In the battle of Revel Systems versus PayPal Zettle, both systems bring unique strengths to the table. Revel Systems is particularly strong for Multi-location restaurants, franchises, and growing retail chains, while PayPal Zettle excels at Small businesses wanting pay-per-transaction model. Whether you prioritize Open API platform or No monthly fees, this comparison covers everything you need to know.
Quick Comparison: Revel Systems vs PayPal Zettle
| Feature | Revel Systems | PayPal Zettle |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Multi-Industry | Multi-Industry |
| Starting Price | $99/month/terminal (estimated) | $29 (card reader) + 2.29% per transaction |
| Rating | 4.1/5 | 4.2/5 |
| Target Business | Mid-Market | Small Business |
| Pricing Model | Quote-based | Transaction-based |
| Free Trial | Yes | No |
| Free Version | No | Yes |
| Best For | Multi-location restaurants, franchises, and growing retail chains | Small businesses wanting pay-per-transaction model |
Revel Systems Overview
Revel Systems is an enterprise-grade iPad POS platform for restaurants and retail businesses. It offers advanced features, API access, and scalability for growing multi-location operations.
Revel Systems is offered by Revel Systems, Inc. (founded 2010) based in Atlanta, GA. The system focuses on Quick service restaurants, Retail chains, Franchises, Enterprise.
Key Features:
- iPad-based POS
- Open API
- Inventory management
- CRM
- Employee management
- Reporting
PayPal Zettle Overview
PayPal Zettle is a mobile POS system with card readers and simple POS software. Features no monthly fees on the basic plan, integration with PayPal, and affordable hardware options.
PayPal Zettle is offered by PayPal (founded 2010) based in Stockholm, Sweden. The system focuses on Retail, Service, Mobile Businesses.
Key Features:
- Mobile POS
- Card Reader
- Inventory Management
- Reporting
- Digital Receipts
- PayPal Integration
Feature Comparison
Revel Systems Features:
- iPad-based POS
- Open API
- Inventory management
- CRM
- Employee management
PayPal Zettle Features:
- Mobile POS
- Card Reader
- Inventory Management
- Reporting
- Digital Receipts
When comparing features, Revel Systems stands out with Open API platform, while PayPal Zettle differentiates itself with No monthly fees. Your choice should depend on which features align better with your specific business requirements.
Pricing Comparison
| Pricing Aspect | Revel Systems | PayPal Zettle |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $99/month/terminal (estimated) | $29 (card reader) + 2.29% per transaction |
| Pricing Model | Quote-based | Transaction-based |
| Price Range | Premium | Budget |
| Free Trial | Available | Not available |
| Free Version | No | Yes |
PayPal Zettle 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
Revel Systems
Pros:
- Highly customizable
- Strong API for integrations
- Good for franchises
- Robust reporting
- Multi-location capable
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Steeper learning curve
- Implementation can be complex
- 3-year contracts typical
PayPal Zettle
Pros:
- No monthly fees
- PayPal integration
- Affordable hardware
- Easy setup
Cons:
- Processing fees on every transaction
- Limited advanced features
- Basic reporting
Who Should Choose Revel Systems?
Revel Systems is ideal for Multi-location restaurants, franchises, and growing retail chains. The system is particularly well-suited for Quick service restaurants, Retail chains, Franchises, Enterprise.
However, Revel Systems may not be the best fit for Small single-location businesses on tight budgets.
Who Should Choose PayPal Zettle?
PayPal Zettle is ideal for Small businesses wanting pay-per-transaction model. The system is particularly well-suited for Retail, Service, Mobile Businesses.
However, PayPal Zettle may not be the best fit for High-volume operations where processing fees add up.
Our Recommendation
Both Revel Systems and PayPal Zettle are solid POS solutions, but they excel in different areas. Choose Revel Systems if you’re Multi-location restaurants, franchises, and growing retail chains. Choose PayPal Zettle if you’re Small businesses wanting pay-per-transaction model. PayPal Zettle has a higher user rating (4.2 vs 4.1). Also, choose PayPal Zettle if you want to start with a free version. We recommend trying demos or free trials of both systems before making your final decision.