Front-lit letters
In a front-lit (face-lit) channel letter, LEDs inside the letter shine through a translucent acrylic face. The whole letter glows, so it is the brightest and easiest option to read from a distance. It suits roadside shopfronts, restaurants, pharmacies and supermarkets that need to be seen from passing traffic.
Back-lit (halo) letters
A back-lit or halo letter has a solid face, usually metal, and the LEDs shine backwards onto the wall. The result is a soft glow around each letter. It looks refined and premium, which is why it is popular for corporate offices, hotels, jewellers and fashion brands. Halo letters are less readable from far away, so they work best where people are closer.
Dual-lit letters
Dual-lit letters combine a lit face with a halo. You get the readability of front-lit with the depth of back-lit. They cost a little more, but are a good choice for a flagship store or headquarters.
Which should you choose?
Choose front-lit if visibility from the road is the priority, halo-lit if you want a premium look and customers view the sign from nearby, and dual-lit if you want both. Our 3D channel letters and stainless steel signs pages show the options, and we can show each style on a visual of your actual building.
Frequently asked questions
Are halo-lit signs more expensive?
Halo letters in stainless steel usually cost more than standard front-lit acrylic letters because of the metal faces and finishing.