If you are planning or expanding a virtual apps or desktop (VDI) project, the endpoints you choose will shape security, user experience, and day‑to‑day IT effort. Use these six factors to evaluate thin clients carefully, then run a small pilot before purchase.
1. THINK LONG TERM WHEN CHOOSING A THIN CLIENT
EXPECTED CHANGES IN USAGE
The use case you buy for today may be different in 2 to 5 years. Write down what could change so you avoid performance bottlenecks or surprises later:
- Number of users and sites
- Application mix (web and SaaS, virtual desktops or apps, any local/legacy apps you still need)
- Display needs (how many monitors, 4K requirements, refresh rates)
- Conferencing habits (Teams or Zoom, USB headsets, webcams, speakerphones)
ROI CALCULATION
Thin clients typically stay productive longer than standard PCs and are simpler to support. Factor in:
- How long you plan to keep the devices and what that costs over time
- The ease of remote management that thin clients provide, compared to physically maintaining traditional Windows desktops
2. CHOOSING THE RIGHT HARDWARE OPTION
THIN CLIENT HARDWARE
Beyond CPU and graphics capability, look at device build and reliability. Fanless, compact designs are common, but robustness varies by model. Some devices tolerate tougher environments or heat better than others.
PHYSICAL PERIPHERAL SUPPORT
List the ports and peripherals you rely on and check them on the shortlist devices:
- USB scanners and printers
- Smart card and badge readers
- Headsets and speakerphones
- Any specialty ports you use (for example, serial, GPIO, or cash drawer connectors)
MONITOR SUPPORT
Multi‑monitor support depends on outputs and bandwidth. Confirm the exact ports, maximum resolution per port, refresh rates, and the combinations you need so the devices work with your current or preferred monitors.\PORTABILITY
Most thin clients are small and easy to mount behind a display. If people move between desks or locations, check Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth quality, power adapters, and cable management. A thin client OS like ZeeOS can also be run from a USB in some cases when that suits your deployment model or if you provide BYOD.
REPURPOSING DEVICES VS. THIN CLIENT HARDWARE
Much of the value sits in the thin client operating system and management, not just the hardware. If you already have PCs, you can repurpose them into thin clients with an operating system like ZeeOS and manage them remotely with its web management console.
Buy new hardware only when your existing PCs cannot be repurposed into thin clients. If you are unsure, contact us to confirm compatibility. Always review how repurposing affects the OEM warranty.
3. DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE THE IMPORTANCE OF THE SOFTWARE
SECURITY
Non‑Windows thin clients commonly use a hardened, read‑only Linux‑based OS that reduces the attack surface and limits local changes by the end user. Choose a platform that gives you confidence:
- Secure boot and signed firmware or OS updates
- Encrypted communication between device and management console
- Policy controls for USB, applications, and network settings
REMOTE MANAGEMENT
A strong remote management tool is essential. It lets you enroll devices, group them, push updates, apply policies, and troubleshoot remotely. Some vendors include it, while others charge for advanced capabilities. Make sure it provides the level of control and visibility you need. ZeeTim’s Web Management Console is included with our OS at no extra cost and provides the advanced features you expect from a management console.
OPERATING SYSTEM
Most vendors ship a proprietary Linux‑based OS, and some work with partners. Clarify who maintains the OS, how updates arrive, and the costs involved. The OS should give you flexibility so you are not blocked from changes you may need later.
4. DEFINE ACCESS CONDITIONS TO YOUR DATA AND APPLICATIONS
APPLICATIONS TO SUPPORT
Segment users by the apps and peripherals they need. Decide which applications will be delivered virtually and which, if any, must run locally on the endpoint.
WIFI AND BLUETOOTH
Wi‑Fi is often optional on thin or zero clients. If you think you may need it later, pick models with Wi‑Fi so you keep options open. Do the same for Bluetooth if you expect to use wireless headsets and keyboards.
LOCAL VS. VIRTUAL APPS
Locking the Linux-based OS to the login screen keeps endpoints simple and secure when you move to thin clients. You can also configure devices to run in kiosk mode so users go straight to the virtual desktop or app login screen, or to your preferred browser, as soon as the device powers on. Only enable local apps when there is a clear need.
5. GRAPHICAL AND MULTIMEDIA OPTIONS
GRAPHIC SUPPORT
Thin clients come in a range of CPU, memory, and graphics capabilities. Match the device to the displays you plan to use. If you are looking for 4K support, remember that higher resolutions can reduce refresh rates depending on outputs and cabling.
AUDIO/CONFERENCING
Modern video apps like Teams and Zoom have improved significantly for thin client environments. Check the device’s support for these tools, how well webcams and USB audio perform, and whether optimizations allow good quality when the apps are used locally or with your virtualization protocol.
6. LAST BUT NOT LEAST: SERVICES AND SUPPORT
OTHER VENDOR BENEFITS
Look beyond the endpoint hardware. Some vendors provide onboarding help, templates, and bundles that reduce the number of procurement and support touchpoints and may lower overall cost.
VENDOR SUPPORT
Vendors vary in size and capability. Confirm their standard support hours, escalation path, and the price of extended options. Many charge extra for 24×7 coverage or faster response times, so choose a plan that matches your sites and shifts. Specialist vendors that focus on thin clients often provide more responsive support and are more willing to adapt the OS to your requirements than general vendors that sell both PCs and thin clients.
CONCLUSION: TEST BEFORE YOU BUY!
Test thoroughly before committing. Review the factors in this guide, run pilots in your real scenarios, and proceed only if the solution covers all of your use cases.
At ZeeTim, we offer an unlimited free trial so you can test for as long as you need. We provide free support during the proof of concept, and there is no sales pressure. If, after thorough testing, our OS is not a fit for your environment, there is no obligation to continue.