Compare device options for counters, mobile staff, field teams, self-service ordering, and simple card acceptance. NPP helps confirm the hardware, accessories, connectivity, and processing details before you choose.
Need to compare first? Device cards and a side-by-side tool are directly below.
These options reflect the current Square hardware page. Pricing is omitted because device offers can change.
A compact point-of-sale option for staff who need to take orders, scan items, and accept payment away from a fixed counter.
A portable payment device with an integrated receipt option for businesses that need a compact way to check out customers.
A dedicated checkout station for businesses that want a polished counter experience without relying on a tablet.
A swiveling iPad-based checkout setup for businesses that already prefer an iPad operating flow.
A self-ordering path for businesses that want customers to start orders or checkout without waiting for staff.
A pocketable reader for businesses that need a simple way to accept tap and chip cards from a compatible mobile device.
A lightweight swipe option to discuss when a business has a specific magstripe need or wants a basic backup option.
Printers, drawers, scanners, mounts, docks, and network pieces that make the chosen Square setup work in the real store.
Bundled hardware options for businesses that want the core device and common accessories planned together.
Select two to four devices and compare what each option is built to do before you ask NPP for a recommendation.
Use this as a working shortlist. NPP can confirm compatibility, accessories, offline-payment details, and current options.
| Criteria | Square Handheld | Square Terminal | Square Register (2nd generation) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Staff-assisted checkout that moves with the customer. | Card payments with printed receipts in a small footprint. | Fast, fixed checkout with a customer-facing display. |
| Form factor | Handheld POS device | Portable terminal | Dedicated dual-display POS |
| Mobility | Excellent | Strong | Stationary |
| Receipt printer | External printer supported | Built in | External printer supported |
| Countertop use | Good as a secondary station | Good | Excellent |
| Tableside/field use | Excellent | Strong | Not intended |
| Kiosk/self-service | No | No | No |
| iPad required | No | No | No |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi with mobile use planning | Wi-Fi with accessory options | Wi-Fi or Ethernet, depending on setup |
| Offline payments | Eligible offline-payment behavior should be confirmed during setup | Eligible offline-payment behavior should be confirmed during setup | Eligible offline-payment behavior should be confirmed during setup |
| Accessories | Docking, cases, printers, and barcode workflow planning | Dock, hub, kitchen and receipt printers where needed | Cash drawer, scanner, printer, scale, and mounting options |
| Recommended business type | Restaurants, mobile sellers, service teams, high-touch retail | Services, restaurants, mobile retail, salons, events | Retail, food and beverage, salons, nonprofits, front desks |
This does not replace an NPP consult. It gives you and the specialist a clear starting point for the conversation.
Answer five quick questions to create a starting recommendation for your hardware conversation.
Get help with setup planning, onboarding support, payment processing, pricing consultation, and the operational details that make the hardware useful on day one.
NPP can turn this into a practical setup step for your location, team, and payment environment.
NPP can turn this into a practical setup step for your location, team, and payment environment.
NPP can turn this into a practical setup step for your location, team, and payment environment.
NPP can turn this into a practical setup step for your location, team, and payment environment.
NPP can turn this into a practical setup step for your location, team, and payment environment.
