Should you choose a backlit or standard trade show display?
Industry data suggests backlit displays can capture up to 40% more visual attention than non-lit fabric, potentially boosting booth traffic by 30%. However, they typically cost 2x to 3x more upfront and require dedicated electrical access. Use standard tension fabric for tight budgets and rapid setup; choose backlit lightboxes for high-competition halls where "stop-power" is your primary goal.
How much more is it to add lights to my display?
Backlit units require expensive LED arrays, transformers, and specialized "dense" fabric, costing significantly more than standard displays. Standard displays rely on ambient hall lighting, requiring no electrical hardware. Use standard, non-lit banner stands to control cost, and use backlit 10 x 10 backwalls or kits to upgrade to the next level.
| Display Category | Hardware Est. Range | Show Services (Power) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard (Non-Lit) | $900 – $1,400 | $0 |
| Backlit (Lightbox) | $2,500 – $5,500 | $150 – $500 |
Popular Product Price Points
- Entry Level Backlit ($2,400+ range): Ensemble Backlit System (Modular tube frame).
- Mid-Range Backlit ($3,000+ range): Graffiti Backlit (Pop-up frame with ladder lights).
- Premium Backlit ($4,900+ range): Prism Backlit (Heavy-duty aluminum extrusion).
What kind of image/design works best for backlit displays?
Backlit designs require specific optimization to avoid looking "washed out" or dull. Follow these rules for maximum impact:
- High Contrast is King: Use dark backgrounds with bright, vibrant foreground elements. The light "pops" more against black or dark blue than it does against white.
- Use "Light-Friendly" Imagery: Designs featuring natural light elements look incredible backlit. Think: sunsets, water reflections, city skylines at night, or lens flares.
- Avoid Heavy Whites: Large white backgrounds can act as a "flashlight," potentially blinding attendees or revealing dust/dirt on the fabric.
- Boost Saturation: When designing print files, slightly over-saturate your colors. The strong LED light will naturally brighten and slightly desaturate the final look.
How complicated is backlit to set up versus non-backlit?
A standard pop-up can be built in minutes, while a backlit display requires installing lighting arrays before attaching the graphic.
| Display Type | Avg. Setup Time | Complexity Level |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Pop-Up | 10–15 Minutes | Easy (Expand frame, attach graphic). |
| Backlit Pop-Up | 30–45 Minutes | Medium (Expand frame, hang light ladders, connect transformers, attach graphic). |
| Backlit Extrusion (Prism) | 60+ Minutes | Advanced (Requires connecting aluminum profiles; often requires two people). |
Are backlit displays durable and stable?
Stability correlates directly to the frame's weight and hardware construction:
- Aluminum Pop-Up Frames (Graffiti): Uses a "collapsing" aluminum frame for rapid setup. While lightweight (approx. 101 lbs), the engineering is robust enough to support integrated accessories, including a monitor mount for screens up to 20 lbs.
- Premium Extrusion Frames (Prism): Constructed from a heavy-duty aluminum frame that assembles tool-free. Weighing in at approx. 130 lbs, this frame offers a semi-permanent, structural feel that provides maximum rigidity on the show floor.
What are the extra considerations (like electricity) I need to know?
Exhibitors must plan for specific logistics when upgrading to backlit displays:
- Ordering Power: You must order an electrical drop from the venue. A standard 5 Amp or 500 Watt drop is usually sufficient for a 10x10 backlit booth. Pro Tip: Order this online weeks before the show to save ~30% off floor rates.
- Wire Management: Unlike standard booths, you will have cords running from your display to the floor outlet. Bring gaffer tape or a small rug to conceal cords and prevent tripping hazards.
- Heat is Non-Existent: Modern displays use LED "cool" lights. You do not need to worry about the booth becoming hot or damaging the fabric, which was a problem with older halogen systems.