Key takeaways
Square and Clover are two of the most popular options for the best POS systems, as they both offer excellent hardware options, essential POS features, and tools for business growth. So, when choosing between Clover vs. Square, it is important to look at their key differences to determine which is best for your business.
Clover POS vs. Square quick comparison
Our POS overall score
4.01/5
4.46/5
Software types
Standard, Retail, Restaurant, Appointments
Standard, Retail, Restaurant, Appointments
Merchant account
Options within the Fiserv network
With included aggregated merchant account
Monthly fee
Starts at $14.95
Starts at $0
Online store
E-commerce integrations only
Free (Square Online)
Software customization
Third party and API integration
Third party, API integration, custom solutions
Payment processing fee
- Card-present: 2.3% to 2.6% + 10 cents
- Online: 3.5% + 10 cents
- Keyed-in: 3.5% + 10 cents
- Invoices: 3.5% + 10 cents
- Card-present: 2.6% + 15 cents
- Online: 2.9% + 30 cents
- Keyed-in: 3.5% + 15 cents
- Invoices: 3.3% + 30 cents
Hardware options
- Tap to Pay on iPhone
- Standalone terminal starts at $499 (Clover Flex)
- Comes with free magstripe reader
- Tap to Pay on iPhone and Android
- Standalone terminal starts at $299 (Square Terminal)
Customer support
- 24/7 phone and email support
- Clover Help: online resource library
- Mon to Fri phone support
- 24/7 automated chat support
Note that fees quoted for Clover on our comparison table are based on default Fiserv rates for Clover.
Expert Tip
Although Clover and Square are two of the most popular POS systems for businesses, they may not be the best option for you. Check other providers in our list of the best POS hardware for businesses.
How are Clover and Square different?
In my experience evaluating POS systems, I’ve found that while both Square and Clover deliver strong point-of-sale capabilities, they take very different paths in how they structure their platforms. From pricing and payment processing to setup and scalability, these distinctions can make a real impact on how efficiently a business operates and how much control the owner truly has.
Pricing plan complexity
I always recommend Square to clients who need clarity and consistency in pricing. Square lays out its free and paid tiers clearly, so business owners know exactly what they’re getting. Clover, by contrast, is sold through third-party resellers, and that means pricing can vary dramatically depending on who you buy from, creating confusion and potential for unexpected costs. For budgeting and planning purposes, Square is simply easier to manage, especially for new or growing businesses.
POS software options
Square offers tailored POS software for restaurants, retail, beauty, wellness, and service businesses, and each version comes with a free plan to get started. That free tier isn’t watered down. It includes inventory, reporting, basic CRM, and even an integrated online store, with optional upgrades that scale with the business. Clover also delivers industry-specific software, and I appreciate its specialized tools for quick-service restaurants, full-service dining, and retail, but you don’t get the same clear free-to-paid structure.
Also, Clover’s software functionality depends heavily on the plan you’re on and which reseller you work with, which means two Clover users could have very different experiences. The tools themselves are solid, especially for inventory, modifiers, and multi-location management, but navigating the ecosystem to access them can be frustrating.
Square’s software, by contrast, is both comprehensive and consistent, with a clean interface that doesn’t require much of a learning curve. If you’re looking for predictable, powerful POS software that’s easy to launch and grow with, Square remains the more accessible choice.
Hardware accessibility
Square’s range of equipment is easy to purchase directly online, with consistent pricing and fast setup. Clover also has a solid hardware lineup, including smart terminals and kiosks, but getting access to it typically requires going through a reseller or service provider. That additional step can introduce price variability and delay. Square gives users a much more direct, hassle-free path to getting the gear they need.
Also read: Best POS Hardware for Businesses
Ease of setup
Square is my go-to recommendation for ease of setup. It’s practically plug-and-play, making it ideal for entrepreneurs and small teams that don’t have time to deal with complicated installations. Clover’s interface is user-friendly once it’s live, but getting there often requires coordination with a reseller, especially when navigating contracts or custom rates. If speed and simplicity matter, Square consistently outperforms in onboarding.
Ease of use
When it comes to ease of use, Square has long been the go-to for entrepreneurs and small business owners who want a system they can set up and run without any technical assistance. In my experience, Square’s onboarding process is quick, intuitive, and fully self-service. You can sign up online, order your hardware, and start processing payments within hours. The user interface is clean, beginner-friendly, and consistent across devices, making training employees easy and reducing setup time for multi-location businesses.
Clover, while also user-friendly once it’s up and running, usually involves a more hands-on setup process. If you’re buying through a third-party reseller (as most users do), you’ll often need to go through a sales rep to finalize pricing, hardware bundles, and service contracts. This can introduce delays and confusion that Square avoids entirely. That said, once configured, Clover’s interface is modern and powerful, and I’ve found it especially intuitive for employees at the register. In short: Square is plug-and-play; Clover is powerful but more process-heavy on the front end.
Omnichannel capabilities
For businesses looking to sell everywhere, Square leads the way with a seamless omnichannel system that integrates in-person, mobile, online, and social selling all from one dashboard. Businesses rely on its built-in online store, synced inventory, and social commerce features like Instagram and TikTok selling, and the experience is smooth and cohesive.
Clover supports omnichannel selling as well, but it often depends on third-party integrations and reseller-specific setups to get everything working together. If you want a true out-of-the-box solution, Square wins on simplicity and execution.
AI tools integration
Both Square and Clover are on track to become AI-powered POS systems. Square includes built-in generative AI tools like a Menu Generator and Website Copy Generator to help businesses create content quickly. Its AI assistant, now in open beta, lets users ask questions about sales, customers, and staffing directly in the dashboard, saving time and simplifying data analysis.
Meanwhile, Clover offers AI features through third-party integrations, such as connecting with Google Gemini AI for workflow automation and using tools like Goodcall to handle customer inquiries and appointments. These integrations help enhance service efficiency but are not built directly into the Clover platform.
Scalability
Both Square and Clover can grow with your business, but they approach scalability very differently. Square’s platform scales in a unified way, letting you add tools, upgrade hardware, or move to a more advanced plan without ever leaving the ecosystem.
Clover also offers scalable tools, including enterprise-level customizations; however, since much of its functionality is delivered through resellers, scaling can involve renegotiating contracts or switching providers. In practice, Square offers a smoother, more centralized growth path, while Clover provides more flexibility but with more complexity.
Square vs. Clover fee comparison
Square’s monthly plans offer excellent value for money, with a free tier that includes robust POS features like inventory, reporting, CRM, and an online store, making it easy for small businesses to get started without upfront costs. When you sign up directly with Clover, you get more predictable pricing than through resellers, although the monthly fees are generally higher, starting at $14.95 and increasing with hardware bundles and advanced features.
While Clover’s plans include strong tools and industry-specific functionality, you often have to pay more to access features that Square provides for free or at a lower tier. Overall, Square delivers more functionality per dollar, especially for startups and lean operations, while Clover may be better suited for businesses willing to invest more in specialized tools and customizability.
Processing fees
When comparing Clover rates vs. Square, Clover has the advantage of allowing businesses to work with other payment processors. So, if you currently have a processor under the Fiserv network, such as Stax and Payment Depot, you can keep your discounted rates while upgrading to Clover POS software and hardware.
However, if you are still in the market for a payment processor, a direct merchant relationship with Fiserv via Clover will be the easiest route. Let’s take a closer look and compare Fiserv’s processing rates against Square’s to determine which provider will work best for you.
Transaction Amount
Clover Card-Present(2.3% – 2.6% + 10¢)
Square Card-Present(2.6% + 15¢)
Clover Online(3.5% + 10¢)
Square Online(2.9% + 30¢)
$10
$0.33 – $0.36
$0.41
$0.45
$0.59
$25
$0.68 – $0.75
$0.80
$0.98
$1.03
$50
$1.25 – $1.40
$1.45
$1.85
$1.75
$100
$2.40 – $2.60
$2.75
$3.60
$3.20
$250
$5.85 – $6.60
$6.65
$9.85
$7.55
When it comes to in-person sales, Clover tends to have a slight cost advantage, particularly for low-ticket transactions. With a processing fee range of 2.3% to 2.6% plus 10 cents per transaction, Clover can be more affordable than Square’s flat 2.6% + 15 cents rate, especially on smaller purchases. For example, on a $10 sale, Clover’s fee ranges from $0.33 to $0.36, while Square charges $0.41. This difference, although small per transaction, can add up for businesses with high transaction volumes or lower average ticket sizes.
As transaction amounts increase, the cost difference between Clover and Square narrows. At the $50 and $100 levels, Square becomes only slightly more expensive, and the impact on margins becomes less significant. At $250, Square’s fee is about $0.05 to $0.80 higher than Clover’s, depending on the processor rate you receive. Overall, Clover is generally more cost-effective for card-present payments, especially if you qualify for a lower processing rate through Clover’s direct plan or a favorable reseller agreement.
Clover: Advantages & disadvantages
Advantages of Clover POS
- Compatibility with existing merchant accounts: Clover can integrate with a variety of merchant accounts from the Fiserv network, giving businesses flexibility in choosing or keeping their preferred payment processor.
- Offline payment processing and updating: Clover’s offline mode allows businesses to process transactions without internet access, ensuring continuity and automatically updating transaction data when back online.
- 24/7 customer support: Clover provides around-the-clock customer support, allowing businesses to resolve issues at any hour, which is especially beneficial for high-traffic or late-hour operations.
Disadvantages of Clover POS
- Merchant account cannot be changed after setup: Once a merchant account is set up with Clover, it’s challenging to switch to a different processor, limiting flexibility if a business wants to explore lower transaction rates or better contract terms in the future.
- No free option: Unlike some POS systems, Clover doesn’t offer a free plan, which means even small businesses or startups will need to budget for initial costs, potentially impacting those with tight finances.
- No integrated online store: Clover doesn’t come with a built-in e-commerce store, so businesses looking for an all-in-one solution for in-person and online sales will need to use third-party integrations, which could add complexity and additional costs.
Square: Advantages & disadvantages
Advantages of Square POS
- Basic plan requires no upfront costs: Square’s basic plan has no monthly fees, making it an accessible choice for small businesses or startups looking to minimize initial costs while still accessing essential POS features.
- Free online store: Square includes a free online store with its POS system, allowing businesses to seamlessly expand into e-commerce without additional setup fees or subscriptions.
- Free card reader: Square provides a free magstripe card reader for new accounts, allowing businesses to start accepting payments immediately without additional hardware expenses.
Disadvantages of Square POS
- Limited customer support hours: Square’s customer support is not available 24/7, which may be inconvenient for businesses that operate outside of standard hours and require prompt assistance during late-night or early-morning shifts.
- Does not support high-risk merchants: Square may restrict or decline accounts classified as high-risk, limiting its usability for businesses in certain industries that require specialized payment processing options.
- Only works with Square Payments as its payment processor: Square POS is exclusively tied to Square Payments for processing, meaning businesses cannot use an external merchant account, which limits flexibility and potential savings on transaction fees.
Clover key features
Clover is a popular POS solution designed for retail, restaurant, and service-based businesses. It offers payment processing, low flat-rate transaction fees, an extensive suite of business management tools, 24/7 customer support, and a flexible hardware lineup that includes countertop stations and mobile devices.
Merchant processing
Clover’s POS system supports diverse payment types, including credit and debit cards, contactless payments, gift cards, and mobile wallets, providing businesses with flexibility in how they accept payments. It can also accept PayPal and Venmo QR code payments.
Being owned by Fiserv, Clover defaults to Fiserv for payment processing but can also work with a range of other merchant service providers. This flexibility allows businesses to select a provider that may offer lower rates, providing more control over transaction fees and overall costs.
Lower transaction fees
Since Clover can work with various payment processors, businesses can compare rates and choose an option that minimizes transaction fees. With Fiserv as its default processor, Clover often provides competitive rates, but companies opting for alternative merchant service providers may negotiate even lower fees. This adaptability can lead to significant savings, especially for high-volume businesses.
Robust business management tools
Clover’s POS system goes beyond payments by offering robust business management tools. Features include inventory tracking, sales analytics, customer management, and employee scheduling, which help businesses streamline operations. Clover’s CRM features enable companies to capture customer data, manage loyalty programs, and tailor marketing efforts, helping to improve customer retention and engagement.
Also read: POS data analytics.
Dedicated customer support
Clover provides 24/7 customer support via phone and email, ensuring businesses can access assistance whenever they need it. This round-the-clock availability is valuable for companies with irregular hours or high-traffic periods, as it minimizes downtime in case of technical issues. Clover’s dedicated support helps businesses resolve issues quickly, maintaining a positive experience for both merchants and customers.
Durable, modern hardware
Clover is known for its sleek, modern hardware, which are available in a variety of configurations, from countertop stations to mobile handheld devices. Clover’s devices are built with durability in mind and are easy for staff to operate, making them a good fit for busy retail and restaurant environments.
Square key features
Square is a provider of an all-in-one POS system ideal for startups, independent sellers, and small businesses because of its ease of use, affordability, and accessibility. It offers various POS and payment processing plans, with the lowest option requiring no upfront costs for businesses to start accepting payments.
Integrated system
Square simplifies payment processing by combining a merchant account and payment processor into one platform, eliminating the need for a third-party account. This integrated system supports multiple payment methods, including credit and debit cards, contactless payments, and mobile wallets. Square’s quick setup and transparent pricing make it especially appealing to small businesses that want an all-in-one, hassle-free payment processing experience.
Simple pricing model
One of Square’s standout benefits is its straightforward, transparent pricing model. Square charges a flat rate per transaction without monthly fees for its basic plan, making it easy for businesses to predict costs and budget accurately. This structure is beneficial for businesses with low or variable transaction volumes, as it removes the uncertainty often associated with tiered pricing or hidden fees.
Affordable, user-friendly POS hardware
Square offers a range of affordable, easy-to-use hardware options to suit various business needs. From the free magstripe reader included with every account to the sleek Square Terminal and Square Register, businesses can select hardware that fits their budget and operational requirements. Square’s hardware is designed to integrate seamlessly with its POS software, enabling smooth transactions and enhancing the overall customer experience.
E-commerce support
Square’s POS system includes e-commerce tools that allow businesses to create an online store with ease. The free online store option helps businesses establish an online presence without additional costs. Square’s omnichannel capabilities enable businesses to manage in-store and online orders from one platform, streamlining inventory and sales tracking.
Management tools
Square provides a suite of management tools to help businesses oversee various aspects of their operations. Its inventory management, sales analytics, employee tracking, and customer relationship management features are all accessible through Square’s dashboard. These tools empower businesses to monitor performance, optimize stock levels, track employee hours, and engage customers through loyalty programs, making Square a well-rounded solution for business growth and efficiency.
Extended customer service
Square offers customer support through various channels, including email, live chat, and phone support, available during extended business hours. Additionally, Square’s online Support Center and Community Forum provide resources like FAQs, how-to guides, and peer advice for users seeking self-service solutions. While phone support isn’t 24/7, Square’s resources are comprehensive, making it easy for businesses to find answers to common questions and troubleshoot independently when necessary.
Square vs. Clover for small business case studies
Selecting the right payment processing tools is crucial for small businesses aiming to enhance operations and customer satisfaction. This section highlights real-world examples of how businesses use Square and Clover to streamline processes, improve customer experiences, and drive growth, showcasing the unique benefits each platform offers across various industries.
Square real-world examples
- Plants & Spaces: Zilah Drahn transformed her passion for plants into a thriving business, Plants & Spaces, leveraging Square tools like Square Stand, Inventory Management, and Payroll to streamline operations from retail to tax reporting. Square has enabled Drahn to manage her multifaceted business efficiently, providing a seamless payment experience, accurate inventory tracking, and clear financial insights. With the addition of retail, Drahn has expanded her customer base while setting standards that attract serious clients and strengthen her business’s foundation.
- Crêpes Bonaparte: This food truck business uses Square Kiosk to cut labor costs and improve order accuracy across its locations, allowing customers to place and customize orders directly, even in high-noise settings. The integration with Square’s Kitchen Display System and inventory tools helps staff manage orders efficiently and keep customers informed about menu availability. This streamlined setup enhances both customer experience and operational efficiency.
- Station RBNY: This community-focused surf and skate shop in Rockaway Beach, New York, uses Square’s ecosystem to streamline business operations. Owner Nigel Louis relies on Square for managing cash flow, payroll, and vendor payments, which allows him to focus on building connections with his customers. Square Loans and Square Banking tools have also provided financial stability, enabling Station RBNY to thrive while keeping operations simple and efficient.
Clover real-world examples
- Out the Dough: This cookie dough shop in Concord, California, leveraged Clover Online Ordering to handle a major increase in demand after a feature on Good Morning America. With Clover’s built-in, commission-free online ordering, the company quickly adapted to the surge in sales, offering customers convenient curbside pickup and flexible ordering options. Since adopting Clover, online sales have remained a steady 15% of their revenue, demonstrating Clover’s pivotal role in Out the Dough’s ongoing growth and customer satisfaction.
- Transylvania Moving Company: This moving and storage business in Beverly, Massachusetts, needed a reliable way to accept large payments on the go, even in remote areas. Clover Go’s mobile app and card reader provided the flexibility to accept payments on any mobile device, with or without Wi-Fi, allowing the team to focus on moving rather than payment logistics. With quick setup, dependable connectivity, and transparent fees, Clover Go became an essential tool for Transylvania Moving Company, supporting seamless payment processing across New England and empowering the business to grow.
- Broken Spoke Boutique: This company owned by Phil and Whitney Mayhew in Valentine, Nebraska, faced challenges managing inventory between their physical store and e-commerce platform. Clover’s integration with the store’s existing WooCommerce site allowed seamless inventory syncing, significantly reducing manual updates and errors. This efficiency not only ensured accurate inventory counts but also facilitated the boutique’s growth, letting it compete with trendy retailers across the country. With Clover, the store can now manage all inventory from a single dashboard while offering diverse payment options, enhancing the customer experience, and supporting the expansion of their unique product offerings.
Square or Clover: Which one is right for your business?
The choice between Square POS vs. Clover depends on several factors, including your business size, industry, preferences, and specific needs. If you’re a small business or startup seeking simplicity and affordability, Square could be the ideal choice. With its straightforward pricing model, free POS software, and online store builder, Square offers a convenient solution with minimal upfront costs. Additionally, Square’s extensive hardware options, including free card readers, cater to startups and small businesses with varying needs.
Alternatively, if you’re an established business looking for advanced features, customization options, and flexibility in payment processing, Clover might be the better fit. Offering sleek design, versatile hardware choices, and comprehensive management tools, Clover supports businesses that require robust POS capabilities. Moreover, Clover’s compatibility with various merchant accounts and extensive app marketplace allow businesses to tailor their POS experience to suit their unique requirements.
Ultimately, whether you prioritize simplicity and affordability with Square or flexibility and advanced functionality with Clover, both options offer reliable POS solutions to streamline your business operations and drive growth.
Also read:Square Alternatives & Competitors for 2025
FAQs
