Comparing Embedded POS with PC/Tablet Alternatives

With so many choices of alternative point of sale solutions available, its hard to get a clear understanding of the differences between the various technologies.

Each product has benefits and disadvantages, so don’t make the mistake of ‘comparing apples with oranges’! The table below specifically references Uniwell’s embedded POS terminals, but gives you an idea of the type of questions that are worth researching:

	Embedded POS terminals	PC and tablet POS
Hardware design	Designed for challenging hospitality and fast food environments with resistance to dust and grease. Uniwell POS terminals are constructed to be spill-proof with a superior IP rating, no moving parts, solid state technology.	PCs and tablets are often not specifically designed for POS applications.  Many hospitality and retail environments are challenging for electronic equipment. High usage levels and non-technical operators impact on durability.
Operating system	Embedded systems are custom designed for their required application, so the POS functionality and underlying operating system are an all-in-one solution, eliminating compatibility issues.	PC and tablet based POS applications typically run on standard hardware with an independent operating system (such as Windows, iOS, Android). This can result in compatibility issues, particularly when the OS or software are updated significantly.
Overall cost	While upfront costs are possibly higher than some PC and tablet based solutions, the total cost of ownership over the expected life of the system is often significantly less.	Upfront costs may be lower than embedded POS but ongoing subscription fees & maintenance costs of generic hardware often proves to be much higher in the long term.
Security	Designed specifically for Point of Sale applications, viruses cannot infect embedded systems as there is no way to download external software.	Viruses and stolen customer information have become a serious security concern. Open internet connectivity and operating system and software updates impact on security. Generic tablets can be easily stolen and re-purposed.
Data integrity	Embedded POS terminals offer a high level of data integrity. Operational performance does not typically slow down over time due to inefficient data management.	Most POS applications utilize a third-party database system not specifically designed for point of sale operations, and can therefore be open to significant corruption and security issues.
Ongoing support costs	Simple to support with no necessity for recurring customer maintenance contracts on the POS hardware. Remote maintenance capability improves support availability and reduces downtime.	Ongoing requirement for support often results in annual maintenance contracts for PC and tablet hardware. Hard drives require optimisation, antivirus software requires regular updating.
Upgrades	Firmware upgrades are possible via flash update by a professional technician. No unattended automatic or forced updates. No compatibility issues with an independent operating system.	Operating system and POS software updates are occasionally at conflict with each other, thus requiring a higher level of support. This is particularly challenging when the operating system automatically forces an update when connected to the internet.
Hardware support	Minimum 10 year availability of replacement parts from the manufacturer.	Hardware support – PC manufacturers regularly modify board and assembly design, making it difficult to obtain exact replacement parts. Operating system upgrades may create compatibility issues with existing hardware. These factors can result in higher costs and shorter product life.

If you are considering a new POS solution for your cafe, restaurant, bistro, bar, bakery, fast food or retail outlet, consider the benefits of Uniwell’s embedded POS solutions to your business!