Hi. How can we help?

Search

Supported hardware

Retail POS is designed, built, and tested to be used on multiple setups and operating systems, including multiple browsers, and supports numerous peripheral hardware. With the help of this guide, you can confirm which hardware is supported when using Retail POS on desktop or iPad.

Purchasing hardware

You can purchase supported hardware directly from Lightspeed. Our online stores are customized for each region and stock items that have been tested and verified by Lightspeed. If you choose to buy your hardware elsewhere, it's recommended to purchase the supported models listed in this article.

  • Australia and New Zealand: https:/store.lightspeedhq.com.au/
  • Europe: https:/store.lightspeedhq.nl/
  • UK: https:/store.lightspeedhq.co.uk/
  • North America: https:/store.lightspeedhq.ca/

Lightspeed only provides support for the hardware listed in this article. If your hardware isn't included in our list of supported hardware, please contact the hardware manufacturer for setup and configuration instructions.

Understanding operating systems and devices

You can use Retail POS and compatible hardware on a range of devices, including computers, iPads, and mobile devices:

  • Desktop

    : A computer running Mac or Windows operating system, often used for Retail POS administrative tasks.

  • iPad

    : Apple tablet, often used for Retail POS registers and tasks that require movability around a space.

  • Mobile device : An internet-enabled phone, often used to run Retail POS apps.

Retail POS is compatible with Apple's macOS and iOS, and Microsoft's Windows operating systems. Retail POS requires the use of up-to-date web browsers like Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. Your iPad must be running iOS 14.5 or higher to continue receiving updates in the App Store and the Retail (X) app must be version 5.47.0 or higher for stability.

For optimal performance and security, stay up-to-date with the latest available version of your operating system, web browser, and apps.

Understanding connection types

Depending on your business needs, you can hook up different types of hardware to your devices according to the compatible connection types:

  • W/LAN

    : Wired (Ethernet/LAN cable) or wireless connection (WLAN), known for reliability and speed.

  • USB

    : Wired connection (USB cable), connects to one device at a time.

  • Wi-Fi

    : Wireless connection with extended range, prone to disconnections.

  • Bluetooth

    : Wireless connection with limited range, prone to interference.

Managing Retail POS iOS apps

Maintaining up-to-date Retail POS, Display, and Scanner apps on your iOS devices is crucial for accessing the latest features, ensuring smooth compatibility, and enhancing performance. Our comprehensive guide on managing Retail POS iOS apps provides instructions for identifying your app versions and updating them, which is essential for effective troubleshooting and optimal functionality.

Receipt printers

Receipt printers for Windows and Mac need the latest drivers to run.

To download and install drivers, choose your device and follow the instructions to download the printer driver in the related setup guide.

Star 

Epson

Label printers

Dymo

Zebra

Retail POS does not support serial/parallel adapted to USB printers.

Barcode scanners

Honeywell

Socket Mobile and Motorola

Zebra

Cash drawers

Retail POS also supports any cash drawer that is able to connect to a compatible receipt printer via an RJ12 or a CD-101A cable.

Star

APG

Payment terminals and card readers

Model Specifications Setup guides

Smart Terminal (WisePOS E)

(available in the US, Canada, United Kingdom, and Australia)

WisePOS-E.jpg
  • EMV-enabled terminal
  • Wi-Fi or LAN connection
 Setting up the Smart Terminal (WisePOS E) with Lightspeed Payments

WisePad 3

(available in Canada, United Kingdom, and Australia)  

WisePAD.jpg

 
  • Wi-Fi connection

Setting up the WisePad 3 terminal with Lightspeed Payments

 

 

Mobile Tap (Chipper 2XBT)

(only available to US retailers)

StripeM2Reader.jpg
  • EMV-enabled terminal
  • Wi-Fi connection

Setting up the Mobile Tap (Chipper 2XBT) with Lightspeed Payments

Tap to Pay for iPhone

(available in US, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Ireland, and the Netherlands)
  • iPhone XS or a later model, running iOS 17.4 or later
  • Wi-Fi or cellular connection

Processing sales with Lightspeed Scanner (X-Series)

If you need additional assistance, our Support team is here to help. Before getting in touch, prepare your business information, a summary of the issue, and access to the hardware so we can help you get set up more quickly.

Was this article helpful?