Table of Content
This digital signage cost guide will provide specific ballpark figures to help you build a business case for management or create a budget for your small business.
To provide the most value, we've categorized these costs based on three deployment tiers:
- Budget – Consumer-grade hardware, DIY setup, basic needs
- Standard Commercial – Professional-grade equipment, reliable 16/7-24/7 operation, and
- Premium/High-End – High-brightness displays, outdoor-rated hardware, enterprise features.
We've also broken down costs by vertical applications like retail windows, healthcare wayfinding, and office lobbies, so you can compare costs for different aspects and requirements of your business.
You'll find hardware costs, software pricing, installation estimates, and the hidden expenses that affect your total investment. By the end, you'll have concrete numbers to work with, and if you need personalized guidance, the Look team is ready to answer any questions you may have.
All costs are in USD, 2026 estimates.
Digital Signage Hardware Costs
Digital signage hardware consists of digital displays (screens), media players, and mounting stands.
Digital Displays
Consumer-grade displays
It's entirely possible to deploy digital signage for under $500 using a standard TV paired with digital signage software. If you have basic content needs like slideshows, video content, static images, and RSS feeds or weather widgets, a decent 43-inch LCD from $250 will serve you reliably.
However, keep in mind that since these displays are meant for home use, running them commercially often voids warranties. Plus, cheap tends to become expensive really quickly with cheap TVs if you have to troubleshoot constantly, incur maintenance fees, or replace them every few years.
If it’s not a standard TV you pre-own, we recommend aiming for a mid-tier consumer TV with decent specs and favourable reviews for reliability.
Recommend models:
- Amazon Fire TV 4-Series - $250 for 43-inch
- TCL 4 Series - $400 for 43-inch
- TCL Q68 Series - $530 for 55-inch (Amazon)
- Sony BRAVIA X75WL
- Xiaomi TV A2 Series
Commercial-grade displays
When you need displays running longer hours or in more demanding environments, commercial panels are purpose-built with better cooling systems, sturdier components, and 3-5 year warranties. A 55-inch commercial display costs around $600 on average, which is notably more than consumer options, but the reliability over extended operation usually justifies the difference. These displays can serve you for up to 7-10 years with minimal issues.
Recommend models:
- Philips D-Line (mid-range)
- Philips P-Line (high-brightness)
- Philips H-Line (ultra-bright)
- Sony BRAVIA EZ20L Series (entry-level) – $495 for 43-inch
- Sony BRAVIA BZ30L Series (midrange) – $710 for 43-inch
- LG UL3J Series – $799.99 for 43-inch
Interactive displays for kiosks, self-service, and retail.
Interactive displays come in two main forms: displays with built-in touchscreens or regular displays where you add a touch overlay on top.
Touch overlays cost anywhere from $180, so if you’re on a budget and still want to streamline check-in or boost engagement, you can start with these, but they tend to have slower response times and are less precise than native touchscreens.
Interactive display costs depend on screen size, enclosure type, and peripherals.
- Basic tabletop kiosks with capacitive touchscreens start around $700.
- Freestanding units with payment terminals, receipt printers, and barcode scanners range from $5,000 to $12,000.
- Outdoor-rated kiosks with weatherproof enclosures (IP65/IP66) cost $3,000 to $7,500.
Recommend models:
- LG CreateBoard TR3DK series (55" - 98") - $1,600 for 55"
- Elo 04 and 54 series (multiple sizes) - from $1,400 for 32"
- Iiyama ProLite TE10518UWI (105") - $7,200
- ViewSonic ViewBoard IFP8652-2F (86") - $4,500
- Planar UltraRes L Series (109" - 136") - $3,200 for 109"
Video Walls
If you’re aiming for that larger-than-life visual experience that stops people in their tracks, be prepared to dig deeper into your pockets because video walls are bold, ambitious, and attention-grabbing, and not cheap at all.
You can build one in three ways:
- Consumer TV configuration
You connect regular consumer displays through a video wall controller. The controller costs around $200, and you'll need a media player for another $300. A 2x2 setup with decent consumer TVs runs around $1,800 total. The catch is the bezels. Consumer displays have 15 to 20mm borders between screens, which creates visible black lines that cut through your content.
- Commercial daisy-chain setup
This method uses commercial displays with DisplayPort connections. You plug a media player into the first display and chain the rest through DisplayPort, so no controller is needed. A 2x2 commercial setup costs around $5,500. Bezels shrink to 10 to 12mm, but they're still noticeable enough to break up the image.
- Video wall panels
Now these are purpose-built with ultra-narrow bezels as thin as 0.44mm. The seams practically disappear, and your content looks like one continuous image instead of four separate screens. A 2x2 video wall panel installation costs around $16,000. That's a substantial jump in price, but the visual difference is immediate. These make sense for corporate headquarters lobbies, flagship retail stores, and event spaces where that wow factor justifies the cost.
Recommended models:
- Samsung The Wall Series (ultra-fine LED) - $10,000+ per square meter
- Absen Polaris PLV2 (indoor/outdoor) - $5,000-$7,000 per square meter
- Unilumin UpadIII Series (curved installations) - $6,000-$8,000 per square meter
Media Players
Since Smart TVs have become standard nowadays, most businesses just install the app provided by their signage software provider directly on the screen. In instances where there are compatibility issues, or you need more processing power and synchronization across locations, then a media player becomes a necessary expense. A media player refers to a device that connects to your display via HDMI, and controls content playback. They can be categorized into two based on your needs and budget:
Budget-friendly streaming devices
With as little as $40, you can get reliable 4K video playback, decent storage, and easy setup from the likes of Google Chromecast and Amazon FireTV Stick consumer devices. These will get your foot in the door, but they’re not entirely capable and long-lasting as your signage needs evolve.
Professional Media Players & Mini PCs
A professional media player can cost anywhere from $100 for entry-level hardware to $300 - $500+ for heavy motion graphics, 4K video walls, and outdoor-rated capabilities. At this price point, you’re paying for multi-display support, more storage and processing power, and 24/7 reliability.
Here at Look Digital Signage, we have our own lineup of professional players that come with the Look firmware pre-installed for a seamless plug-and-play experience and maximum compatibility.
Mounting Systems: Secure and Flexible Setup
To secure your display and meet accessibility requirements, you need mounting systems. The type you choose is mostly influenced by the position of the screen and how permanent the installation needs to be. Most commercial displays use VESA mounting patterns with standardized holes on the back measured in millimeters, like 200x200, 400x400, and 600x400.
Installation costs $75 to $150 per hour for professional setup, depending on complexity
The most common types you’ll encounter include:
Read also on the Look Blog: Digital Signage Hardware - Ultimate Buyer's Guide
Digital Signage Software Costs
Deployment Type: On-Premise vs Cloud-Hosted
Digital signage software gets deployed either on-premise or cloud-hosted. Cloud-hosted is more popular these days because it's simpler and eliminates a lot of IT headaches.
When you go on-premise, the content management server runs on your own network, either on a dedicated server or a virtual machine your IT team manages. This typically falls under capital expenditure (CapEx) since you're investing in infrastructure upfront. Your IT team handles server maintenance, security updates, and ensures high availability.
On-premise signage costs are usually quote-based, depending on your deployment size.
Are you in healthcare, banking, finance, or government with strict security and compliance requirements? Reach out to the Look team for a personalized assessment and on-premise deployment plan tailored to your needs.
With cloud-hosting, the software provider handles the server side completely. They host the CMS on a platform such as AWS, manage updates, ensure uptime, and handle security patches. You just log in and use it. This shifts costs to operational expenditure (OpEx) with predictable monthly or annual fees.
Look DS offers both. Some organizations need on-premises for data control or have infrastructure they want to use. Others prefer the cloud to get running quickly without IT overhead, especially multi-location businesses.
Tiered Pricing vs Full Feature Access
Let's say cloud-based hosting makes more sense for your business. You'll find that software providers either offer tiered pricing where you only pay for features you need, or full-feature access where everything's included. Tiered pricing looks cheaper initially, but you often end up upgrading when you realize basic plans block analytics, multi-user access, or integrations. That upgrade can easily cost you double what a full-feature platform would have cost from the start.
On the other hand, there are quite a number of free or cheap platforms in the market too, but you’ll be sacrificing reliable support, security, and scalability. They’re not worth it in the long run because poor software undermines the hardware investment you already made and limits the ROI your signage can deliver.
If you're a business looking for reliable uptime, top-notch round-the-clock support, enterprise-grade security, and performance that scales as your deployment grows, Look DS provides them all under a pocket-friendly pricing model. Starting at $13.50 monthly per screen, you get full platform access that drops to $9 per screen at 20+ displays and $5.40 over 200 screens. The more you scale, the more you save!
Look DS is recognized as one of the most user-friendly signage platforms on the market, with enterprise-level features built into an interface anyone can navigate. With compatibility across all types of hardware, built-in analytics and remote monitoring features, and top-tier security standards, you’re really paying for peace of mind and a partner that grows with you.
Don't believe us? Here’s what actual Look DS users are saying.
Content Costs
It’s common for signage software to come pre-installed with app integrations and professionally designed templates. These save you from graphics design costs on basic visuals but expect to pay for custom graphics, animations, or branded videos if you’re aiming for that visual impact.
Stock photo subscriptions or a design tool like Canva can cost you up $50/month. Content creation is often billed hourly at $15–$25+ for freelancers (more for agencies); monthly refresh cadences affect budget.
Maintenance Costs
Hardware maintenance costs can range from $200 per visit, depending on the level of support you need and how complex your setup is. For systems exposed to harsh conditions like outdoor signage, you’ll need to replace cables, casings, and connectors every 6 to 12 months. Environmental factors, like extreme weather or high humidity, can cause these components to wear out faster. We recommend a professional service for larger networks, which can cost upwards of $1000.
Installation Costs
For simple, small-scale installations, you might be looking at $500+ for 1-5 screens. However, if you're dealing with larger, more complex setups or systems that need to be integrated with other software, installation can run upwards of $2,000.
These costs generally cover labor, wiring, and any necessary permits or certifications.
Hidden Costs in Digital Signage
Cabling
Simple setups need basic HDMI and power connections already included with the hardware. Complex installations with video walls, long cable runs between display and media player, or in-wall routing for clean appearance require specialized cabling.
Electrical work
Many installations need dedicated circuits, especially video walls and high-brightness outdoor displays. Outdoor installations require weatherproof outlets, GFCI protection, and often underground trenching at $15 to $25 per foot. Large displays and 24/7 operations increase power requirements beyond standard outlets.
Structural considerations
Wall reinforcement for displays over 65 inches, ceiling mounts requiring load-bearing support, and concrete foundations for freestanding outdoor signs all increase costs. Older buildings might need structural upgrades to safely support digital signage. Budget $1,000+ for structural work, depending on what's required.
Enclosures
Weatherproof enclosures with IP65 or IP66 ratings cost $500 to $2,000 for standard displays. Outdoor kiosk enclosures with climate control (heating, cooling, ventilation) run $1,500 to $3,500. Anti-vandal protection with tempered glass and tamper-resistant hardware adds another $150 to $400 per unit.
Factors Influencing Digital Signage Cost
- Brightness levels: Higher brightness displays cost more and consume more power
- Duty cycle requirements: Commercial displays rated for 24/7 operation cost significantly more than consumer TVs designed for 8-hour daily use
- Indoor vs outdoor deployment: Outdoor displays cost 3-5x more due to weatherproofing and environmental protection
- Installation complexity: Outdoor installations with permits and electrical work cost thousands more than simple wall mounts
- Warranty coverage: Commercial displays with 3-year warranties cost more than consumer TVs with 1-year coverage
- Display lifespan: Commercial-grade displays delivering 50,000-100,000 hours justify higher upfront costs
Small vs Multi-Site vs Enterprise Rollout Cost Comparison
Note: These figures assume new hardware purchases. If you already own displays or have existing mounting infrastructure, your costs drop significantly. Also excluded: internet connectivity (you likely already have this), electricity costs, and any special requirements like outdoor enclosures, high-brightness displays, or structural modifications.
Maximize Your Investment with Look Digital Signage
"Value for us means price, quality, and the experience of using the product. The reason we chose Look is that it provided the best value for money compared to the other digital signage software we were using before" –John Janofsky from Zen Digital
The software you choose directly shapes your ROI. It controls how often content updates, how precisely you can schedule messages for different times or locations, and whether your team can manage everything without constant IT support.
If you've got existing hardware like TVs, a Chromecast, or a Raspberry Pi, you can put them to work and cut costs significantly. Starting from scratch? Begin with a handful of screens, see what works for your space and audience, then expand from there.
Look DS keeps things uncomplicated with full platform access and affordable pricing.
Ready to see how it works? Start your free 14-day trial today. No credit card required.
Frequently Asked Questions on Digital Signage Costs
How much does digital signage cost per screen?
Most digital signage systems range from about $1,000 to $5,000 per screen when you include display hardware, media player, software, installation, and basic maintenance, though simpler installs can be cheaper or more expensive depending on your needs
What are the main components of digital signage cost?
Digital signage cost is composed of:
- Hardware (screens & media players)
- Software (CMS/subscription or on-premise license)
- Installation and mounting
- Content creation and refresh
- Ongoing maintenance and support
- Hidden costs like cabling, electrical, permits, site prep, and energy usage.
Can I use a regular TV instead of commercial displays?
Yes – for small indoor projects, consumer TVs can work and reduce upfront costs, but they often lack durability, long-hour operation ratings, and commercial warranties, which can increase maintenance costs over time.
How much does digital signage software cost?
Software solutions vary widely:
- Basic cloud-hosted CMS can start as low as $10–$20 per screen per month.
- Enterprise tiers with analytics and multi-location support can range up to $50–$100+ per screen per month.
Best part? Look digital signage software pricing starts from $5.4 per screen with all enterprise features without any limitations.
Do I always need a media player?
Not necessarily – smart displays or SoC (System on Chip) screens can run signage without external players. But many businesses use dedicated media players for greater reliability, performance, and multi-screen synchronization
What are typical installation costs?
Professional installation typically ranges from $500 to $2,000+ per location, depending on complexity (wall mounts, ceiling mounts, video walls, cabling, network setup).
Are there hidden or unexpected costs?
Yes. Hidden expenses often include cabling, electrical work, permits, structural support, enclosures, and energy consumption, which can add hundreds to several thousand dollars to the total project cost.
How much does digital signage maintenance cost?
Annual maintenance costs (software updates, support, hardware repairs) typically range from $100 to $500+ per screen per year, depending on service level and hardware complexity
What drives the cost differences between projects?
Costs vary based on:
- Display size and brightness (indoor vs outdoor)
- Duty cycle (8h vs 24/7)
- Interactive or touchscreen needs
- Network complexity
- Content refresh frequency
Understanding these drivers helps set realistic budgets.
How does digital signage compare to traditional printed signage?
Digital signage typically has a higher upfront cost than print, but it reduces ongoing print and labor costs, enables dynamic content changes, and often delivers stronger engagement and ROI.
