The Bright Choice: Neon vs LED Signs—Why Neon Still Stands Out

When it comes to signage, both neon and LED signs have carved out a space in the modern advertising landscape. While LED signs have surged in popularity due to their lower costs, and reported energy efficiency they do not generate the same resonance or possess the charm and quality that only neon offers. In this post, we’ll break down the differences between neon and LED signs, while highlighting why neon remains a superior medium for businesses and enthusiasts seeking a timeless sign or piece of art that can last for generations.

Overview

Neon signs have been a symbol of urban nightlife and artistic expression since the early 20th century and their actual inception pre-dates that quite heavily. They are created by skilled artisans who take glass tubes, heating and bending them into custom designs that can take on virtually any shape or form. Filled with noble gases of neon (hence the name) and often argon, these tubes then have an electric current passed through them which produces a luminescence, producing that classic resonance we associate with vintage diners, classic bars, and storefronts.

This craftsmanship lends neon signs a certain authenticity that can’t be matched by mass-produced LED alternatives. Each sign is a piece of art, often reflecting the unique personality of the business it represents. Neon light has a smooth, consistent glow that resonates from the entire tube of glass creating a welcoming glow that draws attention in a way that LED's sharp, directional brightness cannot match. The colours are vibrant, often warmer and more organic, lending a nostalgic and high-quality vibe that modern LED displays often lack with their garish, often cold look.

What you’re getting for your money

LED signs are much much cheaper to produce (though often similar in price to buy) and reported as more energy-efficient, making them a popular option for budget-conscious businesses. Using light-emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged in patterns, they simulate the look of neon. While they may seem like a more economical choice upfront, the quality trade-offs are significant.

The LED industry would have you believe that LED signs are several magnitudes more power efficient than neon but this is simply not true.

It is true that Neon signs need a high voltage - no more than what is available from every house-hold plug - however, they require a very small current so the overall wattage is not large meaning that many neon signs are more economical than even some light bulbs.

LED on the other hand will try to match the power it’s paired with and will naturally draw whatever is provided to it, exceeding this can be dangerous and many more fires are associated with cheap, foreign LED lights than neon which will always be supplied with a reliable and tested power supply unit to ensure the piece is receiving exactly the power it needs, no more.

The Quality of Light

First, LEDs tend to produce a harsher, more artificial light. Instead of the smooth, diffused glow of neon, LED signs emit pinpoint lighting, which can appear cold and sterile. For businesses that want to create a welcoming, cosy ambiance, LED signs often fall short, leaving a tacky, overly commercial impression. Additionally, while LED signs can mimic certain colours, they lack the depth and warmth of true neon colours as you’re limited to pairing diode colours with whatever plastic filters you can find. Neon allows you to mix up the gases (which each give their own colour) and pair with whatever glass that can be coloured multiple ways to achieve particular shades and tones resulting in a much more engaging and bespoke visual experiences for customers.

Durability & Longevity

One argument often made in favour of LED signs is their longevity. This however is not true, neon glass tubes can be repaired, reconditioned and re-pumped with gas which means they can last several life times even those that spend a life outside. LEDs are generally made from plastic and can degrade and fade over time but not before the actual diodes (lights) burn out after a certain amount of hours. LEDs inevitably become e-waste good only for land-fill or incinerators.

Furthermore, unlike LEDs, neon signs don’t suffer from pixelation or uneven brightness, both of which can detract from the appearance of a LED sign over time.

Which to choose?

In the battle between neon and LED, the decision often comes down to what’s more important to the business—budget or quality. LED signs are practical no-doubt, especially for businesses looking for a quick, affordable solution. However, for those who value artistry, ambiance, and making a gorgeous statement, neon remains the gold standard.

Thanks for reading

The neon industry is being actively, purposefully damaged by the LED industry looking to make a quick buck shipping low quality products marketed as ‘neon’. If you choose real neon over LED you help preserve our industry and by joining the community of people learning these skills you can be a champion of it. Once the dust has settled, only the glass will remain.

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