Choosing the right point of sale system is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when opening a smoke shop. It affects everything from compliance and inventory accuracy to checkout speed and profit margins. Yet many new owners rush through the process and end up with generic software that can’t handle tobacco-specific needs.
If your POS doesn’t support age verification, carton and pack tracking, or cigar labeling, you risk fines, stock discrepancies, and missed sales. And if you lock yourself into a pricey contract that charges extra for every feature, your operating costs can spiral quickly.
To help you make a confident, informed choice, this guide breaks down what to look for in a smoke shop POS system and highlights five strong providers worth considering.
What Matters Most in Smoke Shop POS Software
Before comparing systems, it’s essential to know what features truly matter for tobacco retailers:
Industry-specific capabilities
A smoke shop POS should do far more than ring up purchases. Look for built-in tools such as ID scanning for age verification, pack-to-carton inventory tracking, tobacco scan data reporting, and support for high-risk payments.
Transparent pricing
Some providers appear inexpensive at first glance but charge extra for essentials like advanced inventory tools or loyalty programs. Choose a provider that clearly outlines all costs so you know exactly what you’re committing to.
Reliable, accessible support
Running a smoke shop comes with unique challenges. A strong POS partner offers responsive support across multiple channels and includes that help in your monthly fees.
Once you know the essentials, you can start narrowing down your options. Below are five systems frequently chosen by smoke shop owners, with an honest look at their strengths and weaknesses.
5. Clover
Clover appeals to many new shop owners thanks to its simple interface and attractive hardware. It’s widely available and easy to set up.
Pros
- Minimal training required
- Multiple hardware setups available
- Clean product organization tools
Cons
- Reports of unstable merchant accounts
- Lacks tobacco-specific features out of the box
- Customer support can be inconsistent
Pricing
Plans run from $16 to $240 per month on a 36-month term, with processing fees around 2.5% + 10¢.
4. National Retail Solutions (NRS)
NRS offers a straightforward system that’s popular among small retailers looking for a low-barrier starting point.
Pros
- Easy setup and intuitive software
- Mobile app for remote store monitoring
- Access to a built-in coupon network
Cons
- Key features require paid add-ons
- Customer display shows ads unless you pay to disable them
- Support hours aren’t ideal for late-night shops
Pricing
Hardware starts at $599, with software plans between $19.95 and $49.95 per month. Processing fees are 2.49% + 10¢.
3. KORONA POS
KORONA specializes in liquor and tobacco retailers, offering more advanced features than many generic POS systems.
Pros
- Strong inventory and role-based tools
- Built-in loyalty and marketing options
- Free software trial
Cons
- Interface can feel complex for first-time users
- Many essential features require upgrades
Pricing
Subscription pricing begins at $59 per month, but most smoke shops will need the $69 tier plus optional add-ons. Hardware and processing rates vary by quote.
2. FtX POS
FtX provides a full system designed with tobacco retailers in mind, offering integrated sales, inventory, and e-commerce tools.
Pros
- Tobacco scan data and age verification included
- Supports online ordering integrations
- Handheld scanners simplify inventory counts
Cons
- Limited third-party reviews
- Higher starting cost than similar options
- Automated inventory tools locked behind the Enterprise tier
Pricing
Monthly plans run from $99 to $179, with additional fees for certain features. Processing rates are typically 2.59% + 10¢.
1. Cigars POS
Cigars POS stands out as a purpose-built solution created specifically for smoke shops. It’s equipped to handle tobacco compliance, high-risk payments, complex inventory, and the fast-paced nature of the industry.
Pros
- Designed exclusively for tobacco retailers
- Multiple payment processing options, including dual pricing
- Round-the-clock support from smoke-shop specialists
- Integrated high-risk payment processing for CBD, delta-8, and more
Cons
- More advanced features mean a learning curve
- Not the cheapest option, but offers strong long-term value
Pricing
Cigars POS provides flexible plans without contracts or hidden fees. Pricing depends on your choice of hardware, software, and processing options.
Powering Your Smoke Shop’s Success
A strong POS does more than handle transactions — it helps you stay compliant, maintain accurate inventory, and keep your daily operations running smoothly. Whether you choose a simple general retail system or a specialized tobacco-focused solution, the right choice sets the foundation for a profitable and efficient shop.
