Are you considering installing neon signs for your home, or event venue? Traditionally, neon signs were made of glass neon lights and are still widely used today. With the development of modern technology, LED neon flex has been developed, which is very popular in the LED market. These two kinds of neon lights have their own characteristics. But comparing Glass Neon Lights vs. LED Neon Flex, which one is better?
In this article, we will analyze and compare the characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of glass neon flex lights vs LED neon flex lights from all aspects. In order to help you choose the most suitable solution for your lighting project.
What is Glass Neon Lights
Glass Neon lights refer to a lighting system made of glass tubes filled with neon gas in various shapes. When an electric current passes through the gas, it produces all sorts of bright lights.
One of the most distinctive features of glass neon signs is their vibrant and unique colors. Different gases emit different bright lights when excited by an electric current. Moreover, other gases can also mix with each other to produce undesirable colors.
What is LED Neon Flex?
The LED Neon Flex is a modern alternative to traditional glass neon signs. It is a modern lighting technology that mimics the look of traditional neon lights. Its light source comes from LED strip lights wrapped in a flexible plastic tube. It’s soft and pliable while providing contouring beauty.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Glass Neon Lights
Let’s analyze the advantages and disadvantages of glass neon tubes in detail, which can help you know more about this product. In this way, you can choose the right product more rationally.
Advantages of Glass Neon Flex
Brightness
Glass neon flex lights can improve brightness, mainly depending on the type of gas it is used on, tube diameter, etc. Thus, it creates a bold and eye-catching display.
Lifespan
Glass neon flex lights can also have a long life if cared for properly. They can also withstand multiple exposures without loss of brightness. Making it a durable lighting option.
Color
Glass neon flex lights are available in a variety of colors. From standard shades of blue, red, and green to more unusual colors like pink, purple, and yellow. All of these colors depend on the gas used in the tube.
Customization
Glass neon flex can be bent into intricate designs and shapes, mainly forming logos, shapes, and intricate designs. Fits almost any design or branding need.
Size
Glass neon flex lights can be made in various sizes. It can be anything from a small tabletop sign to a large outdoor installation. The size of the neon sign can be easily adapted to the installation space and purpose.
Disadvantages of Glass Neon Lights
Glass neon lights are certified over the years and have many advantages. But at the same time, in order to help you choose a product better, the following are some of its disadvantages.
Fragility
Glass neon tubes are very fragile. This means that they can easily break if hit by hard objects during installation and maintenance. And while in transit, be sure to pack it well to prevent any accidental breakage.
Security Issues
Glass Neon Flex has certain security risks. Because it contains gas in its body, it needs a high-voltage electrical connection to produce neon lights. This combination may cause electrical hazards such as electric shock or short circuits.
Energy Consumption
Glass neon is not energy efficient; it tends to use more energy than LED neon. It is mainly composed of a glass tube filled with neon gas in the body, which requires high-voltage discharge and a large amount of electric energy. So it consumes a lot of power.
Heat
Glass Neon Flex generates a lot of heat during operation. This will cause the temperature of the surrounding environment to rise. However, this thermal energy is difficult to dissipate, especially in closed spaces or environments that are sensitive to temperature fluctuations.
Complicated Installation
Its raw material is glass tubes, which are heavier compared to LED neon lights. This extra weight can present challenges during shipping and installation. Therefore, when installing, we need to consider more structural support to ensure safety and stability.
Higher Cost
Glass neon tubes require more careful production and transportation, and more labor, and raw material costs. Another is the later maintenance fee, which is very expensive. Mainly because of the cost of replacement parts and labor, it also requires a lot of effort. These factors lead to higher production costs, making glass neon flex a more expensive option.
All in all, glass neon flex continues to be popular for its classic aesthetic and vibrant glow. Although there are more lighting products to choose from now, it still attracts us with its unique charm.
Advantages & Disadvantages of LED Neon Flex
The LED Neon Flex is known for its durability and flexibility. Now more and more people choose LED neon tubes because of its energy saving, long life, easy installation, etc. The following are the advantages and disadvantages of LED neon tubes:
Advantages of Glass Neon Flex
Durability
LED neon flex lights are popular for their durability and long lifespan. And it’s also made of flexible silicone tubing that’s resistant to UV rays, heat, and other environmental factors. Compared with glass neon flex lights, you don’t need to worry about problems during transportation and installation, as long as it is not a big shock, it will not be damaged.
Safety
LED Neon Flex operates on low voltage DC24V, and DC12V, so it greatly reduces the risk of electric shock. In the correct transportation and installation process, there will be no safety hazards.
Flexibility
Flexibility and variability are one of the main advantages of LED neon flex lights. Unlike traditional glass neon signs, LED neon flex lights can be bent and shaped to suit a variety of applications. It also supports custom lengths to suit any space.
Energy Saving
LED neon lights save up to 75% more energy than traditional neon lights, making them more energy efficient. The main reason is that traditional neon lights use gas and high pressure to emit light, while the main light source of LED neon flex lights comes from LED light strips. This means LED neon flex lights are more energy efficient, saving costs in the long run.
Maintenance and Lifespan
LED Neon Flex has a very long lifespan, generally a 3–5-year warranty. In the later stage, you don’t need to spend a lot of money and material resources to maintain it, and it has a longer service life than glass neon lights.
Easy Installation
LED Neon Flex is very easy to install. You can even try to install it yourself; we can install it with the help of 3M adhesive and mounting accessories. But it is worth noting that you need to confirm the installation process with the supplier in advance and install it correctly according to the process.
Shape
LED neon flex is available in a variety of bending options. There is a top bend, side bend, 3D neon, and 360° round series neon lights. Before you buy a suitable LED neon tube, be sure to understand the bending types and uses of LED neon lights as follows:
Disadvantages of LED Neon Flex
Higher Upfront Costs
LED Neon Flex may involve higher upfront costs compared to traditional glass neon signs. Because it’s machine extruded in one piece, high-quality LED components, flexible plastic tubing, and more. Therefore, its production cost is relatively high, and the price will be a little more expensive. However, it is important to note that these upfront costs can be offset by long-term energy savings and reduced maintenance needs.
Light Temperature Variation
LED neon lights provide different color temperature options. For example, from warm white to cool white, and various color options. However, everyone is different in color temperature. Each supplier may produce slightly different batches and color consistency.
Limited Brightness
LED neon lights have a specific brightness. However, certain color options or specific designs may result in a slight reduction in brightness compared to glass neon signs. This difference in brightness may be individual and not noticeable without looking carefully, but it can be considered in applications where maximum brightness is a priority.
Glass Neon Lights vs. LED Neon Flex: A Comprehensive Comparison
LED neon flex lights and glass neon lights are two lighting methods. They can be used both indoors and outdoors, mainly for signage, architectural lighting, and artistic purposes. Both neon lights are used to achieve a similar aesthetic, both in shape and light.
However, there are still obvious differences between them. In the previous section, we analyzed the advantages and disadvantages of each. Next, we comprehensively analyze the differences between the two, so that you can understand them clearly.
Cost
- Glass Neon Lights: The price of glass neon signs is not high. But its later installation, transportation and maintenance costs are quite high. Because glass neon tubes have the appearance of glass, they are fragile. During shipping and installation, it will add extra cost.
- LED Neon Flex Lights: The price of LED neon lights will be more expensive, which is the raw material in the early stage. Because it is extruded by an all-in-one machine, there are high-quality light sources, silicon materials for appearance, and so on. But its later installation and replacement are guaranteed, and you don’t need to spend a lot of energy and financial resources to maintain it.
Durability
- Glass Neon Lights: The glass neon light is a glass tube that is easily broken, and the glass is full of gas. High voltage is required to light up, which can easily cause flickering of the lights. In addition, it is not suitable for inclement weather conditions.
- LED Neon Flex Lights: LED neon flex lights are produced from PVC or silicone, which are durable materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions and accidental impacts. In addition, it uses a low-voltage power supply, which is safer and more durable.
Energy Efficiency
- Glass Neon Lights: Glass neon lights use high voltages and are expensive to run. They require high voltages to operate and consume a lot of energy, as well as being a higher safety hazard.
- LED Neon Flex Lights: LED neon flex lights use low voltage, DC12V, and DC24V. It is very energy-efficient, with low electricity costs and increased safety.
Safety
Glass Neon Lights: Glass neon lights glass is fragile and can cause serious injury if mishandled. In addition, a large amount of heat is generated, which may pose a safety hazard. So the safety factor is not high.
LED Neon Flex Lights: LED neon flex lights are made of plastic/silicon/PU, don’t worry about breakage. In addition, it is heat-resistant, and accessories can also be used to assist in heat dissipation. And can adapt to all kinds of bad weather conditions. In short, the safety factor is high and the risk is low.
Easy to Install
- Glass Neon Lights: Glass neon tubes are a bit heavy, so be very careful when installing them. You also need to plan your installation in advance. Therefore, it is best to have a glass neon engineer present to assist during installation.
- LED Neon Flex Lights: LED neon flex lights are lightweight and easy to install. Installing the accessories is also simple and does not require an additional person to install. However, it is necessary to confirm the installation accessories and steps with the supplier in advance, and the installation is simple and not complicated.
Portability
- Glass Neon Lights: Glass neon lights are heavy and fragile due to their glass appearance. It is easy to be damaged during transportation, so we need extra packing.
- LED Neon Flex Lights: LED neon flex is lightweight and easy to transport. You don’t need to add extra shipping costs, it’s durable during shipping.
Maintenance
- Glass Neon Lights: The later use of glass neon lights requires a lot of maintenance costs and requires regular cleaning and maintenance by professionals.
- LED Neon Flex Lights: LED neon flex lights do not require a lot of energy and post-maintenance costs. You just need to clean the exterior regularly with a damp rag.
Glass Neon Lights vs. LED Neon Flex: Which is Better for Commercial Signage?
Commercial signage depends on the size of the sign, where it will be installed, and what you will be using it for. Consider the following factors:
- Energy consumption: LED neon signs consume less energy than neon lights. Therefore, more electricity bills can be saved.
- SAFE – Glass neon signs are fragile and heat up. LED neon flex lights are wrapped in a flexible material, usually with a shatterproof acrylic back for better heat dissipation.
- Versatility – LED neon tubes are more flexible and can be bent more tightly, giving you better options for sign shapes and styles.
- Appearance Aesthetics – Both types of logos are good at attracting attention. Glass neon tubes will be more suitable for retro style. The bright, clean, modern look of LED neon signs is very popular.
- Attractive – LED neon lights will be brighter and even sparkle can be seen during the day, while glass tube neon lights have a softer light that stands out more after dark.
- Cost – the maintenance cost of glass neon tubes is high in the later stage, while the upfront cost of LED neon lights will be higher. Overall, LED neon tubes are the most cost-effective option.
- Installation requirements – LED neon tubes will be lighter and easier to install. You can place it on the counter or hang it on the wall.
The Benefits of Using LED Neon Lights as Neon Signs
If you need to make a neon sign(store/decorate sign), comparing Glass Neon Lights vs. LED Neon Flex, there are several factors to consider:
- Durability: LED signs are more durable, less fragile, and less likely to break.
- Customizability: LED signs have more flexibility in color, length, and appearance.
- Brightness and Intensity: LED signs typically offer higher brightness and intensity than neon signs.
- ENERGY CONSUMPTION: LED signs consume less energy than neon lights, saving on electricity bills.
- Price: LED signs are often more cost-effective than neon signs.
- Maintenance and Longevity: LED signs require less maintenance and last longer.
- Safety: LED signs use a low-voltage power supply to reduce safety risks.
- Environmental Comparison: LED signs are considered more environmentally friendly due to their energy efficiency and lack of toxic gases.
Glass Neon Lights vs. LED Neon Flex Lights: Which Is Better and Why?
Glass neon lights are great for retro decor and will add a touch of nostalgia to your space. However, it does not save energy and has a low lifespan. At the same time, it is also easy to break during transportation and installation. Additionally, they operate under high pressure, which can pose a safety risk.
On the other hand, LED neon lights are more energy-efficient and have a longer service life. It can be bent at will and has more flexibility. LED neon tube supports customization, such as length, color temperature, label, and so on. LED neon signs also work on low voltage, making them safer.
In summary, in all aspects of comparison, LED neon lights are a better choice for most applications. However, you need to choose the most suitable product according to your lighting engineering needs. We have comprehensively analyzed their respective advantages and disadvantages, as well as comparisons, and hope you can find the lighting products that suit you. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal needs and priorities.
FAQs
Glass neon lights use gas-filled glass tubes, while LED neon flex lights are flexible plastic tubes with LED strips. Their light sources and materials are different, but their appearance does not look much different.
Compared with glass neon lights, LED neon lights will last a little longer. LED neon signs can last tens of thousands of hours without requiring additional maintenance. Whereas glass neon lights may require more frequent maintenance and eventual replacement.
Both glass neon signs and LED neon signs can be customized, but LED neon signs have more possibilities, whether it is the shape, degree of curvature, length, color temperature, etc.
No, Glass neon lights mainly use indoors. LED neon flex is suitable for outdoor use. It is designed to withstand various weather conditions and is more resistant to environmental factors compared to glass neon lights.
Yes, because the glass neon lights have gone through a long time, but there are still many people who choose it. The main reason is that it has many advantages and is loved by everyone. In conclusion, glass neon signs are often favored for their classic nostalgia.