Self-service kiosks have become the norm in 2025. From ordering at quick-service restaurants to checking in at hotels, these interactive kiosks can now handle countless daily transactions across industries. This technology has completely changed the way we interact with services and has become a form of technology that has been standardised and is expected by customers.
Whether you are trying to better understand this technology or researching options for your business, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about self-service kiosks and answer your frequently asked questions.
Not have enough time to read the full guide? Jump to our FAQ section.
What are Self-Service Kiosks?
We won’t delve into this too much, as this technology is seen so often in today’s world, but essentially, self-service kiosks are interactive terminals that allow customers to perform transactions or access information themselves.
These self-service solutions typically feature touchscreens and payment processing capabilities, but can also include items such as barcode scanners, printers and more. The terminal capabilities are typically customised to match the business’s needs.
The creation of this technology has transformed industries, meaning that customers can typically complete transactions without direct assistance from a staff member, freeing up employees to carry out other tasks (just one of the benefits we will discuss further in the next section).
Key Advantages of Self-Service Touch-Screen Kiosks
Reduced Labour Requirements
When implementing self-service kiosks for business, it can reduce the number of required human resources you need for transactions. Touch screen kiosks have the ability to handle routine transactions that would have previously required staff time, allowing businesses to redeploy their staff to more complex tasks.
Freeing staff from the ordering process also paves the way for improved operational efficiency. For example, in a fast food restaurant, the use of kiosk systems allows for more staff to be placed in the kitchen preparing and packing orders.
Improved Order Accuracy
Self-service eliminates miscommunication between customers and staff, reducing order errors and improving satisfaction. A QSR Magazine study found that 74% of quick-service restaurant operators reported improved order accuracy with kiosks. When customers give their order or information to a human staff member, mistakes can happen from time to time, whether something is misheard or even misunderstood.
Allowing the customer to self-complete a transaction reduces this significantly as it gives them more time, further access to information and allows them to do a final visual review of their order before checking out.
Increased Revenue
Since customers started using kiosks to place orders, it has removed the barriers to automated upselling, directly affecting your revenue.
Where previously employees would need to remember to upsell on a purchase, a self-service kiosk will now do this automatically, recommending to customers promotional items or other items similar to or that are often purchased with things already in their basket.
Improved Customer Satisfaction
Self-service has become the preferred method of making a purchase in most Western countries. While Gen Z, Millennials and Gen X consumers are leading the way, Baby Boomers are also starting to follow suit.
A survey cited in Kiosk Marketplace states that 84% of Americans like using a self-service checkout, with 66% stating they would choose an interactive kiosk system over a manned checkout.
Well-designed kiosks reduce wait times, provide 24/7 availability, and offer consistent service quality. Customers can move at their own pace without feeling rushed, giving them a better user experience.
Market Sectors That Often Use Digital Kiosks
Self-Service Kiosks for Quick-Service Restaurants
One of the most popular sectors to adopt self-service kiosk systems is the QSR industry. These kiosks handle food information, ordering, product customisation, and payment processing.
Self-Check-In Kiosks for Hospitality and Healthcare
Often common in hotels and airports, these types of check-in terminals usually require guests to input information. They will streamline the check-in process and, in the case of airports, will print items such as boarding passes, scan in room keys at hotels, or, in the case of healthcare, allow patients to check in when they arrive for appointments.
A recent survey found that 70% of American travellers now prefer to skip hotel front desks and opt for self-check-in kiosks instead.
Ticketing and Payment Kiosks in the Public and Private Sectors
Frequently used in transportation hubs, entertainment venues, and government buildings, these specialised units handle ticket purchases, bill payments, and financial transactions.
These self-service kiosks are normally key to reducing wait times, speeding up transactions and enhancing customer convenience.
Configuration Options
Self-service kiosks come in three main configurations, each designed to suit different environments and customer needs. Understanding these options will help you select the perfect fit for your business.
Floorstanding Kiosks
These standalone units are ideal when you have generous floor space and want maximum visibility. Floorstanding kiosks command attention and work exceptionally well in high-traffic areas like quick-service restaurants, retail stores, and shopping centres. Their prominent positioning makes them easy for customers to spot and approach, while their sturdy base provides stability for heavy usage.
Countertop Kiosks
Compact and convenient, countertop kiosks integrate seamlessly into existing service areas. They’re particularly effective in environments where customers need workspace for documents or personal items during their interaction. Hotel reception desks, bank branches, and medical offices frequently choose this configuration because it allows staff to assist customers while maintaining the self-service option.
Wall-Mounted Kiosks
When space is at a premium, wall-mounted kiosks deliver full functionality without compromising your floor plan. These sleek units blend into your environment while providing easy access for customers. They’re perfect for narrow corridors, small retail spaces, or areas where maintaining clear walkways is essential.
If you need further help in deciding which configuration will be best suited for your environment, get in touch with our friendly team.
Costs of a Self-Service Kiosk
To give you a basic idea of what the initial investment costs are for a self-service kiosk, you are looking at around £1,700 for a 21″ wall mount or countertop unit and around £2,000 for a 21″ floorstanding unit.
You will then also need to account for any additional components that you may need, if these are not already included in the original model.
To get a more accurate idea of the cost of self-service kiosks for your business, contact us today.
Some Quick FAQ’s to Wrap Up the Guide
How to buy a self-service kiosk?
Start by defining your requirements, including the intended use, location constraints, and essential features like payment processing or printing capabilities. Research reputable suppliers and request detailed quotes that include hardware, software, installation, and ongoing support costs. Compare specifications, warranty terms, and customer reviews before making your decision.
Finally, ensure you understand the maintenance requirements and support options to keep your kiosk running smoothly long-term.
How much does a self-service kiosk cost?
Self-service kiosk pricing varies based on configuration, screen size, hardware specifications, and software requirements. Our standard 21″ kiosks start from £1,700 for wall-mounted and countertop units, and £2,000 for floorstanding units. Costs increase with larger screens and additional hardware.
Since every business has unique needs, we recommend contacting our team for a personalised quote that includes all costs upfront.
What is the best self-service kiosk?
The best self-service kiosk depends on your specific business needs, environment, and budget, but LamasaTech’s range consistently stands out for its combination of sleek design, robust functionality, and versatility across industries. Our kiosks are engineered to enhance customer experience while effectively reducing queue times and operational costs.
With options spanning floorstanding, countertop, and wall-mounted configurations, LamasaTech kiosks adapt to diverse environments from quick-service restaurants to healthcare facilities.
How to choose a self-service kiosk?
Choosing the right self-service kiosk starts with assessing your space constraints, then identifying the specific functions required, such as payment processing, receipt printing, or document scanning. Consider your customer demographics and typical usage patterns to select an appropriate screen size, while ensuring the hardware can withstand your expected traffic volume.
Where to buy self-service kiosks?
Self-service kiosks are available from specialised manufacturers, technology distributors, and system integrators, but choosing the right supplier is crucial for ensuring quality, reliability, and ongoing support.
LamasaTech stands out as a leading provider offering comprehensive self-service kiosk solutions with expertise across multiple industries.
How to maintain a digital kiosk?
Digital kiosk maintenance involves both regular physical upkeep and software management to ensure optimal performance. Clean the touchscreen regularly with appropriate non-abrasive cleaners to maintain responsiveness and appearance, while checking for physical damage or loose connections. Finally, perform regular software updates and system health checks.
