Toast vs SpotOn
Toast and SpotOn are more similar than different—both are full-featured restaurant POS systems with online ordering, marketing, and loyalty. The real difference is go-to-market: Toast is direct/online, SpotOn uses local sales reps.
Our Verdict
Toast wins on features, brand, and ecosystem. SpotOn wins on local support and sometimes price. If you value having a local rep who knows your restaurant, SpotOn is worth considering. If you're comfortable with self-service, Toast's platform is stronger.
Best for:
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Toast | SpotOn | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand recognition | High | Lower | Toast |
| Local sales reps | No | Yes | SpotOn |
| Starting price | $0 (Starter) | $0-25/mo | Tie |
| Online ordering | Excellent | Good | Toast |
| Marketing tools | Good | Good (included) | Tie |
| Processing rates | 2.49% + 15¢ | Negotiable (~1.99%+) | SpotOn |
| Contract flexibility | 2 year typical | Negotiable | SpotOn |
| Hardware | Proprietary, excellent | Good | Toast |
Toast
Pros
- ✓Stronger brand/ecosystem
- ✓Better online ordering
- ✓Restaurant-grade hardware
- ✓More resources/content
Cons
- ✗No local reps
- ✗Locked to Toast processing
- ✗2-year contracts
SpotOn
Pros
- ✓Local representatives
- ✓Negotiable pricing
- ✓Marketing included
- ✓Flexible contracts
Cons
- ✗Smaller ecosystem
- ✗Less brand recognition
- ✗Sales can be pushy
- ✗Variable rep quality
In-Depth Analysis
The Support Model Difference
Toast: call the support line, chat online, search the knowledge base. SpotOn: call your local rep who installed your system. For some owners, that direct relationship is invaluable. For others, 24/7 call center is better than waiting for one person. Know your preference.
Processing Rate Reality
SpotOn advertises rates 'as low as 1.99%' and they're negotiable. Toast is fixed at 2.49% + 15¢. On $30k monthly sales, that's potentially $150/month savings with SpotOn. But read the fine print—SpotOn rates can have conditions.
The Ecosystem Factor
Toast has a larger partner network, more integrations, and more content/resources for restaurant operators. SpotOn is building this but isn't there yet. If you value community and ecosystem, Toast's momentum matters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are SpotOn reps actually helpful?
Varies by rep and region. Good SpotOn reps are excellent—they know your business, respond quickly, and solve problems. Bad ones are just salespeople. Ask for references from other restaurants in your area.
Can I get out of contracts with either?
Both have contracts but SpotOn is generally more flexible on terms. Toast's 2-year standard is firm. Always negotiate contract length before signing—both will deal if you push.