When choosing between glass neon signs and LED neon signs, it’s important to understand their differences and the unique advantages each type offers. This brief guide on glass neon vs LED neon will help you decide which type of neon sign best suits your needs

Choosing between glass neon signs and LED neon signs can feel like deciding between classic rock and the latest pop hit. Both have their unique vibes and strengths, so let’s dive into this glowing world and help you find the neon sign that’s just right for you!

How do neon signs work?

A neon sign operates by passing electricity through noble gases contained within sealed glass tubes, each emitting a distinct color. Neon produces a bright red, helium shines orange-yellow, krypton glows blue or white, xenon emits a clear blue, radon gives off red, and argon appears as pale purple, pink, or light blue. This process, known as gas discharge, excites the gas molecules, causing them to light up.

A unique aspect of glass neon signs is the electrode, which is often painted black and encased in a silicon cover. In a neon glass tube, electrodes at each end facilitate the flow of electricity, allowing the electrical current to enter and exit the tube, which excites the gas inside to emit light.

Craftsmanship and Aesthetics

Glass neon signs are a true example of craftsmanship. Each piece is carefully handcrafted by skilled artisans who shape glass into unique designs. Each sign stands out as a visually stunning piece, offering a warm, inviting glow that adds a touch of old-fashioned charm and character to any place. Their classic and timeless appeal makes them a favorite choice for enhancing the aesthetic of both businesses and personal spaces, bringing a unique and captivating element to any setting.

Take a look at the video below to learn the process of creating a neon sign by a skilled sign maker. You’ll appreciate the amount of work that goes into crafting a glass neon sign.

Durability and Maintenance

Glass neon signs are often perceived as fragile due to their glass construction, but they are surprisingly resilient when crafted with quality in mind and maintained properly. These iconic signs, which consist of glass tubes filled with special gases, can effectively brighten up spaces with their vibrant glow for many years. They are built to last, enduring the wear and tear of time with relative ease when handled correctly.

In terms of upkeep, glass neon signs are low maintenance. Many people might assume they require frequent and complex care, but in reality, the upkeep is quite straightforward. Regular cleaning to remove any accumulated dust and an occasional check-up to ensure all electrical components are functioning correctly are generally all that’s needed to keep these signs in top condition.

Energy Consumption

When comparing LED and glass neon signs, energy consumption is often highlighted as a significant advantage of LED signs, which are recognized for their superior energy efficiency. However, how much more energy does a glass neon sign actually consume in comparison? Let’s explore this by comparing the same neon sign design created using both LED and traditional glass neon methods.

The image above shows a 59” x 6” glass neon sign. If we recreate this sign using LED neon tubes with the same dimensions, the total length of the LED tubing would be 14.4 feet (4.4 meters).

13W/m x 4.4m ≈ 58W/h = 0.058kWh

Now, let’s assume that the neon sign is used for ten hours a day, six days a week:

0.058 kW x 10h x 6 days = 3.48 kW per week

3.48 kW x 52 weeks = 180.96 kW per year

As of October 2024, the average electricity cost in the United States is 16.62 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). This results in an annual electricity cost of 180.96 kWh x $0.1662, totaling $30.08.

To calculate the energy consumption of a glass neon sign, we need to consider its unique characteristics. Unlike LED neon signs, where the length of the tubing can be directly used for calculations, glass neon signs involve bent glass tubes, the color, and different tube diameters.

Therefore, the calculation isn’t as straightforward. Instead, we will use the specifications of the transformer to determine the energy usage. This glass neon sign operates with a 6kV/30mA transformer. A UL-listed neon transformer is self-regulated, so the voltage stabilizes at about 60-70% of the maximum power during use.

6000V x 0.03A x 70%=126W=0.126kw

0.126kw x 10h x 6 days = 7.56 kw per week

7.56 kW x 52 weeks = 393.12 kWh per year

The annual electricity cost comes to 393.12 kWh times $0.1662, which equals $65.33.

As we can see, the LED neon sign is indeed more energy-efficient compared to the glass neon sign, but owning a glass neon sign won’t necessarily hurt your wallet.

Modern Aesthetic and Flexibility

LED neon signs are made from flexible silicon tubes and LED modules, giving them a clean and contemporary look. They become a hit for both homes and businesses thanks to their modern look and versatility. Because of the LED technology, they come with RGB features that allow for color changes and programmable color-changing modes, options that traditional glass neon signs cannot provide. This capability enables dynamic and programmable lighting effects that can be tailored to specific occasions or preferences.

Easy Installation and Transportation

In certain cases, particularly with larger designs, LED neon signs are easier to install compared to glass neon signs. The installation process is more forgiving, thanks to the flexibility of LED tubing and the durability of the acrylic backing. These features allow for more straightforward handling and positioning, reducing the risk of damage during installation and making it simpler to achieve the desired look.

And because of their easy installation, LED neon signs are more convenient to transport and carry than glass neon signs, making them perfect for weddings, pop-up events, temporary booths, and similar setups. Their lightweight and durable design ensures hassle-free transportation, allowing for quick and efficient setup and takedown.

Affordable Price

LED neon signs are typically more budget-friendly because they don’t require the same level of complex artistry as glass neon signs, which involves skilled craftsmanship and often comes with a higher price tag. However, when it comes to small-sized signs, the cost difference between LED and glass neon signs tends to be minimal, as the size reduces the complexity and labor needed, bringing their prices closer together.

Making Your Decision: Glass vs. LED Neon Signs

Consider Glass Neon Signs if:

• You love a vintage, industrial look.
• Handcrafted artistry is your thing.
• Like a warm and inviting glow.

With their affordable price, short turnaround, and efficiency, LED neon signs have become a must-have element for weddings , events, cafes , and home deco. However, there remains a dedicated group of vintage neon sign enthusiasts who appreciate the classic appeal of glass. For these enthusiasts, finding a reliable and affordable source to create custom glass neon signs has been challenging—until now. To bring back glass neon signs for vintage lovers and make the process effortless, Echo Neon, the first LED neon sign brand in the U.S., launched their custom glass neon generator , where customers can effortlessly personalize their own glass neon signs online and delivered directly to their doors.

The choice between glass neon signs and LED neon signs depends on your specific needs and preferences. Glass neon signs offer a classic, handcrafted appeal but require careful handling and more energy. LED neon signs, on the other hand, provide modern look, durability, and energy efficiency, making them a practical choice for many uses. Assess your priorities to determine which type of neon sign is the best fit for you.
Explore the world of glass neon vs LED neon to find the perfect sign for your space.