How Much Does a POS System Cost in 2025?

In this guide, we’ll outline the hardware and software costs, installation and any ongoing charges you’ll need to consider – whether you’re upgrading your point of sale set up, or starting from scratch.

POS Hardware Costs.

It's unlikely you'll need a kitchen printer, if your business is in retail. There are different essentials you'll need to buy, depending on what sector you are in.  

Unsure what POS Hardware is? Click here to read our guide on POS hardware.

All-in-One Touchscreen Terminals:

·         Price Range: £500 – £1,500

·         Ideal for: Retail counters, restaurants, hospitality

Capture Swordfish 15" POS System. 

iPad / Tablet-Based POS:

·         Price Range: £300 – £800

·         Mobility-friendly, best for cafés and pop-ups.

·         Requires separate stand, printer and card reader. 

Star mUnite Mount.

Receipt Printers:

·         Price Range: £100 – £300

·         Thermal printers are industry standard

·         USB, LAN, or Bluetooth connectivity

Our Receipt Printer Range. 

Cash Drawers:

·         Price Range: £50 – £150

·         Heavy-duty models with RJ-11 interface for auto-open

·         Essential for cash-based businesses

Our Cash Drawer Range.

Barcode Scanners:

·         Price Range: £60 – £250

·         1D & 2D (QR code) scanners

·         Wired or wireless, handheld or fixed-mount

Our Barcode Scanners Range. 

Tip: Save money by buying a POS bundle instead of separate components. 

Contact us, to find out how you can save at checkout. 

In total, you’d need to budget for around £600.00 to £2,500 minimum. Software does come at a monthly cost, but the benefits this brings are key for your business growth. Monthly costs can range from a minimum of £30.00 or £100.00 depending on what you need.

Software Monthly Costs:

• Basic POS (1 user): £30 – £50
• Advanced POS (multi-store, inventory): £60 – £100
• Hospitality with table service: £70 – £120

These subscriptions often include:

Cloud backup
Reporting & analytics
Customer support
Inventory management

If you're unaware how software can help your business growth, click here. 
 

Installation, Setup & Support Fees (Optional). 

Some businesses choose self-install, while others pay for professional setup. It's entirely up to you. These costs can vary and depends on your business venue location, as well as other factors. 

Additional Costs to Consider:

• Card Reader / Payment Terminal: £20 – £50 + transaction fees
• Software Add-Ons (e.g. Loyalty): £10 – £30/month
• Extended Warranty: £50 – £100/year

Recommended Best Practices to Reduce POS System Costs:

Buy hardware outright from a reseller to avoid leasing equipment. 
Choose bundles – terminals + printer + drawer for less.
Use cloud POS software with lower setup fees. 
Match hardware to your business needs (don’t overbuy).

POS-Hardware offers affordable hardware and partners with software providers so you have an all-round solution, in one space.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I use my own tablet as a POS?

Yes. Many UK businesses use iPads with a receipt printer, cash drawer, and cloud POS app - an affordable alternative to full terminals.

Q: Do I need to lease a POS system?

No. Leasing can be costly. Buying your hardware from a reseller is often cheaper long term. POS-Hardware has solutions that help with budgeting. 

Q: Are there free POS systems available?

Some software offers free tiers, but hardware still needs to be purchased.

Are You Ready to Build Your POS System?

At POS-Hardware, we supply cost-effective POS equipment from leading brands like BoxaPOS, Epson, Star Micronics and more - perfect for retail, hospitality, cafés, and salons.

Shop POS Hardware & Bundles. 
Need a quote or custom build? Contact our team for trade pricing here. 

Final Word: What’s the Real Cost of a POS System?

A POS system in the UK typically costs:
£600 – £2,500 upfront for hardware
£30 – £100 per month for software

By choosing the right hardware and avoiding long-term leases, you can build a professional, future-proof POS setup at an affordable cost.

We have been helping businesses for over 10 years, and will continue to offer the best assistance possible.