Set Up Shopify POS Hardware: Full Guide in 2025

Introduction

 Shopify POS Hardware(Point of Sale) lets you connect your online and physical retail seamlessly. Choosing the right hardware—card readers, barcode scanners, receipt printers, and more—ensures fast checkouts, synced inventory, and happy customers. This guide covers recommended hardware, setup tips, and compatibility with Shopify POS Lite and Pro plans.

What is Shopify POS Hardware?

If you sell in person, you need the right tools. Shopify POS hardware includes all the physical devices you use with your Shopify Point of Sale (POS) system. This can include:

• POS terminals
• Card readers
• Barcode scanners
• Receipt printers
• Cash drawers

These devices make it easier to accept payments, scan products, and print receipts quickly. With the right Shopify POS hardware, your checkout is fast and smooth.

Recommended Shopify POS Hardware

Shopify POS Terminal

• Description: Sleek, all-in-one touchscreen register with built-in Shopify POS app, barcode scanner, receipt printer, and card reader.
• Use-case: Ideal for pop-up stores and retailers wanting an all-inclusive checkout solution.
• Estimated price: $499–$699
  

Card Readers

• WisePad 3: Supports tap, chip, and swipe; Bluetooth & USB-C connectivity — works with iOS and Android.
• Tap & Chip Reader: Compact and affordable, best for mobile setups.

Barcode Scanners

• Socket Mobile 7Ci: Lightweight Bluetooth scanner — easy to pair and great for product scanning.
• Zebra DS2208: Wired USB scanner — reliable and fast for busy retail environments.

Receipt Printers

• Star Micronics TSP143III: Fast receipt printing, connects via Bluetooth or LAN.
• Epson TM-m30II: Compact and efficient thermal printer.

Cash Drawers

• Works with receipt printers via standard RJ-11 cable. Choose rugged models for durability and security.

Label Printers

Dymo LabelWriter 4XL: Ideal for shipping labels or product stickers. High-speed thermal printing.

Shopify POS Terminal: Your Checkout Hub

The Shopify POS terminal is the main device you use to run the POS app. Most stores use an:

• iPad
• Android tablet
• iPhone or Android phone

You simply install the Shopify POS app, log in to your store, and start selling.

Tip: Use a tablet stand to keep your terminal stable on the counter.

Shopify POS Hardware Compatibility Chart

Device Type	iOS Support	Android Support	Shopify POS Lite	Shopify POS Pro	Notes
WisePad 3	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Bluetooth & USB-C options
Tap & Chip	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Compact, affordable
Socket Scanner	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Bluetooth pairing required
Zebra DS2208	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Wired USB option
Star Printer	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Supports Bluetooth or LAN
Epson TM-m30II	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Compact thermal printing
Cash Drawer	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	RJ‑11 connection to receipt printer
Dymo LabelWriter 4XL	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	USB thermal printer for labels/shipping

What’s Included in a Full Shopify POS Kit

Retailers can opt for a bundled POS kit rather than buying components separately, which simplifies setup and ensures compatibility. Kits usually include:

• POS terminal/device
• Card reader (e.g., WisePad 3)
• Receipt printer (Bluetooth/LAN)
• Cash drawer
• Barcode scanner (optional)
• Starter cables and paper roll

Bundle types:

• Pop-up Kit: Card reader + mobile Bluetooth printer
• Desktop Kit: All-in-one terminal + printer + cash drawer

Enterprise Bundle: Multiple scanners + printers + terminals to scale

How to Choose the Right POS Hardware for Your Store

1. Is your store mobile or countertop?
   Choose compact wireless devices for outdoor or pop-up setups.
2. Do you need quick scanning?
   Use reliable barcode scanners like Zebra DS2208 for speed.
3. How often do you print receipts?
   Choose between Bluetooth (flexible) or LAN printers (stable connection).
4. Will you manage cash?
   Add a cash drawer if you accept cash payments.

What’s your budget?
Kits help save money and simplify compatibility compared to individual purchases.

Shopify POS Software Plans & Hardware Compatibility

Plan	Monthly Price	Features Included
POS Lite	Free with Shopify	Basic checkout, inventory sync, receipt printing
POS Pro	From $89/month	Advanced features like smart inventory, staff permissions, analytics

Shopify POS Card Reader: Accept Payments Easily

To accept credit and debit card payments, you need a Shopify POS card reader. These small devices connect to your phone or tablet.

Types of Shopify Card Readers:

1. Shopify Tap & Chip Reader
   • Accepts tap, chip, and contactless payments
   • Connects via Bluetooth
2. WisePad 3 (for international stores)
   • Supports chip and tap payments
   • Often used outside North America
3. Shopify WisePOS E (for Pro users)
   • Smart terminal with touchscreen
   • Used with Shopify POS Pro

All Shopify card readers are PCI-compliant and secure.

How to Set Up Shopify Card Reader:

1. Open the Shopify POS app
2. Go to Settings > Hardware
3. Tap Add hardware
4. Select Card reader and follow the steps

Once connected, you can accept payments instantly.

Shopify Barcode Scanner: Speed Up Sales

Want to check out faster? Use a Shopify barcode scanner to scan product barcodes instead of typing manually.

Compatible Barcode Scanners:

• Socket Mobile S700 (Bluetooth)
• Socket Mobile S740 (scans 1D & 2D barcodes)

These scanners work best with iPads and iPhones using Bluetooth.

How to Connect a Barcode Scanner:

1. Turn on Bluetooth on your terminal
2. Power on the scanner
3. Pair the scanner in POS app settings
4. Test by scanning a product barcode

Now your staff can scan items quickly and reduce errors.

Shopify Receipt Printer: Give Printed Receipts

With a Shopify compatible receipt printer, you can print receipts for in-person orders. This is great for customers who want a paper copy.

Supported Receipt Printers:

• Star Micronics TSP143IIIU (USB)
• Star Micronics TSP143IIIBI (Bluetooth)
• Star Micronics TSP143LAN (Ethernet)

Setup Steps:

1. Connect the printer to your device
2. Open the POS app
3. Go to Settings > Hardware
4. Add printer and run a test print

Tip: Make sure you use the correct printer paper size (usually 80mm wide).

Shopify Cash Drawer: Store Cash Safely

If you accept cash, you can connect a Shopify compatible cash drawer. It opens automatically after each cash sale or refund.

Recommended Models:

• Star Micronics CD3
• APG Vasario Series

How It Works:

• Connect the cash drawer to your receipt printer
• When you complete a sale, the drawer pops open

Lock the drawer when not in use for security.

Complete Shopify POS Hardware Kit

To save time, Shopify also sells complete hardware bundles. These kits usually include:

• Shopify POS card reader
• iPad stand
• Receipt printer
• Cash drawer

You can find kits for both mobile selling and full retail stores.

Tip: Visit the Shopify Hardware Store to see all kits.

Shopify POS App: Connect All Your Hardware

The Shopify POS app ties everything together. Once your hardware is connected, the app lets you:

• Ring up sales
• Scan barcodes
• Accept payments
• Print receipts
• Track sales

Hardware works only when paired with the Shopify POS app.

Shopify Compatible Hardware: What Works in 2025?

Here’s a quick list of Shopify compatible hardware in 2025:

Device	Model	Works With
Card Reader	Tap & Chip Reader	iOS, Android
Barcode Scanner	Socket Mobile S700	iOS only
Receipt Printer	Star TSP143III	iOS, Android
Cash Drawer	APG Vasario	iOS, Android
Stand	Shopify iPad Stand	iOS

Make sure your country supports the specific hardware you choose.

Shopify POS Hardware: Country Support

Some devices are only supported in certain countries. Here are the basics:

Country	Supported Devices
USA	All Shopify hardware
Canada	All Shopify hardware
UK	Tap & Chip + WisePad 3
Australia	WisePad 3 only
Other	May need third-party options

Always check Shopify’s latest hardware compatibility list before buying.

POS Hardware Setup Tips

Here are some tips to make sure your hardware works smoothly:

1. Charge all devices before use
2. Use original cables and accessories
3. Stay updated with the latest POS app version
4. Test all connections before opening the store
5. Train staff to handle hardware properly

Troubleshooting POS Hardware

Problem: Card reader not connecting?

• Restart the reader and the app
• Make sure Bluetooth is ON

Problem: Printer not working?

• Check cables
• Make sure it’s the supported model

Problem: Barcode scanner not responding?

• Re-pair it through Bluetooth settings

If you keep having trouble, contact Shopify Support or visit the Help Center.

POS Hardware for Events or Pop-Ups

If you sell at events, festivals, or markets, go for portable hardware, like:

• Shopify Tap & Chip Reader
• iPhone or Android with POS App
• Lightweight barcode scanner (optional)

This lets you take your POS system anywhere!

Shopify POS Hardware: Pricing in 2025

Here’s an idea of Shopify hardware pricing (based on 2025 rates):

Item	Estimated Price
Tap & Chip Reader	$49 – $69
Barcode Scanner	$250 – $350
Receipt Printer	$200 – $300
Cash Drawer	$100 – $150
Full Hardware Kit	$599+

You can buy hardware directly from Shopify or certified resellers.

Who Needs Shopify POS Hardware?

POS hardware is great for:

• Small business owners
• Retail stores
• Food trucks
• Craft markets
• Pop-up shops

If you want smooth and fast sales, having the right hardware makes a big difference.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use any hardware with Shopify POS?
No, you must use Shopify compatible hardware for full functionality. Check Shopify’s official list for approved devices.

Q2: Do I need to use Shopify Payments for the card reader to work?
Yes. Shopify’s card readers only work if Shopify Payments is enabled on your store.

Q3: Does Shopify POS hardware work offline?
Basic functions may work, but syncing orders and accepting card payments needs an internet connection.

Q4: Can I use multiple hardware devices at once?
Yes. You can connect a card reader, printer, and barcode scanner at the same time via the POS app.

Q5: Is Shopify POS hardware refundable?
Shopify offers a return policy. Be sure to check their terms on the official hardware store.

Final Thoughts

Shopify POS hardware is a must-have if you want to sell in person. From POS terminals to card readers and printers, each device makes your job easier.

In 2025, Shopify makes it even simpler to connect and use all these tools. Whether you’re a new seller or already growing, having the right hardware helps you:

• Speed up checkout
• Keep inventory accurate
• Provide great service

Choosing the right Shopify POS hardware is essential for smooth and efficient in-store sales. Whether you need a mobile card reader or a full countertop terminal with receipt printer and scanner, the right setup will improve checkout speed and customer experience. Compare devices using the tables above, and consider what fits your store size and budget.