Booth vs. Kiosk — What's the Difference?

A booth is commonly used for specific events and purposes like trade shows, food service, or as temporary quarters within a larger venue. Whereas a kiosk is typically a permanent or semi-permanent fixture found in high-traffic areas like shopping malls, airports, or urban streets, designed for retail or informational services.

Booths are designed to be assembled and disassembled easily, making them ideal for temporary events. They often provide privacy or separation from a larger environment, useful in settings like voting or health screenings. On the other hand, kiosks are usually more robust and secure, equipped to handle continuous use and often feature built-in technology such as touch screens or computers.

In terms of size and design, booths can vary widely, ranging from simple table setups to elaborate, enclosed spaces that are customized for exhibitions or promotional activities. Kiosks, however, are generally smaller and more standardized, optimized for efficient use of space and user accessibility in public areas.

The primary function of booths is often to provide a space for personal interaction or privacy, accommodating activities like consultations, exhibitions, or interviews. In contrast, kiosks focus on commercial transactions or information dissemination, such as selling tickets, snacks, or providing tourist information.

Booths are a staple in fairs, exhibitions, and voting contexts, where they serve practical purposes for short durations. Kiosks, meanwhile, are integral to modern consumer environments, facilitating easy access to goods and services in daily public life.