The demand for outdoor digital kiosks is growing rapidly, and we know this because we hear it directly from our customers. Every day, questions about outdoor kiosks come pouring in—from general inquiries about implementation to more complex concerns about kiosk security. When we see consistent interest in a topic, we know it’s time to share insights that can help as many people as possible. That’s why we’ve created this “Outdoor Kiosks 101” guide to address the basics. Let’s dive in!
One of the first questions we’re asked is about cost. Outdoor kiosks often (though not always) come with a higher price tag than indoor kiosks. Why? It’s all about durability and security.
Think about it: an indoor kiosk in a controlled environment like a shopping mall or office building is shielded from the elements and often protected by on-site security. Many of these locations even shut down overnight, offering additional safeguards. In contrast, outdoor kiosks are exposed 24/7 to a wide range of environmental and security challenges, including:
•Weather Extremes: Wind, rain, snow, and even hurricanes.
•Temperature Fluctuations: From scorching heat to freezing cold.
•Security Risks: Vandalism, theft attempts, and other unauthorized interactions.
To withstand these challenges, outdoor kiosks are built with heavy-duty materials like ruggedized steel, weatherproof enclosures, tamper-resistant hardware, and high-grade seals to prevent water and dust intrusion. These features ensure the kiosks remain operational and secure, even in harsh conditions—but they also increase manufacturing costs.
Not every application requires the extra durability of an outdoor kiosk. That’s why one of our first priorities at REDYREF is helping customers determine whether an outdoor kiosk is truly the best solution for their needs—or if an indoor kiosk might work just as well.
For instance, if your kiosk will be placed in a semi-protected location, such as under an awning or in a sheltered entryway, an indoor kiosk with minor modifications may suffice. However, if it’s going to be fully exposed to the elements or high-traffic public areas, an outdoor kiosk is likely the smarter choice to ensure longevity and functionality.
At REDYREF, we’re committed to providing solutions that maximize ROI for our clients. While outdoor kiosks are an excellent investment in many cases, they’re not always necessary. Our goal is to match you with the kiosk solution that aligns with your needs—not the most expensive option.
If you do require an outdoor kiosk, you can count on us to guide you through every step of the process, from design to deployment. Whether it’s ensuring the kiosk meets ADA compliance standards, selecting the right hardware for your application, or creating custom kiosk software for a seamless user experience, our team is here to help.
If you’re already leaning toward an outdoor kiosk solution, stay tuned—next week, we’ll explore the 5 Ws of Outdoor Kiosks: Who, What, Where, When, and Why. This will give you a deeper understanding of how to plan for a successful deployment.
Still undecided? No problem. We’re here to answer your questions and help you evaluate your options. Contact REDYREF today at (800) 628-3603 or request a quote for outdoor kiosk manufacturing. Let’s work together to find the kiosk solution that’s right for you!