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Shopify POS Hardware – Everything You Need To Know in 2025
Last modified: July 13, 2025

If you’re selling in person, your tech setup matters. Slow checkout? Broken card reader? You lose the sale. Shopify POS hardware fixes that, but only if you know what to get, what not to waste money on, and how to actually use it without babysitting the system.
This guide skips the sales pitch and breaks down what you actually need to run a Shopify-powered retail setup that doesn’t get in your way.
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Shopify Point of Sale POS App
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2 |
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ConnectPOS POS App
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3 |
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Erply POS Integration POS App
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4 |
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Selly United POS App
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5 |
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POS Membership POS App
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6 |
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POS Local Delivery POS App
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7 |
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Sesami: Appointment Booking POS App
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8 |
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Unitpricer POS App
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9 |
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EasyTeam POS Staff Management POS App
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10 |
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Joy: Rewards & Loyalty Program POS App
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11 |
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Loloyal: Loyalty and Referral POS App
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12 |
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Bundler ‑ Product Bundles POS App
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13 |
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Cost+: Easy POS Discounts POS App
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14 |
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Smile: Loyalty & Rewards POS App
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15 |
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Pickup Delivery Date —Pickeasy POS App
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What Hardware Do You Actually Need?
That depends on how you sell. If you’re popping up at markets, you can get away with just a phone and a card reader. If you’re running a full retail shop, you’ll need more: iPad or tablet, receipt printer, cash drawer, barcode scanner, and a stable stand that doesn’t fall over when you tap it.
- iPad or Tablet – This is your POS screen. Shopify doesn’t make one. You’ll need your own, and it has to run the Shopify POS app.
- Shopify Card Reader – Their card readers only work in supported countries. US, Canada, UK, Ireland, and a few others. If you’re not in those, you’re stuck using a third-party workaround.
- Barcode Scanner – Helps speed up checkout and avoid manual entry. Only certain models work, so don’t grab a random one off Amazon.
- Receipt Printer – Optional, unless your customers expect paper receipts. Shopify recommends the Star Micronics series.
- Cash Drawer – Only necessary if you accept cash. It connects to your receipt printer and opens automatically with each sale.
How to Avoid the Most Common Headaches
- Don’t assume everything works outside the US – Half the gear is region-locked. Always check Shopify’s official compatibility list before buying.
- Don’t mix and match hardware randomly – A barcode scanner that works with your PC might not talk to Shopify POS at all.
- Get a solid iPad stand – Nothing kills the vibe like a clunky, unstable screen wobbling every time you ring up a customer.
- Set it up before your first sale – Don’t wait until customers are in front of you. Test everything. Print receipts. Run test transactions. Break it once—then fix it before opening day.
Bottom Line: Shopify POS Hardware Gets It Done
Shopify POS hardware isn’t complicated, but it’s picky. Get the right pieces, set it up properly, and it disappears into the background, exactly where it should be. You don’t need the full setup to start, but every piece you add should make checkout faster, smoother, and less annoying for everyone involved.
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Can I use Shopify POS hardware without using Shopify’s e-commerce platform?
While it’s technically possible to use Shopify’s POS hardware without their e-commerce platform, you wouldn’t be getting the most value from it. One of the key advantages of Shopify’s POS hardware is its seamless integration with the Shopify e-commerce platform, providing a unified solution for managing all aspects of your retail business.
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What if I have technical issues with my Shopify POS hardware?
Shopify offers 24/7 customer support to help resolve any issues you may encounter with your POS hardware. They can assist with troubleshooting, setup, and general queries to ensure your business operations run smoothly.
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Can I upgrade or add new components to my Shopify POS system as my business grows?
Yes, Shopify’s POS system is designed to be scalable. This means you can easily add new components or upgrade existing ones as your business needs change. Whether you need more card readers, an additional cash drawer, or a customer display system, Shopify offers the flexibility to adapt your POS system to your evolving business needs.
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What hardware do I need to start using Shopify POS?
At a minimum, you need a compatible iPad or iPhone and a Shopify-supported card reader. Additional hardware like a barcode scanner, receipt printer, and cash drawer can be added depending on your business needs.
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Is Shopify POS hardware compatible with all devices?
Shopify POS hardware is primarily compatible with iPads and iPhones. However, some hardware can also work with Android devices, though compatibility should be checked before purchasing.
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What card readers does Shopify support?
Shopify offers its own card readers, such as the Shopify Tap & Chip Reader and the Shopify Chip & Swipe Reader, which are optimized for use with Shopify POS.
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Do I need an internet connection to use Shopify POS hardware?
Yes, an internet connection is required for Shopify POS to process transactions, update inventory, and sync with your online store. However, the hardware can still function in offline mode for certain features like cash transactions.
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Where can I purchase Shopify POS hardware?
Shopify POS hardware can be purchased directly from the Shopify Hardware Store or through authorized resellers. It’s recommended to buy from these sources to ensure compatibility and support.
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How do I set up Shopify POS hardware?
Setting up Shopify POS hardware is straightforward. Shopify provides detailed instructions and support for each device, ensuring easy integration with your POS system.
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Is Shopify POS hardware easy to use?
Yes, Shopify POS hardware is designed to be user-friendly, with a simple setup process and an intuitive interface, making it easy for staff to learn and use.
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What is the cost of Shopify POS hardware?
The cost varies depending on the devices you need. Card readers start around $49, while complete hardware bundles (including a card reader, barcode scanner, receipt printer, and cash drawer) can cost several hundred dollars.
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Can Shopify POS hardware handle contactless payments?
Yes, Shopify’s Tap & Chip Reader supports contactless payments, including Apple Pay, Google Pay, and other NFC-based payment methods.