Talech Alternatives To Find Your Ideal POS System

Talech POS is a cloud-based point-of-sale system that's great for restaurants, retail shops, and service businesses. It’s packed with features tailored to specific industries (like retail businesses or a restaurant business) and has a solid range of hardware. 

However, Epos Now and other POS providers offer similar pricing, and since they come with their own hardware, they might be more attractive for businesses wanting a complete, all-in-one setup. So, here's a look an alternatives guide to get you thinking.

Why look for alternatives to Talech? 

Why should you even bother looking for alternatives to your POS system? Maybe your current point of sale setup is outdated or clunky, or you just want something that helps your restaurant or retail business run more smoothly. Whether you're running a coffee shop, food truck, or full-blown restaurant business, a customizable POS system designed to handle payment processing, manage inventory, and offer seamless integration with online ordering can make a world of difference.

With the restaurant industry and retail businesses bouncing back from such a drastic pandemic and an unstable economic period, having a reliable restaurant management system that helps streamline daily operations, increase revenue, and accept payments (including contactless ones) is a game-changer. Plus, who doesn’t want a system that allows for things like contactless table ordering and managing orders from an iPad point of sale?

Maybe you’ve heard of Talech—great system, but checking out Talech alternatives, like Epos Now and Lightspeed Restaurant or other competitors, might get you access to features you didn't even know you needed. From real-time reports to advanced mobile point-of-sale solutions, the best POS software options help restaurant owners and small businesses handle inventory management, POS transactions, and payment processing effortlessly. You can also manage sales, prices remotely, and even set up billing and a centralized product catalog.

A system that offers cloud storage and lets you view this site properly (no annoying "update your browser" pop-ups or connection issues) will keep your business operations flowing smoothly. Plus, a solid alternative could bring in features like loyalty programs, improved customer support, and better inventory stock management—things that help businesses boost profit margins and keep customers happy.

So, if you're tired of your current setup, why not explore the best Talech competitors and find a POS software that’s restaurant-ready, offers solutions for small businesses, and fits your specific needs? After all, the right POS helps restaurant owners and retail businesses alike run more efficiently and make that grand comeback.

Common pain points with Talech point of sale 

While Talech POS has its perks, there are a few pain points that users have reported in a 2022 Nerdwallet review:

1. Not an all-in-one solution: Unlike some competitors, Talech requires you to use an iPad, Ingenico, or Poynt device to run the software. On top of that, all hardware must be purchased separately. So, if you're looking for a POS with pre-installed software or more specialized hardware, this could be a drawback.
2. Customer support: Although Talech advertises 24/7 phone and email support, some users have reported less-than-stellar experiences. Reviews mention issues with subpar customer service, software glitches, and even problems with payment processing.

Key features to consider in your POS alternative 

When you're hunting for a new POS system, keep an eye on these features:

Intuitive interface

You don’t want a system that feels like you need a manual every time you use it. Look for something easy to navigate—both for you and your team.

Customizable system

Every business is different. Your POS should be flexible enough to fit your specific needs, whether you're managing, say, a restaurant, retail shop, or food truck.

POS integrations capability 

Make sure it plays well with others! Your new system should seamlessly integrate with programs like your marketing platform, accounting software, and online ordering platforms.

Pricing 

Don’t just look at the sticker price. Factor in hardware, software, and any other sneaky fees. You want something that's affordable without sacrificing features.

Customer support

If something breaks or you have a question, quick and reliable customer support is a must. Make sure they’ve got your back 24/7—or at least during your working hours!

4 Talech alternatives 

If Talech isn't quite cutting it for you, don't worry there's plenty of other POS options out there. Here are four solid alternatives that might be a better fit and we're talking about their software's major selling point.

Epos Now

Epos Now is quickly becoming a go-to for businesses looking for a cloud-based POS system. It’s packed with software features like loyalty programs, online ordering, staff management, and stock tracking, making it a great option for small businesses. The best part? It’s super easy to set up—you can have it running in just a few minutes. Plus, with solid security, your data stays safe.

Epos Now was founded in 2011 by Jacyn Heavens, who created it after struggling to find an affordable, easy-to-use POS while working in a bar. Now, it's used in countries like the UK, US, Canada, and Australia, helping businesses all over the world streamline their operations.

• Integrated payment processing: One of the standout features of Epos Now is its in-house integrated payment processing. You can handle multiple payment methods through one terminal, speeding up transactions and cutting down on errors. Everything is managed in one place, and you get fixed-rate processing with no hidden fees—so managing costs is easier.
• Inventory management: Epos Now's cloud-based system excels at real-time inventory tracking. You’ll always know what’s in stock, with features like low-stock notifications, automated orderint, and item tracking, saving you time and money while keeping your inventory on point.
• Employee management: Managing your team is a breeze with Epos Now’s employee tools. From scheduling and time tracking to sales goal alerts and customizable access permissions, it’s designed to keep your staff organized and your data secure.
• App store: The Epos Now AppStore lets you customize your system with a wide range of apps, from loyalty programs to delivery management. Popular apps include:

1. Epos Now Loyalty: Manage customer loyalty programs.
2. Epos Now Delivery: Streamline delivery orders.
3. Order & Pay: Let customers order and pay from their devices.
4. QuickBooks: Sync your sales and finances.
5. Mailchimp: Automate your email marketing.

Epos Now is a solid choice for small business owners looking for an easy-to-use, secure POS system. With features like integrated payment processing, real-time inventory management, and strong employee tools, it’s got everything you need to keep your business running smoothly. Plus, their in-house support team and support centre packed with instructive guides are always ready to help when you need it.

Square POS

Next up is Square POS, a cloud-based system loaded with features to help make running your business easier. It’s got mobile payment processing, simple hardware setup, and tools to manage employees and customers. Plus, it gives you detailed reports and works with major accounting systems, so you can get going without any fuss.

Here are some pros and cons, according to a Forbes review:

Pros:

• Free to start: You can get started with Square POS without spending a dime, which is perfect for small businesses trying to save on upfront costs.
• No monthly fees (basic plan): The basic plan doesn’t come with any monthly fees, making it super budget-friendly.
• Wide range of hardware: Square offers lots of hardware options, so you can pick what works best for your business.

Cons:

• Account freezing: Sometimes Square freezes accounts if it spots irregular activity, which can be a real pain if you’re not expecting it.
• Not great for high-volume transactions: If you're processing a lot of transactions, Square’s fees can add up and might not be the most cost-effective option.
• No phone support: Unfortunately, Square doesn’t offer phone support, so if you prefer to chat with someone directly when things go wrong, this might be frustrating.

Toast POS software

Toast POS is built specifically for restaurant owners, making it easier to manage day-to-day operations in any eatery. With features for handling payments, tracking inventory, managing staff, and even offering promo codes and gift cards, it’s designed to simplify life in the restaurant industry.

Here’s what Forbes Reviews has to say:

Pros:

• Multiple payment methods: Toast accepts all kinds of payments, making transactions smooth and flexible.
• Restaurant-specific: It’s designed with restaurants in mind, so it fits right into the restaurant company.
• 24/7 customer service: You can get help any time, no matter what plan you’re on.
• Easy multi-location use: Got multiple spots? Toast works seamlessly across different locations.

Cons:

• Unclear costs: Toast's scalable plans and pay-as-you-go pricing can make it tough to know exactly what you’ll be paying.
• Expensive to cancel or switch: If you decide to cancel or change plans, it can get pretty pricey.
• Poor BBB rating: It doesn’t have the best BBB rating, and there’s not much of an online presence for customer queries.

Vend POS

Vend is a strong contender in the retail POS space, offering solid tools for inventory management, multi-store setups, and detailed reporting. It’s designed to help retail companies stay organized and grow, with flexible compatibility and reliable customer support.

Pros:

• Strong inventory management: Vend excels at managing stock, especially for businesses with multiple locations.
• Multi-store and reporting tools: It’s great for tracking sales and performance across several stores.
• Compatible with Windows, Mac, and iPads: No matter your setup, Vend works smoothly across devices.
• 24/7 customer support: Need help? Vend’s got you covered with round-the-clock support.
• Third-party payment processing: You can choose from a range of payment processors to suit your business.

Cons:

• No free POS software: Unfortunately, Vend doesn’t offer a free version, so you’ll have to pay to play.
• Mobile POS limited to iPads: If you’re looking for mobile options, you’re stuck with iPads—no Android or other devices.
• Not ideal for restaurants or service-based businesses: Vend is great for retail, but not so much for getting your restaurant business working efficiently.