Self-service kiosks and POS systems enable customers to pay for their purchases. The biggest difference between the two systems is how they are operated. Business owners like you may find it challenging to determine which system best fits your workflows and goals.
Before you decide, you’ll need to consider factors such as efficiency, cost, customer experience, and customization options. Continue reading to learn about the differences between kiosks and POS systems.
Comparison of Self-service Kiosk and POS System
| Self-service Kiosk | POS System | |
| Mode of Operation | Used by the customer, requires minimal assistance | Fully operated by a cashier or employee |
| Accuracy and Efficiency | Reduces line wait times but may be prone to user errors and theft | Minimizes fraud and theft; user errors are fixed more quickly |
| Customer Experience | Has an intuitive interface and doesn’t require technical knowledge to operate | Good fit for customers who want assistance but may lead to miscommunication issues |
| Hardware | Larger touchscreen displays, barcode scanners, receipt printers, card terminals | More compact displays, customer-facing screens, barcode scanners, receipt printers, card terminals, AI cameras |
| Customization Options | Modular design | Modular design and offers AI-powered accessories |
| Integrations | Depends on the operating system and kiosk software | Depends on the operating system and POS software |
| Reliability and Security | Includes uptime guarantee and most kiosks have tamper-proof bodies | PCI-compliant and has locks on hardware; firewalls and network security are more complex |
| Cost | Higher initial costs for hardware | Lower initial costs but has higher labor costs |
Mode of Operation
Caption: Self-checkout kiosks enable customers to complete their in-store transactions on their own [Image: Elo Self-checkout Kiosk]
A point-of-sale (POS) system and a self-service kiosk both help customers complete purchases. However, the biggest difference between the two systems is how they operate.
Self-checkout Kiosk Mode of Operation
As the name suggests, a self-service kiosk is independently used by customers to check out their items. A kiosk is designed to have an intuitive interface so customers can easily operate it on their own. In just a few taps, the customer can scan and complete their purchase without needing assistance from staff.
Stores with self-checkout kiosks typically have a designated area for these machines. A setup like this enables your customers to go directly to a kiosk to complete their purchases. Furthermore, it reduces line wait times during checkout, which is one of the benefits of self-checkout kiosks.
Staff-operated POS System
On the other hand, a store’s staff operate its POS systems, which require more technical knowledge. Because of this, staff and cashiers are trained on how to use a POS system.
Businesses that only use POS systems need to allocate more staff for their checkout counters. You may also need more staff to operate your POS system if you process a large volume of transactions.
Accuracy and Efficiency
Kiosks and POS systems should improve your business’s workflows. Moreover, orders at checkout should be processed accurately and efficiently.
Workflows with a Kiosk Setup
A kiosk setup enables your customers to complete the end-to-end checkout process. From ordering an item to paying for it, customers can do all of this on their own.
Let’s take a look at how the self-checkout process usually goes in a clothing store. When a customer is ready to check out, they’ll approach the self-service machine. Then, they’ll scan each item using the barcode reader. Once they’re ready to complete their purchase, they’ll pay for their items using a card or QR code.
The ordering process in a quick-service restaurant is similar to the previous example. A customer will approach the self-ordering kiosk and tap in their order. In this step, they can customize their order and note any requests. Afterward, they’ll pay for their order using one of the available payment tools on the kiosk.
As you can see, there are many ways different types of businesses can incorporate kiosks into their operations. While kiosks improve queueing wait times, it also has some disadvantages. Theft is one of the most common problems with this setup. Some customers may incorrectly scan their items.
Business Processes with a POS System
You may already be familiar with a business’s processes with a POS system setup. When a customer is ready to pay for their items, they line up at a checkout counter. Then, a cashier will scan each item to record it in the system. The customer pays using a card terminal, cash, QR code, or other payment methods.
In some cases, the cashier also assists the customer in putting the items in a shopping bag. When adjustments need to be made, the cashier is trained to properly handle the situation. Because of this, item cancellations and other order changes are taken care of by the staff.
Situations like this may be more difficult using a kiosk since the customer doesn’t have technical knowledge about the machine. Similarly, a staff-run POS system prevents theft, which is a common issue with kiosks. However, some companies use AI in POS systems to detect fraud and suspicious activity during a customer’s self-checkout.
Customer Experience
For your business to succeed, you’ll need to ensure your customers have a good in-store experience. Customer experience includes line wait times, checkout process, staff interactions (if any), among other things.
Self-service Kiosk Experience
Self-service kiosks need to be accessible so your customers can easily check out their items. Ideally, there is a designated area for these machines. Self-checkout kiosks are ideal for customers who prefer minimal staff interaction.
As a customer-operated machine, a kiosk needs to have an easy-to-use interface. This is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing the right self-service kiosk for your business. Customers should be able to easily scan and pay for their items on their own.
Large touchscreen displays are commonly used for kiosks to improve readability. These also help customers quickly see the self-checkout kiosks because their hardware looks different from POS systems.
Expect some user errors with a kiosk setup. Even if your system is intuitive, a customer may need assistance during their checkout process. Because of this, you’ll need to ensure you have a staff member who can help out whenever this happens.
Staff-managed POS System Experience
Caption: Companies like Toast manufacture portable POS systems for tableside ordering [Image: Toast POS]
Customers who prefer an employee-assisted checkout experience benefit from a POS system setup. This is especially helpful if a customer needs help putting their items in a shopping bag or processing returns.
However, the quality of your staff’s customer service also affects a customer’s shopping experience. Well-trained staff improves your customers’ experience and prevents issues caused by miscommunication.
Customers may also experience long wait times in this setup. You’ll need to ensure your business has enough checkout counters and cashiers to minimize their queueing times.
On the other hand, restaurants can take tableside orders using compact POS devices. The top POS hardware manufacturers create portable card terminals for a smooth payment process.
Hardware of POS & Kiosk
Caption: Manufacturers like Bimi create kiosks with built-in hardware [Image: Bimi Self-checkout Kiosk]
Kiosks and POS systems should be made of high-quality hardware. Regardless of your choice, you’ll need to choose a system that passes international and regional safety and quality certifications.
Self-checkout Machine Hardware
Self-checkout machines function similarly to POS systems. Because of this, they use similar hardware such as:
- Barcode scanner
- Card terminal
- QR code reader
- Touchscreen display
Self-service kiosks typically have larger touchscreen displays than POS systems. This provides better readability and accessibility to the customers using the machine.
The best self-service kiosk manufacturers create capacitive touchscreen high-resolution displays with fast response times. These displays are also designed to provide a seamless user experience for your customers.
In addition, the top kiosk manufacturers also conduct thorough quality and safety checks on each device. They check the touchscreen displays, user experience, components, WiFi, power supply, and more.
POS System Components
A POS system also has a modular design like a self-service kiosk. However, POS systems typically have smaller displays and include a secondary customer-facing display.
In a kiosk setup, accessories and peripherals are directly attached to or built into the machine. On the other hand, a POS system has more separate accessories. For example, a cash drawer is separate from the barcode reader and receipt printer. The accessories are connected using ports and USB cables.
Customization Options
Caption: You can add product trays and other accessories to a self-checkout kiosk [Image: Sunmi K2 Kiosk]
Self-checkout machines and POS systems are both highly customizable. Their modular designs enable you to add accessories and peripherals to suit your business’s needs. These modifications also improve your customers’ in-store experience.
Flexible Kiosk Setup
The best kiosk manufacturers offer customizable machines. You can choose from a wide range of screen sizes so you can maximize your store space. For example, you can attach a 32” touchscreen kiosk to a floor stand. You can also add a receipt printer, barcode scanner, QR code reader, and RFID reader. Here are other examples of accessories you can attach to a kiosk:
- Status bar
- Pole light
- Pin pad
- Card terminal
Most manufacturers provide other mounting options. You can attach a kiosk to a wall or countertop using a VESA mount.
Customizable POS System Design
As mentioned above, POS systems use similar accessories and peripherals. As long as your system has I/O ports, you can customize it to improve your workflows. Cash drawers are commonly found in a POS system, especially in regions with fewer contactless payment options.
As POS system technology advances, AI is also being added to the machines. AI cameras can be attached to POS systems to enable their food recognition feature. Advanced capabilities like this are one of the benefits of an integrated AI POS system.
Integrations
Caption: Self-checkout machines can be programmed to recommend products to customers [Image: Zebra Interactive Kiosks]
At its core, a kiosk relies on a POS system to complete customer transactions. Because of this, most of the top POS software companies also provide kiosk software. Dedicated kiosk software allows you to customize the content the kiosk will show to your customers. However, your kiosk should also have POS functionalities.
Your kiosk or POS system should be tailored to your business’s operations. Depending on your machine’s operating system and software, you can connect it to apps to streamline operations. Common integrations include:
- Inventory management
- Customer relationship management
- Customer loyalty program
- Marketing (including email marketing)
- Enterprise resource planning
- Kitchen display system
You can further customize your app ecosystem using APIs. Some kiosk or POS software manufacturers also provide SDKs so you can configure apps to your needs. The level of customization you can achieve also depends on your machine’s operating system. The common operating systems of POS systems and kiosks are:
- Android
- Windows
- iPadOS
- iOS
Reliability and Security
Regardless of the system, your business needs to process transactions reliably. In addition, sensitive customer information should be protected from cyberattacks.
A self-checkout kiosk and POS system needs to comply with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). This ensures your customers’ credit card information is encrypted and not stored in the system.
Self-checkout Kiosk Uptime and Security
The good news is that self-service kiosks typically have an uptime guarantee of at least 90%. This ensures your kiosk performs reliably and has minimal downtime. Most kiosk providers monitor your system’s uptime to ensure they meet their uptime guarantee. They can also quickly resolve network outages from their end.
On the other hand, your kiosk should have I/O ports to support Ethernet and Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) capabilities. Ethernet and PoE ensure your system runs if there are electrical outages or network interruptions.
Kiosks also have security access features so you can control the information employees and customers can view. Similarly, most machines have tamper-proof mechanisms to protect the hardware and accessories. Since a customer inputs their information into a kiosk, it reduces the number of people who have access to it.
As mentioned above, you’ll need to ensure a kiosk’s card reader is PCI-compliant. Some businesses also enable customers to sign up for rewards programs and marketing emails. Your kiosk should have security measures to protect sensitive customer data.
POS System Reliability and Security
POS systems should also be PCI-compliant. Aside from this, hardware such as cash drawers has locks to prevent theft.
Just like kiosks, POS systems have customized security levels. For example, managers need to approve item cancellations during checkout as an additional security measure.
POS systems also have Ethernet and PoE capabilities to prevent system downtime. LAN capabilities also help keep sensitive customer data within your local network. Firewalls and other network security measures also add another layer of protection.
Cost
Self-service machines and POS systems are an investment. You’ll need to consider the initial and ongoing costs when choosing between a kiosk and POS system.
You’ll also need to consider a system’s maintenance costs. With their modular designs, ensure your machine’s parts are easily replaceable. Product warranties also help prolong the lifespan of your kiosk or POS system. If you want to extend its duration, you’ll need to pay an additional fee.
Self-service Kiosk Cost
Self-service kiosks have higher initial costs than POS systems. Their hardware (touchscreen display, machine, and other components) is more expensive. You may need to purchase card terminals and other accessories if they’re not included with your kiosk. You’ll need to consider installation costs, especially if you’re deploying multiple kiosks at once.
While some kiosks already include their own software, you’ll need a software subscription. You may also need to pay for other software to connect your system to. If you connect your kiosk to a POS system or payment gateway, you’ll also need to pay for transaction fees.
While a kiosk’s initial costs are higher, you can lower labor costs in the long run. You’ll need minimal staff assistance for kiosks so they can focus on other tasks.
However, most businesses use a hybrid setup with both kiosks and POS systems. Kiosks are usually deployed to provide customers with self-service options. You’ll need to identify whether your business can fully rely on kiosks or if you need a hybrid setup.
POS System Cost
POS systems have less expensive hardware than kiosks. In fact, some POS systems allow you to process payments using tablets or smartphones. Generally, they are easier to set up. However, more complex systems may need professional assistance.
Similar to kiosks, POS systems have recurring software subscription costs. If you plan to build APIs and other system configurations, this may also increase your initial expenses. POS systems also have recurring transaction fees.
While it has lower initial costs, POS systems require more labor. You need employees to operate checkout counters and assist customers with their needs.
The Right System for Your Business and Your Customers
Your customers’ in-store experience is the biggest factor that should guide you in choosing between a kiosk and POS system. Kiosks are a better fit if your customers prefer minimal staff interactions. A hybrid setup with both kiosks and POS systems is ideal if you want to provide more checkout options.
If you’re looking for self-checkout kiosks or POS systems designed for your business’s needs, Bimi is here to help. It has over 15 years of expertise in manufacturing machines with high-quality and thoroughly tested components. Bimi offers kiosks and POS systems that run on Windows, Android, or Linux to suit your operations. For more information, contact Bimi today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the main difference between kiosks and POS systems?
The biggest difference between kiosks and POS systems is how they’re used. Kiosks are operated by customers and require minimal staff assistance. On the other hand, POS systems are operated by the store’s cashiers or employees.
Kiosks are designed for customers who want to shop and check out their purchases on their own. Meanwhile, POS systems are ideal for customers who don’t mind interacting with staff. A POS setup is also better for those who need staff assistance.
2. Does a POS system have lower initial costs than kiosks?
Yes, a POS system has lower initial costs than kiosks. It has less expensive hardware so it’s easier to get started with a POS system. Business owners with smartphones or tablets can easily start processing payments using a POS system.
3. Can you customize kiosks and POS systems to suit your business’s needs?
Yes, you can customize kiosks and POS systems to suit your business’s needs. Both systems use similar hardware such as:
- Receipt printers
- Barcode scanners
- Card terminals
- QR code readers
However, kiosks provide more flexibility in the accessories you can attach to them. You can add status lights and change where they’re mounted. Meanwhile, you can add AI cameras to some POS systems.
4. Do kiosks and POS systems protect sensitive customer information?
Yes, kiosks and POS systems protect sensitive customer information. Regardless of the system, PCI compliance standards should be implemented to protect customer information. This is especially true if the kiosk or POS system completes transactions using credit cards.
Additional layers of security, such as firewalls, can be implemented on POS systems. Business owners with kiosks can also explore this option.
5. Which system reduces line wait times?
Self-service kiosks reduce line wait times because customers can complete their purchases on their own. A kiosk setup provides designated areas where customers directly have access to the self-checkout machines.
A POS system requires customers to fall in line so the cashier can ring up their purchases. However, this often leads to long wait times.
6. Do kiosks have more intuitive user interfaces than POS systems?
Yes, kiosks have more intuitive user interfaces than POS systems. Kiosks are designed to be easy to use without any technical knowledge of the system. This ensures customers can use the kiosk without needing additional assistance.
On the other hand, POS systems are more complex. Because of this, cashiers and store employees are trained on how to use the system.
7. Which system is easier to maintain?
Kiosks and POS systems both have a modular design. This helps business owners like you to easily maintain them. Most kiosks include mechanisms so you can open the machine’s body and replace or repair specific components. On the other hand, POS systems also have a similar setup. If you need to replace hardware, you can easily do so.
Product warranties are also helpful for this. You can coordinate with the POS system or kiosk provider during the warranty period to immediately fix any issues.
8. Do you need many employees to assist customers using kiosks?
No, you don’t need many employees to assist customers using kiosks. One of the benefits of self-service kiosks is that it reduces your labor costs. Because customers operate the machines themselves, you’ll most likely only need one or two employees to assist them.
For example, a customer might have scanned a product incorrectly. An employee can assist them and fix the issue.
9. Do kiosks and POS systems have minimal downtime?
Yes, kiosks and POS systems have minimal downtime. However, this also depends on the kiosk or POS system provider.
Most kiosk companies have uptime guarantees and monitor system uptime. If there is a network outage on their end, they can immediately address the issue.
However, both kiosks and POS systems have Ethernet and PoE capabilities to prevent downtime. These methods ensure the systems function reliably during network interruptions.
10. Can you connect kiosks and POS systems to other software?
Yes, you can connect kiosks and POS systems to other software. While some kiosks have their own software, you still need to connect them to POS software to process payments.
The programs you can connect to these systems depend on the machine’s operating system. You’ll need to check an app’s compatibility or choose one that can connect to your current ecosystem. For more complex integrations, you can use APIs to tailor the system to your operations.
English 
Spanish 
Arabic 
Russian 
