POS Review: Lightspeed POS vs Shopify POS

Retail businesses face a key decision when selecting their point-of-sale system. Two popular choices stand out in the market: Lightspeed POS and Shopify POS. Both platforms help store owners process sales, track inventory, and manage customer data. This comparison provides a detailed breakdown of Lightspeed POS vs Shopify POS, covering key aspects such as pricing, features, and usability.

Highlights:

• Lightspeed POS is ideal for retailers needing advanced inventory management, multi-store operations, and in-depth reporting, making it a strong choice for businesses with complex product catalogs and work order tracking needs.
• Shopify POS suits businesses prioritizing seamless online and in-store integration, social commerce, and a user-friendly checkout experience, making it perfect for brands focused on eCommerce and omnichannel sales.

Overview of Lightspeed POS

Lightspeed serves as a POS and payment platform for businesses ranging from small shops to large retail chains. The system operates through web browsers on computers at checkout stations, setting it apart from app-based platforms like Shopify.

For mobile transactions, Lightspeed Retail includes an iPad app, allowing staff to process sales from anywhere in the store.

The company expanded its services through its 2021 acquisition of Ecwid, which now runs Lightspeed’s online store platform. Through Lightspeed eCom, merchants can create a basic website quickly without coding knowledge. The platform connects to social media sales channels like Instagram and TikTok, plus marketplaces such as Amazon and Google Shopping.

For businesses already using other eCommerce platforms, Lightspeed POS connects with Shopify, BigCommerce, and WooCommerce. This flexibility makes it a strong option for retailers needing detailed inventory tracking and data analysis while maintaining their existing online store.

Overview of Shopify POS

Since launching in 2006, Shopify has become a dominant player in e-commerce, powering over 7 million websites and generating $886 billion in sales. Its POS system is an extension of its e-commerce platform, designed to link online and in-person sales.

The company puts a strong emphasis on its e-commerce technology. Each year brings two major updates – Summer and Winter Editions – containing hundreds of new features. Recent updates include AI capabilities, better stock management tools, refined checkout processes, improved website creation, and enhanced reporting.

Shopify leads the market in new e-commerce technology. Their POS lineup includes a basic free Starter app and a full-featured Retail POS app. The Retail version includes store pickup options, in-store returns for online purchases, and local delivery management.

Shopify has direct integrations with TikTok and Meta platforms, making it easier for retailers to sell through social media while managing everything from a single dashboard.

Complete Comparison: Lightspeed vs Shopify POS

Now, let’s compare Lightspeed POS vs Shopify POS based on key factors such as pricing, features, and user experience.

POS capabilities

Both systems share basic POS functions: order processing, customer data storage, inventory tracking, sales analytics, and payment handling.

The main differences lie in their design and operation: 

Lightspeed

It runs through a web browser and includes extensive data entry options. Its checkout process involves several screens and input fields, making it suitable for businesses that need detailed customer records, work order tracking, or specific customizations.

Shopify POS

The solution is app-based, with a tile-based interface for quick transactions. While it is faster for checkout, it lacks the depth of Lightspeed’s customization options.

Both platforms provide web-based control centers for business operations like reports, sales data, customer lists, and order tracking.

Cost Analysis

When comparing basic monthly software fees and payment processing rates, Lightspeed vs Shopify POS look similar at first glance. Yet Shopify proves more budget-friendly for most retail businesses. 

The main cost advantage comes from Shopify Pro POS, which includes unlimited registers at no extra charge. In contrast, Lightspeed – like most POS systems – adds fees for each additional register.

Cost Breakdown for a Small Boutique (2 Registers + Online Store, Annual Plan)

Cost Breakdown for a Multi-Location Business (3 Stores, 4 Registers Each, Annual Plan)

Key Takeaways:

Shopify includes unlimited registers at no extra cost, while Lightspeed charges per register.

Shopify’s higher-tier eCommerce plans lower payment processing rates, making it more cost-effective for high-volume businesses.

Lightspeed offers custom payment processing rates for merchants processing over $250,000 annually.

Hardware

The main hardware differences between Lightspeed vs Shopify POS lie in their platform compatibility and device requirements. Both brands provide mobile and countertop POS solutions, but their approaches differ in key aspects.

Shopify POS Hardware:

• Works through a mobile app (iOS & Android).
• Exclusive POS Go device (built-in card reader, barcode scanner, and NFC payments).
• Requires Apple devices (iPhone 7+, iPad Air 2+, iPad Mini 4+).

Lightspeed POS Hardware:

• Runs on web browsers (Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox).
• Works on Windows 8.1+ and Mac OS X 10.15+ computers.
• Supports iPads (iOS 15.5+).

Key Differences:

Shopify POS is app-exclusive, while Lightspeed runs on desktops and browsers, offering more flexibility.

Shopify’s POS Go is a custom all-in-one device, reducing the need for multiple accessories.

Lightspeed allows retailers to use existing POS hardware, making it a good option for businesses that don’t want to switch equipment.

Ease of use

Looking at ease of use between Shopify and Lightspeed, each system brings different strengths.

Shopify POS

The solution stands out for its straightforward app-based approach. The platform makes it simple to move around and complete tasks. Building an online store through Shopify feels natural and uncomplicated – even newcomers can create professional-looking websites quickly.

Lightspeed POS

Lightspeed’s interface takes more time to learn, particularly regarding online sales. Users must choose between Lightspeed’s basic online store tools or connecting external platforms like Shopify or BigCommerce. This added decision-making process can make the initial setup more involved.

Yet Lightspeed excels in detailed inventory management. Businesses that need deep data analysis and precise control over product variations and work orders might find Lightspeed more practical. While Shopify keeps things simple, it provides less detailed product oversight. The right choice often depends on which aspect of “ease of use” matters most for your specific business needs – simplified navigation or comprehensive inventory control.

Summary Table for Lightspeed vs Shopify POS Main Differences

Which is the Best POS Solution: Shopify vs Lightspeed POS?

Looking for the right POS system for your business? This detailed comparison breaks down how Lightspeed vs Shopify POS stack up in pricing, inventory management, hardware options, and user experience to help you make an informed choice.

Choose Shopify POS if:

• You want a cost-effective solution with unlimited registers.
• You prioritize online sales and need seamless eCommerce integration.
• You prefer easy setup and a user-friendly interface.

Choose Lightspeed POS if:

• You need detailed inventory management and custom reporting tools.
• You run a complex retail business that requires work order tracking and vendor catalogs.
• You want browser-based flexibility instead of an app-exclusive system.

Seeking an alternative for the above options? ConnectPOS is right for you. ConnectPOS works with major eCommerce platforms like Shopify to combine online and in-store sales in one system. The platform links your sales channels, bringing together data from every customer touchpoint. 

The system’s design lets it work smoothly with different business tools – from customer management to payment systems and marketplaces. This means businesses can see all their customer data and manage both online and physical store operations through a single platform.

ConnectPOS – A Comprehensive POS Solution for Modern Retailers

If you’re exploring POS options beyond Shopify and Lightspeed, ConnectPOS is a powerful alternative that brings real-time synchronization, multi-platform support, and advanced inventory management into one system.

Why Consider ConnectPOS?

• Real-Time Data Sync – Unlike many POS systems that rely on periodic syncing, ConnectPOS ensures instant updates for inventory, orders, and customer data across all sales channels.
• Omnichannel Flexibility – Works seamlessly with Magento, Shopify, BigCommerce, and WooCommerce, making it ideal for retailers managing both physical stores and online sales.
• Cross-Device Compatibility – Unlike Shopify, which is app-based, or Lightspeed, which is browser-dependent, ConnectPOS runs on iPads, desktops, and even mobile devices, giving retailers more flexibility.
• Customizable Checkout Experience – Businesses can tailor the POS interface to match their workflow, whether they prioritize speed, custom orders, or multi-location management.
• Offline Mode for Uninterrupted Sales – Process transactions even during internet outages, with automatic data synchronization once the connection is restored.

Who Should Use ConnectPOS?

• Retailers needing real-time inventory updates across multiple locations.
• Businesses requiring seamless integration with leading eCommerce platforms.
• Stores looking for a POS that works on both web browsers and mobile devices.
• Retailers wanting a scalable solution with custom development options.

FAQs: Lightspeed POS vs Shopify POS 

Which is better – Lightspeed or Shopify?

Lightspeed and Shopify each excel for different business needs. Shopify stands out for primarily online sellers. Lightspeed works best for physical stores planning to add online sales, due to its comprehensive inventory tools.

Can I use Lightspeed POS with Shopify?

Yes – Lightspeed connects directly with Shopify, letting retailers run both in-store and online sales. The setup process is straightforward without any coding needed. All inventory stays organized through the Lightspeed system.

Does Lightspeed work without the internet?

Yes – Lightspeed includes an offline mode that keeps processing payments during internet outages. The system saves all payment data, then automatically sends it for processing and updates reports once the connection returns.

Summing Up

Both Lightspeed vs Shopify POS bring unique strengths to retail businesses. Shopify shines with its lower costs, straightforward hardware options, and strong online focus. Lightspeed stands out through detailed inventory management and extensive reporting tools. The right choice depends on your business priorities – whether that’s online sales, in-store operations, or specific features like inventory control.

If you’re searching for a robust POS system that combines the best of Shopify and Lightspeed, ConnectPOS delivers a feature-packed solution for growing retailers. Want to see how ConnectPOS can transform your retail operations? Contact us today for a demo!