Launching a successful IoT project doesn’t begin with code or connectivity – it starts with hardware. And not just any hardware – the right device, purpose-built to support your application, network, and business goals. Choosing the right IoT device isn’t a simple plug-and-play decision. It’s a foundational choice that shapes everything from performance and security to scalability and total cost of ownership.
In this blog, we break down what goes into making smart IoT device decisions, whether you’re buying off the shelf or building your own.
Why IoT Device Selection Matters
The device is the heartbeat of any IoT deployment. It’s where data is collected, transmitted, and sometimes even processed at the edge. But the wrong device can lead to missed data, poor connectivity, limited functionality – or worse, complete failure to launch.
Device selection should align with your entire IoT architecture, including:
- Network compatibility (LTE, LPWAN, NB-IoT, etc.)
- Application requirements (data transmission frequency, real-time response, etc.)
- Security protocols
- Power usage and physical durability
At KORE, we help customers think holistically from the start, offering guidance on devices that are built-in – not bolted on to your IoT vision.
Build vs. Buy: Which Device Approach Is Right?
Once you define your technical needs, it’s time to answer a bigger strategic question: Should you build a custom IoT device or buy an existing one?
1. Buying Off-the-Shelf
For many businesses, especially those using IoT internally (think logistics optimization, asset tracking, or remote monitoring), off-the-shelf devices make a lot of sense.
Advantages:
- Faster time to market
- Proven reliability and certifications
- Reduced upfront engineering costs
When to consider: You’re looking to deploy quickly and cost-effectively, and your needs match what’s already available.
2. Building a Custom Device
For companies going to market with IoT, like original equipment manufacturers or digital health innovators, a custom device may be the right fit.
Advantages:
- Tailored design for your use case
- Complete control over form factor and components
- Ability to protect IP and build competitive differentiation
When to consider: You need functionality that off-the-shelf options can’t deliver, or you’re building your business around the IoT solution itself.
Building can offer unmatched flexibility, but it also brings complexity. Custom development demands a long list of resources: module selection, firmware development, device testing, certification, and support plans.
Not sure where to start? KORE helps companies navigate both paths – whether you’re picking from existing hardware or starting from scratch.
Protocols and Standards: Know What You Need
Beyond the hardware itself, your device needs to speak the right language.
For constrained devices with limited bandwidth and power, lightweight protocols like MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport) are ideal. If your deployment calls for remote management and scalability, LwM2M (Lightweight Machine to Machine) may be a better fit.
The protocol you choose impacts everything, from battery life to network performance to how your backend handles the data. That’s why device selection shouldn’t happen in a silo – it should fit seamlessly into your overall IoT strategy.
Key Considerations Before You Decide
Whether building or buying, make sure your selected device checks these critical boxes:
- Network support: Does it align with your connectivity plan – cellular, LPWAN, satellite, or a hybrid?
- Security: Is the device secure by design? Can it receive remote firmware updates?
- Power efficiency: Will it last in the field based on your application’s power profile?
- Environment: Will the hardware withstand temperature, vibration, moisture, or other field conditions?
- Certifications: Will your device meet compliance requirements in your target regions?
The right device will support the long-term health of your deployment – not create obstacles down the road.
How KORE Helps You Choose Smarter
IoT deployments don’t succeed with piecemeal solutions. That’s why KORE offers strategic support for device selection as part of a complete IoT enablement model – from connectivity and lifecycle management to security and logistics.
Our team helps businesses:
- Match device hardware to connectivity and application needs
- Evaluate whether to build or buy
- Ensure devices support secure remote management and OTA updates
- Choose pre-certified hardware to streamline compliance
- Integrate devices into larger IoT architectures
Whether you’re exploring a pilot or planning to scale, our goal is simple: help you choose a device.
Ready to Get Your IoT Deployment Off the Ground?
Selecting the right device can be the difference between IoT success and stalled implementation. With the right hardware, and a partner like KORE to guide you, you can move faster, smarter, and more securely.
Let’s find the right device for your solution.
Contact KORE to talk about your IoT deployment goals and device needs.
Published April 14, 2025.