When comparing Olo vs NCR Aloha, 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, NCR Aloha, rated 4.1/5, provides Full-service restaurants, growing chains, and enterprises needing robust features. Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.
Quick Comparison: Olo vs NCR Aloha
| Feature | Olo | NCR Aloha |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Software | Restaurant |
| Starting Price | Enterprise pricing (contact) | $175/month |
| Rating | 4.3/5 | 4.1/5 |
| Target Business | Mid-Market to Enterprise | All Sizes |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Subscription |
| Free Trial | No | No |
| Free Version | No | No |
| Best For | Multi-location chains wanting unified digital ordering | Full-service restaurants, growing chains, and enterprises needing robust features |
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
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
Feature Comparison
Olo Features:
- Digital Ordering
- Delivery Dispatch
- Rails Integration
- Guest Data Platform
- Payment Processing
NCR Aloha Features:
- Cloud-based deployment
- Mobile ordering
- Kitchen display system
- Online ordering
- Loyalty programs
When comparing features, Olo stands out with Powers 700+ restaurant brands, while NCR Aloha differentiates itself with 130+ years of NCR experience. Your choice should depend on which features align better with your specific business requirements.
Pricing Comparison
| Pricing Aspect | Olo | NCR Aloha |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | Enterprise pricing (contact) | $175/month |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Subscription |
| Price Range | Premium | 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
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
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
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 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.
Our Recommendation
Both Olo and NCR Aloha are solid POS solutions, but they excel in different areas. Choose Olo if you’re Multi-location chains wanting unified digital ordering. Choose NCR Aloha if you’re Full-service restaurants, growing chains, and enterprises needing robust features. Olo 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.