It's crucial to choose the right tool to process your customers' payments efficiently and securely. Among the available options, the traditional cash register and the electronic payment terminal (POS terminal) are both key players. Whether you choose to use a POS terminal on its own or as a complement to a cash register, this article gives you a detailed overview of the two solutions so you can make the best choice for your business. The cash register: a traditional and versatile payment solution The cash register is commonly used by merchants to record transactions, calculate amounts due, and manage payments. It is often equipped with register software to facilitate stock management and sales tracking. Recent models include intuitive touchscreens and can be customized to suit each business. Specific options exist for different types of businesses, such as a cash register for restaurants, a cash register for small shops, or a professional cash register. There are several types of cash registers to meet various needs: Digital cash register: the oldest type, used mainly for basic transactions and simple calculations. Alphanumeric cash register: more advanced, it allows you to configure receipts, calculate taxes, and manage stock. It offers payment processing, manual product entry, item management and reporting functions, as well as payment method selection and discount configuration. Modern cash register (or touchscreen register): the most common today, it adapts to the specifics of your business. Equipped with management software and often a touchscreen, it provides access to real-time data for simplified use. In addition, a cash register app can be integrated, allowing you to manage transactions and stock from a smartphone, computer, or tablet. Advantages of the cash register Versatility: suited to businesses with advanced needs, such as large stores or restaurants. Durability: designed to withstand intensive daily use. Extended features: offers complete management tools for merchants, including register software to optimize operations. Disadvantages of the cash register Limited mobility: requires a fixed location, which can be a constraint for mobile merchants or temporary events. Initial cost: the price of a cash register varies depending on its features. Digital and alphanumeric registers generally range from €150 to €700. Touchscreen registers cost between €1,000 and €2,000, and can reach up to €5,000 for the most advanced models. These initial costs can represent a significant investment, not to mention maintenance and update fees. Technology: although modern, it can be less flexible in the face of rapidly evolving payment methods. On its own, it cannot accept card payments. For that, it must be paired with a payment terminal. How to equip yourself with a cash register? To equip yourself with a cash register, several options are open to you: Buying a cash register: a high initial cost, but it can prove more profitable in the long term, especially for merchants with advanced management needs. Renting a cash register: a more affordable solution in the short term, with prices ranging from €50 to €100 per month depending on features and commitment. Renting a cash register avoids a large initial investment while still benefiting from modern technology. Why must a cash register be paired with a POS terminal? It's important to note that cash registers must be paired with a POS terminal to accept card payments. Before connecting your cash register to your card reader, it's essential to check the compatibility between the two devices. In general, all card readers can be connected to a recent cash register. However, some cash registers may not necessarily accept a connection with a POS terminal. For the connection to work: Your cash register must accept a "register link" cable. Your POS terminal must be able to accommodate this cable. Both devices must display the labels: COM 0, COM 1, or COM 2. The most recent POS terminals use USB ports. Make sure you have a link cord allowing you to connect the USB type B port of your POS terminal to the type A link port of your cash register. The electronic payment terminal The electronic payment terminal is designed to accept card payments. Modern POS terminals are equipped with numerous features that make them indispensable for today's merchants. These mobile payment terminals connect wirelessly via 4G mobile network and/or Wi-Fi, offering great flexibility of use. They also accept contactless payments, including NFC payments, Apple Pay, and Google Pay, facilitating fast and secure transactions. Compliance with the PCI PTS 5.0 security standard guarantees that all transactions are protected, offering peace of mind for both merchants and customers. There are several types of POS terminals to meet your business's specific needs: Fixed POS terminal: connected to a fixed telephone or internet line, often used in businesses with a permanent point of sale. Mobile POS terminal: runs on battery and connects via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or NFC, or via mobile networks using a SIM card. Perfect for hospitality spaces, mobile merchants, markets, and events. Advantages of the POS terminal Speed of transactions: payments are processed in seconds. Mobility: perfect for all types of merchants, mobile or not. Universal acceptance: supports major bank cards, contactless payments, and mobile wallets. Disadvantages Purchase or rental cost: the initial purchase of a POS terminal represents a significant investment, while rental involves monthly fees. However, certain models, like the Stancer mobile POS terminal, stand out for their flexibility and advantageous cost. Unlike other options, the Stancer terminal is commitment-free, with a commission of only 0.7% for transactions under €7. In addition, if you make more than 150 transactions per month, the terminal is provided to you free of charge. Otherwise, it is billed at just €15 per month. Delivered ready to use, it is easy to set up and operate. A dedicated customer support is also available for any assistance. How to equip yourself with a POS terminal? Several solutions are open to you to obtain a mobile payment terminal: Buying a POS terminal: involves an initial cost but can be profitable in the long term for merchants with high transaction volumes. Renting a POS terminal: avoids high initial costs, though it may involve fixed monthly fees. Opting for a subscription-free POS terminal: ideal for those who want to avoid initial and monthly costs. With the Stancer mobile payment terminal, you only pay when you use it. There are no setup fees or hidden costs. You benefit from full pricing transparency, with an online dashboard to track all your transactions in real time. The choice to equip your business with a cash register and/or a POS terminal depends on your specific needs and the nature of your business. Whether you plan to combine the two or use only a POS terminal, it is essential to have an electronic payment terminal to accept card payments. Although the cash register can complement the use of a POS terminal for businesses requiring advanced stock and cash transaction management, the POS terminal alone is often sufficient. It offers a modern, flexible, and economical solution, ideal for merchants who need mobility and speed in their transactions. By choosing the Stancer POS terminal, you are choosing a payment solution that simplifies day-to-day management and ensures a secure and efficient payment experience.