Understanding tablet mode vs QR code mode
Anghello offers two ways for your visitors to check in: the QR code (with their smartphone) or the tablet (at reception). This guide helps you choose the method that fits your organization — or combine both.
Audience: Administrators, Managers
Application: Admin (app.anghello.co)
Estimated time: 5-minute read
The two methods at a glance
QR code (smartphone) | Tablet (fixed kiosk) | |
|---|---|---|
The visitor uses | Their own smartphone | The reception tablet |
Setup | Print a QR code poster | Set up a tablet at reception |
Hardware needed | None (the visitor has their phone) | A tablet (iPad, Android) |
Visitor autonomy | Full — they do everything from their phone | Partial — they use a shared device |
Virtual badge | Yes — stays on their phone | Yes — shown on the tablet (or on the phone if the QR code is displayed) |
Hygiene | Contactless | Shared screen |
Ideal for | Offices, coworking spaces, modern companies | Reception desks with staff, hotels, clinics |
QR code mode
The visitor scans a QR code printed on a poster at the entrance. The check-in kiosk opens on their smartphone, they check in, and they keep the virtual badge on their phone throughout their visit.
Advantages:
- No hardware to buy or maintain
- Contactless — hygienic
- The visitor keeps the badge on their phone
- Works even with no one at reception
Things to watch:
- The visitor needs a smartphone with a camera
- Requires an internet connection (WiFi or 4G/5G)
Tablet mode
A tablet is set up at reception. The visitor checks in directly on the touchscreen, like at an airport kiosk.
Advantages:
- Doesn't require the visitor to have a smartphone
- Immediately visible — the tablet guides the visitor
- The tablet also displays the QR code for visitors who prefer their smartphone
Things to watch:
- Requires buying a tablet
- Screen shared between several visitors
- Requires a power supply and a stable WiFi connection
Combining both (recommended)
Combining the two methods is the most popular setup and offers the best experience:
- The tablet sits at reception for visitors who arrive without a smartphone or who prefer a larger screen
- The QR code (shown on the poster AND on the tablet) is available for self-service visitors
💡 Tip: 75% of Anghello customers use the QR code as their main method. We recommend starting with the QR code, then adding a tablet if your visitors ask for it.
Good to know
💡 Tip: Both methods lead to the same check-in journey. Instructions, custom fields, quizzes, and notifications all work the same way.
💡 Tip: You can enable and disable each method independently in the site settings.
Updated on: 24/07/2026
Thank you!