In the battle of Olo versus Shift4, both systems bring unique strengths to the table. Olo is particularly strong for Multi-location chains wanting unified digital ordering, while Shift4 excels at Businesses wanting integrated payment solutions. Whether you prioritize Powers 700+ restaurant brands or End-to-end payments, this comparison covers everything you need to know.
Quick Comparison: Olo vs Shift4
| Feature | Olo | Shift4 |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Software | Multi-Industry |
| Starting Price | Enterprise pricing (contact) | Contact for pricing |
| Rating | 4.3/5 | 4.1/5 |
| Target Business | Mid-Market to Enterprise | Small Business to Enterprise |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Quote-based |
| Free Trial | No | No |
| Free Version | No | No |
| Best For | Multi-location chains wanting unified digital ordering | Businesses wanting integrated payment solutions |
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
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
Olo Features:
- Digital Ordering
- Delivery Dispatch
- Rails Integration
- Guest Data Platform
- Payment Processing
Shift4 Features:
- Payment Processing
- POS Systems
- Gift Cards
- Loyalty
- Analytics
When comparing features, Olo stands out with Powers 700+ restaurant brands, 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 | Olo | Shift4 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | Enterprise pricing (contact) | 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
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
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 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 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 Olo and Shift4 are solid POS solutions, but they excel in different areas. Choose Olo if you’re Multi-location chains wanting unified digital ordering. Choose Shift4 if you’re Businesses wanting integrated payment solutions. 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.