When comparing Shift4 vs PayPal Zettle, you’re looking at two distinct approaches to multi-industry point-of-sale technology. Shift4, rated 4.1/5, offers Businesses wanting integrated payment solutions. Meanwhile, PayPal Zettle, rated 4.2/5, provides Small businesses wanting pay-per-transaction model. Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.
Quick Comparison: Shift4 vs PayPal Zettle
| Feature | Shift4 | PayPal Zettle |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Multi-Industry | Multi-Industry |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | $29 (card reader) + 2.29% per transaction |
| Rating | 4.1/5 | 4.2/5 |
| Target Business | Small Business to Enterprise | Small Business |
| Pricing Model | Quote-based | Transaction-based |
| Free Trial | No | No |
| Free Version | No | Yes |
| Best For | Businesses wanting integrated payment solutions | Small businesses wanting pay-per-transaction model |
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
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
Shift4 Features:
- Payment Processing
- POS Systems
- Gift Cards
- Loyalty
- Analytics
PayPal Zettle Features:
- Mobile POS
- Card Reader
- Inventory Management
- Reporting
- Digital Receipts
When comparing features, Shift4 stands out with End-to-end payments, 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 | Shift4 | PayPal Zettle |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | $29 (card reader) + 2.29% per transaction |
| Pricing Model | Quote-based | Transaction-based |
| Price Range | Mid-range to Premium | Budget |
| Free Trial | Not 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
Shift4
Pros:
- Integrated payments
- Multiple POS brands
- Enterprise scale
- Payment innovation
Cons:
- Complex product lineup
- Custom pricing
- May be overkill for small businesses
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 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.
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 Shift4 and PayPal Zettle are solid POS solutions, but they excel in different areas. Choose Shift4 if you’re Businesses wanting integrated payment solutions. 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.