What is the difference between ATM and POS? | FAVORPOS Guide

2025-04-08
ATMs (Automated Teller Machines) and POS (Point of Sale) systems, while both handling financial transactions, serve distinct purposes. ATMs primarily dispense cash and allow balance inquiries, while POS systems process sales transactions in various settings. Key differences lie in their functionalities, transaction types, and network integrations. ATMs are typically connected to a bank's network, focusing on cash transactions. In contrast, POS systems process diverse payment methods—cards, mobile wallets, etc.—and integrate with inventory management and other business software. While both utilize secure transaction processing, their applications differ significantly. Understanding these distinctions is vital for professionals in the payments industry.

What's the Difference Between ATM and POS? | FAVORPOS

Core Functional Differences Between ATMs and POS Systems

  • ATM (Automated Teller Machine): Primarily designed for cash dispensing, balance inquiries, and limited fund transfers. Focuses on cash-based transactions within a bank's network.
  • POS (Point of Sale) System: Processes a broader range of transactions including sales, returns, and payments (credit/debit cards, mobile wallets, etc.). Integrates with inventory, customer relationship management (CRM), and other business applications.

Transaction Types and Processing

  • ATMs: Limited transaction types, mainly cash withdrawals, deposits, and balance checks. Relies heavily on bank networks for authorization and clearing.
  • POS: Supports diverse payment types and transaction scenarios, including sales, refunds, loyalty programs, and gift card transactions. Integrates with various payment gateways and processors.

Network Integration and Security

  • ATMs: Primarily connected to a bank's internal network and interbank networks (e.g., SWIFT). Security focuses on cash handling and fraud prevention in ATM-specific contexts.
  • POS: Connects to various payment processors (e.g., Visa, Mastercard, PayPal) and often integrates with internet-based systems for real-time transaction processing. Security protocols encompass various payment card industry (PCI DSS) standards and data encryption methods. ((https://www.pcisecuritystandards.org/))

Hardware and Software Components

  • ATMs: Specialized hardware including cash dispensers, card readers, and secure communication modules. Software focuses on cash management, transaction processing, and security protocols specific to ATM operations.
  • POS: Ranges from basic hardware configurations (cash register, card reader) to complex systems with integrated peripherals (barcode scanners, receipt printers, etc.). Software caters to diverse business needs including sales tracking, inventory management, and customer data analysis.

Typical Deployment Locations

  • ATMs: Typically located in banks, retail locations, and public spaces.
  • POS: Deployed across various business sectors—retail, restaurants, healthcare, etc.

Key Differences Summarized

Feature ATM POS System
Primary Function Cash dispensing, balance inquiry Sales processing, payment processing
Transaction Types Limited to cash transactions Diverse payment methods and sales
Network Primarily bank networks Various payment gateways and processors
Integration Limited business integration Extensive business application integration

While both ATMs and POS systems play crucial roles in the financial technology landscape, their functionalities, target audiences, and operational scopes differ significantly. Understanding these distinctions is essential for professionals navigating the complexities of the payments industry.

Tags
barcode scanner price checker
barcode scanner price checker
pos terminal with printer
pos terminal with printer
thermal printer mini
thermal printer mini
pos cash register for small business
pos cash register for small business
pos tablet stand
pos tablet stand
pos touch screen monitors
pos touch screen monitors
Recommended for you
All in One Pos Vendor

What If Your POS Could Be as Stylish as Your Products?

What If Your POS Could Be as Stylish as Your Products?
China Supplier Price Checker for Toy Store

Is Your Retail Store Ready for an 8-Inch Price Checker That Delivers Speed and Convenience?

Is Your Retail Store Ready for an 8-Inch Price Checker That Delivers Speed and Convenience?
dual screen 15 inch pos systems factory

What Makes This 15-Inch Dual-Screen POS Ideal for Retail Stores?

What Makes This 15-Inch Dual-Screen POS Ideal for Retail Stores?
beauty salon pos factory

Is Your Beauty Store Using the Right POS System?

Is Your Beauty Store Using the Right POS System?
price checekr for drinks shops

Smart, Compact, and Versatile: The 10.1-Inch Price Checker That Fits Anywhere

Smart, Compact, and Versatile: The 10.1-Inch Price Checker That Fits Anywhere
Prdoucts Categories
FAQ
For Solutions Retail
Do you provide customized POS design services?

Yes, as an OEM/ODM manufacturer, we provide fully customized POS design services. Whether it is hardware appearance design or function integration, we can tailor it according to your brand needs.

For Bakeries
What payment methods are supported?

Our POS system accepts a variety of payment methods, including credit cards, mobile wallets, and contactless payments.

For Entertainment & Events
Does the system support the management of multiple venues or locations?

Yes, our system supports multi-location management, allowing you to monitor and manage sales and inventory for all venues from a centralized dashboard.

For ODM
What is the process of ODM service?

Our ODM service process includes the following steps:
1. Preliminary consultation: Discuss project goals, needs and vision with customers.
2. Design and development: Develop and confirm product design.
3. Prototyping & Testing: Prototypes are made, tested and designs are optimized.
4. Production: Carry out mass production, following quality standards and production schedules.
5. Logistics & Delivery: Manage logistics to ensure that products are delivered on time.
6. Post-production Support: Provide technical support and maintenance services.

For Healthcare
Can the POS system be integrated with our existing EHR/EMR system?

Absolutely. Our POS solution is able to integrate with multiple electronic health record (EHR) and electronic medical record (EMR) systems to streamline operational processes.

You may also like
android handheld pos terminal

Android Mobile POS Handheld POS with Printer WiFi NFC Optional Manufacturer

Android Mobile POS Handheld Device, a versatile solution designed for on-the-go transactions. This compact POS system features a built-in printer for instant receipt printing and offers optional Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity for seamless payment processing. Perfect for retail and hospitality environments, it allows staff to assist customers anywhere in the store or at events. With its user-friendly interface and durable design, this handheld POS is an essential tool for enhancing customer service and streamlining operations. 

Android Mobile POS Handheld POS with Printer WiFi NFC Optional Manufacturer
super market price checker

10 inch Price Checker Device Supplier Barcode Scanner for Sale Price Check for Supermarket

FAVORPOS offers 10 inch Price Checker Device, perfect for supermarkets. This wall mounted 10 inch touch screen barcode scanner ensures fast, accurate price checks, enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency. Durable, user-friendly, and perfect for high-traffic retail environments. 

10 inch Price Checker Device Supplier Barcode Scanner for Sale Price Check for Supermarket
price checking machine

8 inch Touchscreen Price Checker Barcode Scanner Wifi Optional Android Win 10

FAVORPOS Touchscreen Price Checker offers a user-friendly interface, perfect for retail environments. With optional Wi-Fi connectivity, this device runs on Android or Windows, providing flexibility and ease of use. The integrated barcode scanner allows for quick price verification, enhancing the shopping experience for customers. Compact and efficient, it's designed to streamline operations and improve checkout speed.

8 inch Touchscreen Price Checker Barcode Scanner Wifi Optional Android Win 10
windows price checker

Metal 11.6 inch Price Scanner Machine Android Windows with Wifi Supplier

FAVORPOS Metal 11.6-inch Price Scanner Machine, designed for durability and efficiency in retail environments. This versatile device operates on both Android and Windows, providing seamless functionality for various applications. With built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, it allows for quick access to pricing data and updates. The 11.6'' display ensures clear visibility for easy operation, making it perfect for price checking and inventory management. Enhance your retail experience with this reliable and robust price scanner from a trusted supplier!

Metal 11.6 inch Price Scanner Machine Android Windows with Wifi Supplier

Get in touch

Interested in becoming a POS system dealer? Contact us for more information and start the process of joining our dealer network.

We look forward to working with you to expand the market together.

Please enter your name not exceed 100 characters
The email format is not correct or exceed 100 characters, Please reenter!
Please enter a valid phone number!
Please enter your field_486 not exceed 150 characters
Please enter your content not exceed 500 characters
Contact customer service

How can we help?

Hi,

If you are interested in our products / engineered customized solutions or have any doubts, please be sure to let us know so that we can help you better.

×
Please enter your name not exceed 100 characters
The email format is not correct or exceed 100 characters, Please reenter!
Please enter a valid phone number!
Please enter your field_486 not exceed 150 characters
Please enter your content not exceed 500 characters