Overview
Lemon POS is an open-source (GPL) point-of-sale software solution specifically engineered for small to mid-sized retailers who require high performance and data sovereignty. Built using C++ and the Qt framework, its architecture is designed to operate on Linux-based systems, offering a robust multi-terminal environment synchronized through a central MySQL or MariaDB database. In the 2026 landscape, Lemon POS remains a preferred choice for organizations prioritizing 'Offline-First' resilience and local data ownership over cloud-dependent SaaS models. It provides a comprehensive suite of tools for inventory management, barcode scanning, and customizable reporting. Its technical modularity allows architects to build custom data pipelines from its SQL schema into modern AI-driven analytics engines. While it lacks native cloud features, its stability on legacy hardware and its ability to function in bandwidth-constrained environments make it a critical asset for niche retail operations, pop-up stores, and cost-conscious infrastructure. The system supports ESC/POS thermal printing standards and integrates seamlessly with common hardware via standard Linux drivers, ensuring long-term hardware compatibility without vendor lock-in.