Clover vs Square
Square gives you transparent pricing and good-enough hardware. Clover gives you premium hardware but you're buying from a reseller who sets their own rates. Same Clover station can cost $500 or $2000+ depending on who you buy from.
Our Verdict
Square wins for most small businesses. Transparent pricing, no contracts, and excellent software. Clover makes sense if you want premium hardware AND find a reputable reseller with fair rates. Many Clover buyers overpay.
Best for:
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Clover | Square | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pricing transparency | Varies by reseller | Published, flat-rate | Square |
| Hardware quality | Excellent | Good | Clover |
| Contract required | Usually yes | No | Square |
| Processing rates | 2.3-3.5%+ (varies) | 2.6% + 10¢ | Depends |
| Software features | Good + apps | Excellent built-in | Square |
| App marketplace | Large | Large | Tie |
| E-commerce | Basic | Strong | Square |
| Customer support | Via reseller | Direct from Square | Square |
Clover
Pros
- ✓Premium hardware design
- ✓Powerful app marketplace
- ✓Can negotiate rates
- ✓Professional appearance
Cons
- ✗Reseller pricing games
- ✗Contracts common
- ✗Support through reseller
- ✗Hardware locked to Clover
Square
Pros
- ✓Transparent pricing
- ✓No contracts ever
- ✓Direct support
- ✓Strong e-commerce
Cons
- ✗Hardware is good not great
- ✗Can't negotiate rates
- ✗Account stability concerns for some
In-Depth Analysis
The Reseller Problem
Clover is owned by Fiserv but sold through independent resellers. That reseller sets your processing rate, contract terms, and equipment price. Some are great partners. Some lock you into 4-year leases at 3x equipment value. Always buy Clover hardware outright if possible, never lease.
Hardware Comparison
Clover's hardware looks and feels premium—the Clover Station is a beautiful countertop setup. Square's hardware is functional but more utilitarian. If customer perception matters (boutique, upscale restaurant), Clover's aesthetics win. For function, both work fine.
The Rate Game
Square's 2.6% + 10¢ is fixed. You know what you'll pay. Clover resellers quote 'as low as 2.3%' but read the fine print—there's usually tiered pricing, monthly fees, and gotchas. Calculate your effective rate after all fees to compare fairly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Clover hardware with Square?
No. Clover hardware only works with Clover/Fiserv processing. Square hardware only works with Square. They're closed ecosystems—choose one.
Which is better for restaurants?
Neither is restaurant-specialized. For serious restaurants, look at Toast or TouchBistro. For simple counter service, either Square or Clover works fine.