Square Review (2026)
Payments and POS for in-person and online
Square is the simplest way to take payments in person and online from one system — great POS hardware and transparent pricing — though it's less flexible than Stripe for custom online setups.
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👍 What we like
- Great point-of-sale hardware and app
- Transparent flat-rate pricing
- Free online store included
👎 What could be better
- Less developer flexibility than Stripe
- Higher online rates
What is Square?
Square is a payments and commerce platform best known for its point-of-sale system, serving retail, restaurants and service businesses online and offline.
Key features
POS hardware and app, online checkout, invoicing, a free e-commerce site, and integrated payroll and marketing add-ons.
Who is Square for?
Square suits businesses that sell in person and want simple, unified payments. For developer-grade online payments, compare Stripe.
What people use Square for
Retail & hospitality
Point-of-sale with hardware and app.
Service businesses
Invoicing and appointment payments.
Online + offline
One system for a shop and a website.
How to get started with Square
- 1Sign up
Create a free Square account.
- 2Get hardware or the app
Use the free app or add a reader/terminal.
- 3Add your catalogue
Enter items and prices.
- 4Start selling
Take payments in person, online or via invoice.
Expert tips
Square includes a basic e-commerce site at no monthly cost.
Square's add-ons integrate with the same system.
Square pricing
Prices are indicative and change often — confirm on the official site.
Square FAQ
Is Square good for small business?
Yes — it's one of the easiest ways to take in-person and online payments, with free software and transparent flat-rate pricing.
Square vs Stripe?
Square is best for in-person and simple online selling; Stripe offers more developer flexibility for custom online payments.
Does Square have monthly fees?
The core POS software is free; you pay per transaction, with optional paid add-ons.
Square user reviews
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