SpotOn vs Clover
SpotOn is a restaurant-focused POS with local sales reps and marketing tools. Clover is versatile hardware with an app-based approach. For restaurants wanting hands-on local support, SpotOn. For restaurants wanting premium hardware and flexibility, Clover.
Our Verdict
SpotOn wins for restaurants—more restaurant-specific features, included marketing tools, and local support. Clover wins for versatility, hardware design, and businesses that don't need restaurant specialization.
Best for:
Feature Comparison
| Feature | SpotOn | Clover | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant focus | Primary focus | Via apps | SpotOn |
| Hardware design | Good | Excellent | Clover |
| Local sales reps | Yes | Via resellers | SpotOn |
| Marketing tools | Included | Via apps | SpotOn |
| Online ordering | Commission-free | Via apps | SpotOn |
| Pricing transparency | Published + negotiable | Via reseller | SpotOn |
| App marketplace | Limited | Large | Clover |
| Non-restaurant use | Limited | Excellent | Clover |
SpotOn
Pros
- ✓Restaurant-focused
- ✓Local support reps
- ✓Marketing included
- ✓Commission-free online ordering
Cons
- ✗Less versatile
- ✗Smaller app ecosystem
- ✗Variable rep quality
- ✗Less known brand
Clover
Pros
- ✓Premium hardware
- ✓Versatile (any business)
- ✓Large app marketplace
- ✓Better known
Cons
- ✗Restaurant features via apps
- ✗Reseller pricing games
- ✗Less restaurant specialization
In-Depth Analysis
Restaurant Feature Depth
SpotOn built their POS for restaurants from the start—table management, kitchen display, online ordering are native. Clover achieves similar functionality through apps, but it's piecemeal. For restaurants, SpotOn's integrated approach is smoother.
The Support Model
SpotOn uses local sales reps who install your system and remain your contact. Clover uses resellers whose service quality varies enormously. A good SpotOn rep is a real business partner. A good Clover reseller is equally valuable—but finding one is harder.
Marketing Included
SpotOn includes email marketing and review management in their plans. With Clover, you'd add separate apps or services. If you're not currently doing email marketing, SpotOn's included tools might get you started.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SpotOn like Toast for restaurants?
Similar positioning—both are restaurant-focused with local service models. Toast has more brand recognition and a larger ecosystem. SpotOn may offer better pricing and more negotiation flexibility.
Can I use Clover for a restaurant?
Yes, many restaurants do. You'll use Clover Dining or restaurant apps from their marketplace. It works fine—just less specialized than SpotOn or Toast.