When comparing Olo vs Grubhub Direct, you’re looking at two distinct approaches to software point-of-sale technology. Olo, rated 4.3/5, offers Multi-location chains wanting unified digital ordering. Meanwhile, Grubhub Direct, rated 3.9/5, provides Restaurants wanting direct ordering with Grubhub delivery. Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.
Quick Comparison: Olo vs Grubhub Direct
| Feature | Olo | Grubhub Direct |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Software | Software |
| Starting Price | Enterprise pricing (contact) | Free setup + processing fees |
| Rating | 4.3/5 | 3.9/5 |
| Target Business | Mid-Market to Enterprise | Small Business to Mid-Market |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Transaction-based |
| Free Trial | No | No |
| Free Version | No | Yes |
| Best For | Multi-location chains wanting unified digital ordering | Restaurants wanting direct ordering with Grubhub delivery |
Olo Overview
Olo is a leading restaurant ordering and delivery platform powering digital transformation for 700+ brands including Shake Shack, Wingstop, and Denny’s. Provides ordering, dispatch, rails integrations, and guest engagement tools.
Olo is offered by Olo Inc. (founded 2005) based in New York, NY. The system focuses on Quick Service, Fast Casual, Enterprise Chains.
Key Features:
- Digital Ordering
- Delivery Dispatch
- Rails Integration
- Guest Data Platform
- Payment Processing
- Catering
Grubhub Direct Overview
Grubhub Direct allows restaurants to accept online orders directly through their website without marketplace commissions. Includes order management and optional delivery through Grubhub drivers.
Grubhub Direct is offered by Grubhub (Just Eat Takeaway) (founded 2004) based in Chicago, IL. The system focuses on Restaurants.
Key Features:
- Online Ordering
- Website Integration
- Order Management
- Delivery Option
- Marketing Tools
- Analytics
Feature Comparison
Olo Features:
- Digital Ordering
- Delivery Dispatch
- Rails Integration
- Guest Data Platform
- Payment Processing
Grubhub Direct Features:
- Online Ordering
- Website Integration
- Order Management
- Delivery Option
- Marketing Tools
When comparing features, Olo stands out with Powers 700+ restaurant brands, while Grubhub Direct differentiates itself with Commission-free direct orders. Your choice should depend on which features align better with your specific business requirements.
Pricing Comparison
| Pricing Aspect | Olo | Grubhub Direct |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | Enterprise pricing (contact) | Free setup + processing fees |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Transaction-based |
| Price Range | Premium | Budget |
| Free Trial | Not available | Not available |
| Free Version | No | Yes |
Grubhub Direct is more budget-friendly, making it a better choice for cost-conscious businesses. Consider the total cost of ownership including hardware, processing fees, and add-on modules when making your decision.
Pros and Cons
Olo
Pros:
- Powers major restaurant brands
- Comprehensive digital platform
- Strong delivery integrations
- Public company stability
Cons:
- Enterprise-focused pricing
- Complex implementation
- Not for small operations
Grubhub Direct
Pros:
- No commission on orders
- Grubhub delivery available
- Marketing support
- Free to set up
Cons:
- Delivery fees apply
- Less known than marketplace
- Limited customization
Who Should Choose Olo?
Olo is ideal for Multi-location chains wanting unified digital ordering. The system is particularly well-suited for Quick Service, Fast Casual, Enterprise Chains.
However, Olo may not be the best fit for Single-location independent restaurants.
Who Should Choose Grubhub Direct?
Grubhub Direct is ideal for Restaurants wanting direct ordering with Grubhub delivery. The system is particularly well-suited for Restaurants.
However, Grubhub Direct may not be the best fit for Those avoiding third-party delivery platforms.
Our Recommendation
Both Olo and Grubhub Direct are solid POS solutions, but they excel in different areas. Choose Olo if you’re Multi-location chains wanting unified digital ordering. Choose Grubhub Direct if you’re Restaurants wanting direct ordering with Grubhub delivery. Olo has a higher user rating (4.3 vs 3.9). Also, choose Grubhub Direct if you want to start with a free version. We recommend trying demos or free trials of both systems before making your final decision.