Keep Your POS Printers Working!
Xootle Cloudbox
Use Your Own POS Printers
Easily connect your existing POS printers (receipt printer, kitchen printer, bar printer) to Xootle print services with our custom-developed MQTT print server. No new printers required: our compact cloudbox makes your existing printers suitable for cloud and local printing via MQTT.
POS · PMS · Accounting · Channel Manager · Booking Engine
Who is the Xootle Cloudbox for?
The cloudbox is ideal for hospitality sectors that:
- already have several (good) POS printers
- do not want to invest in a complete replacement
- want to switch to Xootle
Do you own a Star, Bixolon, or Epson printer?
These POS printers typically cost €200.00 to €500.00 each (excluding VAT). In such cases, it's wise to continue using them and make them compatible with Xootle through our MQTT print server.
For LAN & USB POS Printers
The Xootle Cloudbox supports both:
The brand doesn't really matter. Xootle operates without the traditional, locally installed printer drivers you know from classic point-of-sale systems. This makes the solution stable, easy to maintain, and suited for mixed printer setups.
We manage the print server for you, providing updates and maintenance for a modest monthly fee, so you don't have to worry about the technology, compatibility, or security.
- LAN POS printers (network printers via Ethernet or WiFi within your network)
- USB POS printers (directly connected, 3 USB ports)
The brand doesn't really matter. Xootle operates without the traditional, locally installed printer drivers you know from classic point-of-sale systems. This makes the solution stable, easy to maintain, and suited for mixed printer setups.
We manage the print server for you, providing updates and maintenance for a modest monthly fee, so you don't have to worry about the technology, compatibility, or security.
Why Choose MQTT Over 'Standard Cloud Printing'?
Some providers call it 'cloud printing', but there are many variants with varying reliability. Xootle deliberately chose MQTT because it's a stable and proven protocol for real-time communication.
What are the advantages of MQTT?
What are the advantages of MQTT?
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Fast and consistent print jobs
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Reliable with multiple printers at once
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Fewer issues from network fluctuations
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Suitable for scalable hospitality setups (kitchen, bar, counter, takeaway)
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No driver installation or update hassles
Advice Based on the Number of Printers Needed
Using more than two POS printers?
In this case, a cloudbox is usually the best choice. It makes your current printers suitable for Xootle, lowering the cost per printer compared to purchasing new MQTT printers.
Using two POS printers?
With two printers, you have several options:
- 1 cloudbox + 2 network printers (LAN)
or - 2 MQTT printers, ready for Xootle
Using 1 POS printer?
Then we generally recommend purchasing an MQTT printer from Bixolon or Star. This is the simplest solution, with no extra hardware like a cloudbox required.
Need help deciding?
We provide honest advice on the choice that best fits your needs.
Printing as It Should Be
With the Xootle cloudbox, you gain a modern and timeless printing solution that grows with your business. Keep your current printers, transition to smart Xootle print services, and we'll ensure everything remains up-to-date and reliable.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ Xootle Cloudbox
What is a cloudbox?
What is a cloudbox?
A Xootle Cloudbox is a piece of hardware that allows printing to be coordinated from a single central location. The cloudbox can be used as a print server.
Can I use another cloudbox?
Can I use another cloudbox?
No, unfortunately not. The cloudbox has a specific print server that combines the MQTT protocol with print jobs for POS printers. We have developed the software specifically for this purpose.
Why do I need a cloudbox?
Why do I need a cloudbox?
Essentially, you don't need a cloudbox if your printers support the MQTT protocol and are configured by us.
Can I mix different printers?
Can I mix different printers?
Yes, you can. You can use different brands of printers. It does not matter to the cloudbox. You can also link some standard printers to the print server while others remain standalone MQTT printers.
What is the difference between a brand-name printer and Xootle import?
What is the difference between a brand-name printer and Xootle import?
Theoretically, the printers are similar in terms of speed, thermal print head durability, and reliability. The biggest difference lies in robustness, weight, and the warranty provided. Imported printers usually come with a 1-year warranty, while brand-name printers typically offer 2 to 3 years.
The best choice depends on the type and size of your business. A seasonal business with 60 seats can use imported printers effectively. For a year-round business requiring continuous printing, we generally advise opting for a brand-name printer.
Additionally, the number of printers used and frequency of swaps per day play a role. Some beachfront establishments may be small but operate continuously, making extra robustness or an additional printer quite welcome.
The best choice depends on the type and size of your business. A seasonal business with 60 seats can use imported printers effectively. For a year-round business requiring continuous printing, we generally advise opting for a brand-name printer.
Additionally, the number of printers used and frequency of swaps per day play a role. Some beachfront establishments may be small but operate continuously, making extra robustness or an additional printer quite welcome.
How did Xootle select its import printers?
How did Xootle select its import printers?
We selected from more than 20 brands. Eventually, only two met our criteria to be offered as printers. Our standards were too high for most manufacturers.
Our requirements included:
- Printing speed: at least 200mm/s
- Clear printouts (>200DPI)
- Thermal head: able to print a minimum of 100 km
- LAN connection
- USB connection
- Optional WiFi
- Auto-cutter
- Easy paper replacement
- Compatible with 80mm and 58mm paper
- Ability to turn beep on or off
- After-sales guarantees
- Fast delivery times even if out of stock
- CE certified
- ROHS compliance
- Robust material
- Not lighter than 900 grams
- Includes 220-volt power supply and plug
- Good price-quality ratio
- Simple software for settings
- At least 5 years as a printer manufacturer
- Minimum 1-year warranty
How much does the Xootle Cloudbox cost?
How much does the Xootle Cloudbox cost?
The Cloudbox costs only €129.00 upfront and €4.95 per month for updates, management, maintenance, and a 2-year free replacement service (Carry-in).