Cloud-Based POS Vs Traditional POS: How to Make the Right Choice

Point of sale (POS) systems have been at the forefront of substantial advancements in retail store technology during the approx past ten years. POS systems have evolved along with changing customer demands and technologies. However, owners of small retail businesses are also a part of this transition and are calling for access to more services and required data.

The retail business owner of the 2022s expects to be able to manage their business independently, with access to critical information and functionality that help in streamlining processes and assisting in making the best decisions. The terms "Cloud And Traditional POS Solution" will be defined in this blog. 

We'll also compare the major differences in detail using data from the POS market. This makes it the perfect point to compare Traditional POS systems to Cloud-based ones.

Let's explore the debate between traditional POS and cloud-based POS.

As a small business, you might need to figure out what kind of POS system you require. But there is one thing you can count on: updating your POS system is necessary if you want to expand your business and simplify your life.

Let's compare Cloud-based and Traditional POS by examining their distinguishing features.

Traditional POS 

Traditional POS, sometimes called an on-premises or inheritance POS, has been around longer and provides data capabilities to business owners. Data is kept on a computer in your back office because conventional POS systems connect to a local, on-premise server.

Data is always maintained on your primary system if you have a hybrid solution with cloud capabilities. Still, you may access the back office of your program at any time and from any location.

Cloud-Based POS

All the information you require is kept online and is sometimes referred to as a web POS. It is housed at a secure data center and has cloud backup servers.

With an internet connection, you may access data from any location and device (similar to checking bank account info or emails on your smartphone or tablet). You can manage your store from home and view the real-time data you need, including sales, inventory reports, consumer trends, etc.

Traditional POS Vs Cloud-Based 

Traditional POS software is frequently purchased upfront, while some vendors provide a software subscription service. You get to pick the hardware, software, and payment processing service for most custom solutions. Updates to the hardware and software require extra funding.

Hardware is often purchased upfront, while the software is typically purchased on a monthly subscription basis with cloud POS. The software is accessible via the majority of mobile devices. Typically, your monthly subscription fee includes updates. Software updates in traditional POS systems can take more time and frequently call for your vendor's assistance.

The advantage is that traditional POS doesn't require an internet connection, unlike cloud POS so you can view your data offline. A local database point-of-sale system will allow you to continue making sales even if your internet connection is unavailable.

Software updates in conventional POS systems can take more time and frequently call for your vendor's assistance.

The advantage is that traditional POS doesn't require an internet connection, unlike cloud POS so you can view data offline. A local database system will allow you to continue making sales even if your internet connection is unavailable for comparison. 

The fact that traditional POS software is frequently a one-time expense is an additional benefit. Although Cloud POS needs a constant internet connection, the software is regularly updated. To prevent business interruption, your provider updates automatically and remotely, frequently overnight.

Compared to the one-time purchase of most traditional POS software, most cloud POS software has a monthly subscription price.

Traditional point-of-sale systems include setting up around your store and a back office computer (or just one if you have a small store). You'll need a dedicated touchscreen monitor for the till and an on-site server.

Depending on the nature of your business, you may require a cash register, receipt printer, and barcode scanner, all of which are simple to locate and buy.   The hardware above is still required for a cloud POS, but you can also access your company from a mobile device.

Traditional POS has a decent barrier against possible hackers because it works on a closed internal network and keeps data on local servers. Additionally, IT vendors deploy superior, industry-standard security methods to protect corporate data. If your data is not backed up, you could lose it permanently if a virus hits your machine or a system breakdown occurs.

Data is kept on distant servers by cloud POS systems. You have backups, so your information (Data) is usually intact if anything happens to your physical system. Additionally, real-time, automatic data updating is much simpler. You are vulnerable to cyberattacks, but security is typically strong enough to protect them.

With LytPOS Custom Pos & Billing software, you can transform your business and enhance business productivity. To determine whether a POS solution is appropriate for you, book a schedule now for a custom POS solution according to your business.