If you are putting a sign on a storefront, you will probably be asked one question early: channel letters or a cabinet sign? Both can work well. The right choice depends on your logo, your budget and your landlord.
What are channel letters?
Channel letters are individual three-dimensional letters. Each one is built as its own shape, often with LED lighting inside, and mounted directly to the building or onto a raceway. The result is a custom, dimensional look, with each letter standing on its own.
What is a cabinet sign?
A cabinet sign is a single box, usually aluminum, with a printed or routed face that is lit from inside. Your whole design sits on one flat panel, which is why cabinets are common for detailed artwork and for pylon and monument panels.
Side by side
| Channel letters | Cabinet sign | |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Custom and dimensional | Flat panel, one solid shape |
| Cost | Often higher up front | Often more economical |
| Best for | Simple logos and names | Detailed artwork or a lot of text |
| Changing it later | Letters are replaced individually | The face can be swapped |
| Landlord preference | Frequently preferred on storefronts | Sometimes restricted, so check |
How to decide
Choose channel letters if you want a premium, custom look, your landlord prefers them, or your logo is simple enough to be built letter by letter.
Choose a cabinet sign if your design has a lot of detail, you want to keep the upfront cost down, or you expect to change the face later.
Tip: ask for a mockup of each option on a photo of your own building before deciding. Seeing both makes the choice much easier.