In the battle of Simphony versus Helcim, both systems bring unique strengths to the table. Simphony is particularly strong for Global brands and multi-location operators, while Helcim excels at Cost-conscious businesses wanting transparent pricing. Whether you prioritize $1/month entry pricing or Transparent pricing, this comparison covers everything you need to know.
Quick Comparison: Simphony vs Helcim
| Feature | Simphony | Helcim |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Restaurant | Multi-Industry |
| Starting Price | $1/month per workstation | Free POS + interchange + 0.4% + 8¢ |
| Rating | 4.2/5 | 4.6/5 |
| Target Business | Small Business to Enterprise | Small Business to Mid-Market |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Interchange-plus |
| Free Trial | No | Yes |
| Free Version | No | Yes |
| Best For | Global brands and multi-location operators | Cost-conscious businesses wanting transparent pricing |
Simphony Overview
Oracle Simphony is a cloud-based POS platform serving restaurants, hotels, and stadiums in 180 countries. Features 200+ integrations, offline mode, and scalable architecture from single locations to global chains.
Simphony is offered by Oracle (founded 2010) based in Austin, TX. The system focuses on Full Service, Quick Service, Hotels, Stadiums.
Key Features:
- Cloud POS
- Offline Mode
- 200+ Integrations
- Multi-language
- Online Ordering
- Kitchen Display
Helcim Overview
Helcim provides interchange-plus payment processing with free POS software and card readers. Known for transparent pricing, no contracts, and volume-based discounts for growing businesses.
Helcim is offered by Helcim Inc. (founded 2006) based in Calgary, Canada. The system focuses on Retail, Service, B2B.
Key Features:
- Free POS Software
- Card Reader
- Invoicing
- Online Payments
- Recurring Billing
- Volume Discounts
Feature Comparison
Simphony Features:
- Cloud POS
- Offline Mode
- 200+ Integrations
- Multi-language
- Online Ordering
Helcim Features:
- Free POS Software
- Card Reader
- Invoicing
- Online Payments
- Recurring Billing
When comparing features, Simphony stands out with $1/month entry pricing, while Helcim differentiates itself with Transparent pricing. Your choice should depend on which features align better with your specific business requirements.
Pricing Comparison
| Pricing Aspect | Simphony | Helcim |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $1/month per workstation | Free POS + interchange + 0.4% + 8¢ |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Interchange-plus |
| Price Range | Budget to Premium | Budget |
| Free Trial | Not available | Available |
| Free Version | No | Yes |
Helcim 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
Simphony
Pros:
- Affordable $1/month entry
- 180 country presence
- 200+ integrations
- Enterprise scalability
Cons:
- Complex for small operations
- Advanced features cost more
- Implementation required
Helcim
Pros:
- Transparent interchange-plus pricing
- Free POS and card reader
- No contracts or hidden fees
- Volume discounts
Cons:
- Limited POS features vs competitors
- Processing only – not full POS
- US and Canada only
Who Should Choose Simphony?
Simphony is ideal for Global brands and multi-location operators. The system is particularly well-suited for Full Service, Quick Service, Hotels, Stadiums.
However, Simphony may not be the best fit for Very small restaurants wanting simplicity.
Who Should Choose Helcim?
Helcim is ideal for Cost-conscious businesses wanting transparent pricing. The system is particularly well-suited for Retail, Service, B2B.
However, Helcim may not be the best fit for Restaurants needing comprehensive POS features.
Our Recommendation
Both Simphony and Helcim are solid POS solutions, but they excel in different areas. Choose Simphony if you’re Global brands and multi-location operators. Choose Helcim if you’re Cost-conscious businesses wanting transparent pricing. Helcim has a higher user rating (4.6 vs 4.2). Also, choose Helcim if you want to start with a free version. We recommend trying demos or free trials of both systems before making your final decision.