Separate four different costs
Software subscriptions, platform commissions, payment processing and POS/API fees are distinct charges. “Commission-free” does not mean that card processing is included or that your guests pay no fee. Ask who pays each charge and what sales amount it applies to.
Use your own volume
Multiply direct pickup orders by average order value. Calculate percentage fees on that volume and fixed transaction fees on the order count. Add monthly account, payout and integration costs. Include tax and tips in the processing base when your provider does.
Compare the whole offer
A wider platform may include a website, marketing, loyalty, delivery or staffed support. A narrower pickup layer should be evaluated against the features your restaurant actually needs, rather than treated as equivalent to every larger package.
Understand the planned $29 offer
Switch Labs Order targets $29 per location per month, unlimited direct pickup orders and a $0 per-order platform fee. Processing and any POS/provider charges are extra. These are planned commercial terms, subject to launch confirmation, not a currently purchasable plan.
Get the final terms in writing
Ask about refunds, chargebacks, payout timing, international cards, API order fees and termination. Restaurants generally own food and refund decisions; dispute liability depends on the final payment configuration and contract. No universal chargeback coverage is promised here.