Choosing the Right Digital Signage Player Device

It’s simple. You will need a digital signage media player to play your digital signage.

A digital signage player is a small form computer that plays your digital signage content.

Digital signage players are on average 4″ x 4″ x 1″ in size but do also come in smaller USB style sizes that are approx 3″ long x .5″ wide.

Type of Digital Signage Players

The top three most popular digital signage players are Android, Chrome and Windows. Knowing which one to choose comes down to preference and what you’re looking to display on the digital sign. 

If you’re looking to display basic content like text, images and short videos, then an entry-level digital signage player will work fine. These types of device typically feature lower processing power specs and come at a more economical price point.

For displaying content that contains HD videos, animations and scrolling tickers, then you will want to go with a more high-powered device. A higher-end digital signage player typically will not overheat, freeze or randomly stop playing. 

If you’re new to digital signage, we recommend that you test out several digital signage players. 

Digital Signage Player Comparison

Windows: 

• $300 – $1000 each
• Semi-stable
• Remote management capabilities
• Requires a Windows license
• Runs NoviSign

Android: 

• $35 – $500 each
• Very stable
• Easy to setup for digital signage
• No additional licenses
• Runs NoviSign

ChromeOS:

• $85 – $450 each
• Stable
• Easy to setup for digital signage
• Chrome Enterprise Management Options
• Runs NoviSign

Digital Signage Player FAQ

1. What types of content will a digital signage player play?

When it comes to media and content, it depends on the digital signage software platform that select. At NoviSign, you can display images, videos, slideshows, scrolling tickers, weather forecasts, RSS feeds and more.

2. Will the digital signage player work without an internet connection?

When it comes to playing back the content, it depends on the digital signage software platform that you go with. Either the content streams over the internet or caches locally onto the digital signage player. With NoviSign, all of the content downloads from the cloud and caches locally onto the digital signage player.

3. What type of digital signage player will I need to purchase?

This again comes down to the digital signage software that you choose to go with. At NoviSign we run on Android, Chrome and Windows digital signage players.  

• For more purchasing information check out ‘The Complete Buying Guide to Digital Signage Players

4. What digital signage player do you recommend?

If you are looking for a reliable device that is commercial grade and easy to setup, we recommend Geniatech’s ARC390. That device is preloaded with NoviSign, supports 4K, and comes with a sturdy metal enclosure.

5. How do I setup a digital signage player?

Setting up a digital signage player is relatively easy. You will need a power outlet, a digital sign and internet access. The signage player connects to the digital sign via HDMI and typically can be mounted to the back of the TV/wall.

Conclusion

Digital signage players are a must-have for running digital signage. Because there are so many options available, it can be overwhelming when shopping for the best device for you. To avoid choosing the wrong model, we recommend that you ask the digital signage software company that you have selected to work with. They will be able to make suggestions.