If you’re researching how much a self-order kiosk costs, you’ve probably realized it’s not just a trend — it’s a real necessity for restaurants looking to speed up service, save on staff, and reduce customer wait times.
But of course, the main question is: what’s the actual price? Is it better to rent or to buy? Is maintenance included? Are there hidden monthly fees?
These are common — and totally valid — questions. No one wants to invest blindly. Especially in the food business, where every dollar needs to generate return.
The good news? Today, you’ll find flexible and affordable options. From compact models with basic touchscreens to advanced kiosks with full software, printers, card readers, and management panels.
And here, we get straight to the point: the real prices, what’s included, the pros and cons of buying vs renting — and most importantly, whether it’s worth it for your restaurant.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this article:
Buy or Rent? What’s the Actual Price of a Self-Order Kiosk?
| Brand | Starting Price | Trustpilot Rating | Region |
|---|---|---|---|
| Square | $149 hardware $50/mo software |
⭐ 4.3 / 5 | 🇺🇸 🇨🇦 🇬🇧 |
| 360SPB | From $1,079 | ⭐ 4.6 / 5 | 🌐 |
| Toast | Custom pricing | ⭐ 3.1 / 5 | 🇺🇸 |
| Revel Systems | From $99/mo (Hardware extra) |
⭐ 1.2 / 5 | 🇺🇸 🇬🇧 |
| Clover | $3,499 + $34.95/mo software | ⭐ 2.7 / 5 | 🇺🇸 🇨🇦 🇬🇧 |
| TouchBistro | Custom quote | ⭐ 3.1 / 5 | 🇺🇸 🇨🇦 🇬🇧 |
| GRUBBRR | From $2,000 | ⭐ None | 🇺🇸 |
| SOKIOSK | Custom quote | ⭐ None | 🇬🇧 🇨🇦 |
| Applova | From $1,200 | ⭐ 2.8 / 5 | 🇺🇸 🇬🇧 |
| INFI | From $1,500 | ⭐ None | 🇺🇸 |
| NCR Voyix | Enterprise quote | ⭐ 4.7 / 5 | 🇺🇸 🇬🇧 |
| Innovorder | Custom quote | ⭐ None | 🇬🇧 🇫🇷 |
*Prices and Trustpilot ratings may vary over time. Visit each company’s official website or review page for the most up-to-date information. Please contact us if you note a drastic change.
When deciding whether to rent or buy a self-service terminal, most restaurant owners want to know what fits their budget and operations best. Here’s a breakdown of what each option offers, the real costs, and who each model is ideal for.
Let’s be realistic: a brand-new, professional-grade kiosk can cost between $1,900 and $3,000 on average, depending on the features included.
This typically includes:
- 21″ to 32″ full HD touchscreen
- Pedestal or wall-mount structure
- Thermal receipt printer
- Card, QR code, and/or NFC reader
- Integration with POS or ERP systems
- Operating system (usually Android or Windows)
- Self-ordering software
- Initial setup and training
Some suppliers include the first year of support in the purchase price. Others charge a separate monthly fee for software updates and tech support.
The more advanced the setup, the higher the upfront investment. But once you own it, it’s yours — which means no ongoing hardware payments (unless you opt for support or maintenance plans).
If your restaurant already has steady foot traffic, a lean team, and is looking to lower fixed costs in the medium term, purchasing may be the best path forward.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Self-Order Kiosk — and What’s Included?
If you’re still testing the waters or want to avoid a big upfront payment, renting a kiosk can be the perfect starting point.
Today, you’ll find rental plans starting from just $400/month, going up to around $700/month depending on the model, software, and level of support.
Most rental plans include:
- Complete kiosk unit (with screen, printer, and stand)
- Updated self-ordering software
- Access to an online management dashboard
- 24/7 technical support
- Regular software updates
- Preventive and corrective maintenance
In other words: you pay monthly, and the provider takes care of repairs, replacements, and software updates. No surprises or downtime.
Rental is also great for franchises, growing businesses, or restaurants still validating whether a kiosk model works for their audience. You can start with one, measure results, and scale with confidence.
In short: if you’re looking for flexibility and low initial investment, renting might be the best way to begin.
Is It Better to Buy or Rent a Self-Order Kiosk?
Let’s do a head-to-head comparison. Here’s how buying stacks up against renting — and when each one makes more sense.
| Criteria | Buy | Rent |
|---|---|---|
| Initial investment | Medium ($1,900 to $3,000) | Medium ($500 to $700/month) |
| Do you own the equipment? | Yes | No |
| Support included? | Depends on provider | Usually included |
| Updates and maintenance | Often billed separately | Included in most plans |
| Customization freedom | Full control | Limited to contract terms |
| Scalability | Requires new investment | Easy to scale with more units |
| ROI | Medium/long term | Can be immediate |
Bottom line: buying is ideal if you have steady volume, financial stability, and want lower long-term costs. Renting is better for testing, fast rollout, or full cost control.
How Much Can You Save or Earn with a Self-Order Kiosk? Let’s Break It Down
Let’s look at the numbers. Imagine your restaurant serves 120 customers a day, with an average ticket of $7.
If the kiosk helps increase each order to $8.40 by suggesting combos and extras…
💰 That’s just $1.40 more per transaction.
📈 With 120 transactions per day, that’s $168/day in extra revenue.
🗓️ Over 30 days, that adds up to $5,040/month — all thanks to a single kiosk.
Now compare that to:
- 💳 Rental cost: ~$500/month
- 💵 One-time purchase: ~$2,000
Even if you add software or maintenance fees, the return still makes it worth every penny.
And there’s more:
- Shorter lines = more table turnover
- Fewer errors = less waste
- Smaller front staff = more kitchen focus
You’ll start seeing results within weeks. And your customers? They’ll feel like they’re dining in a professional chain — even if you run a cozy local spot.
Should You Buy or Rent a Kiosk? It Depends on Your Business Type
Not every restaurant operates at the same pace or with the same goals — and that greatly affects your decision.
👉 Buying is best for:
- Restaurants with steady foot traffic (especially fast food or buffets)
- Operators already using a solid POS/ERP system
- Businesses aiming to reduce fixed costs over time
- Those looking for full customization and system control
👉 Renting is ideal for:
- New or expanding restaurants
- Businesses testing self-service for the first time
- Franchises looking for fast and consistent rollout
- Establishments that require ongoing technical support
Both have clear advantages — it depends on where you are today.
Buying is a long-term strategy. Renting is more flexible and lowers initial risk.
How to Choose the Right Self-Order Kiosk Supplier
Buying or renting a self-service terminal is a serious investment. That’s why choosing the right supplier makes all the difference in both your experience and your results.
Before signing any contract, check if:
✔️ The supplier offers fast and reliable technical support — no red tape
✔️ The software is easy to use and adaptable to your restaurant type
✔️ The rental agreement clearly outlines maintenance, upgrades, and replacements
✔️ There’s an option to test the system before making a large investment
✔️ The equipment comes ready to accept PIX, credit cards, and meal vouchers
Avoid vendors who don’t clearly explain licenses, hidden fees, or support terms. Sometimes a “cheaper” offer ends up costing more in the long run.
Pro tip: talk to restaurants already using the same supplier. That’s the best way to know if their support really works in practice.
Other Factors That Affect the Real Cost of a Self-Order Kiosk
The final price isn’t just about the device or the monthly fee. Several other elements can affect the total investment, such as:
- Integration with your current system (POS or ERP)
Make sure your existing setup is compatible with the kiosk, or be prepared for possible adjustments. - Team training
Even with a simple interface, your staff should know how to guide customers properly. - Menu and layout customization
If you want the kiosk to match your branding and highlight special offers, some providers may charge extra. - Post-warranty maintenance (for purchases)
In many cases, technical support is only included for the first few months. After that, fees may apply.
Paying attention to these details will help you avoid surprises — and make a smarter, safer decision for your restaurant.
The True Value of a Self-Order Kiosk Goes Beyond the Price
Now that you know the average cost of a self-order kiosk—whether to rent or to buy—you can clearly see the full value of this technology, not just the upfront price.
An interactive terminal where customers place their own orders makes your restaurant faster, more organized, and more efficient. It eases pressure on your staff, reduces mistakes, speeds up service, and helps boost average order value through smart upsell suggestions.
You’ve seen that it’s possible to get started without a big upfront investment by renting a fully supported kiosk. And you’ve also seen that buying can be more cost-effective over time.
Whichever path you choose, the key is to act now. Early adopters get ahead faster. In today’s competitive market, every month without a kiosk could mean thousands lost in potential revenue.
👉 Want a full quote or schedule a demo?
Just fill out the form below. A partner consultant will reach out shortly to walk you through the best option for your restaurant.
Now it’s your move. Let’s transform your customer experience with smart technology and real results.
FAQ: Self-Order Kiosk Pricing
🔔 Trusted Chinese Supplier for Kiosks⇗
🔔 Is a Self-Order Kiosk Worth It? Cons?⇗
🔔 7 Benefits of Self-Service Kiosks⇗
