An LED neon sign, as created by Manhattan Neons, is a modern illuminated display made from two key components: flexible LED strips and a shatterproof acrylic backing. The LED strips are embedded in PVC casing, designed to mimic the classic glow of traditional glass neon. These strips are mounted onto a precision-cut acrylic sheet, which provides structural support and allows for fully customized shapes, letters, or logos. Further to shape, letters, logos, or motifs, an LED sign is customizable for color, size, and indoor or outdoor usage.
LED strips used in the making are long-life, safe, low-voltage operation, and strong visual impact with multiple hanging options. LED neon signs are available in various styles and types, such as script, block, or RGB programmable, to suit a wide range of decorative and branding purposes.
What is a custom LED neon sign?
A custom LED neon sign is a personalized lighting piece crafted to the exact text/motif, size, colors, and materials according to the requirements of your personal, business, or event use.
What is text-based customization?
A text-based custom LED neon sign, from Manhattan Neons, is a handcrafted lighting piece personalized to your exact wording in custom font style, desired language, arranged in single-line or multi-line layouts, with alignment options left, center, or right, color choices including RGB, sign size, and backboard style to the requirements of your personal, business, or event LED neon sign. Except for multi-line customization and desired language, you can design a custom LED neon sign for text with Manhattan Neons' free design tool.
What is motif-based customization?
A motif-based customization is a free design service, from Manhattan Neons, through which you can turn any multi-line and desired language text, and any image/motif into an illuminated sign. The image/motif can be an image, logo, icon, or a mix of text + shapes like (e.g., "Love" inside a heart). You will have full authority to select custom fonts, desired language, single-line or multi-line layouts, custom alignment, single/multiple/RGB colors, custom size, and the backboard styling for aesthetics and visibility. You can design a custom LED neon sign for a motif through the free design service.
LED tube of LED neon signs
Flexible LED neon signs are primarily made from PVC or silicone, which serve as the structural enclosure for embedded LED strips. These materials provide the durability, flexibility, and optical diffusion required for consistent and visually appealing signage.
A defining attribute of the LED neon sign is its minimum bending radius of 50mm, allowing it to form tight curves and intricate typography. This flexibility makes it ideal for custom shapes, creative lettering, and precise design applications.
Engineered for versatility, the flexible neon light sign operates reliably across a temperature range of -20°C to +45°C, delivering stable performance in both harsh outdoor climates and temperature-controlled indoor environments.
Each LED faux neon sign is rated at IP65 or higher, providing resistance against dust, water splashes, and UV rays. With optional upgrades to IP67, the signage becomes suitable for wet-zone installations or exposed exterior conditions.
Powered by a 12V DC low-voltage system, the LED neon light sign ensures energy efficiency and safe, prolonged operation. Its low power draw makes it ideal for residential setups, commercial branding, and retail display.
The neon sign body, made from PVC or silicone, acts as a passive heat sink, effectively managing internal temperatures and keeping the surface cool even after extended use—enhancing user safety and LED longevity.
These custom LED neon displays are also RoHS-compliant, manufactured free from hazardous substances like lead, mercury, and halogenated compounds, making them safe for both ecosystems and indoor environments with children.
Built for endurance, the average lifespan of an LED neon sign ranges up to 50,000 hours, offering a long-lasting, maintenance-light solution that minimizes replacement cycles.
With availability in both static color and RGB formats, these illuminated signs support a full spectrum of visual effects—from subtle gradients to animated color transitions—suiting everything from event décor to brand-specific visual identities.
Acrylic of Faux neon signs
The backboards supporting LED signs are typically constructed from cast acrylic, known for its optical clarity, rigidity, and ease of machining. It serves as a durable substrate for sign mounting and edge-lit diffusion.
Standard thickness ranges between 3mm and 10mm, with up to 92% light transmittance, maximizing the effectiveness of front or edge-lit LED setups.
Acrylic backboards are offered in multiple styles: clear (floating effect), frosted (diffused glow), mirror (intensified illumination), and colored (aesthetic contrast). Each enhances the visual impact depending on the sign's design and placement.
Beyond aesthetics, the acrylic backboard provides rigid support, ensures letter alignment, and acts as a mounting platform for standoffs, adhesive tapes, or wall fixtures, enhancing overall durability and installation flexibility.
What is an LED Neon Sign Style?
An LED neon sign style refers to the visual or structural design format of the sign, including how the neon elements are shaped, mounted, or presented aesthetically. The Faux neon sign styles include script, bold block, retro, minimalist, and UV/Glow influence the look, ambiance, and visibility of the signage, not its functional electronics.
| Style | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Script | Elegant cursive/handwritten fonts (e.g., Harlotte, Dolce Vita) | Weddings, home décor, boutique shops |
| Bold Block | Thick, clean lines (e.g., Bauhaus, Roboto) | Business logos, retail signage |
| Retro | 80s/90s-inspired (e.g., NeonTube, Marquee) | Bars, arcades, and themed events |
| Minimalist | Thin lines, geometric shapes | Modern offices, Scandinavian interiors |
| UV/Glow | Blacklight-reactive colors | Nightclubs, Halloween décor |
What Is an LED Neon Sign Type?
An LED neon sign type refers to the technical configuration or construction format, such as how the LEDs are housed, powered, and controlled. Modern neon sign types like Flexible LED neon rope, rigid LED neon tubes, Edge-lit Acrylic neon, and RGB programmable neon impact functionality, installation, and usage scenarios.
| Type | Definition | Features | Example Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flexible LED Neon Rope | Silicone/PVC-encased flexible strip with embedded LEDs | Bendable, cuttable, various voltages | DIY signs, event props, retail window outlines |
| Rigid LED Neon Tubes | Solid, non-bendable tubes with internal LEDs | Straight-edge clarity, long runs | Architectural borders, commercial facades |
| Edge-Lit Acrylic Neon | Laser-engraved acrylic edge-lit by LED strip | Glows from edges, thin profile | Awards, plaques, sleek branding panels |
| RGB Programmable Neon | Digital control over color/animation via controller | Custom light effects, remote/app control | Nightclubs, sports arenas, and animated signage |
Power Consumption & Electricity Cost of LED neon lights
Modern LED neon signs typically use 10 to 65 watts, depending on size and complexity. Assuming 50 watts average consumption, operated 8 hours per day, at the U.S. average electricity rate of ~$0.16 per kWh, the monthly cost ≈ is $1.92
Heat Emission & Safety
The LED neon signs emit minimal heat, remaining cool to the touch even after extended use. Faux neon lights are operating at low voltage (typically 12V), and these signs are safe to touch and pose no risk of burns, making them suitable for homes with children.
LED neon light hanging methods
LED neon signs can be hung using multiple methods: wall mounting with screws for permanent installation, adhesive hooks/strips for lightweight or temporary setups, ceiling suspension with chains for floating effects, suction cups for glass surfaces, and Velcro strips for ultra-light signs. Outdoor signs require weatherproof hardware, while heavy designs may need professional installation. Always verify the wall material and weight capacity.
LED neon sign display applications
LED neon signs serve diverse applications. Homes use them for décor—names, quotes, or motifs in living spaces. Businesses deploy them for branding—storefront logos, open signs, or menus. Events utilize them as backdrops, photo booth accents, or markers. Artists integrate them into installations. Outdoor-rated versions (IP65+) suit cafes or building facades. They outperform traditional neon—lightweight, energy-efficient, and fully customizable in size, color, and design.
What are the uses of LED neon lights?
LED neon lights are widely used across various sectors, including business and commercial, retail and visual merchandising, event and wedding, home décor, content creation and streaming, creative arts and design, office and corporate spaces, mobile and temporary installations, and party and celebration.
Business and commercial use
LED neon signs are powerful tools for businesses seeking to enhance brand visibility and attract customers. Business LED neon signs are commonly used for storefront logos, open/close indicators, indoor branding, and directional signage, offering a vibrant, energy-efficient alternative to traditional lighting that draws attention day and night.
Retail and Visual Merchandising
Retailers use LED neon signs to create visually compelling in-store experiences and increase foot traffic. Whether highlighting seasonal promotions, labeling product zones, or designing Instagram-friendly photo walls, neon signage helps convey brand identity and engage shoppers effectively.
Event and Wedding Decoration
In event and wedding settings, LED neon signs add a personalized and decorative touch to ceremonies, receptions, and proposals. Custom messages like couple names, hashtags, or romantic phrases serve as stylish backdrops for photos and create a memorable atmosphere for guests.
Home Décor
Homeowners incorporate LED neon signs to personalize spaces with meaningful phrases, names, or symbols. Whether it's a motivational quote in a bedroom, a playful kitchen pun, or RGB lighting in a game room, these signs double as both décor and functional lighting.
Content Creation and Streaming
Content creators and streamers use LED neon signs to elevate their video backdrops and reinforce personal branding. Neon handles, logos, or dynamic effects help enhance visual appeal across YouTube, Twitch, TikTok, and podcast sets, making their content more recognizable and professional.
Creative Arts and Design
Artists and designers employ LED neon signs as expressive media in installations, exhibitions, and studios. With the ability to transform text and graphics into illuminated art, neon signs offer a modern, flexible medium that adds vibrancy and dimension to creative environments.
Office and Corporate Spaces
In corporate settings, LED neon signs communicate culture and values through visually striking displays. From motivational quotes in meeting rooms to branded signage in lobbies or break rooms, they help modernize office interiors and reinforce internal branding.
Mobile and Temporary Installations
For mobile vendors and temporary setups, LED neon signs offer lightweight, portable branding solutions. They're ideal for food trucks, pop-up shops, kiosks, and trade booths, where quick setup and bold visibility are essential for drawing in customers.
Party and Celebration
LED neon signs bring energy and personality to parties and milestone events. Used for birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, or baby showers, they feature customized names, numbers, or themes, serving as both decoration and memorable photo backdrops.
What is the shipping Time?
The custom LED neon signs typically ship, as at Manhattan Neons, within 7 to 8 business days.
What makes Modern neon lights the best choice?
Faux neon signs (LED neon) are the best choice due to their superior durability, safety, and versatility in comparison and contrast to glass tube neon signs. Made from flexible silicone or PVC tubing, they are shatterproof, lightweight, and energy-efficient, consuming up to 80% less power than traditional glass neon. Unlike fragile gas-filled tubes, LED neon operates at low voltage (12V–24V), stays cool to the touch, and contains no toxic gases, making it safe for homes, businesses, and events. Customization is effortless—choose from endless colors (including RGB options), fonts, and shapes, with options for dimming and smart controls. Weatherproof (IP65+) variants thrive indoors and outdoors, while their 50,000+ hour lifespan ensures long-term value. Ideal for weddings, retail branding, or personal décor, faux neon delivers the nostalgic glow of classic neon without the maintenance, cost, or risks.
Best manufacturer of LED neon lights
Manhattan Neons, one of the best LED neon light manufacturer, stands out as a premier manufacturer of custom LED neon signs, renowned for blending design precision, material quality, and customer personalization into every product. What sets Manhattan Neons apart is their commitment to craftsmanship and customization—offering both text-based and motif-based neon solutions tailored for retail spaces, events, home décor, and content creation. Each sign is built using durable, RoHS-compliant silicone or PVC housing, ensuring vibrant illumination with low power consumption and safe handling.
From cut-to-shape acrylic backboards to multi-color RGB animations, Manhattan Neons provides an array of backboard styles, font choices, and lighting effects to meet any design vision. Their signs are lightweight, easy to install, and rated for indoor and outdoor use—with IP65+ protection and efficient 12V LED systems. Known for fast turnaround times, detailed customer service, and precision-engineered finishes, Manhattan Neons is trusted by individuals, creators, and businesses alike as the go-to source for high-impact, personalized LED neon signage.