Square vs Aloha POS: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Square and Aloha POS comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Square
Payment processing and POS systems
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need payment processing features specifically
- • Square is a payments and commerce platform for businesses
- • It provides payment processing, POS, and business management tools
Aloha POS
All-in-one cloud-based restaurant POS system for streamlined operations and enhanced guest experiences.
Best for you if:
- • You need restaurant pos features specifically
- • Cloud-based POS system for comprehensive restaurant management.
- • Streamlines front-of-house, back-of-house, payments, and reporting.
| At a Glance |  Aloha POS | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Payment Processing | Restaurant POS |
Rating | 82/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Square | Aloha POS |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 82 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Payment ProcessingE-commerce Platforms | Restaurant POS |
Understanding the Differences
Both Square and Aloha POS solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Square positions itself as "payment processing and pos systems" while Aloha POSfocuses on "all-in-one cloud-based restaurant pos system for streamlined operations and enhanced guest experiences.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Square
Square makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution. With a score of 82/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Aloha POS
Aloha POS is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Square lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Square
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Square handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Square
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Aloha POS takes enterprise seriously.
We'd pick: Aloha POS
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with Square, upgrade when you're ready.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Square higher (82/100). But the community has upvoted Aloha POS more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Square Does Better
- Higher overall score (82/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Aloha POS If
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Square (82/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Square scores higher in our analysis, but Aloha POS might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Square or Aloha POS better?
Based on our analysis, Square scores higher with 82/100. Square isfreemium while Aloha POS is paid. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Square to Aloha POS easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Square and Aloha POS offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Square is freemium with a free tier.Aloha POS is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.