When people think about neon signs, they picture the glow, not the weight—but that’s the detail that can make or break your installation. So, how heavy are neon signs really? As specialists at Neon Beer Signs, we provide you with the most accurate insights, drawn from years of crafting signs for homes, bars, and businesses. In this guide, you’ll discover the real weight ranges, what factors influence them, and how to choose the safest, most practical option for your space.
How Heavy Are Neon Signs?
The weight of a neon sign can vary widely depending on its size, material, and design. Traditional glass neon signs are on the heavier side because they use fragile glass tubing filled with gas, mounted on sturdy panels for support. These can range anywhere from 10 pounds (about the weight of a bowling ball) to 50+ pounds (as heavy as a full suitcase ready for the airport)—especially when you’re dealing with big commercial displays.
By comparison, LED neon signs are built with lightweight, flexible tubing and durable plastics. That makes them much easier to handle, often starting at just 2–10 pounds (roughly the weight of a laptop or a couple of milk jugs). This light build is perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, or event décor where quick, safe installation is key.
To put this into perspective:
- Small LED neon signs (2–10 lbs): About as light as a laptop bag—easy to mount in a bedroom or office.
- Medium-sized signs (10–20 lbs): Comparable to carrying a medium-sized dog crate or a stack of textbooks, making them great for home bars or small shops.
- Large glass neon signs (30–50+ lbs): As heavy as moving a piece of furniture like a small dresser, best for restaurants, patios, or storefronts aiming for a bold, classic glow.
At Neon Beer Signs, you’ll find choices across this entire weight spectrum. That means you’re never stuck with a one-size-fits-all solution—you can select a sign that balances style, safety, and practicality for your exact needs. Whether you want a feather-light LED piece for your bedroom wall or a substantial statement sign to anchor a commercial space, Neon Beer Signs has the perfect fit for you.
What Affects the Weight of Neon Signs?
Neon signs aren’t all built the same. Some are light enough for one person to hang in minutes, while others require professional mounting and strong brackets to keep them secure. The weight of a neon sign is influenced by three main factors:
- Materials – Glass vs LED makes a world of difference.
- Size & Design Complexity – Bigger and more detailed means heavier.
- Internal Components – Transformers and wiring can add significant weight.
Understanding these will help you avoid surprises when it comes to setup.
1. Materials: The Biggest Weight Factor of Neon Signs
The first and most important element that determines how heavy your neon sign will be is the material. There are two main types of neon signs today:
1.1. Traditional Glass Neon Signs
These are the iconic neon signs that have been around for decades. They’re made of fragile glass tubes, filled with neon or other gases, and hand-bent into letters or shapes. While they’re stunning and authentic, they’re also much heavier.
- Average Weight: 10–30 pounds (depending on size).
- Pros: Authentic vintage glow, long lifespan, bold impact.
- Cons: Heavy, fragile, requires secure installation.
Glass signs are like the heavyweight champions of the neon world. If you’re aiming for a retro or industrial vibe, they’re perfect—but be prepared for the extra weight.
1.2. LED Neon Signs
Modern LED neon signs are made with flexible silicone or PVC tubing, filled with LED lights that mimic the glow of glass neon. They’re much lighter and easier to manage, making them the most popular choice today for both homeowners and small business owners.
- Average Weight: 2–12 pounds (depending on size).
- Pros: Lightweight, safer, easy installation, customizable.
- Cons: Slightly less “authentic” than glass, shorter lifespan.
Think of it this way: glass neon = vintage luxury SUV, LED neon = sporty compact car. Both get you where you want to go, but one is definitely lighter and easier to park.
2. Size & Design: More Tubes, More Weight
Beyond the material, size and complexity directly affect how heavy a neon sign will be.
- Small, simple signs (like “Open” or “Cheers”) are lightweight and easy to hang, whether in glass or LED.
- Medium signs with a few extra words or design flourishes add a bit more weight.
- Large custom signs (like a full logo or multiple words) can be significantly heavier, especially if they use thick tubing or detailed curves.
Examples:
- A 12-inch “Open” LED neon sign: around 2–4 pounds.
- A 24-inch glass neon sign with curves and flourishes: 15–20 pounds.
- A giant wall-spanning LED logo sign: 10–12 pounds, still manageable.
Rule of thumb: more tubing = more weight. If you’re dreaming of a massive glowing statement piece, make sure your wall or ceiling can handle the load.
So, Why Weight Matters for Bar/Neon Beer Signs?
You might be asking yourself: “Does a few extra pounds really matter?” The truth is Yes, it does—and for several reasons. First, installation safety is directly tied to weight. Heavier glass neon signs require stronger mounting hardware, wall anchors, or even brackets. Without proper support, they risk falling and causing damage.
Second, weight affects flexibility and portability. Lightweight LED neon signs can be easily moved, rearranged, or transported to event
s, while heavier glass signs are often permanent fixtures. Mounting options also differ—LED neon can be wall-mounted, ceiling-hung, or even placed on stands, while glass neon typically demands reinforced, fixed installation. Finally, don’t overlook shipping costs—the heavier the sign, the more expensive it will be to ship, especially for international orders.
Knowing the weight in advance saves you from unexpected costs, difficult installations, and long-term headaches.
Comparison of Neon Sign Weights on the Market
| Type of Neon Sign | Typical Weight Range | Pros | Cons | Best For |
| LED Neon Signs (Small – Medium) | 2 – 10 lbs | Lightweight, safe, energy-efficient, easy to hang | Slightly less “classic glow” compared to glass | Bedrooms, living rooms, weddings, flexible décor |
| LED Neon Signs (Large) | 10 – 15 lbs | Still lighter than glass, versatile, durable | Backing board adds some bulk | Bars, restaurants, businesses needing bold signage |
| Glass Neon Signs (Small) | 10 – 15 lbs | Authentic vintage glow, traditional aesthetic | Fragile, heavier, requires professional setup | Collectors, retro home designs |
| Glass Neon Signs (Large) | 30 – 50+ lbs | Classic neon look for commercial impact | Very heavy, higher shipping & installation costs | Diners, clubs, large outdoor displays |
| Neon Beer Signs (Custom Options) | 2 – 50+ lbs (depending on style) | Wide variety of styles and weights to match every need | Weight varies—choose carefully to fit your space | From small home accents to large commercial displays |
How to Choose the Right Neon Sign for Your Space?
When deciding between glass and LED neon signs, it’s best to balance style, safety, and practicality. Here are a few expert tips:
- Measure your space first – Make sure the size fits without overwhelming your wall.
- Consider installation needs – Will you mount it yourself, or need professional help?
- Check the weight before purchase – Reliable sellers like Neon Beer Signs always list product details.
- Plan for the long-term – If you’ll want to move the sign later, LED is the more practical option.
- Balance aesthetics with safety – The best sign is one that looks great and fits your lifestyle.
If you’re searching for neon signs that combine style, lightweight design, and safe installation, LED neon signs from Neon Beer Signs are the clear winner. With a wide range of sizes and styles, you can find the perfect fit—whether you want a glowing statement piece for your business or a sleek, safe design for your home.
Conclusion: Now You Know How Heavy Neon Signs Really Are.
At the end of the day, neon signs can range anywhere from just 2 pounds to well over 50 pounds, depending on their size, materials, and internal components. LED neon signs are dramatically lighter and more user-friendly, while glass neon signs carry more weight—both literally and in terms of vintage style.
Now that you know the truth, the question “How heavy are neon signs?” doesn’t have to be a mystery anymore. Whether you’re decking out your home, bar, or business, you can plan with confidence.