type of cash register can become difficult since there are many brands and models on the market nowadays. This blog will give you an overview of 4 different types of cash register you should know, and what are the benefits of each model.
Electronic cash register
An electronic cash register is a system designed for the checkout process. This type of cash register can store cash, accept cards, collect inventory data, track sales, generate reports, and many more.
An electronic cash register (ECR) includes a cash drawer, an input screen, and (optional) an analog pad for ringing up sales. Along with these sections, the system can be controlled with a mouse, keypad, or touch. They can perform complex calculations, automate inventory management, generate detailed sales reports, and even integrate with other business systems, such as point-of-sale (POS) terminals, barcode scanners, and credit card processors. Some advanced ECRs also have features like touchscreens, customer displays, and connectivity options for linking to computer networks.
The main purpose of an Electronic cashier register is to facilitate the accurate and efficient handling of sales transactions. When a customer makes a purchase, the cashier or operator enters the items’ prices and quantities into the cashier register. The system then calculates the total amount owed by the customer, including any applicable taxes or discounts. It also records the transaction details, such as the date, time, and items sold.
Thanks to the simple setup and ease of use, this is a low-cost cash register for small retailers looking for basic functions.
POS cash registe
While Electronic cash register primarily focus on processing sales transactions and handling cash Point of sale (POS) cash registers provide retailers a lot more versatile functions. This item on our list of 4 types of cash register works with POS software as an all-in-one solution for business procedures. They include inventory management, sales reports, CRM, loyalty programs, and many more. This combination helps businesses run their stores smoothly and improve customer service.
POS cash registers are designed to integrate with other business systems, such as accounting software, e-commerce platforms, and payment processors. This allows for synchronized data, streamlined operations, and more efficient business management. ECRs, on the other hand, typically operate as standalone devices and do not offer extensive integration capabilities.
POS cash register are more suitable for enterprises and retail chains due to its scalability. They can handle larger inventories, accommodate multiple store locations, and support more advanced features as the business expands.
POS cash registers often include customer relationship management (CRM) features. They can create customer profiles, track purchase history, and implement loyalty programs. With these robust features, POS cash registers may involve higher upfront costs but can provide a greater return on investment with their expanded functionalities.
Mobile cash register
The third type you should know is a mobile cash register. As manifested in its name, mobile cash registers can be used outside the retail space thanks to their portability. It also has to come with card readers, receipt printers and drawers.
These are small, portable devices that can be connected to a mobile device via Bluetooth or a headphone jack. They enable businesses to accept credit or debit card payments by swiping or inserting the card into the reader. The accompanying mobile app processes the payment and generates a receipt. Mobile card readers are often used by small businesses, vendors, or service providers who need a simple and portable payment solution. Mobile cash registers can run with tablet POS software with the same features as in desktop POS systems. However, they can have a less powerful processing system, thus being not as quick as the desktop type.
Needless to say, this type of cash register still comes in handy during busy hours. With mobile cash registers, your staff members can move around the store and handle checkout for customers more easily. Mobile cash registers can provide a quick and convenient checkout process at the table for businesses that want to conduct transactions at events, pop-up shops, trade shows, or on-site services.
It’s important to note that mobile cash registers rely on internet connectivity through mobile data or Wi-Fi to process transactions and synchronize data with the backend systems. Additionally, they may need to comply with relevant security standards and regulations to safely handle sensitive customer payment information.
Cloud-based cash register
Among other types of cash register, the cloud-based one is the latest advancement until now. They can operate anywhere, anytime provided that there is an Internet connection. All transaction data is stored in a remote server and can be automatically updated. This gives retailers great flexibility and many other benefits.
With a cloud-based cash register, financial data can be better protected. Moreover, store owners can also receive the latest updates of the system easily just by downloading the new version. This process brings more accuracy and security to your financial departments.
Final words
We hope that these 4 different types of cash register can help you gain a better overview of this system. Because each business and industry has specific needs, we would recommend having a cash register that benefits your store instead of going for the overpriced one. Last but not least, cash registers work best with a powerful POS system, and we do have an offer for you. ConnectPOS is a cloud-based POS system all over the world with powerful omnichannel features. Contact our team for more information or start a free trial today!
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