In the battle of NCR Aloha versus Shift4, both systems bring unique strengths to the table. NCR Aloha is particularly strong for Full-service restaurants, growing chains, and enterprises needing robust features, while Shift4 excels at Businesses wanting integrated payment solutions. Whether you prioritize 130+ years of NCR experience or End-to-end payments, this comparison covers everything you need to know.
Quick Comparison: NCR Aloha vs Shift4
| Feature | NCR Aloha | Shift4 |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Restaurant | Multi-Industry |
| Starting Price | $175/month | Contact for pricing |
| Rating | 4.1/5 | 4.1/5 |
| Target Business | All Sizes | Small Business to Enterprise |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Quote-based |
| Free Trial | No | No |
| Free Version | No | No |
| Best For | Full-service restaurants, growing chains, and enterprises needing robust features | Businesses wanting integrated payment solutions |
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
Shift4 Overview
Shift4 is a payment processing and POS technology company serving hospitality, retail, and other industries. Owns POSitouch, Harbortouch, and other POS brands. Offers integrated payments and software.
Shift4 is offered by Shift4 (founded 1994) based in Allentown, PA. The system focuses on Hospitality, Retail, Entertainment.
Key Features:
- Payment Processing
- POS Systems
- Gift Cards
- Loyalty
- Analytics
- Enterprise Solutions
Feature Comparison
NCR Aloha Features:
- Cloud-based deployment
- Mobile ordering
- Kitchen display system
- Online ordering
- Loyalty programs
Shift4 Features:
- Payment Processing
- POS Systems
- Gift Cards
- Loyalty
- Analytics
When comparing features, NCR Aloha stands out with 130+ years of NCR experience, while Shift4 differentiates itself with End-to-end payments. Your choice should depend on which features align better with your specific business requirements.
Pricing Comparison
| Pricing Aspect | NCR Aloha | Shift4 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $175/month | Contact for pricing |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Quote-based |
| Price Range | Premium | Mid-range to Premium |
| 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
Shift4
Pros:
- Integrated payments
- Multiple POS brands
- Enterprise scale
- Payment innovation
Cons:
- Complex product lineup
- Custom pricing
- May be overkill for small businesses
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 Shift4?
Shift4 is ideal for Businesses wanting integrated payment solutions. The system is particularly well-suited for Hospitality, Retail, Entertainment.
However, Shift4 may not be the best fit for Very small businesses wanting simple solutions.
Our Recommendation
Both NCR Aloha and Shift4 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 Shift4 if you’re Businesses wanting integrated payment solutions. We recommend trying demos or free trials of both systems before making your final decision.