POS Comparison
Square vs Clover
Two of the most common small-business POS choices, compared without the hype. Both are solid. They just fit different businesses. Here is how they actually differ, and how to pick.
| Square | Clover | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it tends to fit | Newer or smaller businesses that want to be up and running fast with minimal setup. | Businesses that want more hardware options and room to grow into a fuller setup. |
| Hardware | Its own line of readers and registers. Clean and simple, but you stay in Square’s lineup. | A broader range of countertop, handheld, and mobile devices for different counter setups. |
| Pricing model | Flat-rate processing that is easy to predict. Simple, though not always the cheapest as volume grows. | Works with different processors, so the rate is something you can shop rather than a fixed published number. |
| Apps and add-ons | A tidy built-in ecosystem that covers the common needs. | An app market for extending the system, useful for businesses with specific workflows. |
| Setup and support | Mostly self-serve. Great if you like doing it yourself. | Often sold and supported through a partner who sets it up and stays with you (this is where Norvet fits). |
General comparison of how the two platforms typically differ. Features and pricing change; confirm current details before you decide.
Where Norvet fits
Norvet sells and supports Clover for retail and service businesses, and Tonic for restaurants. We set them up, get you a fair processing rate, and stay with you after the sale. And if Square is honestly the better fit for your business, we will tell you that too.
- We help you pick based on your business, not our commission.
- We compare your processing rate so you are not overpaying. See how fees work.
- Real setup and support, not a box dropped on your counter.
Common questions
Is Square or Clover better?
Neither is "better" across the board. Square is simple and fast to start, which suits newer or smaller businesses. Clover offers more hardware and the flexibility to shop your processing rate, which suits businesses that want room to grow and hands-on support. The right pick depends on your business.
Does Norvet sell Square?
Norvet sells and supports Clover (and Tonic for restaurants), and sets them up with a fair, transparent rate. If Square is genuinely the better fit for you, we will say so. We would rather you get the right system than oversell you ours.
Can I switch from one to the other?
Usually yes, though it takes planning around hardware, data, and your processing agreement. We can walk you through what a switch would actually involve before you commit.
How do I keep my processing rate fair on either one?
Compare on your effective rate (total fees divided by total card sales), not the headline number. See our guide on how processing fees work, and we will compare your current statement for free.
Not sure which one is right?
Tell us about your business and we will give you a straight recommendation, then set it up with a fair rate. No pressure.
More on Clover and POS systems.