Choosing the right payment terminal can save your restaurant thousands of dollars a year. Here’s an honest comparison of the three most popular options in Australia.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Tyro | Square | Zeller |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Fee | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Transaction Fee | From 0.2% | 1.6% | 1.4% |
| Settlement | Next day | Next day | Same day |
| POS Integration | Excellent | Good (own POS) | Good |
| Contract | 3 years | No lock-in | No lock-in |
| Best For | High-volume restaurants | Small cafes | Mid-size venues |
Tyro — The Restaurant Specialist
Tyro has been the go-to payment provider for Australian hospitality for years. Their key advantage is deep POS integration — they work seamlessly with most major restaurant POS systems. Transaction fees are the lowest of the three, but you’re locked into a 3-year contract.
Square — The Flexible All-Rounder
Square is perfect for small cafes and pop-ups. No contracts, no monthly fees, and their own POS system is surprisingly capable. The downside? Higher transaction fees that add up quickly for high-volume venues.
Zeller — The New Challenger
Zeller has disrupted the market with same-day settlement and competitive fees. Their terminal is sleek and modern, and they offer a business account that can replace your traditional bank account.
Our Recommendation
For established restaurants doing $50K+/month: Tyro — the lower transaction fees will save you thousands annually.
For small cafes and new businesses: Square — no commitment, easy setup, and a solid ecosystem.
For cash flow-sensitive businesses: Zeller — same-day settlement is a game-changer.
Want personalised advice on payment solutions for your restaurant? Contact Beyond Growth for a free consultation.