What Is Clover?
Clover is a POS system and payment processing platform developed by Fiserv (formerly First Data). In Canada, Clover is available through several distribution channels including banks, resellers, and directly. The system runs Android and features an open app marketplace where you can add specialized functionality.
Clover Hardware for Canadian Merchants
| Device | Price (CAD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Clover Go | ~$99 | Mobile, low volume |
| Clover Mini | ~$599 | Small retail, countertop |
| Clover Station Solo | ~$999 | Retail, full POS setup |
| Clover Station Duo | ~$1,499 | Retail with customer-facing display |
| Clover Flex | ~$649 | Portable, tableside |
| Clover Kiosk | ~$1,999 | Self-service |
All Clover hardware supports Interac debit (tap, chip, swipe), Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
Clover Processing Fees in Canada
Clover's processing fees in Canada depend on your plan and the reseller you purchase through. Typical rates:
- In-person: 2.3% + $0.10 per transaction
- Online/keyed: 3.5% + $0.10 per transaction
- Monthly software fee: $9.95–$39.95/month depending on plan
Important: Clover devices are locked to specific processors — you can't switch processors without replacing your hardware. This is a significant lock-in consideration.
Clover App Market
Clover's most distinctive feature is its App Market — an ecosystem of third-party apps that extend Clover's functionality:
- Loyalty programs (Perka, Stamp Me)
- Online ordering (OrderMark, Bopple)
- Accounting integrations (QuickBooks, Xero)
- Employee management and scheduling
- Advanced inventory management
- Customer feedback collection
- Gift card programs
Most apps cost $5–$30/month each, which can add up. Budget carefully before committing to Clover if you plan to use multiple apps.
Clover vs. Square — Which Should You Choose?
| Feature | Clover | Square |
|---|---|---|
| Hardware cost | Higher ($599–$1,499) | Lower ($0–$799) |
| Processing rate | 2.3% + $0.10 | 2.6% |
| Monthly fee | $9.95–$39.95 | $0–$150 |
| App ecosystem | Extensive | Good |
| Restaurant features | Good | Excellent |
| Processor lock-in | Yes — hardware tied to processor | No |
| Canadian support | Limited | Better |
✅ Pros
- Extensive app marketplace
- Strong, durable hardware
- Flexible for many business types
- In-person rate (2.3%) beats Square (2.6%)
- Good loyalty and gift card features
- Self-service kiosk option
❌ Cons
- High hardware upfront cost
- Processor lock-in (hardware-specific)
- Monthly software fee required
- Opaque pricing — rates vary by reseller
- Weaker Canadian-specific support
- Apps add cost quickly
Who Should Choose Clover in Canada?
- Retail businesses needing extensive customization via apps
- Businesses wanting a self-service kiosk option
- Larger retailers needing multi-register setups
- Businesses already in the Fiserv/First Data ecosystem
Our Verdict
Clover earns 7.5/10. The app ecosystem and hardware quality are impressive, but the processor lock-in and higher costs make it a riskier choice than Square or Lightspeed. If you need Clover's specific app functionality, it's worth it — but go in with eyes open about the total cost of ownership.