Your storefront sign is the first thing customers see, and the type you choose shapes how your business reads from the street. For most St. Louis storefronts, the decision comes down to two options: channel letter signs and cabinet signs. Here is how they compare, and how to choose the one that fits your building and your budget.
What are channel letter signs?
Channel letter signs are individual, three-dimensional letters, each fabricated separately and mounted directly to your building. They are usually lit from within by LEDs, so every letter glows cleanly at night. Because the letters stand on their own, channel letters look custom and high-end, and they scale well on everything from a small boutique to a big-box facade.
What are cabinet signs?
A cabinet sign, also called a box sign, houses your graphics inside a single rectangular frame with a lit face. Everything lives in one enclosed unit, which makes cabinet signs simpler to build, easier to reface, and generally more affordable. They are a practical choice when you want a bold, readable sign at a lower price point.
Cost, durability, and curb appeal
Channel letters cost more up front because each letter is built and installed individually, but they deliver a premium look and let you light just the lettering. Cabinet signs cost less and are quick to update if you rebrand, though the lit background can look dated next to modern channel letters. Both hold up well outdoors when they are built with quality materials and installed correctly, which is why professional sign installation matters as much as the sign itself.
Which one is right for you?
If your brand leans premium and your lease allows it, channel letters are usually worth the investment. If budget or sign-code limits come first, a cabinet sign gets you clean, readable visibility for less. Many businesses use both, pairing channel letters on the building with a freestanding pylon or monument sign at the street.
Not sure which fits your space? Explore our full range of sign types, see the areas we serve across greater St. Louis, and request a quote. We will help you weigh the options and design a storefront sign that earns attention.