Best POS software 2026
Point-of-sale software and cash register solutions compared on features, hardware, fees and VAT anti-fraud compliance. Editorial ranking scored out of 100 according to our methodology.
- SumUp stands out for its ease of setup and affordable hardware; it integrated Tiller (acquired in 2021) into its POS offering.
- Lightspeed targets demanding businesses (retail, hospitality) and Cashpad tablet-based hospitality.
- Compliance: any VAT-registered business collecting payments from private individuals must be able to produce a certificate of compliance (anti-fraud standard, such as NF525), on pain of a fine of €7,500 per software.
- ⚠️ Prices and features change — check the up-to-date offer with the vendor.
Choosing POS software is not just about the subscription price. Compliance with the anti-fraud regulations (attestation such as NF525), compatibility with your existing hardware and the depth of the management features (stock, reporting, loyalty) make the real difference depending on the type of business. Note: SumUp has integrated Tiller into its offering since acquiring it in 2021. This comparison is an editorial ranking scored out of 100 using the same grid, to help you choose based on your actual line of business.
Our methodology
Each option is scored out of 100 against weighted criteria, using the same grid for all.
| Criterion | What we look at | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Features | Checkout, stock management, receipts, reporting | 30 |
| Hardware & compatibility | Terminals, printers, cash drawer, tablet | 20 |
| Pricing & commitment | Subscription, commissions, hardware, flexibility | 20 |
| Compliance & reliability | VAT anti-fraud standard, backup, security | 20 |
| Customer service | Support, training, availability | 10 |
The 2026 ranking
SumUp
Lightspeed
Cashpad
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Comparison table
| Solution | Target | Price | Hardware | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SumUp | Small businesses | No subscription / plans | Affordable | 92 |
| Lightspeed | Retail / hospitality | Subscription | Extensive | 89 |
| Cashpad | Hospitality | Subscription | Tablet | 86 |
Frequently asked questions
Is POS software mandatory?
VAT-registered businesses that record payments from private individuals via POS software or a cash register system must be able to produce a certificate of compliance with the anti-fraud regulations, on pain of a fine of €7,500 per software. Check the attestation or certificate (such as NF525) provided by the vendor.
Who issues the certificate of compliance?
Since 1 September 2025, pure self-certification was no longer accepted, but the 2026 Finance Act reinstated the option for the vendor to issue an individual attestation for its own software. In practice, always require a written document (vendor attestation or a certificate from an independent body) and keep it.
Do you have to buy the hardware separately?
It depends on the offer: some solutions include a terminal, others charge for the printer, cash drawer or tablet separately. Compare the total cost, hardware included.
Can you switch POS software easily?
Data migration (catalogue, history) varies between vendors. Favour solutions that let you export your data and come with no long-term commitment.
🗓️ Update history
- 05/08/2026 — Verification of players and facts, 2026 update.
- 12/06/2026 — Updated offers and the 2026 compliance criterion.
- 05/03/2026 — Comparison created.
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