What is the best digital signage for a drive-thru?
Key features for drive-thru
Drive-thru signage faces sun, rain, and temperature swings, so you need displays rated for outdoor use. Brightness is critical: aim for 2,500 nits or higher so the menu is readable in direct sunlight. Many drive-thru setups also include a separate order confirmation screen that shows the customer their order as it's entered.
The CMS should be easy to update and support scheduling, so you can switch from breakfast to lunch menus automatically. Some systems integrate with your point-of-sale (POS) system to update prices and availability in real time. Audio is another consideration: some drive-thru signs include speakers for two-way communication.
- Outdoor-rated enclosure (IP54 or higher)
- High brightness (2,500+ nits) with anti-glare coating
- CMS with scheduling and remote update
- Optional order confirmation screen
- Integration with POS for real-time menu changes
Typical costs and brands
A single outdoor drive-thru menu board can cost $3,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on size, brightness, and whether it's a complete kit with mounting and software. Brands like Samsung and LG make commercial displays that are often used in these setups. Turnkey providers like Mvix, Allsee, and ScreenCloud offer bundles that include hardware, software, and support.
Before buying, check the warranty and service options. Drive-thru displays are exposed to the elements, so you want a company that can replace or repair quickly. Also consider whether you need a touchscreen or just a display; most drive-thrus use non-touch screens for durability.
Common mistakes
- Using an indoor TV outdoors; it will overheat or fail quickly.
- Underestimating brightness needs; 1,000 nits is not enough for direct sun.
- Skipping POS integration, which means manual updates and potential errors.