Ready2Order
Founded in 2012 in Vienna, Ready2Order is a cloud-based POS specialist that focuses on cross-platform compatibility. It is designed to work on virtually any device, making it a favorite for small businesses that want to use their existing tablets or smartphones. In 2023, Ready2Order was acquired by the Italian payment giant Zucchetti Group, further strengthening its fiscal compliance expertise and payment integration across Europe. Their primary market is small-to-medium sized businesses.
Why we win
Why we lose
Features
Lightspeed’s inventory is more advanced, whilst R2O’s inventory is very basic (unit-based). We also offer Reporting & Insights.
Features
R2O offers a cashbook (Kassenbuch).
Offline reliability
Lightspeed’s server is much more robust for high-volume venues, whilst R2O is heavily dependent on a stable cloud connection.
Hardware flexibility
R2O runs on almost anything (Windows, Mac, Android, iOS). If a customer is strictly anti-Apple, R2O is easier.
Advanced kitchen flow
Lightspeed can handle coursing, timing, and multi-station KDS, whilst R2O is better suited for simple service (eg. cafés/bars).
Pricing
R2O is one of the cheapest cloud systems in the DACH region for a single terminal.
Design & UX
Modern & intuitive UI that requires minimal training, whilst R2O has an outdated look and feel.
Simplicity
R2O doesn’t need an extra Backoffice, everything can be done in the same environment.
Stronger integration ecosystem
180+ integrations across payments, delivery, loyalty, and more. R2O offers fewer external integrations.
Multi-location support
Lightspeed is more scalable than R2O and better suited for business with multiple locations.
“Ready2Order is much cheaper. I can start for under €80 a month, and I don’t need to buy expensive iPads.”
Ready2Order is a great entry-level tool, but it’s a consumer-grade solution, whilst Lightspeed is a professional hospitality platform. We use standardized hardware and pro-grade software that doesn’t just ‘take orders’; it optimizes your floor. Think of the subscription as an investment in your table turnover rate, not just a cost.
“The ‘readyGo’ handheld is exactly what we need. It’s an all-in-one device (printer, scanner, terminal) for less than €400.”
The readyGo is convenient for a coffee stand. But in a restaurant, a small smartphone-sized screen is difficult for waiters to navigate quickly when orders get complex.
Lightspeed’s Tap to Pay and mobile tablet setups provide a larger, more professional interface. If a device fails, you aren’t stuck; you can log in on any other device and keep going.
“Their setup is so fast. I can download the app and start selling today.”
A 5-minute setup usually means the system is very basic. If it’s that easy to set up, it likely lacks the depth you’ll need for inventory, recipe costing, or staff management as soon as you grow. Lightspeed takes a bit more time to set up because we consult with you to build a database that actually runs your business. We help you map your floor plan, set up your coursing, and automate your reporting so that from day one, you have a professional-grade engine, not just a digital calculator.
Category
Feature
Ready2Order
Lightspeed
Cloud-based
✅
✅
iOS
✅
✅
Advanced order
❌
✅
Mobile POS
✅
✅
Reservations
Reservation widget
✅ Very basic
Only from POS
✅ Native and via integration
KDS
KDS
❌
✅
Inventory
✅ Very basic
Only finished product, no recipes
✅
Loyalty
Loyalty / Punch cards
❌
✅
Hardware
Hardware shop
✅
✅
Support
24/7 support
❌
✅
Integrations
Third-party integrations
❌ Basic
28 available integrations
✅ Wide-ranged
180+ available integrations
Payment solution
✅ Basic
Not declared which provider
✅
Tap to Pay
❌
✅
POS License
From €35.90/month (per device)
Annual subscription
All basic functions included
Free support
When billed monthly: €46.90.
Add-Ons
Separate monthly fees
Gastro package €23.90 (table plan etc.)
Cashbook €13.90
Digital receipt €7.90
TSE package €15.90
More prices here.
Online Setup
One-time payment of €349
Assisted software setup and configuration
For 1 or 2 cash registers or smartphones
Configuration of printers and admin interface included.