Types of cash registers in 2026
The modern market offers three main types of cash registers:
1. Traditional cash registers
What is it? Physical devices with keyboard and screen.
Advantages:
- Reliable and durable
- Works without internet (with later data transmission)
Disadvantages:
- Expensive (500-2000 EUR)
- Limited functionality
- Difficult to update
2. POS terminals
What is it? Specialized computers with payment acceptance function.
Advantages:
- Integrated card reader
- More features than traditional ones
Disadvantages:
- Still expensive (800-3000 EUR)
- Requires technical maintenance
- Often tied to a specific provider
3. Virtual cash registers (Cloud POS)
What is it? Software that works through a browser or app.
Advantages:
- Low price (from 35 EUR/month)
- Works on any device
- Automatic updates
- No need to buy equipment
Disadvantages:
- Internet connection required (with offline backup)
Criteria for choosing a cash register
1. i.EKA compatibility (Mandatory!)
Since 2025, all cash registers in Lithuania must be connected to i.EKA. Before buying, make sure:
- Does the device have VMI approval?
- Does it support offline mode with later data transmission?
- Does the provider guarantee i.EKA support?
2. Card payment acceptance
According to statistics, over 70% of payments in Lithuania are made by cards. Your cash register should:
- Support contact and contactless payments
- Offer competitive commissions
- Integrate payments with the sales system
3. Mobility
Do you need to:
- Work in multiple locations?
- Serve customers at the table (in a cafe)?
- Move your sales point (market, festivals)?
If yes, a virtual cash register will provide the most flexibility.
4. Additional features
Think about what features you need:
- Inventory management - stock tracking
- Employee management - different access levels
- Reports - sales analysis
- Loyalty programs - discounts for regular customers
- Email receipts - eco-friendly and convenient
5. Price and costs
Calculate all expenses:
| Cost type | Traditional | POS terminal | Virtual POS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial price | 500-2000 EUR | 800-3000 EUR | 0 EUR |
| Monthly fee | 10-30 EUR | 30-100 EUR | 20-55 EUR |
| Technical maintenance | 50-200 EUR/year | 100-300 EUR/year | 0 EUR |
| Card commission | Separate contract | 1.5-2.5% | 1.0-1.9% |
Cash register by business type
Cafes and restaurants (HoReCa)
Recommended: Virtual cash register with tablet
Why?
- Mobility - table service
- Speed - table management features
- Kitchen printer integration
Paysera POS HoReCa features:
- Table management
- Dish modifiers
- Bill splitting
Retail
Recommended: Virtual cash register with barcode scanner
Why?
- Inventory management
- Fast product entry
- Discount systems
Paysera POS retail features:
- Product catalog management
- Stock levels
- Barcode scanning
Services (beauty salons, service centers)
Recommended: Virtual cash register with payment interface
Why?
- Simplicity
- Card payments
- Customer database
Paysera POS service features:
- Service catalog management
- Customer history
- Advance payments
Practical tips
1. Try before buying
Many providers offer a demo. You can start using Paysera POS today.
2. Check support quality
Ask:
- Is support in your language?
- What are the working hours?
- Is there phone support?
3. Evaluate growth possibilities
Choose a system that will grow with you:
- Can you add more locations?
- Can you add employees?
- Does the price increase proportionally?
4. Check integration options
Does the system integrate with:
- Your accounting software?
- Online store?
- Inventory management system?
Why Paysera POS?
Paysera POS is a modern virtual cash register designed for Lithuanian businesses:
| Feature | Paysera POS |
|---|---|
| i.EKA fiscalization | Fully automated |
| Card payments | From 1.0% commission |
| Price | From 35 EUR/month |
| Equipment purchase | Not required |
| Support | 24/7 in Lithuanian |
Conclusions
When choosing a cash register in 2026, the most important things are:
- i.EKA compatibility - mandatory by law
- Card payments - essential for modern business
- Price to value ratio - calculate all expenses
A virtual cash register like Paysera POS offers the optimal balance between functionality and price, suitable for businesses of all sizes from a small cafe to a retail network.
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