Updated June 2026 · Pelican Signs
Channel letters are individual, often-illuminated 3D letters mounted to your building for a premium, modern look; cabinet (box) signs are a single lit rectangular sign with your graphics on the face, usually at a lower cost and faster to produce. Channel letters read as higher-end, while cabinet signs are budget-friendly and easy to update.
What are channel letters?
Channel letters are custom-fabricated, dimensional letters and logos mounted directly to your building. They can be face-lit (glowing fronts) or halo-lit (a soft glow behind each letter), and they're highly customizable in size, color, and finish.
What are cabinet (box) signs?
A cabinet sign is an enclosed lightbox with a translucent printed face. It's a single unit, cost-effective to produce, and the face can be swapped later if your branding changes — a practical choice for many storefronts and multi-tenant buildings.
Pros, cons, and which to choose
Channel letters look premium and architectural but cost more because each letter is fabricated individually. Cabinet signs are lower-cost and quick to produce and reface, though they can look more dated next to channel letters.
For a brand-forward storefront where appearance matters most, channel letters usually win. For value, speed, or a sign you may update, a cabinet sign is often the smarter pick. We'll help you weigh look, budget, and your building's sign criteria.
Ready to start?
Talk to Pelican Signs about exterior signs for your business.