Help! Cabinet or channel letter?
Whether it be through promotional products, digital media, printed materials, or signage, the over-arching goal is to portray your brand in a positive light. If you’re in the position to order new signage, it’s okay if you’re unsure what to do. After all, you’re not an expert! That’s why we’re comparing and contrasting cabinet and channel letter signs in this blog post.
Our goal is to help you decide which type of illuminated signage will best fit your needs. We’re here to help you succeed!
Before we dive into the pros and cons, let’s establish a basic definition for each type:
Also called “wall” signs, cabinet and box signs are a traditional form of illuminated signage that display precise detail and showcase your brand. Although most commonly mounted on an exterior wall, cabinet signs can also be freestanding via a pole or monument and have a box-like shape.
Channel letter signs are individual letters, numbers, and other graphics each with their own structure and separate illumination. They can be mounted directly onto a building, with a backer, or via a raceway.
When to choose a cabinet sign
Cabinet and box signs are an excellent choice for both businesses and organizations alike. It’s best to choose a cabinet sign when:
1. You have the space for a free-standing sign.
Often times, businesses don’t have the freedom to choose the type of sign they want and where. If you own your building, by all means, get a sign that is freestanding outside (within city ordinances, of course)! Extend your reach as far as possible. Cabinet signs illuminate nicely at night, and are quite visible when placed by the road.
2. You have an intricate design.
Perhaps the largest benefit of a cabinet sign that channel letters cannot provide is its ability to display highly detailed graphics. If your logo contains an intricate design or calligraphy style typefaces, definitely take advantage of the large surface area and choose a cabinet.
3. You’re seeking durability and longevity.
Another positive aspect of a cabinet sign is its durability. Several types of material can comprise the sign’s face (where graphics are shown), including polycarbonate, acrylic, and vinyl. The face is enclosed in an aluminum box-like frame that holds the lighting if you so choose.
(Check out our blog post where we break down the in’s and out’s of cabinet & box signs.)
When to choose a channel letter sign
Channel letters are highly customizable to suit your brand and its messaging. Choose a channel letter sign if you can relate to any or all of the following:
1. You want to mix and match lighting and installation practices.
No two sets of channel letter signs are the same. Although that’s also true for cabinet signs, there’s a broader range of choices with channel letters. For instance, you can choose a front-lit set that’s mounted on a raceway, or a halo-lit set that’s flush-mounted onto the building.
(Unsure what that means? Check out our blog post on channel letters!)
2. Your typefaces are simple.
Since every channel letter is separate from the next, it’s easier and makes more sense to choose the signage solution when your font is simplistic. Less is more with channel letters!
3. Your landlord requires that all tenants have signs mounted directly.
Numerous landlords want their tenants’ signage to look the same, and many times channel letters are their first choice. Although your options are somewhat limited in this situation, you can still show your creativity with a channel letter sign.
Still unsure about which sign is best?
If you’re indecisive about which signage will best suit your needs, that’s okay! If anything, you received more information to aid in your decision making. Don’t forget that our team of sign experts is ready to assist you and provide advice when needed, as well.
Choosing your sign is a big decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. We’re here to help you and guide you through the entire process. Give us a call today or describe your project using the button below! We look forward to working together.
If this article about how to choose the best sign helped you in your decision making, we’d love to know! Follow us on social media to begin the conversation.