Hardware serves as the operational terminal; it must be paired with compatible software—otherwise, even the most sophisticated software will fail to function effectively. Hardware falls into two categories: “essential” and “optional.” You don’t need to buy everything; instead, mix and match according to your specific needs to avoid waste. We’ve compiled the most practical pairing tips—backed by real-world testing—to help you avoid common pitfalls:
1. Essential Hardware: No Matter What Kind of Store You Run, These 3 Items Are Non-Negotiable
These three items form the foundation; you simply cannot do without any of them. Prioritize compatibility and stability above all else—don’t be tempted by cheap deals that result in purchasing low-quality equipment:
POS Main Unit: Available in desktop and mobile versions. Desktop units are ideal for fixed checkout counters—such as those found in convenience stores and supermarkets. Mobile units are handheld devices, perfect for the food service and beauty industries; for instance, servers can carry them directly to customers’ tables to process payments, while beauty technicians offering home-visit services can collect payments on the spot.
POS Display Screen: Choose between a single-screen or dual-screen setup. For stores with limited space—such as nail salons or small convenience stores—a single screen is sufficient. However, if you need to display bills to customers or run promotional advertisements—as is common in restaurants or maternal & child supply stores—opt for a dual-screen setup. This allows customers to clearly view their transaction details while simultaneously seeing your store’s latest promotions—a win-win situation.
Scanning Equipment: Whether you choose a handheld scanner gun or a countertop scanner box, this is a mandatory requirement for *all* types of stores. When selecting a device, prioritize scanning sensitivity and the ability to read all major QR codes (including WeChat Pay, Alipay, and UnionPay). Ideally, choose a model capable of long-range scanning—meaning it can read a customer’s mobile phone screen from a slight distance without requiring them to lean in too close—thereby speeding up the checkout process.
2. Optional Hardware: Select Based on Your Specific Business Model to Avoid Waste
These items are not mandatory purchases; your decision should depend entirely on your store’s specific requirements. For example, if you run a fresh food market, a weighing scale is a must-have; if you run a restaurant, a receipt printer is indispensable. Avoid buying unnecessary equipment, as it will merely take up valuable space and waste your money:
Receipt Printer: An essential tool for restaurants and retail stores. Look for models that connect via Bluetooth or Ethernet port, offer crisp print quality, and operate at high speeds. Ideally, choose a system with automatic ticket routing—for instance, in a restaurant setting, once an order is placed at the front counter, the order ticket automatically prints in the kitchen. This eliminates the need for staff to physically run orders back and forth, saving time and significantly reducing the risk of order errors.
Cash Drawer: A mandatory requirement for any store that accepts cash payments. Opt for a cash drawer that features an automatic-opening mechanism and built-in anti-theft security functions, ensuring it is fully compatible with your main POS terminal. Failure to do so risks the loss of received cash or—should the drawer fail to open—delays in the checkout process.
Specialized Auxiliary Equipment: Select these devices strategically based on your specific business needs. Restaurants, for instance, can install kitchen display screens (KDS) to allow the back-of-house staff to view incoming orders in real-time, eliminating the need for verbal order calling. Beauty salons and wellness centers can utilize membership card readers to streamline member verification and redemption, removing the need for manual data entry. Finally, card and board game lounges or tea houses can integrate smart lighting controls that link directly with the POS system to automate time-based billing, thereby eliminating the need for manual timekeeping.