Other kiosk purchase considerations

There is more to a kiosk purchase than just selecting the technology and understanding how it works. You also have to consider the physical characteristics of a kiosk and where to place it.

Enclosures
In some cases, kiosks are ready to operate right out of the box. But part of the appeal of a kiosk purchase is the ability to customize the enclosure. A kiosk vendor can paint it with your choice of colors or a design incorporating your corporate logo. You can even have your kiosk enclosure cut into complex designs or unique form factors.

Beyond aesthetics, there really isn't a huge difference between off-the-shelf and customized kiosk enclosures. You just have to take form factors into consideration: if you want to include specific components such as security devices or credit card readers, or a larger display, you need to make sure your custom enclosure can accommodate them. Also, it may be impossible to return or resell a kiosk with a custom enclosure if you decide you can't use it anymore.

Countertop vs. freestanding
A countertop kiosk, designed to sit near a retail point of sale, is a good solution for businesses that have limited floor space. The most prevalent example of a countertop kiosk is the digital photo kiosk, which allows customers to print professional quality photos with minimal staff assistance. Countertop kiosks can be prone to possible damage and even theft, particularly in unguarded areas.

While countertops cost roughly one-third the price of freestanding kiosks, freestanding models are more secure and sturdy. Their size and display make them best for unsupervised areas, since you can bolt them to the floor to deter theft. You also have more room for peripherals and additional space for display advertising and branding to attract customers. However, freestanding kiosks have a larger footprint and aren't as mobile as countertop kiosks.

Outdoor kiosks
If you intend to install your kiosk outdoors, you need to make a kiosk purchase that can withstand severe shifts in weather - sun, rain, snow, wind, and pollution can shorten a kiosk's lifespan. Outdoor kiosks should feature steel or aluminum enclosures, scratch-resistant touch screens, and temperature-controlled interiors. If possible, placing an outdoor kiosk in a partially enclosed area or underneath an awning can make it last much longer.

An outdoor kiosk purchase can cost considerably more than a standard kiosk — as much as double in some cases. The operating costs are about the same, but depending on how much you put into components and safety features, it may take a lot longer to see your ROI.