Quick Answer
Openbravo POS is the original, standalone, open-source Java desktop point-of-sale application, installed locally on a till, independent of any ERP. Openbravo WebPOS is the modern, browser-based point-of-sale module that ships as part of the Openbravo Commerce Suite, running inside the same cloud platform as inventory, CRM, and order management. If you're evaluating Openbravo for a new retail or restaurant deployment in 2026, you almost certainly want WebPOS.
What is Openbravo POS?
Openbravo POS (sometimes called "obPOS") began life as an independent open-source Java application, a standalone till program that could optionally sync with an Openbravo ERP backend. It's still available today as a free, community-driven project, distinct from Openbravo's commercial retail platform.
- Java-based desktop client, installed on each till machine
- Requires local installation, updates pushed manually per terminal
- Works well offline since it doesn't depend on a constant server connection
- Broad legacy hardware support: barcode scanners, ESC/POS and JavaPOS receipt printers, fiscal printers, cash drawers, magnetic card readers, and scales
- Free and open source, but no longer part of Openbravo's actively marketed commercial roadmap
What is Openbravo WebPOS?
Openbravo WebPOS is the checkout module of the modern Openbravo Commerce Suite, a cloud-based, unified-commerce platform built for multi-store, multi-channel retail and restaurant chains. It's fully web-based, meaning it runs in a browser on virtually any device.
- Runs in a browser, no local installation, no per-terminal software maintenance
- A new terminal can be activated in one or two minutes
- Centrally managed updates pushed from the server, with zero downtime in-store
- Touch-first, graphic interface designed so new staff need little to no formal training
- Built-in offline mode: caches a local database in the browser so sales continue during a connectivity drop, then syncs automatically
- Natively integrated with Openbravo's Order Management System (OMS), CRM & Clienteling, mobile inventory, and omnichannel fulfillment
- Supports Tap-to-Pay / SoftPOS on mobile devices
Side-by-Side
| Criteria | Openbravo POS (Legacy) | Openbravo WebPOS |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | Java desktop application | Browser-based web app |
| Installation | Manual, per terminal | None, open a URL |
| Updates | Manual per machine | Centralized, zero-downtime |
| Offline support | Native (local app) | Local browser cache with auto-sync |
| Multi-store / omnichannel | Not designed for this | Core strength |
| Mobile checkout / Tap-to-Pay | No | Yes |
| CRM & Clienteling integration | Limited/none | Native |
| Active commercial development | Community-maintained only | Actively developed by Openbravo |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you're running a single, simple shop and want a free, self-hosted till, Openbravo POS can still technically work, but you'll be maintaining an unsupported, aging Java application yourself. For any business planning to grow past one location, sell across multiple channels, or needing real-time inventory visibility, Openbravo WebPOS is the only forward-looking option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Openbravo POS still supported?
Openbravo POS is community-maintained open-source software. Openbravo the company focuses commercial development and support on the Commerce Suite, which includes WebPOS.
Can Openbravo WebPOS work without internet?
Yes. WebPOS maintains a local browser database so cashiers can keep selling during an outage; transactions sync automatically once reconnected.
Does Openbravo WebPOS require special hardware?
No. It runs on standard smartphones, tablets, or PCs with a browser, and integrates with common peripherals via standard protocols.
Which one does RAWN Technologies implement for clients?
RAWN Technologies implements and customizes Openbravo WebPOS as part of the Openbravo Commerce Suite, including configuration, integration, and technical training.
Need help deciding between Openbravo POS options or planning a WebPOS rollout across multiple stores? Contact RAWN Technologies for an implementation consultation.