We explain the differences between lightboxes, illuminated signs with aluminium composite backgrounds and illuminated channel letters, their pros, and which suits which business.
When you decide to get a sign, the first question is usually: a classic illuminated sign or channel letters? In fact, channel letters can be illuminated too. The real difference is whether the lettering is produced on a single flat surface or letter by letter in three dimensions.
Lightbox (illuminated box)
A lightbox is a single-piece box lit from inside with LEDs, with a printed or vinyl-covered face. A single-sided lightbox can be mounted flat on the facade, and a double-sided one perpendicular to it.
- Pros: economical, quick to produce and good at displaying colourful, detailed graphics.
- Things to note: because it looks like a single piece, it doesn't look as prestigious as channel letters.
- Who it suits: neighbourhood shops, cafés, pharmacies, hair salons; and almost any business as a second, projecting sign.
Illuminated sign with aluminium composite background
A sign with illuminated acrylic lettering or channel letters applied to an aluminium composite panel (ACM) background. It is the most common model on shop and branch facades.
- Pros: gives a neat, corporate facade and covers old marks and irregularities on the facade.
- Who it suits: chain stores, agencies, branches, offices.
Illuminated channel letters
A sign in which each letter is produced individually and mounted on the facade. It can be front-lit or back-lit.
- Pros: looks three-dimensional and prestigious; the most legible type of sign at night.
- Things to note: cost rises with the number of letters; for very long text, budget planning is important.
- Who it suits: businesses that want to make their brand stand out, corporate buildings, high-street shops.
How should you decide?
- If budget is the priority: a lightbox or an illuminated sign with an aluminium composite background.
- If prestige is the priority: illuminated channel letters, on an aluminium composite or wooden background if needed.
- If the facade is irregular: a sign with a background tidies up the facade.
- If there is heavy foot traffic: a double-sided lightbox mounted perpendicular to the facade is visible to people coming from both directions.
For most businesses, the best result is a combination of channel letters on the main facade and a small projecting lightbox beside them. The soundest approach is to see your facade during a site survey and show you in a 3D design which option suits you.
