In simple terms, Tyro vs Square refers to a comparison between two popular Australian payment processing and point-of-sale (POS) solutions. Both are designed to help businesses accept payments, manage sales, and streamline financial operations, but they differ in features, pricing, and ideal use cases.
Here’s why Australians consider this comparison: choosing the right POS system can save time, reduce costs, and improve customer experience, whether for cafés, retail stores, salons, or e-commerce businesses.
Tyro is an Australian-owned payment processor and EFTPOS provider. It focuses on business banking and payment solutions and is known for:
EFTPOS terminals: Tap, chip, and PIN payments.
Banking integration: Payment deposits directly to your business account.
Merchant loans and financing: Flexible lending options for small businesses.
Transaction fees: Typically lower for high-volume merchants.
Customer support: 24/7 Australian-based assistance.
The main reason Australian businesses choose Tyro is its robust EFTPOS features, fast deposits, and business-focused banking services.
Square is a global POS and payment solution widely used in Australia. It provides hardware, software, and digital tools for small to medium businesses:
Mobile and countertop POS systems: Accept card payments via tablet, phone, or terminal.
Online store integration: Ideal for omnichannel sales.
Inventory & staff management: Track products, manage staff permissions, and generate reports.
Flexible pricing: Transparent fees for payments, subscriptions, and hardware.
Additional tools: Marketing, invoicing, and customer engagement features.
The main reason Australians choose Square is its ease of use, flexibility, and comprehensive suite of tools for both in-person and online sales.
| Feature | Tyro | Square |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | Australian-owned | Global company (US-based) |
| Ideal For | High-volume EFTPOS transactions, small-to-medium businesses | Small to medium businesses, omnichannel & online retailers |
| Payment Methods | EFTPOS, credit & debit card, contactless | EFTPOS, credit & debit card, contactless, online payments |
| Bank Integration | Direct to business account | Optional, via Square account & transfers |
| Fees | Lower per-transaction fees for volume | Fixed percentage + flat fee per transaction |
| Hardware | EFTPOS terminals | Mobile terminals, iPad POS, contactless readers |
| Additional Features | Business loans, deposit services | Inventory, marketing, invoicing, customer analytics |
| Support | 24/7 Australian-based | Online & phone support, global resources |
Choosing between Tyro and Square depends on your business size, transaction volume, and operational needs:
Assess Your Transaction Volume
High-volume retailers may benefit from Tyro’s lower EFTPOS fees.
Smaller businesses or startups might prefer Square’s flexible pricing.
Decide on Hardware Needs
Tyro: Standalone EFTPOS terminals.
Square: Mobile or tablet-based POS systems with optional accessories.
Consider Online Sales
Square integrates seamlessly with online stores.
Tyro is primarily in-person EFTPOS focused, though it supports some online options.
Examine Additional Features
Tyro: Business loans, fast deposit banking.
Square: Inventory management, marketing tools, invoicing, analytics.
Customer Support Preference
Tyro: Dedicated Australian support 24/7.
Square: Mix of online support, knowledge base, and phone assistance.
By evaluating these factors, Australians can choose the payment solution that best aligns with their business model, sales channels, and growth plans.
Both Tyro and Square have advantages depending on business needs:
Tyro Benefits
Faster settlement times directly to business accounts.
Lower EFTPOS fees for high-volume merchants.
Access to merchant loans for business growth.
Square Benefits
User-friendly POS software suitable for startups.
Seamless online and in-person sales integration.
Advanced reporting, inventory, and marketing tools.
Common use cases include cafés, retail stores, salons, gyms, restaurants, and e-commerce businesses.
Australians running home-based businesses or small retail stores can enhance operations and décor with House of Isabella:
Gallery Home: Stylish shelving, counters, and displays to complement POS systems.
Florabelle Collection: Compact furniture and storage solutions for small business spaces.
Zaffero: Modular counters and multifunctional desks for boutiques or studios.
Café Lighting & Living: Designer lighting for retail areas or point-of-sale counters.
House of Isabella Australia provides fast delivery Australia-wide, Afterpay & Zip, and East & West Coast warehouses, helping businesses create functional and stylish retail environments alongside Tyro or Square systems.
Here’s why these POS solutions are trending in 2025:
Contactless Payments: High demand for tap-and-go card transactions.
Integrated Inventory & Analytics: Businesses want insights into sales, staff, and stock.
Omnichannel Flexibility: Ability to sell online, in-store, and at pop-up events.
Mobile-Friendly Systems: Portable solutions for cafés, markets, and small retailers.
Transparent Pricing & Low Fees: Small businesses seek predictable and fair costs.
These trends reflect Australians’ focus on efficient, flexible, and technology-driven payment systems.
Practical tips for integrating Tyro or Square in your business:
Design POS Stations Thoughtfully: Place terminals for easy customer access without cluttering counters.
Complement Interiors: Match POS hardware with furniture and décor for cohesive style.
Consider Mobility: Use mobile POS devices for events, markets, or alfresco cafés.
Streamline Workflows: Train staff and integrate inventory/analytics tools to maximise efficiency.
Protect Hardware: Ensure terminals are secure and protected from spills or outdoor elements.
Following these tips ensures efficient, stylish, and user-friendly payment experiences for customers.
EFTPOS Australia
POS Systems Comparison
Contactless Payments
Small Business Payment Solutions
Online Payment Gateways
Business Banking Australia
Mentions of brands such as Tyro, Square, Florabelle, Gallery Home, Café Lighting & Living, Zaffero, and Emac & Lawton are included purely for descriptive and contextual purposes. House of Isabella Australia is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with these brands.
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