Traditional vs. Mobile POS Systems

April 7, 2023

Share this article

Mobile point-of-sale systems use tablets or smartphones as POS terminals. Traditional equipment typically involves a dedicated electronic screen, receipt printer, and cash drawer that remain in one place. Mobile POS is growing rapidly, but conventional units still remain common. So which is the best for you? Here are the pros and cons to both traditional and mobile point-of-sale systems.


Location: Unlike traditional point-of-sale terminals, portable devices make it possible to process sales anywhere. You can do so in a store, restaurant, outdoors, and even at customers’ homes or vehicles. This often boosts sales and results in shorter lines. If you desire receipts, you can connect your mobile unit to a receipt printer as well.


Connection: A conventional POS system normally uses a wired data connection. Portable terminals work when Wi-Fi or cellular access is available. If you are going to use an internet service, it should be both secure and encrypted. Fortunately, many of these devices can still record transactions if you don’t have suitable internet access at the moment. Payments are then processed when a connection becomes available.


Vulnerability: Traditional point-of-sale equipment can become unreliable as it ages, but it’s generally quite sturdy. Staff members must exercise greater caution when using portable equipment because it’s easier to drop or lose to a thief. Businesses may address this concern by choosing relatively durable devices, training employees adequately, and ensuring that they have sufficient insurance.



Expense: Both options require investments, but the total cost of  mobile POS  equipment and software is often substantially less. It’s also more sophisticated and better prepared to meet new needs. Conventional point-of-sale systems can run into trouble when new types of cards, payment options or security regulations arrive.


Traditional equipment still offers a few minor advantages, but overall portable systems give provide more flexibility at a lower cost. In addition, they can accommodate customers who want to use the latest technology, such as mobile wallets, payment rings and NFC cards.


Contact a rep today to learn more about our traditional and mobile POS systems.

< Older Post Newer Post >

Recent Posts

Preferred Partner badge with Evolve logo and MELNA logo on a blue circular background.

New Partnership: MELNA

June 17, 2026
Evolv has partnered with The Maine Landscape & Nursery Association as the Preferred Partner for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions!
Press release graphic for Evolv Payments and Fran Metrics about franchise reporting and automated royalty collection

Evolv Payments and Fran Metrics Partner to Deliver Smarter Franchise Reporting and Automated Royalty Collection

June 17, 2026
Newburgh, IN – June 17, 2026 – Evolv Inc. and Fran Metrics are proud to announce a new integration that brings payment data and franchise performance analytics together in one seamless solution. The partnership gives franchisors and franchisees greater visibility into their business while simplifying royalty payment collection and reporting. By connecting Evolv Inc's processing platform with the Fran Metrics reporting engine, franchise organizations can automate the flow of payment data, eliminate manual processes, and gain deeper insight into the performance of every location. "At Evolv, we're always looking for ways to help businesses operate more efficiently and make better decisions," said Joe Oglesby, Partner at Evolv Inc . "Our integration with Fran Metrics gives franchise organizations access to powerful data and automation that reduces complexity and provides a clearer picture of their overall performance." "Our mission has always been to provide franchise brands with meaningful business intelligence that drives growth," said Jason West-McReynolds, Founder of Fran Metrics . "Partnering with Evolv Inc. allows us to bring critical payment information into the reporting process, helping franchise organizations make smarter, data-driven decisions." Key Benefits of the Integration Automated royalty payment collection and reconciliation Reduced manual data entry and administrative work Real-time synchronization of payment data Greater financial visibility across franchise locations Simplified reporting and improved performance insights About Evolv Inc. Founded in 1998, Evolv Inc. helps businesses increase sales, reduce costs, and mitigate risk through innovative payment acceptance solutions and business technology. Processing more than $7 billion annually and supporting over 18,000 businesses nationwide, Evolv delivers solutions designed to simplify operations and support long-term growth. About Fran Metrics Fran Metrics is a franchise analytics and performance platform that empowers franchisors and franchisees with centralized reporting and actionable business intelligence. By turning operational and financial data into meaningful insights, Fran Metrics helps franchise organizations improve performance and drive growth. For More Information Evolv Inc. Joe Oglesby joglesby@poweredbyevolv.com Fran Metrics Jason West-McReynolds jason@franmetrics.net
Evolv Preferred Partner badge with GCBAA logo on a blue background

New Partnership: GCBAA

June 17, 2026
Evolv has partnered with Golf Course Builders Association of America as the Preferred Partner for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions!
Blue badge graphic with Evolv logo, “Endorsed Partner” text, and glowing circular frame around another logo

New Partnership: FEMA

March 16, 2026
Evolv has partnered with Farm Equipment Manufacturers Association as the Endorsed Partner for Payment Acceptance and Digital Marketing solutions!
Show More