What is the best type of display for a restaurant menu board?
Commercial vs. consumer
Commercial displays are designed to run 16+ hours a day, have better cooling, and often include features like daisy-chaining and remote management. Consumer TVs are cheaper but may not last as long under constant use.
For a menu board that runs all day, a commercial display is usually worth the extra cost. If you only run it during service hours, a consumer TV might suffice.
Key features
Look for at least 500 nits of brightness for indoor use. If the screen is near a window, aim for 700 nits or more. Anti-glare coating helps in bright environments.
Portrait orientation is common for menu boards. Check that the display supports portrait mode and has VESA mounting holes for easy installation.
- Commercial-grade panel for long hours
- 500+ nits brightness (700+ near windows)
- Anti-glare coating
- Portrait orientation support
- VESA mount compatibility
Alternatives
Some restaurants use tablets or all-in-one signage devices for smaller menus. These can be cost-effective but may have limited brightness and durability.
Projection and LED video walls are options for large spaces but are usually overkill for a typical restaurant menu board.
Common mistakes
- Using a consumer TV in a bright window, where it may look washed out.
- Choosing a display without portrait mode when a vertical menu is needed.
- Overlooking the duty cycle—consumer TVs may fail if run 24/7.