Choosing the Best Free POS Software for Your Online Store

Introduction

Running an online store on a budget? Free POS (Point of Sale) software can help you manage sales, track inventory, and delight customers without draining your wallet. But not all free tools are created equal—some skimp on features, while others upsell aggressively. We tested 10+ platforms to bring you the best free POS software for online stores in 2024, plus tips to avoid hidden costs and limitations.

1. Square POS (Best for Small Businesses)

Key Features:

• Free plan includes unlimited products, basic inventory tracking, and payment processing.

• Integrates with Shopify, WooCommerce, and social media shops.

• Mobile-friendly dashboard with sales analytics.
  Limitations:

• Transaction fees (2.9% + $0.30 per online sale).

• Advanced features like loyalty programs require paid plans.
  Best For: Startups and solopreneurs needing a simple, scalable solution.

2. Zoho Inventory (Best for Omnichannel Sellers)

Key Features:

• Free forever plan supports 50 orders/month and 2 users.

• Sync inventory across Amazon, eBay, and Etsy.

• Barcode scanning and shipping label generation.
  Limitations:

• No built-in payment processing.

• Limited to 2 warehouses.
  Best For: Sellers managing multiple online marketplaces.

3. Loyverse (Best for Mobile-First Stores)

Key Features:

• Free POS app for Android/iOS with offline mode.

• Track sales, inventory, and customer loyalty.

• Basic employee management.
  Limitations:

• No e-commerce integrations (ideal for pop-up shops or hybrid stores).

• Limited to 1 register.
  Best For: Sellers with occasional in-person sales (e.g., markets, fairs).

4. PayPal Zettle (Best for Payment Flexibility)

Key Features:

• Free POS system with PayPal, card, and QR code payments.

• Sync with WooCommerce and BigCommerce.

• Sales reports and customer contact management.
  Limitations:

• 2.29% + $0.09 transaction fee for card payments.

• No inventory management on the free plan.
  Best For: Stores prioritizing seamless checkout experiences.

5. SumUp (Best for International Sellers)

Key Features:

• Free POS with no monthly fees.

• Accept payments in 35+ currencies.

• Basic invoicing and sales tracking.
  Limitations:

• 2.75% transaction fee.

• Lacks inventory tools.
  Best For: Global microbusinesses needing multi-currency support.

How to Choose the Right Free POS

1. Assess Your Volume: Free plans often cap orders/users (e.g., Zoho’s 50 orders/month).

2. Prioritize Integrations: If you sell on Shopify/WooCommerce, pick tools like Square.

3. Watch for Hidden Costs: Transaction fees can add up—compare rates before committing.

Conclusion
Free POS software is a launchpad, not a lifelong solution. Start with a tool that aligns with your immediate needs (e.g., Square for simplicity, Zoho for multichannel sync), and upgrade as you scale. Test 2-3 options with free trials, and don’t forget to check Reddit or G2 for real-user reviews!