Handheld vs. traditional POS: Which is best for your restaurant
Wondering whether a handheld POS or a traditional system is better for your restaurant? It depends on your layout, service model, and operational goals. Handheld POS systems offer speed and flexibility for table-side service, while traditional POS systems provide stability and processing power for high-volume operations. Many restaurants benefit from using both. Understanding the strengths of each helps you choose the setup that improves staff efficiency, enhances customer experience, and supports long-term growth.
Handheld vs traditional POS: An overview
In modern restaurants, the POS (Point of Sale) system is the backbone of operations. Traditionally, POS systems have been fixed stations, cash registers, terminals behind counters or at service stations. These are reliable, feature-rich, and rooted in physical infrastructure. In contrast, handheld POS devices bring mobility into the mix. Staff can take orders and process payments away from a counter, directly at the table or in remote parts of the venue.
Each model has strengths. Traditional POS systems excel when orders follow a linear or centralised path, kitchen, bar, counter, payment station. Handheld POS systems excel in fluid environments—busy floors, outdoor seating, multi-zone dining, enabling staff to bring the ordering and payment process to the customer. Many restaurants today adopt hybrid setups to balance speed and robustness.
Major differences explained
Workflow efficiency
Fixed POS stations are centralised, which can cause bottlenecks during rush hours. Handhelds decentralise order-taking, letting staff serve more tables faster. For example, with order and pay at table options, customers can complete the entire transaction from their phone or via staff-operated handhelds, improving table turnover.
Cost & setup
Traditional POS systems often require more infrastructure, including power, cables, and counter space. Handheld units require Wi-Fi coverage and charging docks but offer lower installation complexity. Flipdish’s POS system is scalable and supports both handheld and traditional configurations, making it easy to adapt as your business grows.
Customer experience
Handheld systems enhance service by reducing wait times and allowing staff to stay on the floor. This is particularly effective in restaurants with expansive layouts. A recent blog on handheld features highlights how these devices improve upselling and staff efficiency through in-hand tools and real-time menu access.
Reporting and analytics
Traditional POS systems typically come with robust reporting dashboards accessed from a back office or central terminal. While powerful, they may require manual exports or login from specific devices.
In contrast, handheld POS systems often offer real-time reporting on the go, letting managers or staff access sales performance, table turnover, and menu insights from anywhere in the restaurant via mobile dashboards. This can be especially useful for fast-paced environments that demand quick decisions.
Choosing what fits you best
If your restaurant prioritises speed, mobility, and personalised service, a handheld POS could significantly improve your customer experience. Traditional POS setups may still be the backbone in high-volume takeaways or kitchens where physical terminals streamline flow. Most operators today blend both approaches, using handhelds for front-of-house and fixed terminals for back-of-house efficiency.
Before deciding, assess your layout, peak traffic times, and staffing. A flexible restaurant POS system that supports both modes can offer future-proof functionality.
FAQs
Yes, handheld systems are especially beneficial for restaurants with large dining areas, outdoor seating, or those looking to reduce wait times. However, combining them with a traditional POS setup often delivers the best results.
Many modern handheld systems can store orders locally during a connection drop and sync them automatically when back online, preventing service interruptions.
Absolutely. Many restaurants choose a hybrid approach, handheld for servers and traditional POS for kitchen or takeaway operations for greater efficiency and service flexibility.
