Comparison: LED Neons vs Glass Neons
Glass neon signs have been in existence for over 100 years, illuminating everything from modest storefronts to towering skyscrapers. Nevertheless, in more recent times, LED neon has taken the spotlight as businesses and individuals seek more ecologically-conscious alternatives. So, what's the reality in the clash between LED neons vs. glass neons? Continue reading to discover all.
Key Takeaways
- The key differences between glass neon and LED neon revolve around energy efficiency, longevity, visual appeal and maintenance requirements.
- LED neon is a cutting-edge technology with more pros than cons
- Glass neon is a century-old technology with more cons than pros
- The applications for glass neon and LED neon are quite similar
- LED neon requires less maintenance and is easier to install
- You can get LED signs with extensive customization at a low cost by using our service
Table of contents
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Glass Neon Vs LED Neon Signs: The Key Differences
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What Is LED Neon?
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Advantages And Disadvantages Of Led Neon
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Where Can You Use LED Neon?
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What Is Glass Neon?
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Advantages And Disadvantages Of Glass Neon
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Where Can You Use Glass Neon?
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Which Is Better? Glass Neon Or LED Neon Lights
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Which Needs Higher Maintenance, Glass Neon Or LED Neon?
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Which Is Easier To Install?
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Things To Keep In Mind Before Buying Glass Neon Or LED Neon
Glass Neon Vs LED Neon Signs: The Key Differences
To begin our comparison of LED neon signs vs glass neons, let’s break down the key differentiators. There are many areas where they can be compared, so we’ll look at things like energy efficiency, longevity, visual appeal and more.
Energy Efficiency
- Glass neon signs: Though they are not terrible energy consumers, neon glass signs certainly consume more energy than their LED counterparts. This is made worse by the fact that you have to keep them on at all times.
- LED neon signs: Using advanced LED technology, LED neons have a very low energy consumption and can be switched off when not in use for further energy savings.
Longevity and Lifespan
- Glass neon signs: With good care and maintenance, glass neons can keep going almost indefinitely. However, due to wear and tear on components, they typically last 8,000 to 15,000 hours, depending on usage.
- LED neon signs: Depending on the quality of the LEDs, these signs can last between 30,000 and 100,000 hours. Our LED signs use only the highest-quality LEDs for maximum longevity.
Visual Appeal and Brightness
- Glass neon signs: The authentic look and buzz captures the true essence of what people want from the signs. The neon gas shines brightly as long as the sign is well maintained.
- LED neon signs: The vintage look can be replicated up to a point, but it is not exactly the same. LEDs can start to lose some brightness as they approach the end of their lifespan.
Maintenance and Repair
- Glass neon signs: If you don’t regularly clean your glass neon sign, it will start to look dull and lifeless. You must also check the components regularly as the continuous usage can take a toll.
- LED neon signs: Maintenance requirements are minimal. You can switch them off when not in use and they may need occasional cleaning to remove dust.
Environmental Impact
- Glass neon signs: Some of these signs contain toxic materials like mercury, which are harmful for the environment. They must be disposed of correctly at the end of their lifespan.
LED neon signs: These contain no toxic materials and are easy to recycle along with other electrical items.
What Is LED Neon?
LED neon signs, such as the ones we sell, utilize innovative technology that closely mimics the aesthetic of traditional neon. However, this technology is more environmentally-friendly and energy-efficient. Additionally, they can provide various functionalities like color changing and strobe effects, and the flexible tubing can be easily manipulated, offering a wide range of customization options.
The primary objective of LED neon lighting is to establish a more versatile, functional, and sustainable substitute for traditional glass neon signs. These signs feature a silicone strip filled with LEDs, which can distribute light in a manner that emulates the appearance of outdated neon technology. If you're eager to witness their performance, feel free to visit us and explore our selection of custom LED neon lights. See how you can design your own sign, complete with a variety of personalization options.
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Advantages And Disadvantages Of Led Neon
There are many advantages to choosing LED neon for your signs, including its low heat emissions, minimal energy consumption and long lifespan. But it is not without its disadvantages, so it’s important to consider these carefully.
Advantages Of Led Neon
- Energy Efficiency: Low power consumption means lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint. They are also more eco-friendly thanks to the materials used in their production.
- Durability: LED neon is resistant to breakage and has a long lifespan of up to 100,000+ hours.
- Flexible design: The flexibility of the silicone tubes in LED signs allow for intricate, curved designs that would be far more challenging to achieve with glass tubes. You can also add color gradients and dynamic lighting effects for diverse customization possibilities.
- Minimal heat emission: LED technology produces very little heat, so these signs are not fire hazards.
- Low-maintenance: Minimal maintenance is required for LED neon, so they are easier to manage in the long-term.
Disadvantages Of Led Neon
- The initial cost: The upfront cost is usually higher in comparison to glass neon signs.
- Aesthetic differences: LED neon signs closely mimic the look of traditional neon, but many people believe they lack the same authentic charm. They also may not have quite the same uniform light dispersion, though these differences are only noticeable on close inspection.
Color intensity: Some people notice a difference in color vibrancy between traditional glass neons and modern LED alternatives.
Where Can You Use LED Neon?
There are numerous settings and applications in which LED neon lights can be utilized. They exhibit remarkable versatility and can be customized to suit the distinct requirements of a wide array of circumstances. Here are some common places where these cutting-edge signs are seen:
- Bars and restaurants
- Business storefronts
- Events
- Retail shops
- Home decorations
- Hotels
- Galleries and art installations
- Weddings and other special occasions
- YouTube and Twitch backgrounds
- Themed environments
LED neon signs are an excellent match for a wide array of applications. When you place an order with us, you'll have access to extensive personalization options, allowing you to create a genuinely distinctive and attention-grabbing neon sign tailored to your requirements. Moreover, our service is cost-effective, and our creations are of high quality, boasting exceptional color vibrancy and brightness—alongside the signature low energy consumption inherent in LED neon signage.
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Make Your Custom Neon SignsWhat Is Glass Neon?
Glass neon signs are composed of glass tubes that are filled with neon gas. These tubes are skillfully bent and shaped into letters, numbers, or images by artisanal craftsmen who employ advanced glass bending techniques. In essence, these signs are cold-cathode fluorescent lamps that transmit a high voltage through the tubes. Historically, neon gas was utilized, causing it to emit a glow when subjected to electrical current. In contemporary times, a variety of options exist, featuring distinct phosphor coatings and tints.
There are numerous gas combinations, each in varying ratios, utilized to attain the diverse hues seen in glass neon signs. Additionally, a significant level of expertise is involved in the bending and manipulation of the glass tubing. The outcomes are visually impressive, with the vivid glow and soft hum of the signs invoking nostalgia in many. However, these signs are also fragile, inefficient, and susceptible to wear and tear.
Advantages And Disadvantages Of Glass Neon
While there are advantages to opting for neon glass signs over the modern LED alternative, the disadvantages cannot be overlooked. These encompass their fragility, subpar energy efficiency, and significant heat emission.
Advantages Of Glass Neon
- An authentic look: The appearance of glass neon carries a certain nostalgia that can be exciting and charming for many people.
- Artisan craftsmanship: The skill required to bend the glass tubing for neon signs gives them a unique, artistic edge.
- Vibrancy: The unique glow of glass neon is warm and inviting.
- Customization: With the skill of a good craftsman, glass neon signs can be personalized to display unique designs as required.
Disadvantages Of Glass Neon
- Fragility: The glass tubes are very vulnerable to breakage during transportation, installation and maintenance.
- Poor energy-efficiency: Traditional glass neons consume more energy than modern LED alternatives.
- Shorter lifespan: Due to their vulnerability to damage, neon signs usually last around 8,000 to 15,000 hours.
- High maintenance: you must clean neon signs regularly and repairs can be complex and costly when needed.
- Not environmentally friendly: The gasses and materials involved in creating neon glass signs have environmental implications.
- Heat emission: Glass neon signage is inefficient in its use of energy, emitting a lot of heat that can be a safety concern.
Customization limitations: Glass neon signs can be personalized, but not to the same degree of intricacy and complexity as LED neon.
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Where Can You Use Glass Neon?
Similar to LED neons, you can apply glass neon signs in a wide variety of settings. The distinctive visuals can have a significant impact if used correctly. Here are some common examples of where you can utilize neon glass signs:
- Special occasions
- Public spaces
- Theaters
- Home decor
- Event spaces
- Hospitality venues
- Vintage shops
- Art galleries
- Retail stores
- Bars/nightclubs
- Restaurants
If you need an injection of retro charm and appreciate artisan craftsmanship, the vibrant glow of neon glass signs can play a key role in your space.
Which Is Better? Glass Neon Or LED Neon Lights
In a direct comparison, LED neon lights emerge as a clear winner, ticking the most boxes for the highest number of people. Apart from the nostalgic and aesthetic appeal of traditional neon, there's little to compare. LED technology is cutting-edge, and LED neon lights are meticulously designed to closely mimic that traditional aesthetic.
The practical areas where LED neon is superior include:
- Energy efficiency
- Longevity
- Versatility
- Customization options
- Maintenance
There is merit in acknowledging the lower initial expense of glass neon. However, this advantage is swiftly outweighed by the enduring expenses associated with operating and maintaining this outdated technology. Furthermore, we provide a dependable and cost-effective service for crafting customized LED neon lights tailored to your specific requirements. When you collaborate with us, the advantages of traditional neon lighting are virtually negligible, making the decision truly straightforward—whether you're a business or using it for personal purposes.
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Make Your Custom Neon SignsWhich Needs Higher Maintenance, Glass Neon Or LED Neon?
Glass neon has significantly higher maintenance demands. The glass tubing necessitates regular cleaning, as the buildup of dirt and dust can diminish the brightness of the light. Additionally, because of their high voltage and constant operation, they are more susceptible to electrical malfunctions. Not to mention, the fragility of the glass tubing and its susceptibility to breakage cannot be overlooked.
Conversely, LED neon requires very little maintenance. Occasionally wiping the silicone tubing to remove dust may be necessary, but otherwise, you can simply leave them to perform their function. Furthermore, you can easily switch them off when not in use, effectively reducing the strain on the electrical components.
Which Is Easier To Install?
Generally speaking, LED neon signs are easier to install. They are lightweight and flexible, and you don't have to worry about fragile glass tubing during the installation process. Other advantages of LED neon vs glass neon for installation include:
- Lower voltage
- Simple mounting
- Fewer electrical considerations
- Instant illumination
Glass neon signs have more complexities and safety considerations. If you want the simplest installation process possible, order your custom LED neon signs from us. We supply installation hardware and full instructions to make your DIY installation a breeze.
Things To Keep In Mind Before Buying Glass Neon Or LED Neon
There are several considerations to keep in mind when choosing between LED neon vs glass neon signs. From your intended use to your budget and desired aesthetic, all these things must be carefully thought about before you make any decisions.
- Intended application: Consider where you plan to install your neon sign. Will it be safe from tampering? Could it present a fire hazard? Does it need to draw attention or contribute to the overall ambiance?
- Desired aesthetic: If you need extensive customization, LED lighting may be best to capture your brand or theme. But glass neon may be better for evoking a vintage aesthetic. Consider your needs carefully.
- Your budget: LED neon lights tend to have a higher upfront cost, but neon glass lights are far more expensive to run.
- Location and installation: We have established that LED neons are simpler to install. Think about how important this is for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About LED Neon vs Glass Neon
Which Is Better? Glass Neon Or LED Neon
This depends on your criteria, but there are more advantages to LED neon signs than there are to glass neon from an objective standpoint.
Glass Neon Vs LED Neon Signs: The Key Differences
The key differences are the glass neon signs use glass tubing and glowing neon gas while LED neons use flexible silicone tubing and energy-efficient LEDs.
Which Needs Higher Maintenance, Glass Neon Or LED Neon?
Glass neon definitely has more maintenance requirements than its LED counterpart.
