Key Takeaways
- Pricing structure: EPOSNow often requires ongoing subscriptions, EPOS Direct offers pay-as-you-go
- Payment flexibility: EPOS Direct works with any UK payment provider
- Contract terms: EPOS Direct offers no long-term lock-in options
- Hardware ownership: Buy outright with EPOS Direct means you own your kit
Quick Answer
Both EPOSNow and EPOS Direct serve UK businesses, but they differ in contract flexibility, payment provider choice, and pricing structure. EPOS Direct offers buy-outright options with no lock-in, while EPOSNow typically involves subscription commitments.
UK businesses comparing EPOSNow and EPOS Direct are usually looking for better value, flexibility, and long-term cost control. This guide compares key differences to help you decide which EPOS solution best suits your business needs.
EPOSNow vs EPOS Direct Feature Comparison
| Feature | EPOSNow | EPOS Direct |
|---|---|---|
| Contract flexibility | Often fixed term | Flexible / buy outright |
| Payment provider choice | Usually limited | Any provider supported |
| Setup & onboarding | Varies by package | Assisted setup included |
| Multi-site support | Available (premium) | Built-in & scalable |
| UK support | UK-based | UK-based team |
| Hardware ownership | Subscription often required | Own your equipment |
Key Differences to Consider
- Pricing structure: EPOSNow often requires ongoing subscriptions, EPOS Direct offers pay-as-you-go
- Payment flexibility: EPOS Direct works with any UK payment provider
- Contract terms: EPOS Direct offers no long-term lock-in options
- Hardware ownership: Buy outright with EPOS Direct means you own your kit
- Scalability: Both support multi-site, but pricing models differ significantly
Need help choosing the right EPOS system?
Questions to Ask Before Switching
- ✓ What is the total cost over 3 years including all fees?
- ✓ Can I choose my own payment provider?
- ✓ What happens if I want to cancel early?
- ✓ Do I own the hardware or am I leasing it?
- ✓ What support is included in the price?
- ✓ Are there hidden costs for features or add-ons?
Common Comparison Mistakes
- ✗ Only comparing monthly costs without considering total contract value
- ✗ Overlooking payment processing rate differences
- ✗ Not checking what happens to data when switching providers
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch from EPOSNow to EPOS Direct?
Yes, many businesses successfully switch. EPOS Direct can help migrate your product data and provide training on the new system.
Which is better for restaurants?
Both offer restaurant features. EPOS Direct's flexibility with payment providers often appeals to hospitality businesses looking to reduce processing costs.
Do EPOS Direct systems work with card machines?
Yes, EPOS Direct integrates with all major UK payment providers including Dojo, Global Payments, Teya, and more.
Is EPOS Direct really cheaper?
Total cost depends on your business. EPOS Direct's pay-as-you-go from £49/month with no lock-in often works out cheaper over time.
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