Choosing a POS system is a critical decision for small businesses. Shop owners, restaurants, and market vendors often ask: Which POS system is best for my business in Kenya? or how much does a POS system cost in Kenya?
This article compares popular POS systems available in Kenya, their features, costs, and suitability for different business types. We also include Veira as an example of a system designed for transparency and control.
Let’s break it down.
Why Compare POS Systems?
POS systems are more than cash registers. They manage inventory, track sales, and handle payments. The wrong system can cost money and time, while the right system simplifies operations and protects revenue.
Business owners typically consider these questions:
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Understanding the differences helps you make a confident choice.
Popular POS Systems in Kenya
Here are widely used POS systems among Kenyan businesses:
Veira – Focuses on visibility for shop owners. Tracks staff activity, sales, and inventory. Works offline and integrates with mobile money like M‑Pesa.
Selly – Cloud POS with basic inventory and payment integrations. Suitable for small to medium retailers.
Zama – Offers cloud-based retail and restaurant POS. Supports analytics and multiple outlets.
JiPOS (Jiwanitech) – Traditional hardware POS, suitable for supermarkets and shops with high transaction volume.
Finytab – POS with restaurant and retail modules, supports M‑Pesa and card payments.
Cost Comparison
Pricing varies based on features, scale, and type (cloud vs traditional hardware).
POS System Setup Cost (KES) Monthly Fee (KES) Hardware Cost (KES) Notes
Veira 0 1% of revenue Optional tablet/terminal 25,000+ Offline capable, mobile-friendly
Selly 20,000–40,000 2,000–4,000 Optional printer/scanner Cloud only, small business focus
Zama 30,000–60,000 3,000–8,000 Terminal 35,000+ Multi-outlet support
JiPOS 50,000–100,000 1,500–3,000 Hardware bundle 50,000+ Supermarkets, high-volume shops
Finytab 25,000–45,000 2,000–6,000 Printer/scanner optional Restaurant-focused features
Feature Comparison
When choosing a POS system, focus on these capabilities:
- Inventory Management
Tracking stock is essential. A system like Veira or Zama updates inventory in real time. Some POS systems, like JiPOS, require manual updates.
- Payment Integration
Kenyan businesses need mobile money and card payment support. Most modern POS systems integrate with M‑Pesa, Airtel Money, and card terminals.
- Offline Functionality
For shops in areas with unstable internet, offline capability is crucial. Veira, JiPOS, and Finytab can record transactions offline and sync later.
- Reporting and Analytics
Some POS systems generate daily, weekly, and monthly reports. Cloud systems like Zama and Selly offer remote access. Veira provides real-time alerts on discrepancies.
- User Access Control
POS systems like Veira allow owners to control staff permissions, limiting refunds or discounts. This reduces theft and errors.
- Hardware Options
Traditional POS: Dedicated terminals, barcode scanners, printers. Good for supermarkets.
Mobile POS: Runs on smartphones or tablets. Flexible for kiosks and market stalls.
Hybrid: Combines local storage and cloud sync. Ensures offline operation.
Comparing by Business Type
Retail Shops
Retail shops need inventory, barcode scanning, and sales analytics. Systems like JiPOS, Veira, and Selly fit this category.
Restaurants and Cafes
Restaurants need table management, menu tracking, and split bills. Cloud-based systems like Zama, Finytab, and Veira work well.
Market Vendors
Mobile POS on tablets or smartphones works for market vendors. Veira and Selly provide compact solutions for small setups.
Why Veira Stands Out
Veira combines offline capability, inventory tracking, and mobile money integration. It focuses on providing small business owners control without assuming perfect staff behavior. This makes it particularly suited for retail shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Next Steps
List must-have features: offline support, mobile payments, inventory management.
Compare vendors using pricing and features tables.
Try demos to see usability.
Check support options: local support is vital.
Decide and start setup, including staff training.
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