What external hardware can you use with Shopify POS in 2023?

Considering using Shopify POS to accept in-person payments, manage a brick-and-mortar store, or run multiple retail locations? If so, you may be wondering what external hardware you need to get started. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the compatible options.

If you’re unsure how Shopify POS works it is a point-of-sale app that allows you to process payments and manage your inventory from any location. The app is designed to integrate seamlessly with your Shopify store so you can track your sales and inventory in one place. If you already have a Shopify store, adding Shopify POS is a simple process, simply download the Shopify POS app to your compatible smartphone or tablet and sign in with your Shopify account. From there, you can connect your existing hardware, such as iPads and card readers, and start processing payments.

All in one solution: Shopify POS Go

Shopify POS Go is a complete mobile POS device specifically designed for reliable, fast and hassle-free in-person selling. This handheld device functions as a point-of-sale terminal, barcode scanner, and card reader, allowing transactions to be processed without the added complexity of additional hardware.

We recommend Shopify POS Go as a portable option for merchants that don’t require an advanced retail setup.

Country compatibility:

Shopify POS Go is currently only available to Shopify stores located in the United States.

Hardware compatibility:

The POS Go can be used with receipt printers that are compatible with secure pin Wi-Fi or wired LAN, however it does not support Bluetooth.

The simple setup: Using a smartphone or tablet with a Card Reader

As an alternative to Shopify POS Go you can use a supported card reader in conjunction with a tablet or smartphone. A supported card reader can process payments directly through the Shopify POS app and you can view customer transaction details in the order's timeline on your smartphone screen and in your Shopify admin. However with this option it's important to note that the use of a supported card reader is contingent upon your store being located in a supported country and using a compatible payment provider.

Shopify’s Tap & Chip Reader

Shopify's Tap & Chip Reader is a reliable, easy-to-use card reader designed to seamlessly connect to Shopify POS on your device. The reader supports contactless payments, allowing customers to pay by simply swiping their card or mobile device. It also supports smart card payments, which are more secure than traditional magnetic stripe cards. Tap & Chip Readers are designed to be fast and secure with end-to-end encryption that helps protect your customers' payment information. It's also compact and portable, making it a great option for businesses that need to process payments on the go.

Country compatibility:

Shopify ’s Tap & Chip Reader is currently available to Shopify stores located in Canada and the United States.

Hardware compatibility:

The Tap & Chip Reader can connect wirelessly to iPhones and iPads. If you Shopify store is located in the United States you can also connect this reader to an Android device.

The WisePad 3 card reader

The WisePad 3 card reader is a versatile, easy-to-use device fully integrated with Shopify POS. This reader supports both contactless and smart card payments, as well as traditional magnetic stripe cards, providing a complete payment solution for businesses. WisePad 3 also comes with a high-capacity battery that lasts for days on a single charge, making it ideal for businesses that require a longer battery life. Additionally, Reader is EMV compliant and PCI certified, which meets the highest security standards and protects your customers' payment information.

Country compatibility:

The WisePad 3 card reader is compatible with Shopify stores located in Australia (excluding Norfolk Island), Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Singapore, Spain, or the United Kingdom.

Hardware compatibility:

You can connect the WisePad 3 card reader with:

• iPads operating iOS 12.5.1 or higher
• iPhones operating iOS 12.5.1 or higher
• Android devices operating version 7.0 (Nougat) or higher

Devices must support Bluetooth 4.2 or higher to connect with the card reader.

Using an unsupported card reader

If you're in a country that doesn't support Shopify Payments or offer a supported card reader, you can use an external card reader.

To do this, you will need to set up an account with a payment processor that is compatible with Shopify POS. Once that's completed, you can purchase or rent a terminal and create custom payment types in your POS app. When you use a terminal to accept payment, Shopify POS marks the order as paid, but the actual payment is processed by the terminal provider, not by Shopify.

The complete setup: Add on a receipt printer, barcode scanner & cash drawer

Star Micronics receipt printers

Star Micronics is the top manufacturer of receipt printers compatible with Shopify POS. Their printers offer a range of features, including high-speed printing and wireless connectivity.

The following models are compatible with Shopify POS:

• Connect wirelessly with Bluetooth: Star TSP143IIIBI
• Connect wirelessly with Wifi: Star TSP143IIIW
• Wired printer option: Star TSP143IIILAN (39463110)

Hardware compatibility:

To connect your Star Micronics printer you will need the Shopify POS app installed either:

• An iPad operating iOS 12.5.1 or higher
• An iPhone operating iOS 12.5.1 or higher
• An Android device operating version 7.0 (Nougat) or higher

The wired printer version (Star TSP143IIILAN) has additional requirements for connecting an Ethernet cable.

Epson Bluetooth Receipt Printer (TM-m30II)

The Epson Bluetooth Printer TM-m30II is a compact receipt printer compatible with Shopify POS. With its easy-to-use design and Bluetooth connectivity, the TM-m30II can print receipts, barcodes, and labels. This printer offers a range of features, including multiple connectivity options and a fast printing speed of up to 250mm per second.

Hardware compatibility:

To connect your Epson printer you will need the Shopify POS app installed on either:

• An iPad operating iOS 12.2 or higher
• An iPhone operating iOS 12.2 or higher

Socket Barcode Scanners

Socket Mobile 1D and 2D Barcode Scanners are compatible with Shopify POS, allowing you to easily scan barcodes and add products to a customer’s order. These scanners are small and lightweight, making them easy to carry around, connect wirelessly using Bluetooth, and can scan both 1D or 2D barcodes.

The SocketScan® S700 enables you to scan digital and printed 1D barcodes.

The SocketScan® S740 enables you to scan digital and printed 1D and 2D barcodes.

Hardware compatibility:

To connect your socket Barcode Scanner you will need the Shopify POS app installed on either:

• An iPad operating iOS 12.5.1 or higher
• An iPhone operating iOS 12.5.1 or higher
• An Android device operating version 7.0 (Nougat) or higher

Star Micronics Cash Drawers

Star Micronics Cash Drawers are a high-quality and reliable choice for businesses that require a secure and efficient way to manage cash at point of sale. These cash drawers are built to withstand heavy use, with a sturdy construction and durable materials that ensure long-term reliability.

The following models are compatible with Shopify POS:

• Star Micronics' 14" Cash Drawer: CD4-1416
• Star Micronics' 16" Cash Drawer: CD3-1616
• Star Micronics' 16" Cash Drawer: CB-2002FN

Hardware compatibility:

Star Micronics Cash Drawers are designed to be connected to the Star Micronics Receipt Printers. When the cash drawer is connected to the receipt printer the cash drawer will open automatically when a sale is finalized on your Shopify POS enabled tablet or smartphone.