In the battle of Vend versus PayPal Zettle, both systems bring unique strengths to the table. Vend is particularly strong for Retail stores wanting easy setup and multi-device flexibility, while PayPal Zettle excels at Small businesses wanting pay-per-transaction model. Whether you prioritize Multi-platform (iPad/Mac/PC) or No monthly fees, this comparison covers everything you need to know.
Quick Comparison: Vend vs PayPal Zettle
| Feature | Vend | PayPal Zettle |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Retail | Multi-Industry |
| Starting Price | $89/month | $29 (card reader) + 2.29% per transaction |
| Rating | 4.4/5 | 4.2/5 |
| Target Business | Small Business | Small Business |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Transaction-based |
| Free Trial | Yes | No |
| Free Version | No | Yes |
| Best For | Retail stores wanting easy setup and multi-device flexibility | Small businesses wanting pay-per-transaction model |
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
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
Vend Features:
- Cloud-based POS
- Inventory management
- Customer loyalty
- Multi-store support
- eCommerce integration
PayPal Zettle Features:
- Mobile POS
- Card Reader
- Inventory Management
- Reporting
- Digital Receipts
When comparing features, Vend stands out with Multi-platform (iPad/Mac/PC), 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 | Vend | PayPal Zettle |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $89/month | $29 (card reader) + 2.29% per transaction |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Transaction-based |
| Price Range | Mid-range | 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
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
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 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.
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 Vend and PayPal Zettle are solid POS solutions, but they excel in different areas. Choose Vend if you’re Retail stores wanting easy setup and multi-device flexibility. Choose PayPal Zettle if you’re Small businesses wanting pay-per-transaction model. Vend has a higher user rating (4.4 vs 4.2). 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.