Square vs Toast
Square and Toast are two of the most popular restaurant POS systems. Square offers simplicity and a free tier, making it ideal for small restaurants and food trucks. Toast is purpose-built for restaurants with advanced features like kitchen displays and delivery management, but comes at a higher cost.
Our Verdict
Choose Square if you want simplicity, free software, or run a small quick-service operation. Choose Toast if you need advanced restaurant features, kitchen display systems, or run a full-service restaurant.
Feature Comparison
Pricing
| Feature | Square | Toast |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free | $0/mo (Starter) |
| Full-featured plan | $60/mo | $69/mo |
| Processing (in-person) | 2.6% + 10¢ | 2.49% + 15¢ |
| Contract required | No | 2 years typical |
Features
| Feature | Square | Toast |
|---|---|---|
| Table management | Plus plan | All plans |
| Kitchen display system | Yes | Yes (better) |
| Online ordering | Yes | Yes (built-in) |
| Delivery integration | 3rd party | Toast Delivery |
| Offline mode | Limited | Full |
Hardware
| Feature | Square | Toast |
|---|---|---|
| Bring your own device | Yes (iOS/Android) | No (Toast only) |
| Entry-level terminal | $149 (Stand) | $799+ (Toast Flex) |
| Handheld option | Yes | Yes (Toast Go) |
| Kitchen display | 3rd party | Toast KDS |
Square
Pros
- ✓Free to start with no monthly fees
- ✓Works on your own iPad or Android tablet
- ✓Simple, intuitive interface
- ✓No long-term contracts
Cons
- ✗Less specialized for restaurants
- ✗Limited offline functionality
- ✗No built-in delivery service
Toast
Pros
- ✓Built specifically for restaurants
- ✓Powerful kitchen display system
- ✓Works offline when internet goes down
- ✓Built-in delivery with flat fees
Cons
- ✗Must use Toast hardware (no BYOD)
- ✗Typically requires 2-year contract
- ✗Higher upfront hardware costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Square or Toast cheaper?
Square is cheaper to start (free software, $149+ hardware). Toast's Starter Kit is also free but locks you into higher processing fees. For full features, Square Plus ($60/mo) is slightly cheaper than Toast's $69/mo plan.
Which is better for a small restaurant?
Square is typically better for small restaurants, food trucks, and cafes due to its simplicity and free tier. Toast makes more sense for established restaurants that need advanced features like kitchen displays and delivery management.
Can I switch from Square to Toast?
Yes, but you'll need new hardware since Toast requires its proprietary terminals. Toast offers migration assistance and can import your menu. Plan for 2-4 weeks of transition time.
Which has better customer support?
Toast offers 24/7 phone support on all plans. Square limits phone support to paid plans—free users get email and chat only. Toast's support is generally better for complex restaurant needs.