If you're trying to connect your point-of-sale system to Klaviyo, you have several options. Each has pros and cons. Let's review the main approaches so you can choose what's best for your situation.
1. Native Klaviyo Integrations
What it is: Klaviyo offers native integrations for some POS systems, including Lightspeed Retail X. However, it's a basic one-way sync with limited features.
Pros: No-code setup, officially supported, no additional cost.
Cons: Basic one-way sync only, syncs on fixed schedules (hourly), no advanced filtering options, can't sync historical data easily, limited data points, no two-way sync, generic support.
Best for: Retailers who need a basic connection and don't need real-time sync, advanced controls, or two-way data flow.
2. Zapier
What it is: Generic automation platform that can connect Lightspeed X-Series to Klaviyo via workflows (Zaps).
Pros: Works with X-Series, no-code setup, flexible workflows.
Cons: Per-task pricing gets expensive, polling delays (not real-time), manual setup per workflow, no duplicate prevention, requires monitoring.
Best for: One-off integrations or low-volume stores where cost isn't a concern.
3. Alloy Automation
What it is: E-commerce-focused automation platform with prebuilt workflows for Shopify and marketing apps.
Pros: E-commerce focused, prebuilt workflows, more power than Zapier.
Cons: Still requires workflow design, can be complex, pricing can be high, not specifically built for retail POS data.
Best for: Agencies comfortable with workflow builders who need more power than Zapier.
4. Gather
What it is: Purpose-built integration tool specifically for retail data sync, especially Lightspeed to Klaviyo.
Pros: Real-time sync, works with all Lightspeed platforms, automatic duplicate prevention, retail-specific features, flat pricing, agency-friendly.
Cons: Newer platform (less established than Zapier), currently focused on Lightspeed (though expanding).
Best for: Agencies managing multiple retail clients, stores needing real-time sync, or anyone tired of maintaining Zapier workflows.
5. Custom API Integration
What it is: Building your own integration using Lightspeed and Klaviyo APIs.
Pros: Complete control, can be tailored exactly to your needs.
Cons: Requires developer time, ongoing maintenance, error handling, rate limiting, and monitoring all fall on you.
Best for: Large enterprises with dedicated tech teams and specific requirements that off-the-shelf tools can't meet.
Our Recommendation
For most agencies and retailers, we recommend Gather. It's purpose-built for this exact use case, offers real-time sync, handles edge cases automatically, and scales efficiently. If you're managing multiple clients or need reliability without maintenance, it's the best choice.
If you're just starting out with one store and don't mind manual setup, Zapier might work. But as you scale, the limitations become clear, and you'll likely wish you started with a purpose-built solution.