Compared to Clover by First Data, Square is pretty basic and offers simple tools for business owners. It does not really offer any control and is targetted for very small business owners.

Clover, Shop Keep and other companies like Nova POS offer much more sophisticated POS solutions that also allow business owners to choose their own merchant account provider, therefore saving money on transaction fees.

Although other POS systems actually cost money they also come with value to the merchants. Live support (not offered by Square), constant updates and a variety of apps and tools not available on the Square app.

As merchant account specialists, we recommend merchants to find the POS software that suits their business model. Then pursue your merchant account provider. MagicPay offers free consultation for POS systems and promotions / deals on equipment.

Overall great article, it just doesn't really list the alternatives.
Rami.
MagicPay Merchant Services
http://www.MagicPay.net