When comparing NCR Aloha vs Ritual, you’re looking at two distinct approaches to restaurant point-of-sale technology. NCR Aloha, rated 4.1/5, offers Full-service restaurants, growing chains, and enterprises needing robust features. Meanwhile, Ritual, rated 4.0/5, provides Urban restaurants serving office workers. Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.
Quick Comparison: NCR Aloha vs Ritual
| Feature | NCR Aloha | Ritual |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Restaurant | Software |
| Starting Price | $175/month | Commission per order |
| Rating | 4.1/5 | 4.0/5 |
| Target Business | All Sizes | Small Business to Mid-Market |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Commission-based |
| Free Trial | No | No |
| Free Version | No | No |
| Best For | Full-service restaurants, growing chains, and enterprises needing robust features | Urban restaurants serving office workers |
NCR Aloha Overview
NCR Aloha is a leading restaurant POS system backed by NCR Voyix with over 130 years of experience. It offers both cloud-based (Aloha Cloud) and Windows-based (Aloha Essentials) solutions serving over 75,000 restaurants worldwide, from major chains like Chipotle to independent restaurants.
NCR Aloha is offered by NCR Voyix (founded 1884) based in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. The system focuses on Restaurants, Quick Service, Full Service, Bars.
Key Features:
- Cloud-based deployment
- Mobile ordering
- Kitchen display system
- Online ordering
- Loyalty programs
- Inventory management
Ritual Overview
Ritual is a mobile ordering platform for restaurants and cafes. Allows customers to order ahead and skip the line. Features social ordering and office-focused features.
Ritual is offered by Ritual (founded 2014) based in Toronto, Canada. The system focuses on Restaurants, Cafes, Quick Service.
Key Features:
- Mobile Ordering
- Skip-the-line
- Social Ordering
- Marketing
- Analytics
- POS Integration
Feature Comparison
NCR Aloha Features:
- Cloud-based deployment
- Mobile ordering
- Kitchen display system
- Online ordering
- Loyalty programs
Ritual Features:
- Mobile Ordering
- Skip-the-line
- Social Ordering
- Marketing
- Analytics
When comparing features, NCR Aloha stands out with 130+ years of NCR experience, while Ritual differentiates itself with Social ordering. Your choice should depend on which features align better with your specific business requirements.
Pricing Comparison
| Pricing Aspect | NCR Aloha | Ritual |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $175/month | Commission per order |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Commission-based |
| Price Range | Premium | Mid-range |
| Free Trial | Not 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
NCR Aloha
Pros:
- Trusted by major restaurant chains
- 250+ integrations available
- Comprehensive feature set
- Both cloud and on-premise options
- 24/7 customer support included
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Can be complex to program
- Recent fee increases (April 2025)
- Not as user-friendly as newer systems
Ritual
Pros:
- Order-ahead convenience
- Social features
- Office market focus
- Customer acquisition
Cons:
- Commission fees
- App required
- Urban market focus
Who Should Choose NCR Aloha?
NCR Aloha is ideal for Full-service restaurants, growing chains, and enterprises needing robust features. The system is particularly well-suited for Restaurants, Quick Service, Full Service, Bars.
However, NCR Aloha may not be the best fit for Budget-conscious small restaurants, businesses wanting simple setup.
Who Should Choose Ritual?
Ritual is ideal for Urban restaurants serving office workers. The system is particularly well-suited for Restaurants, Cafes, Quick Service.
However, Ritual may not be the best fit for Full-service restaurants or rural locations.
Our Recommendation
Both NCR Aloha and Ritual are solid POS solutions, but they excel in different areas. Choose NCR Aloha if you’re Full-service restaurants, growing chains, and enterprises needing robust features. Choose Ritual if you’re Urban restaurants serving office workers. NCR Aloha has a higher user rating (4.1 vs 4.0). We recommend trying demos or free trials of both systems before making your final decision.