Inexpensive digital signage has become a popular conversation topic for businesses looking to increase engagement and streamline their marketing efforts without breaking the bank. Many organizations begin their search by looking for cheap digital signage solutions, hoping to discover a way to showcase their content in a compelling way while keeping costs at a minimum. However, it’s essential to remember that even with cheap digital signage options available, there are various factors to consider before settling on any single approach. Cost and quality need to be balanced carefully so that the solution remains both effective and reliable.
Using free digital signage software and Anthias by Screenly
One of the most significant ways to achieve savings in digital signage is through free software, such as Screenly’s open-source solution, Anthias. Anthias is a robust option for organizations that want to dip their toes into cheap digital signage setups without committing to ongoing subscription fees. Since Anthias can only be used for single-screen deployments, it does have limitations for anyone aiming to manage multiple displays at once. Nonetheless, it offers an excellent starting point for those who want to experiment with digital signage on a tight budget or in a limited capacity.
Digital signage resolution cost savings
Many companies are drawn toward displaying high-resolution content, but there is an associated increase in hardware and content production costs when you move beyond 1080p to 4K resolution. The truth is that, in most cases, 1080p full HD content is more than sufficient to captivate an audience. These displays often look crisp and professional without requiring the more expensive hardware necessary to render higher-resolution content. While 4K can provide a stunning visual experience, it may only be necessary for businesses that rely heavily on highly detailed images, such as high-end retail or those displaying intricate design elements. For the vast majority, full HD is cost-effective and visually striking enough to get the job done. Learn more about content resolution considerations.
Digital signage player cost considerations
Within the Screenly product line, there are two options to consider for digital signage players: the Screenly Player and the Screenly Player Max. Check out a full digital signage player feature comparison. The Screenly Player Max is undoubtedly more powerful, making it ideal for more complex or resource-intensive applications. However, this increased performance comes with a higher price tag. For most scenarios, particularly those focused on simpler content playback, the standard Screenly Player is a perfectly capable solution that balances affordability and functionality. It’s essential to evaluate your business’s needs carefully, from the type of content you plan to display to the environments in which your screens will operate.
How digital signage can reduce costs
When companies compare digital signage solutions, it’s important to factor in not just the upfront costs of hardware and software but also the significant labor savings that digital signage delivers. Traditional methods often involve printing, shipping, and manually replacing static signs. In other setups, employees need to manually visit digital signs and upload new content with a USB drive and keyboard. These tasks can be labor-intensive, time-consuming, and error-prone. Modern digital signage systems, including Screenly, simplify this process by allowing you to manage screen content remotely, all from a laptop or desktop with an internet connection. This capability means you can update multiple displays at once across different locations, saving substantial labor hours and ensuring messaging remains timely, accurate, and consistent.
Digital signs are not just an expense
Beyond convenience and cost savings, digital signage is also a revenue-generating investment that can help businesses stand out. With dynamic, eye-catching content on the screen, customers are more likely to engage with promotions, learn about new products, or become aware of upcoming events. Rather than viewing digital signage as a mere expense line item, it’s better to see it as an investment for driving revenue and strengthening brand identity. By choosing the right mix of software, hardware, and resolution, you can keep costs under control while still maximizing the returns on your digital signage investment. Cheap digital signage does not mean sacrificing value, as long as you carefully weigh your options and select the technology that meets your unique requirements.
Get started with Screenly for free
You can get started at no cost today with Screenly’s free 30-day trial. Test us out, try out our interface, and plan your inexpensive digital signage deployment.
