
A kitchen printer prints each order the moment it is entered, and a kitchen display system (KDS) shows orders on a screen so cooks can mark them ready. Both route food to the kitchen and drinks to the bar automatically. Printers are cheap and robust; displays add timing and a cleaner workflow in busy kitchens.
Key takeaways
- Orders reach the kitchen the moment they are taken.
- Food and drinks route to the right station.
- Printers are cheap and robust; screens add timing.
- Heat, grease and steam matter when placing hardware.
- A small queue display can call order numbers.
01Printer or screen?
| Kitchen printer | Kitchen display | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Prints a ticket per order | Shows orders on a screen |
| Best for | Small and mid-size kitchens | Busy kitchens and multi-station lines |
| Timing | Manual | Shows how long orders have waited |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Environment | Needs paper and a safe spot from heat | Needs a mounting location and protection from grease |
02Routing
03Plan your kitchen
04Frequently asked questions
Can drinks go to the bar printer?
Yes; items route to the printer for the right station.
Is a screen worth it for a small restaurant?
Often a printer is enough; we advise by order volume.
Can I add a customer display?
Yes; an order-ready display can show numbers.
