In the battle of Square versus Vend, both systems bring unique strengths to the table. Square is particularly strong for Small retail shops, food trucks, service businesses, and startups, while Vend excels at Retail stores wanting easy setup and multi-device flexibility. Whether you prioritize No monthly fees or Multi-platform (iPad/Mac/PC), this comparison covers everything you need to know.
Quick Comparison: Square vs Vend
| Feature | Square | Vend |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Multi-Industry | Retail |
| Starting Price | Free (2.6% + 10¢ per transaction) | $89/month |
| Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.4/5 |
| Target Business | Small Business | Small Business |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Subscription |
| Free Trial | No | Yes |
| Free Version | Yes | No |
| Best For | Small retail shops, food trucks, service businesses, and startups | Retail stores wanting easy setup and multi-device flexibility |
Square Overview
Square is a comprehensive payment and point-of-sale platform that helps businesses of all sizes accept payments, manage inventory, and grow their business. Known for its iconic card reader and user-friendly interface.
Square is offered by Block, Inc. (formerly Square, Inc.) (founded 2009) based in San Francisco, CA. The system focuses on Retail, Restaurants, Services, Appointments.
Key Features:
- Free POS app
- Inventory management
- Employee management
- Customer directory
- Analytics dashboard
- Online ordering
Vend Overview
Vend, now part of Lightspeed Retail, is a cloud-based retail POS offering inventory management, customer loyalty, and multi-store capabilities. Known for ease of use and works on iPad, Mac, and PC.
Vend is offered by Lightspeed Commerce (founded 2010) based in Auckland, New Zealand. The system focuses on Retail, Fashion, Electronics, Home Goods.
Key Features:
- Cloud-based POS
- Inventory management
- Customer loyalty
- Multi-store support
- eCommerce integration
- Reporting
Feature Comparison
Square Features:
- Free POS app
- Inventory management
- Employee management
- Customer directory
- Analytics dashboard
Vend Features:
- Cloud-based POS
- Inventory management
- Customer loyalty
- Multi-store support
- eCommerce integration
When comparing features, Square stands out with No monthly fees, while Vend differentiates itself with Multi-platform (iPad/Mac/PC). Your choice should depend on which features align better with your specific business requirements.
Pricing Comparison
| Pricing Aspect | Square | Vend |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | Free (2.6% + 10¢ per transaction) | $89/month |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Subscription |
| Price Range | Budget | Mid-range |
| Free Trial | Not available | Available |
| Free Version | Yes | No |
Square 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
Square
Pros:
- No monthly fees for basic plan
- Easy setup and use
- Excellent mobile app
- Strong ecosystem of add-ons
- Transparent pricing
Cons:
- Transaction fees can add up
- Limited customization
- Account stability concerns for high-risk businesses
Vend
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Works on any device
- Strong inventory features
- Good customer support
- Now backed by Lightspeed
Cons:
- Limited restaurant features
- Pricing increased after Lightspeed acquisition
- eCommerce requires add-on
Who Should Choose Square?
Square is ideal for Small retail shops, food trucks, service businesses, and startups. The system is particularly well-suited for Retail, Restaurants, Services, Appointments.
However, Square may not be the best fit for Large enterprises needing deep customization.
Who Should Choose Vend?
Vend is ideal for Retail stores wanting easy setup and multi-device flexibility. The system is particularly well-suited for Retail, Fashion, Electronics, Home Goods.
However, Vend may not be the best fit for Restaurants, large enterprises.
Our Recommendation
Both Square and Vend are solid POS solutions, but they excel in different areas. Choose Square if you’re Small retail shops, food trucks, service businesses, and startups. Choose Vend if you’re Retail stores wanting easy setup and multi-device flexibility. Square has a higher user rating (4.7 vs 4.4). Also, choose Square if you want to start with a free version. We recommend trying demos or free trials of both systems before making your final decision.