In the battle of Revel Systems versus ChowNow, both systems bring unique strengths to the table. Revel Systems is particularly strong for Multi-location restaurants, franchises, and growing retail chains, while ChowNow excels at Restaurants wanting commission-free ordering. Whether you prioritize Open API platform or Zero commissions, this comparison covers everything you need to know.
Quick Comparison: Revel Systems vs ChowNow
| Feature | Revel Systems | ChowNow |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Multi-Industry | Software |
| Starting Price | $99/month/terminal (estimated) | $149/month |
| Rating | 4.1/5 | 4.3/5 |
| Target Business | Mid-Market | Small Business to Mid-Market |
| Pricing Model | Quote-based | Subscription |
| Free Trial | Yes | No |
| Free Version | No | No |
| Best For | Multi-location restaurants, franchises, and growing retail chains | Restaurants wanting commission-free ordering |
Revel Systems Overview
Revel Systems is an enterprise-grade iPad POS platform for restaurants and retail businesses. It offers advanced features, API access, and scalability for growing multi-location operations.
Revel Systems is offered by Revel Systems, Inc. (founded 2010) based in Atlanta, GA. The system focuses on Quick service restaurants, Retail chains, Franchises, Enterprise.
Key Features:
- iPad-based POS
- Open API
- Inventory management
- CRM
- Employee management
- Reporting
ChowNow Overview
ChowNow is a commission-free online ordering platform for restaurants. Provides branded apps, website ordering, and marketing tools without per-order commissions like third-party delivery apps.
ChowNow is offered by ChowNow Inc. (founded 2010) based in Los Angeles, CA. The system focuses on Restaurants.
Key Features:
- Online Ordering
- Branded App
- Marketing Tools
- Customer Database
- POS Integration
- Loyalty Programs
Feature Comparison
Revel Systems Features:
- iPad-based POS
- Open API
- Inventory management
- CRM
- Employee management
ChowNow Features:
- Online Ordering
- Branded App
- Marketing Tools
- Customer Database
- POS Integration
When comparing features, Revel Systems stands out with Open API platform, while ChowNow differentiates itself with Zero commissions. Your choice should depend on which features align better with your specific business requirements.
Pricing Comparison
| Pricing Aspect | Revel Systems | ChowNow |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $99/month/terminal (estimated) | $149/month |
| Pricing Model | Quote-based | Subscription |
| Price Range | Premium | Mid-range |
| Free Trial | Available | Not available |
| Free Version | No | No |
Both systems offer competitive pricing for their respective feature sets. Consider the total cost of ownership including hardware, processing fees, and add-on modules when making your decision.
Pros and Cons
Revel Systems
Pros:
- Highly customizable
- Strong API for integrations
- Good for franchises
- Robust reporting
- Multi-location capable
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Steeper learning curve
- Implementation can be complex
- 3-year contracts typical
ChowNow
Pros:
- No commission fees
- Branded experience
- Customer data ownership
- Marketing tools
Cons:
- Monthly subscription cost
- No delivery drivers
- Limited to online ordering
Who Should Choose Revel Systems?
Revel Systems is ideal for Multi-location restaurants, franchises, and growing retail chains. The system is particularly well-suited for Quick service restaurants, Retail chains, Franchises, Enterprise.
However, Revel Systems may not be the best fit for Small single-location businesses on tight budgets.
Who Should Choose ChowNow?
ChowNow is ideal for Restaurants wanting commission-free ordering. The system is particularly well-suited for Restaurants.
However, ChowNow may not be the best fit for Those needing full POS or delivery services.
Our Recommendation
Both Revel Systems and ChowNow are solid POS solutions, but they excel in different areas. Choose Revel Systems if you’re Multi-location restaurants, franchises, and growing retail chains. Choose ChowNow if you’re Restaurants wanting commission-free ordering. ChowNow has a higher user rating (4.3 vs 4.1). We recommend trying demos or free trials of both systems before making your final decision.