When you walk into a busy trade show, some displays immediately catch your eye because they’re glowing softly. It’s not a screen or a digital wall; it’s likely a backlit trade show display.

These bright, eye-catching displays are becoming a favorite at events everywhere. But is a backlit display always the better choice? Let’s dive into the pros and cons of backlit versus non-backlit trade show displays to help you decide.

What Are Backlit Trade Show Displays?

Backlit signs have a light frame with printed graphics draped over the frame. LED lights are mounted inside the frame to illuminate the fabric. And because your stand and banner are glowing, your message, logo, etc. will stand out.

The banner material should allow light to pass through effortlessly, but there shouldn’t be any excess light (bleed-through) spilling out from the sides of the banner.

With one of these properly employed, your brand will shine and have no problem standing out, even in a packed event hall.

Alternative Lighting Options

If you don’t have the budget for a full backlit display, you can still illuminate your booth. Clip lights and floor lamps are commonly used by businesses to draw attention to their displays. Although these options are cheaper, they tend to produce unbalanced lighting and shadows, which reduce the professional appearance of your booth.

Want something that’s even more dynamic? Digital trade show displays that have monitors or LED walls showing video and moving images might be what you need. These typically cost more, require more equipment, and take longer to set up.

Pros Of Backlit Displays

  1. Better Visibility: In a busy or dim environment, backlit displays are easier to spot and read from a distance.
  2. Premium Look: They look high-end and sleek, so they’re perfect for brands that want to look modern and polished.
  3. Quick Attention: Visitors are drawn to well-lit booths faster, which means more foot traffic to your space.

Cons Of Backlit Displays

  1. Higher Costs: Backlit displays are more expensive than non-lit versions, so they’re not a good fit for every budget.
  2. Power Needs: You’ll need reliable access to electricity and extra steps during setup to connect the lights.
  3. Potential Light Bleed: If the fabric isn’t high quality, light might leak through seams or non-printed areas.

Non-Backlit Displays: Still A Strong Option

Non-backlit displays, like fabric trade show displays and popup trade show displays, are still widely used and can be very effective.

Pros:

  1. Cost-Effective: Since there’s no illumination, these displays are far less expensive, which means you’ll have more money to spend on other features.
  2. Straightforward Installation: They’re easier to set up because you don’t have to deal with lights, wires, and power sources.
  3. Flexible Lighting: You can introduce clip-on lights or floor lights as required (instead of committing to a full backlit system).

Cons:

  1. Lower Impact: In large, crowded spaces, a non-lit display might not stand out as much.
  2. Less Readable In Poor Lighting: Without its own light source, your message might not be as visible from a distance.

Backlit Vs. Non-Backlit: Made Your Pick?

If you want to check out a wide range of displays, visit Trade Show Display Pros! We have a fantastic range of backlit and non-backlit displays, all of which are purchasable through our website.

Regardless of the scale of your event or your budget, we have options that will meet your needs and requirements, and we guarantee speedy turnaround and industry-leading printing quality to ensure your brand is noticed for all the right reasons.

Fabric displays, vibrant illuminated options—you’ll find exactly what you need to make your show a success!