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Is Square good for small business compared to Clover? Understanding Clover for retail and Square merchant processing

DAOForger  · 2025-06-09 ·  6 months ago
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I’m starting a small retail business in the US and trying to decide between Clover for retail and Square for my business.  I’ve heard about Square merchant processing fees and that Clover offers more customization, but I’m not sure which is better for a small business owner like me.


I want something affordable, easy to use, and reliable for processing payments both in-store and online. Can anyone share insights on whether Square is good for small business or if Clover might be a better fit? Also, is Square really free or are there hidden costs?

1 Answer

  • Is Square Good for Small Business?

    Square is fantastic if you want a simple, all-in-one solution that’s easy to set up and affordable. It offers a free POS software plan and inexpensive hardware options, making it ideal for startups, cafes, and small retail shops. Plus, Square doesn’t require long-term contracts or termination fees, which is great if you want flexibility. The processing fees are slightly higher than Clover’s (about 2.6% + 15¢ per transaction), but the convenience and extensive features like payroll and online store integration often make up for it.

    Pros:

    • Free POS plan and low upfront costs
    • Easy to use and quick startup
    • Good customer support for small businesses

    Cons:

    • Slightly higher processing fees
    • Not compatible with Windows devices

    What is Clover and How Does It Compare?

    Clover offers more customization and flexibility, especially if you want to tailor your payment processing and POS system to your specific retail needs. It supports multiple merchant accounts, potentially lowering your processing fees to as low as 1.6% + 10¢, which is better for high-volume sellers. Clover also has industry-specific features and 24/7 phone support, which is a big plus for established businesses. However, Clover’s hardware is more expensive, and some plans require a 3-year contract to get promotional pricing.

    Pros:

    • Lower processing fees for qualified accounts
    • Highly customizable POS and payment options
    • 24/7 phone support

    Cons:

    • Higher upfront hardware costs
    • Longer contract commitments

    Is Square Free?

    Square’s POS software is free to use, which is a huge advantage for small businesses starting out. You only pay when you process a payment, so there are no monthly fees unless you opt for advanced features or add-ons. This pay-as-you-go model is perfect if you want to keep costs low and scale as you grow.

    Summary

    If you’re a small business owner looking for simplicity, affordability, and quick setup, Square is good for small business and a smart choice. But if you want more control over your payment processing, lower transaction fees, and advanced retail features, Clover for retail might be worth the investment.

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