What are the Differences Between Cash Registers & Point Of Sales

If you are a business owner in the retail or restaurant sector, it is essential not to overlook the sales management system. Whether using traditional cash registers or Point of Sales (POS) systems, both play roles beyond merely storing money during transactions. Both cash registers and POS systems can assist in processing transactions and managing sales data accurately.

This article will delve into the differences between cash registers and Point of Sales (POS) systems. But before that, it's important to understand the definitions of each.

What are Cash Registers & Point Of Sales?

Source: Freepik.com

A cash register is a non-computerized electronic device primarily used to record sales and manage cash. The cash register was first invented in 1879 and designed to record tax components in sales transactions. 

Initially, these machines operated manually, with employees entering transaction data one by one. When the "total" button was pressed, the cash drawer would open, and a bell would ring, notifying the manager of the transaction. 

Over time, cash registers evolved to print transaction receipts. By the 1970s, the first simple cash register systems were introduced, equipped with receipt printers, barcode scanners, cash drawers, and "NS" (No Sale) buttons.

In contrast, point-of-sales (POS) systems are computerized systems that utilize a combination of software and hardware to perform various functions beyond just recording sales. 

The introduction of POS systems has streamlined sales management processes with a variety of advanced and comprehensive features. POS systems are commonly used in retail and restaurant businesses for their transactions. 

Computerized POS systems can automate tasks as they are not entirely manual in operation. Additionally, large companies require various invoice and receipt formats, not just small receipts. With POS systems, all transaction processes, daily record accumulations, and financial data management can be performed automatically by the system quickly and accurately.

Differences Between Cash Registers & Point Of Sales?

Source: Freepik.com

Now that you understand cash registers and POS systems, what are the differences between them? There are several notable differences in the features of cash registers and POS systems. 

Both cash registers and POS systems feature cash drawers, sales receipt printers, barcode scanners, and NS (No Sale) buttons. However, POS systems are equipped with passwords for their NS buttons. The sales reports generated by cash registers and POS systems differ significantly. 

Cash register sales reports are generally simple. POS system sales reports can be more complex due to additional features such as credit card readers, digital scales, staff and customer management, inventory tracking, cloud-based systems, and integration capabilities with accounting software and other company-used software.

Benefits of Using Cash Registers vs. POS Systems

Source: Freepik.com

While simple manual cash registers are suitable for some small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), considering the competitive landscape and the need for more efficient business management, it's essential to consider using POS systems. Below are some comparisons between cash registers and POS systems.

From the above discussion and table, it is evident that cash registers have limited features compared to POS systems. Therefore, cash registers are more suitable for relatively small businesses with limited daily transactions. 

However, if your business is expanding or you want to scale up, using a POS system will provide convenience and offer a new experience in managing your business sales. When deciding to use a POS system, you need to consider the software provider that supports the POS system in your business. 

There are currently many companies providing POS system software services. As a business owner, you need to be wise in choosing a provider, considering factors such as service pricing, features provided, ease of use, and more. These considerations will vary depending on the nature of your business.

Recommended Point Of Sales Applications

Source: Documentation ESB

ESB can be one of the recommendations for companies providing software that supports POS systems in your business. ESB POS is a series of Online Cashier Software that connects ordering, kitchen, waiters, cashiers, and customers into a semi/full-automatic flow. 

The all-in-one POS system offered can help automate sales processes at outlets in the most efficient way. To date, ESB POS has been widely used by well-known large brands in Indonesia and installed in thousands of outlets, one of which is the BOGA Group. 

Additionally, ESB POS payment systems are integrated with various third-party applications such as QRIS payment, OVO, Dana, LinkAJA, and Gopay. Moreover, ESB also offers various features such as loyalty programs, and voucher systems, providing convenience to your business customers. 

Now is the time to make your choice to experience the best POS system using world-class software with ESB POS. For more information, please visit the official ESB website.