Thinking of buying a neon sign? Hold that click. These glowing beauties can make or break your space — but only if you get it right. At Smithers, we’ve seen the pitfalls, the disasters, and the regrets. So here it is: the no-nonsense guide to the seven biggest mistakes people make when buying a neon sign — and how to dodge them like a pro.
1. Buying Too Cheap – Why Amazon Signs Don’t Last If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Mass-produced signs on Amazon or eBay often use low-quality materials, weak LED strips, and plastic casings that crack or yellow over time. You’ll end up replacing it within months. Real neon-style lighting should look premium and stay premium.
Better option? Get a hand-finished sign with high-grade tubing, custom colour options, and proper build quality — like ours.
Explore Smithers Custom Neon Signs
2. Choosing the Wrong Size – How to Measure Your Space Too small and it gets lost. Too big and it dominates (in a bad way). Always measure the space first. Think about viewing distance, wall width, and room lighting. A 60cm sign might look great above a bar cart but get swallowed up on a brick feature wall.
Pro tip: Cut a cardboard template to size and tape it to the wall. Step back and assess.
3. Not Considering Brightness or Dimming Options Some signs are way too bright for bedrooms or lounges. Others are too dim to make a statement in a storefront. Without a dimmer option, you’re stuck.
Solution: Go for a dimmable glass neon sign. Ours include brightness control so you get atmosphere and attitude.
4. Picking Colours That Clash With Interior Light A neon pink might look ace online, but in your room with yellow-toned bulbs? Could go weird fast. Always check how your sign’s colour will vibe with your existing lighting.
Better yet: Request a colour swatch or see real-life photos from other buyers.
5. Ignoring Mounting Options – Wall vs. Freestanding Not all neon signs come with clear mounting instructions. Wall-mounted? Freestanding? Ceiling-hung? If it doesn’t fit your space, it’s staying in the box.
Smithers tip: We offer clear fixings, wall brackets, or freestanding frames – tailored to your install.
6. Overlooking Installation Needs – Plug Type, IP Rating, etc. Especially important for international buyers or outdoor signs. Is it safe for damp spaces? Will the plug work in your country? Does it come pre-wired or not?
What to check: IP ratings for bathroom/outdoor signs, UK/US/EU plug compatibility, cable length.
7. Going Generic – Why Custom Always Wins That “Good Vibes Only” sign? You and 300,000 others. Custom signs let you choose your own phrase, font, size, and colour. They feel yours — not someone else’s Pinterest board.
Best move? Design your own. We’ll build it.
Final Words:
Buying a neon sign should be exciting, not a regret waiting to happen. Avoid these seven pitfalls and you’ll end up with a piece that glows right and grows with your space.
Looking for high-end, custom-built neon signs that won’t let you down? Browse our full neon collection, check out our Neon Hub for more advice and inspo, or drop us a message – we’ll make it personal.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Neon Signs
- Are cheap neon signs from Amazon or eBay worth it?
Not if you care about longevity or looks. Cheap signs often use low-grade LEDs and flimsy plastic. They fade fast, break easily, and look nothing like real neon. - How big should a neon sign be for my space?
It depends on your wall size and distance. Small signs get lost in open-plan rooms, while oversized ones can overwhelm. Always measure and test with a paper or cardboard mock-up. - Can neon signs be dimmed?
Some can, some can’t. At Smithers, all our custom signs come with dimmer options—so you can go from moody glow to full-on dazzle in seconds. - Will the sign colour look different in my room?
It can! Wall colour, bulb tone, and natural light all affect how neon glows. Ask for swatches or check out customer photos before committing. - What do I need to install a neon sign?
Check plug type (UK/US/EU), IP ratings (especially for bathrooms or outdoor), cable length, and how you’ll mount it—wall, freestanding, or hanging. We provide all fixings you need. - Is it better to go custom?
Every time. Generic neon is forgettable. A custom sign gives your space attitude and individuality—designed by you, made by us.