Square vs Bimi: Which POS System is Right for Your Business? 

A business’s POS system processes payments, tracks inventory, and so much more. When choosing a POS system for a business, the right one should suit its current and future operations. As a reseller, the choice between Square and Bimi should be based on the business’s needs. 

From hardware to customer support, you’ll need to learn the factors that affect your choice. Continue reading to determine whether Square or Bimi is the right POS system for a business. 

Comparison of Square POS and Bimi POS Features

Software 

A POS system enables a business to process payments and streamline operations. It can accept multiple payment methods and sync with an inventory management or sales analytics program. A business needs a POS app or software to access these features. 

Square POS App

Caption: The Square POS app running on an iPad and iPhone [Image: The Bottom Line] 

• Downloadable through the Play Store or App Store 
• Free plan available

Square offers a POS system app for Android and iOS devices. Business owners who already have a smartphone or tablet running on these operating systems can easily download the Square app. 

A free plan is available for Square users. Square will charge a business only when a transaction is made using the app. For advanced features, two paid monthly pricing plans are available. Additional transaction fees will also be charged for businesses that use these paid plans. 

Whether you’re a small business or a retail chain, each Square account offers POS features for payment processing and more. Businesses using the Square app have access to the following features: 

• End-to-end encryption
• Next-day payment transfers
• Fraud prevention 
• Live phone customer support
• Customer dispute management
• Real-time business insights 

Bimi POS Software 

The biggest difference between Square and Bimi is that Bimi doesn’t offer its own POS software or app. Businesses that use a Bimi POS system will need to use third-party POS software. Similarly, encryption levels and data protection features will depend on a business’s chosen POS software. 

Hardware 

A business’s POS system has hardware and peripherals to support its daily operations. This is one of the factors you’ll need to consider when choosing POS hardware. A motherboard, RAM, SSD, and other components power the device while peripherals add to its functionality. 

Versatile Square Hardware  

Caption: A Square POS credit card terminal [Image: Square Terminal]

• Each account includes a free credit card reader 
• Third-party hardware available 

One credit card reader is included in each Square account. Even business owners using the free Square monthly plan can enjoy this benefit. Through this, a business owner can immediately start processing credit card payments. Additional credit card readers are available at an extra cost. 

Square also offers other POS hardware. Their hardware can be bought directly from selected retailers or from their online store. Square’s selection of hardware and peripherals includes: 

• Handheld POS device 
• Payment terminal
• Dual-screen register
• iPad stand
• Contactless chip reader
• Magstripe reader 
• Receipt printer
• Cash drawer
• Barcode scanner 
• Router

High-powered Bimi POS Hardware 

Caption: A dual-screen POS system that runs on Android, manufactured by Bimi [Image: Bimi Dual-screen POS]

• Quality checks the RAM, SSD, motherboard, and touchscreen display 
• Builds integrated POS systems 

Bimi offers a wide selection of POS hardware. It builds touchscreen POS systems made with high-quality components. Bimi’s touchscreen display, motherboard, RAM, and SSD undergo strict quality checks before shipment. This ensures business owners receive high-quality devices that are safe to use in various environments. 

If a business needs a POS device with built-in hardware, Bimi is a good choice for that. It offers integrated POS systems with built-in receipt printers, barcode scanners, or NFC readers. 

Touchscreen Display

Bimi creates 10-point capacitive touchscreen displays in various sizes. Business owners can choose the ideal screen size for their store. These are the screen sizes Bimi offers: 

• 10.1” 
• 11.6”
• 14”
• 15.6”
• 18.5” 
• 21.5” 

Dual screen options are also available. These models feature a 15.6” main display and an 11.6”  customer-facing display. This POS system setup is ideal for hotels, restaurants, bars, and other businesses in the service industry. 

Operating System and Compatibility 

The POS machine’s operating system should also be considered when choosing between Square and Bimi. A POS system’s software, hardware, and configurations depend on its operating system. 

Square POS Compatibility 

Caption: A transaction being made using Square POS on an iPad [Image: Square iPad Stand]

• Operates on iOS, iPadOS, and Android devices 

Square POS operates on devices that run on iOS, iPadOS, or Android. To use the Square POS app, you’ll need to download it from the Play Store or App Store. 

Square offers a selection of its own hardware. It also provides a list of compatible hardware from third-party sources on its website. Business owners can purchase these directly from the Square website. 

Bimi POS Compatibility

Caption: Bimi’s Windows-based POS System Model POS-0093S model with a 15.6” display [Image: Bimi POS-0093S]

• Runs on Windows, Android, and Linux systems 

On the other hand, Bimi’s POS systems are compatible with Windows, Android, and Linux. When selecting a POS system, you can also choose the operating system it will run on. If your customer already has a preferred POS software, check if it is compatible with the machine’s operating system. 

Deployment 

When choosing a POS provider for a business, you’ll need to consider its deployment process. This helps a business’s employees to onboard into the POS system more easily. The setup process for a POS system also determines whether professional assistance is needed. 

Square POS Implementation 

Caption: Square Handheld device being used to process a customer’s payment [Image: Square Handheld] 

• Easy deployment process 
• Requires Wi-Fi to process payments

Square POS can be easily downloaded onto an iPad, iPhone, or Android device. Because these devices are commonly used, they enable businesses to easily set up their POS system. Furthermore, employees are highly likely to already be familiar with these platforms. 

Despite its easy implementation, Square POS requires an internet connection to work. While businesses can use their offline mode for up to 72 hours, Wi-Fi is needed for payment processing. 

Bimi POS Deployment 

Caption: The POS-0070 model created by Bimi runs on Windows, Android, and Linux [Image: Bimi POS-0070] 

• Setting up Windows and Linux systems may be challenging 
• Linux POS offers very high customization options 

As mentioned above, Bimi POS runs on Windows, Android, and Linux. Windows and Android are very popular operating systems. However, a Windows system might be more difficult to set up than an Android one. A complex Windows POS system may require more time and effort to deploy. 

Meanwhile, Linux offers the most system customization options but is the most challenging. The top Linux POS system manufacturers build devices with flexibility and advanced system configurations in mind. 

Businesses that want a Linux POS system may need a developer’s help for its deployment. The good news is that custom programs can be created in a Linux system to fit a business’s needs. 

Scalability and Customization 

A business’s POS system should scale with its operations. The current POS setup should easily accommodate additional hardware or functionalities as the business grows. Hardware as well as software integrations and customizations should also be considered. 

Square POS Customization Options

Caption: Square’s Register Kit with a receipt printer and customer-facing display [Image: Square POS Register Kit]

• More customization features through its paid monthly plans 
• Less flexibility for bespoke hardware 

Business owners who need additional functionalities to their Square account can upgrade to the Premium plan. Through this, the app’s features are customized to fit the business’s needs. However, transaction fees will still be separately charged in addition to the monthly subscription. 

In terms of hardware, Square provides limited customization options. The mobile-friendly operating systems on which its app works contribute to this. 

While it provides accessories and other peripherals, complex hardware setups are more challenging to implement. As a reseller, you won’t be able to fully customize the hardware you offer to businesses that use Square POS. 

Bimi POS Scalability 

Caption: The ports in Bimi’s Windows and Android POS-0060S models [Image: Bimi POS-0060S]

• Options to fully customize a POS system 
• Windows and Linux POS systems offer more robust POS system configurations 

While Bimi doesn’t offer its own software to scale with a business’s growth, its hardware has many customization options. Bimi is an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and Original Design Manufacturer (ODM). You can fully customize your POS system with Bimi as an OEM. This allows you to further distinguish yourself from your competitors. 

Based on your customer’s preferred POS software, you can tailor Bimi’s hardware to this. In addition, you can customize other components such as: 

• Casing colors
• Packaging 
• Built-in hardware
• Company logo

Additional Functionalities

While Bimi also offers a mobile-friendly Android POS system, its Windows and Linux models offer more configuration options. These systems can connect to other programs for inventory management, sales monitoring, and more for streamlined operations. Its hardware has ports and sockets so businesses can connect to additional peripherals as well. 

Industries 

POS systems vary depending on the business’s industry. Nail salons and gyms need appointment-setting features. Meanwhile, a hotel needs specialized features for the hospitality industry, such as property management tools. Access to industry-specific features is one of the benefits of a POS system. 

Square POS Industries 

Best for: 

• Salon
• Gym
• Restaurant 
• Small business (retail or service-based) 
• Online store
• Retail store

The Square POS app is a good option for service-based businesses such as salons, gyms, and restaurants. It also offers special features like inventory management for retail businesses. Thanks to its free plan, small business owners can also benefit from using Square. 

Business owners can access more advanced features through additional features in their Square POS account. At an additional fee, businesses can add marketing and customer loyalty program tools. 

Bimi POS Industries 

Best for: 

• Hotel
• Café
• Restaurant
• Nail salon
• Book store
• Supermarket 
• Retail store
• Bar
• Multi-location business

As mentioned above, Bimi’s hardware can be tailored to suit a business’s needs. From hotels and cafés to bookstores and supermarkets, Bimi offers a POS system for your market. Because of its high customization options, Bimi POS enables you to add features and hardware designed for your customers. 

Cost 

Any business that processes payments needs a reliable POS system. Whether your customer owns a food truck or a supermarket, initial and ongoing costs should be considered. 

Square POS Initial Expenses 

• Monthly paid plan subscription (if applicable) 
• Specialized hardware (if applicable) 

Square POS users can immediately start processing payments using its free plan. On top of this, the first card reader for each account is also free. However, all Square POS accounts are charged with a processing fee for each transaction. 

Square POS Ongoing and Long-term Costs

• Payment processing fees 
• Monthly paid plan subscription (if applicable) 
• Additional hardware and peripherals (if applicable) 

Payment processing fees are an ongoing cost for businesses that use Square POS. Business owners who process many transactions using the Premium plan can inquire about custom rates. 

Bimi: POS Initial Expenses 

• Hardware and peripherals 
• POS software subscription and payment processing fees (if applicable) 

Bimi’s hardware costs depend on the extent of customizations (OEM or ODM). For example, Bimi’s POS-0093 model typically costs around $200 to $450. Since Bimi only offers hardware, the subscription and payment processing fees depend on the POS software. 

Bimi POS Ongoing and Long-term Costs

• Hardware replacement (depends on the POS model) 
• POS software subscription and payment processing fees (if applicable)

The maintenance costs of Bimi’s hardware vary. Replacements for external hardware can be sourced from third-party suppliers. On the other hand, built-in hardware for different types of POS systems is bought directly from Bimi. 

The cost of advanced POS software features will depend on the device’s operating system and the complexity of deployment. For example, custom APIs for Linux systems require a developer’s expertise. Alternatively, business owners can upgrade to a higher plan for their POS software. 

Technical Support and Product Warranty 

Reliable technical support helps businesses quickly resolve issues in their POS system. In addition to this, product warranties help reduce maintenance costs and efforts. 

Square After-sales Support

All Square POS accounts have access to different customer support channels. Square’s Support Assistant is available from Monday to Friday (6 AM to 6 PM PT). Its other support channels include: 

• Support Center with online resources  
• In-app customer support 
• Square Community 
• YouTube videos 

Square also offers product warranties for its hardware. Its Square Register kit comes with a two-year warranty. On the other hand, other Square hardware includes a one-year warranty. 

Bimi POS After-sales Support

Bimi’s POS hardware comes with a 2 to 3-year product warranty. Aside from this, its components include serial numbers. When a component needs to be replaced, Bimi can easily identify the specific part to help troubleshoot the issue. Lastly, Bimi POS users can contact its customer service team 6 days a week, 10 hours a day. 

Finding the Right POS System for a Business’s Growth

The right POS system for a business can keep up with its daily operations and growth. The factors you’ll use to choose between Square and Bimi depend on the business’s priorities as well. Whether a business needs lower initial costs or high customization options, you can help your customers make the right choice. 

If a business needs a highly customizable POS system, a Bimi expert can help. With over 15 years of experience, Bimi offers POS systems with high-quality components. Resellers like you can further distinguish yourself with Bimi’s customizable POS systems. In addition, Bimi offers reliable customer support and product warranties for your customers. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do Square and Bimi offer similar POS software features? 

No, they don’t offer similar POS features because Bimi doesn’t have its own POS software. Square is a better fit for businesses that want a POS system with its own software. Its POS app has a free plan where businesses can: 

• Process payments 
• Build an online store or appointment-setting site
• Track inventory and sales
• Schedule appointments
• Manage staff schedules
• Connect the app to savings or checking accounts 

Square POS also offers two paid monthly subscription plans. In addition to the free tier’s features, the paid plans include advanced tools such as: 

• Industry-specific POS tools
• Lower payment processing fees
• Email and SMS marketing
• Loyalty rewards program
• Advanced business reports

2. What operating systems are compatible with the Bimi POS system? 

Bimi runs on Android, Windows, and Linux devices. When you’re selecting your POS system, you can choose a device that’s compatible with your preferred operating system. 

You’ll also need to consider your POS software and any additional hardware when doing so. This will allow you to maximize the benefits of your Bimi POS system. 

3. Do Bimi POS systems have built-in hardware? 

Yes, Bimi POS systems have built-in hardware. For these integrated POS systems, your selection of built-in hardware includes: 

• Receipt printers
• Barcode scanners
• NFC readers

Replacement of built-in hardware is different from external hardware, which can be purchased from a third-party supplier. For replacing built-in components, you’ll need to purchase these parts directly from Bimi. 

4. Is Square POS difficult to set up? 

No, Square POS is easy to set up. Because it operates on smartphones and tablets, its system is familiar to its users. This greatly reduces the need for onboarding employees to the Square POS system. 

In addition to its intuitive interface, businesses only need to download the app from the Play Store or App Store. Then, they’ll need to create a Square account to start using its POS system features. 

5. Can you use third-party hardware on a Square POS system? 

Yes, you can use third-party hardware on a Square POS system. While Square offers its own hardware, it also provides a list of compatible third-party hardware. This list is available on Square’s website and can also be purchased from there. Here are some examples of third-party hardware you can use: 

• Receipt printers
• Cash drawers
• Keyboards
• Barcode scanners 
• Weighing scales

6. Can you build a fully customized POS system through Bimi? 

Yes, you can build a fully customized POS system through Bimi. As an OEM, Bimi enables POS resellers to customize hardware, screen sizes, packaging, and more. 

This helps you create a POS system tailored to your market’s needs. Aside from this, your fully customized POS system is now your intellectual property. Because of this, your product is uniquely yours and differentiates you from your competitors. 

7. Do you need to buy a new device to process payments using Square POS? 

No, you don’t need to buy a new device to use Square POS. If you have an Android, iOS, or iPad device, you can already download the app. Square provides a free credit card reader for each account. Aside from using the app, business owners can process credit card payments as well. 

8. What POS system is more suited for restaurants? 

In addition to payment processing, a restaurant POS system should be able to streamline its other tasks. With how a POS system works in a restaurant, it should offer features that help with order and inventory management. Square POS offers restaurant-specific features such as: 

• Item and menu management
• End-of-day reports
• Separate check payment processing
• Reservation management
• Inventory management 

On the other hand, Bimi’s restaurant POS system offers durable touchscreen displays and hardware that withstand demanding operations. Aside from this, businesses using Bimi POS systems benefit from these features: 

• Online and offline order management 
• Fast customer checkout and payment
• Staff management

9. Do Square and Bimi offer product warranties? 

Yes, Square and Bimi offer product warranties for their POS systems. The product warranties of Bimi POS systems range from 2 to 3 years. 

On the other hand, the product warranty duration for Square POS depends on the hardware. The Square Reader for magstripe has a six-month warranty. On the other hand, one-year warranties come with the Square Stand, Square Kiosk, Square Terminal, and corresponding accessories. Meanwhile, the Square Register has a two-year product warranty. 

10. Does Square POS have an offline mode? 

Yes, Square POS has a temporary offline mode. To allow offline payments, business owners should turn on this functionality in their Square POS app’s settings. This automatically turns on when the app isn’t connected to Wi-Fi or during a Square system disruption. 

When this happens, business owners can accept offline payments within 72 hours. If the POS system isn’t reconnected to Wi-Fi within that period, these payments won’t be processed. Ideally, the system’s internet connection should be restored within 24 hours.