Epos Now vs Clover — what’s actually being compared

When people ask Epos Now vs Clover, they’re usually comparing two different POS platforms plus whichever card processor underpins them. Shift4 is commonly the processor behind Clover in the UK in 2026 and can also power Epos Now deployments. This post compares all three — the two POS systems plus the processor — because that’s the decision you actually make when kitting out a bigger business.

Written for UK multi-site retail and hospitality operators (Track B), though the same logic applies to ambitious single-site operators with complex needs.

Epos Now — the UK-designed POS

Epos Now is headquartered in the UK (Norwich) and designed around UK retail and hospitality. Monthly subscription, runs on iPad or Windows, strong stock and reporting, decent integrations (Xero, QuickBooks, Shopify).

Strengths: UK-based support, familiar workflow for British SMEs, flexible hardware, sensible reporting, well-priced subscription.

Weak spots: you still need a separate processor (Shift4, Worldpay or similar) — and the processor contract is usually where the 48-month commitment hides. Some sales tactics aggressive; read the contract.

Clover — the US-originated POS with a deep app store

Clover is the POS platform owned by Fiserv and sold in the UK mainly via processors like Shift4. It’s Android-based, has an app store for third-party extensions (loyalty, booking, delivery integrations) and the hardware (Clover Station, Mini, Flex, Go) is purpose-built.

Strengths: tight hardware/software integration, app store flexibility, reliable units, modern UX, good for hospitality.

Weak spots: buying Clover usually means signing with the processor that’s selling it — which can mean longer-term contracts. App costs add up if you lean on multiple extensions.

Shift4 — the processor under the hood

Shift4 is increasingly the processor behind Clover and other POS hardware in the UK. As a processor, it’s strong at medium-to-high volume hospitality, with competitive rates negotiated bespoke and multi-site support.

Strengths: bespoke pricing, strong hospitality footprint, reliable gateway, solid reporting for finance teams.

Weak spots: typical 48-month default contract; needs volume to unlock best rates; less suited to small single-site independents.

Which fits which business type?

• Multi-site UK retail (clothing, homeware, hardware): Epos Now + Shift4 or Worldpay is a common, solid combination.
• Multi-site hospitality (restaurants, gastropubs, café groups): Clover (via Shift4) or Epos Now Hospitality. Both work; Clover wins on hardware polish, Epos Now on support and UK-fit.
• Single-site with ambition to grow: Epos Now is usually the better starter because the contract’s more flexible.
• Very small single-site: none of these — Square for Restaurants or Teya will serve you better. See our SumUp vs Teya vs Square comparison.

The real cost comparison

• Epos Now: ~£30–£60/month software + hardware + separate processor fees. Total monthly cost £100–£200 per till point typically.
• Clover: software bundled within processor pricing; hardware £500–£1,500 outright or included in rental. Total monthly cost £120–£250 per till point typically.
• Shift4 as processor: rates negotiable — typically 0.4–1.0% on debit at volume. Monthly rental £15–£30 per terminal.

Total cost is only meaningful when comparing full bundles against your actual volume. UK card fees are regulated within limits set by the Payment Systems Regulator — rates above the interchange floor are where providers differ.

Frequently Asked Questions

Epos Now vs Clover — which is better for UK hospitality?

Both work well. Clover’s hardware feels more polished and the integration is tighter (POS + card reader in one box). Epos Now gives you more flexibility on hardware and stronger UK-based support. For restaurants with table service and modifiers, both are capable; pick on support quality and contract flexibility.

Does Clover work with any processor?

In the UK, Clover is almost always sold alongside a specific processor (Shift4, Elavon or similar) and the two are tied. You can’t easily swap the processor without changing the Clover setup too.

Is Shift4 a POS or a processor?

Shift4 is a processor (card payments acquirer). It sometimes sells Clover POS hardware too, but the processing is the core service. Shift4 can also power other POS setups (including Epos Now in many UK deployments).

Can I leave Epos Now or Clover mid-contract?

Usually there’s a termination fee — on the POS subscription it’s typically remaining months; on the processor contract it’s the bigger cost. Read both terms carefully. Our termination fee guide covers how to calculate and handle it.

Are there rolling-term versions of these systems?

Rare. Epos Now has shorter-term options if you buy hardware outright. Clover contracts are usually 36–48 months via the processor. If you need genuine rolling terms, look at Square for Restaurants instead.

Get a bundled like-for-like quote

Picking POS + processor is a serious commercial decision. We quote multiple bundles against your actual volume so you can see the real total cost. Smart Payment Solutions is independent — no favouritism between Epos Now, Clover, Shift4, or Worldpay. ICO registered, based in Sunderland, covering UK-wide. 500+ UK businesses matched.