Clover vs. Square

Attribute	Clover	Square
Shape	Round	Four equal sides
Number of sides	None	Four
Symbolism	Luck	Stability
Geometry	Circular	Quadrilateral

Overview

Clover and Square are two popular point-of-sale (POS) systems that cater to small and medium-sized businesses. Both platforms offer a range of features to help businesses manage transactions, inventory, and customer relationships. However, there are key differences between the two systems that may make one more suitable for certain types of businesses than the other.

Cost

One of the most significant differences between Clover and Square is their pricing models. Clover charges a monthly fee for its software, which varies depending on the plan chosen. In addition to the software fee, businesses also need to purchase Clover hardware, such as the Clover Station or Clover Mini. On the other hand, Square offers its software for free, only charging a transaction fee for each sale. Square also provides free card readers to businesses, making it a more cost-effective option for businesses with lower transaction volumes.

Hardware

When it comes to hardware options, Clover and Square offer different choices to businesses. Clover provides a range of sleek and modern hardware options, including the Clover Station, Clover Mini, and Clover Flex. These devices are designed to be user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing, making them a good fit for businesses that value design. Square, on the other hand, offers a more limited selection of hardware, with options like the Square Stand and Square Reader. While Square's hardware may not be as visually appealing as Clover's, it is known for its durability and reliability.

Features

Both Clover and Square offer a variety of features to help businesses streamline their operations. Clover's software is known for its robust inventory management capabilities, allowing businesses to track stock levels and set up automatic reordering. Clover also offers advanced reporting tools that provide insights into sales trends and customer behavior. Square, on the other hand, is praised for its user-friendly interface and ease of use. Square's software includes features like customizable item libraries, employee management tools, and integrated payment processing.

Integration

Integration with other business tools is an important consideration for many businesses when choosing a POS system. Clover offers a wide range of integrations with popular business software, such as QuickBooks, Xero, and Mailchimp. These integrations allow businesses to sync data across different platforms and streamline their workflows. Square also offers integrations with a variety of third-party apps, including accounting software, e-commerce platforms, and marketing tools. However, some users have reported issues with the reliability of Square's integrations, which may be a concern for businesses that rely heavily on third-party software.

Customer Support

Customer support is another important factor to consider when choosing a POS system. Clover provides 24/7 customer support via phone, email, and live chat, ensuring that businesses can get help whenever they need it. Clover also offers in-person support through its network of local resellers and service providers. Square, on the other hand, offers customer support via email and phone during business hours. While Square does not offer 24/7 support, many users have praised the quality of Square's customer service, citing quick response times and knowledgeable representatives.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Clover and Square offer unique attributes that may appeal to different types of businesses. Clover is known for its sleek hardware options, robust inventory management features, and wide range of integrations. Square, on the other hand, stands out for its cost-effective pricing model, user-friendly interface, and reliable customer support. Ultimately, the best POS system for your business will depend on your specific needs and priorities. Consider factors such as cost, hardware options, features, integration capabilities, and customer support when making your decision.