Business Planning

How Much Does a Restaurant Self-Service Kiosk Cost?

The Rezku Team

May 1, 2025

How Much Does a Self-Service Restaurant Kiosk Cost?

The cost of a restaurant kiosk is a significant consideration for any business seeking to streamline ordering and improve the customer experience. Other important considerations include sourcing and installing efficient kiosks, as well as determining the optimal number for your restaurant’s specific needs.

Businesses are drawn to kiosks not only for their labor cost savings but also for shorter lines, higher ticket averages, and direct integration with kitchen production workflows.

So, how much does a kiosk cost? Kiosk prices vary, with most restaurant kiosks priced between $1,500 and $5,000, depending on features, customization, and size. Many pricing models price hardware and software separately.

In this article, we’ll learn about the factors that affect restaurant kiosk costs and receive practical guidance for making an informed investment.

How Much Does a Restaurant Kiosk Cost?

A restaurant kiosk can range widely in price depending on hardware, features, and included services. Most costs fall in a range, with factors such as screen size and software options impacting the final price.

Many pricing models, such as Rezku, price hardware and software separately.

Average Self-Ordering Kiosk Costs in 2025

In 2025, the average cost of a restaurant self-service kiosk is typically between $1,500 and $5,000 for a single unit. This range includes both countertop and large floor-standing kiosks.

Factors influencing the cost of a kiosk include its hardware, touchscreens, printers, and integration options. Subscription or software fees can add ongoing expenses.

Rezku keeps costs down by using off-the-shelf Android and iOS tablets. Rezku Kiosk is an app available to Rezku POS customers for $50 per device, billed monthly. Hardware is purchased separately, either from Rezku or third parties.

5 Factors That Influence the Self-Service Kiosk Price

There are numerous benefits of a self-ordering kiosk for your restaurant. When comparing the pricing of restaurant self-service kiosks, it’s essential to consider several key factors. Let’s take a look at five factors that influence the price of the best POS systems for restaurants.

1. Hardware Selection

Self-service kiosk pricing can vary significantly depending on the type of hardware chosen. Restaurants typically have the option to choose from three main types of kiosks: countertop units, full-size freestanding kiosks, and mounted tablet systems. Each has its advantages and price points based on functionality, space requirements, and customer engagement.

Countertop Units

These are generally the most affordable option and are ideal for smaller spaces or instances where customer interaction will be brief.

Freestanding Kiosks

Larger and more prominent, these units are often used in locations where ample space is available and a high volume of customers needs to be served. They typically come with touchscreens, payment terminals, and printing capabilities, which enhance the customer experience and contribute to their higher cost.

Mounted Tablet Systems

These tend to be the most affordable option. They offer more flexibility, with additional installation work ensuring they integrate seamlessly into your environment. These systems can be placed on walls or existing countertops.

In addition to the basic unit, you can include add-ons such as payment devices (e.g., EMV-enabled card readers), receipt printers, and camera modules. The cost of these peripherals depends on their functionality and the level of integration with the kiosk system.

The final price for hardware will depend on the specific needs of the restaurant and the type of experience it wishes to provide to its customers, providing flexibility and customization.

2. Software Features and Customization

Software plays a significant role in the pricing of self-service kiosks. The kiosk machine cost can vary widely depending on the restaurant’s specific needs and compatibility regarding the type of POS being used, the hardware, integrations, and compatibility with other systems.

Customization

Many kiosk software solutions offer a high degree of customization, including branding elements (such as logos, color schemes, and menu layouts), and some also offer personalized promotions and loyalty programs. These features help create a cohesive brand experience that enhances customer engagement, but with better customization options can come higher costs.

Credit Card Processing Fees

Kiosk credit card processing fees can vary depending on the type of kiosk software being used. Fees typically range between 1.75% and 3.5% of the transaction amount, often with additional per-transaction fees. Take this cost into account when deciding on a system to choose.

Advanced Features

Premium kiosk software may include tools like real-time menu updates, detailed sales reports, customer behavior analytics, and inventory tracking. These features provide valuable insights and help streamline operations, but as they are a more complex offering, typically add to the overall expense of the kiosk system.

3. Installation and Physical Requirements

Installation costs depend on the type and configuration of the kiosk, as well as its placement. Larger, freestanding units often require more setup work, including electrical connections, networking, and placement in high-traffic areas. For example, a large kiosk may need dedicated power sources and network cables to ensure smooth operation.

Freestanding Units

These units typically require a more involved installation process. This may require custom mounting, such as securing the kiosk into concrete, running power and network connections through walls or floors, and establishing communication lines with the restaurant’s other on-site systems. Additionally, they need specific positioning for optimal customer interaction.

Countertop or Tablet-Based Kiosks

These are easier to install, as they require fewer modifications to the physical space and may use off-the-shelf POS hardware to keep costs down. They can often be set up quickly, especially if the location already has the necessary power outlets and network connections in place.

High-Traffic or Custom Placement

If the kiosk needs to be placed in unique or high-traffic areas, additional work may be necessary. For instance, custom installation services may be necessary to ensure the kiosk is positioned for maximum visibility and ease of use for customers. This could involve altering the restaurant layout or making adjustments to physical structures.

Installation services, especially for larger kiosks or custom placements, can significantly increase the upfront costs, so it’s essential to factor these expenses into your budget.

4. Maintenance and Ongoing Support

The long-term costs of maintaining and supporting your kiosk system are another essential factor in the overall pricing. Hardware and software costs are your upfront expenses. Ongoing support, updates, and maintenance to ensure smooth operations also need to be factored into the self-checkout kiosk cost.

Software Licensing and Updates

Many self-service kiosk platforms operate on a subscription basis, requiring ongoing licensing fees. These subscriptions typically include regular software updates that keep the system current with new features, performance enhancements, and essential security patches.

Hardware Maintenance Plans

Physical components, such as touchscreens, payment terminals, and printers, may require periodic maintenance. Some vendors offer extended warranties or service agreements that cover repairs and replacements over a defined period. Investing in these plans can minimize downtime and help maintain consistent kiosk functionality throughout its operational life.

Technical Support

Reliable access to technical support is essential in the event of software or hardware issues. Depending on the provider and service level, technical assistance may be included or come with additional fees. Timely support ensures that any disruptions are resolved quickly, helping maintain smooth day-to-day operations.

Planning for maintenance costs, both for hardware and software, is crucial for budgeting the total cost of self-service kiosks throughout their lifecycle. Regular updates and quick access to support can prevent costly disruptions and improve overall customer satisfaction.

5. Compliance and Security Features

Ensuring that the kiosk meets compliance and security standards is another factor that adds to the overall cost. Self-service kiosks handle sensitive customer data, including payment information, and must adhere to various security and legal regulations.

Payment Security

Features such as encrypted card readers, secure payment processing, and PCI-DSS compliance are essential for protecting customer payment data. These security measures often come at an added cost but are non-negotiable for restaurants that want to maintain customer trust and avoid potential data breaches.

Privacy Screens

In high-traffic areas, privacy screens can be added to kiosks to prevent shoulder surfing and protect customers’ personal information during transactions. While they add a layer of security, these special screen protectors also increase the overall cost.

ADA Compliance

To meet accessibility standards, kiosks may need to include features such as voice prompts, adjustable screen heights, or screen readability for customers with disabilities. These modifications are often required for businesses seeking to meet the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, but may raise the price of the kiosk.

How to Decide Whether Self-Order Kiosks Are Worth Their Costs

Once you understand the full range of costs involved in kiosk ownership, the next step is determining whether the investment aligns with your business goals. Here’s how to evaluate if a self-order kiosk system is a smart fit for your restaurant:

1. Assess Your Operational Needs

Think about where kiosks could make the most significant impact—reducing order errors, speeding up service during peak times, or reallocating staff from front-of-house roles. If you frequently encounter bottlenecks or staffing challenges, kiosks can provide both immediate relief and long-term efficiency.

2. Consider the Customer Experience

Your target customers’ demographics, such as age, and economic status are important considerations. For example, are your customers already comfortable with digital ordering, or do they prefer human interaction? Tech-savvy audiences—especially in fast-casual and quick-service environments—often appreciate the speed and control that kiosks offer. Understanding your clientele’s preferences is key.

3. Evaluate Physical Space

Your available space will influence which kiosk type works best. Small-footprint tablet kiosks may be ideal for compact layouts, while floor-standing models are better suited for larger, high-traffic areas. Layout determines your kiosk hardware, which determines the cost.

4. Factor in Scalability

If you’re planning to grow or expand locations, consider whether your kiosk solution can scale easily. A system that can be used across multiple sites and uses compatible hardware can help standardize operations and reduce training efforts.

5. Request a Live Demo or Trial

Before making a final decision, schedule a product demo or request a pilot program to explore the features in more detail.

Hands-on experience helps you visualize how kiosks will integrate into your daily flow, estimate their impact on staffing, and gauge ease of use for both employees and guests.

6. Compare ROI, Not Just Price

While upfront and ongoing costs are essential, also weigh the potential return on investment through higher order accuracy, increased average check size, reduced labor strain, and faster service. Sometimes, a higher upfront cost is justified if there’s a reasonable ROI.

Explore Rezku’s POS Self-Service Kiosk

Rezku’s self-service kiosk solution delivers a premium experience at a fraction of the cost of other providers. While other systems often require expensive hardware, complex licensing, or hit-and-miss integrations, Rezku eliminates all of these potential issues.

Rezku offers an all-in-one platform with integrated payments, real-time reporting, and built-in loyalty tools—right out of the box.

Plus, with 24/7 support and transparent payment processing rates, you can trust that you’re getting industry-leading value and support.

Get started today and see why Rezku is the smarter, more affordable choice for modern restaurants.

Final Thoughts on Restaurant Self-Service Kiosk Costs

Restaurant self-service kiosks offer compelling advantages such as increased order accuracy, faster service, and higher ticket averages. But how much does a self-service kiosk cost? Self-order kiosk prices vary and will be very much determined by your restaurant’s specific needs and requirements.

When assessing the type of restaurant self-service kiosk solution that works best for your business, the most important takeaway is that its capabilities need to align with your restaurant’s size, customer base, and operational goals, ensuring the investment delivers both immediate value and long-term returns.