Overview of Shopify POS and QuickBooks POS
Both Shopify POS and QuickBooks POS support in-store sales, but they are designed with very different priorities. Shopify POS focuses on omnichannel retail, while QuickBooks POS is built primarily for accounting-driven, in-store operations.
What Is Shopify POS?
Shopify POS is a cloud-based point-of-sale system that connects seamlessly with Shopify’s eCommerce platform. It allows retailers to manage online and in-store sales, inventory, customers, and payments from one unified system.
Key Benefits of Shopify POS
- Unified online and in-store selling
- Real-time inventory sync across channels
- Built-in payment processing
- Scales easily for multi-location retail
- Strong app ecosystem and integrations
What Is QuickBooks POS?
QuickBooks POS is a desktop-based point-of-sale system designed for brick-and-mortar retailers who want tight integration with QuickBooks Desktop. It focuses on in-store sales, inventory tracking, and accounting synchronization.
Key Benefits of QuickBooks POS
- Deep integration with QuickBooks Desktop
- Strong in-store inventory management
- One-time license pricing (legacy users)
- Detailed sales and inventory reports
- Familiar workflow for QuickBooks users
Shopify POS vs QuickBooks POS: Feature Comparison
This table highlights the key differences between Shopify POS and QuickBooks POS, including deployment, inventory, accounting integration, and scalability.
| Key Features | QuickBooks POS | Shopify POS Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Unlimited sales | ||
| Unlimited registers per location | ||
| Manage multiple store locations | ||
| Local pickup | ||
| Local delivery | ||
| Exchange online purchases in store | ||
| Return online purchases in store | ||
| Integrated customer order history, online and in store | ||
| Redeem gift cards online and in store | ||
| Unlimited SKUs, online and in store | ||
| Custom staff permissions | ||
| Fully-synced inventory, in store and online | Through paid integration | |
| First-party payments hardware | ||
| In-store and online payments | ||
| Unlimited sales channels | ||
| Ecommerce | Through paid integration | |
| Website builder | ||
| Social media selling | Through paid integration | |
| Online marketplace selling | Through paid integration | |
| App integrations | ||
| Loyalty program integrations | ||
| Built-in marketing platform | ||
| 24/7 support | 24/7 in English |
Based on features available in the US as of January 2024
Shopify POS vs QuickBooks POS Pricing
Pricing structures differ significantly. Shopify POS follows a subscription model, while QuickBooks POS historically used one-time licensing.
| Cost Category | Shopify POS | QuickBooks POS |
|---|---|---|
| Software Cost | Included with Shopify plans; POS Pro extra | One-time license (discontinued for new users) |
| Payment Processing | 2.4%–2.7% per transaction | Varies by processor |
| Hardware | iPad & mobile-based | PC-based terminals |
Which POS Is Right for Your Business?
Shopify POS is ideal for retailers focused on omnichannel growth and scalability, while QuickBooks POS is better suited for legacy QuickBooks Desktop users who operate primarily in-store.
Shopify POS: Best for Omnichannel Retail
- Ideal For: Online + in-store retailers
- Primary Benefit: Seamless omnichannel experience
- Growth Potential: Excellent for growth
- Limitation: Requires monthly subscription
Choose Shopify POS if: You sell online and in-store and want everything in one platform.
QuickBooks POS: Best for Desktop Accounting
- Works Best For: In-store retail
- Core Capability: Accounting integration
- Scalability: Limited
- Consideration: Discontinued for new users
Choose QuickBooks POS if: You rely heavily on QuickBooks Desktop and operate in-store only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is QuickBooks POS still available?
QuickBooks POS has been discontinued for new customers, but existing users may continue using it.
Does Shopify POS integrate with QuickBooks?
Yes. Shopify POS integrates with QuickBooks Online through third-party connectors.
Which POS is better for inventory?
Shopify POS is better for multi-location and omnichannel inventory management.
Still Have Questions About Shopify POS and QuickBooks POS?
If you’re still unsure which POS is right for your business, our certified QuickBooks experts can help. We’ll guide you through the best option for your needs and ensure a seamless integration with your growing business.
Why Choose Minding My Books?
- Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisors and Experts
- POS Selection & Integration Guidance
- Comprehensive QuickBooks Support and Training
- Inventory, Sales, and Accounting Workflow Support
- Training, Troubleshooting, and Ongoing Support
