Restaurant POS Comparison
Clover POS vs Lightspeed Restaurant
A side-by-side look at pricing, fees, and features to help you pick the right system for your restaurant.
Clover POS
Best for quick-service, cafe, and full-service restaurants needing flexible hardware.
$0–$90/mo
Visit Clover POSLightspeed Restaurant
Best for multi-location full-service restaurants and bars needing integrated KDS and loyalty.
$69/mo
Visit Lightspeed RestaurantQuick comparison
| Clover POS | Lightspeed Restaurant | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | $0–$90/mo | $69/mo |
| Processing fee | 2.3%–2.6% + 10¢ | 2.6% + 10¢ |
| Free plan | No | No |
| G2 rating | 3.9 | 4.0 |
| Best for | quick-service, cafe, full-service | multi-location, full-service, bar |
| Handheld | ✓ | ✓ |
| Kds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Loyalty | ✓ | ✓ |
| Offline Mode | ✓ | ✓ |
| Online Ordering | ✓ | ✓ |
| Payroll | — | — |
Our verdict
Pick Clover for single-location quick-service, cafe, or full-service restaurants on a budget. Its lower starting price and flexible hardware suit small to mid-size operations. Pick Lightspeed for multi-location full-service restaurants and bars needing integrated KDS and loyalty. Its higher monthly fee is offset by advanced multi-store management.
Clover POS pros & cons
- Flexible hardware options for different restaurant types.
- Built-in loyalty and online ordering features.
- Offline mode ensures uptime during internet outages.
- Handheld POS for tableside ordering and payment.
- Processing fees can be higher than competitors.
- Contract terms may include early termination fees.
Lightspeed Restaurant pros & cons
- Integrated KDS and handheld ordering for efficiency.
- Built-in loyalty program to drive repeat business.
- Offline mode ensures sales continue during internet outages.
- Online ordering included with no extra cost.
- No free plan; $69/month starting price.
- Processing fee of 2.6% + 10¢ per transaction.
- Setup and training can be time-consuming.
Frequently asked questions
What is the pricing difference between Clover and Lightspeed?
Clover starts at $0–$90/mo with processing 2.3%–2.6% + 10¢. Lightspeed starts at $69/mo with processing 2.6% + 10¢.
Do Clover and Lightspeed require long-term contracts?
Clover often requires a 3-year contract through resellers. Lightspeed typically offers month-to-month or annual contracts.
What hardware options do Clover and Lightspeed offer?
Clover offers flexible hardware: countertop, handheld, and station. Lightspeed integrates with third-party hardware like iPads and receipt printers.
Which POS is cheaper for a small restaurant?
Clover is cheaper for small restaurants with lower monthly fees and processing rates, especially for single-location operations.