi-location operation. A strong EPOS system boosts efficiency, improves reporting, enhances customer experience, and supports business growth.

In this guide, we explore the best EPOS systems in the UK, highlight key features and pricing, and help you find the right fit for your business type.

What Is an EPOS System and Why It Matters

An EPOS system combines hardware (touch terminals, card machines, receipt printers) with powerful point-of-sale software to:

  • Process sales quickly and accurately
  • Manage inventory, staff data, and pricing in real time
  • Generate detailed business reports
  • Integrate with accounting, CRM, and e-commerce platforms
  • Support multi-location and omnichannel operations

Modern cloud-enabled systems help you access data from anywhere, scale as you grow, and enhance operational control — far beyond what traditional tills can offer.

How to Choose the Best EPOS System in the UK

Before choosing, evaluate these essential factors:

Core Features

  • Fast and reliable checkout
  • Inventory management and stock alerts
  • Employee controls and reporting
  • Integrations (e-commerce, accounting, loyalty)
  • Multi-device support and cloud access

Pricing & Costs

Costs vary widely based on hardware, software and optional add-ons. Expect:

  • Hardware packages: £300 – £1,500+
  • Software subscriptions: £20 – £100+ per month
  • Some providers offer one-off purchase models

Scalability & Support

Choose systems that support growth, with solid UK-based support and reliable updates.

Top EPOS Systems in the UK (2026)

Here are the top EPOS systems worth considering, each strong in specific use cases:

1. EPOS Direct — Best for One-Off Purchase & Control-Focused Businesses

Why it’s worth considering:

EPOS Direct offers an all-in-one hardware and software package that can be purchased outright with no ongoing subscription fees for the EPOS software itself. This can cut recurring costs and give business owners more control over their system. Key features include:

  • Full EPOS hardware bundles with touchscreen terminal, receipt printer, cash drawer
  • Inventory and customer loyalty management
  • Integration with accounting and e-commerce systems
  • Multi-site cloud capabilities and 24/7 support
  • Option to choose your own payment processor rather than being tied to one provider

Best for: Retailers and hospitality venues looking to lower long-term costs by owning hardware and avoiding high subscription fees.

Pricing & Model:

  • Now £999 outright or £99 per month for 12 Months
  • Option for monthly payment plans with ownership after a set period

User Experience & Reviews (Balanced):

  • Many customers praise strong customer support and reliable setup, noting that EPOS Direct makes tracking sales, stock and staff easier with cloud access.
  • Some reviewers express concerns related to refunds, contracts, or customer service challenges — highlighting the importance of reviewing terms carefully before purchase.

 

2. Square — Best All-Round & Beginner-Friendly

Why it’s great:

  • Free base software with optional premium features
  • Simple setup and intuitive interface
  • Real-time reporting and inventory tracking
  • Wide range of hardware options

Best for: Small and medium businesses, start-ups

Square is ideal for businesses that want professional features without complexity.

3. Zettle by PayPal — Best for Simple, Low-Cost Setup

Why it’s great:

  • Easy integration with PayPal ecosystem
  • No monthly fee (transaction-based pricing)
  • Works on phones/tablets

Best for: Market stalls, pop-ups, small retail
Pricing range: Upfront card reader cost + fee per transaction

Ideal for simple setups with minimal ongoing costs.

4. Lightspeed — Best for Growth & Inventory Management

Why it’s great:

  • Robust inventory and multi-store management
  • Integrates with accounting and e-commerce
  • Scales for larger operations

Best for: Multi-location retailers or complex inventory needs
Great for businesses planning expansion.

5. Shopify POS — Best for Omnichannel Retail

Why it’s great:

  • Seamless integration with Shopify online store
  • Unified inventory & customer data
  • Strong e-commerce capabilities

Best for: Retailers with online + physical stores
Pricing range: From ~£69/month

Fits brands selling in-store and online with one central system.

6. EPOS Now — Flexible Cloud EPOS

Why it’s great:

  • Cloud-based accessible across devices
  • Customisable reports and analytics
  • Integrates with business tools & accounting

Best for: Multi-purpose retail & hospitality
EPOS Now is popular across sectors, though pricing and contract experiences vary among users.

Final Thoughts: Match Your Business to the Right EPOS

There’s no single “best EPOS” for every business. The right choice depends on your budget, industry, scale, and long-term goals.

Quick recommendations:

  • Startups & new shops: Square, Zettle
  • Cost-conscious, owned hardware: EPOS Direct
  • Growing retailers with inventory challenges: Lightspeed
  • Omnichannel success: Shopify POS
  • General all-purpose: EPOS Now

Every system has strengths and trade-offs — and reading current user feedback and contract terms pays off before committing.

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