Most of today's 'neon' market has moved to LED — but classic neon's magic is real. Here's where each truly wins.
When to choose Classic Neon
- Premium hipster bar or restaurant
- Concentrated, warm glow on a dark backdrop
- Historic building or vintage scene backdrop
When to choose LED Neon
- Outdoor / open-sky installation
- Low energy consumption
- 10,000+ hours of operating life
- Any colour, including RGB
Side-by-side
| Criterion | Classic Neon | LED Neon |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Heavy | Light |
| Power use | High | Low |
| Lifespan | ~3 years | 10+ years |
| Cost | High | Mid |
Bottom line
Aesthetic and vintage feel? Classic. Every other case? LED neon is more practical, efficient, and longer-lived.