Choosing the Right LED Screen Cabinet: Metal, Aluminum Die-Cast, or Rental?

When investing in an LED display, it’s easy to focus on pixel pitch, brightness, or size. However, one of the most important—yet often overlooked—factors is the cabinet type. The LED screen cabinet plays a vital role in determining the system’s durability, heat management, alignment precision, ease of installation, and overall cost.

The three most common types are:

• Metal Cabinets

• Aluminum Die-Cast Cabinets

• Rental Cabinets (usually die-cast aluminum with a specialized design)

Each type is suited to specific needs, environments, and budgets. In this guide, we break down their strengths, weaknesses, and typical applications to help you make an informed decision.

1. Metal LED Cabinets

Pros:

• Lower cost: Ideal for large-scale fixed installations with limited budget.

• High structural strength: Durable and robust, suitable for long-term use.

• Basic thermal resistance: Adequate for most outdoor environments with added cooling.

Cons:

• Heavier weight: Increases transport and installation effort; may require reinforced mounting structures.

• Lower precision: Manual fabrication may lead to slight panel misalignment.

• Poorer heat dissipation compared to aluminum.

Best Use Cases:

• Fixed outdoor LED billboards

• Stadium perimeter boards

• Large-format LED screens on building façades

• Projects where portability and frequent servicing are not a priority

2. Aluminum Die-Cast Cabinets

Pros:

• Lightweight: 30–40% lighter than steel, reducing load on structures.

• High precision: CNC-machined die-cast frames offer tight seams and perfect alignment.

• Excellent heat dissipation: Enhances component lifespan and reduces the need for heavy cooling systems.

• Modular design: Easy to maintain, upgrade, or replace parts.

Cons:

• Higher manufacturing cost: Precision casting and mold processes are more expensive.

• Softer material: More prone to dents during transport if not handled properly.

Best Use Cases:

• High-end indoor LED walls

• Corporate lobbies, showrooms, control rooms

• Projects requiring precise splicing and seamless visuals

• Environments with limited space or structural support

3. Rental LED Cabinets

Note: Most rental cabinets are made from aluminum die-cast, but what sets them apart is their specialized mechanical design tailored for fast deployment and frequent reuse.

Pros:

• Quick assembly/disassembly: Equipped with fast locks, handles, and protective edges.

• Lightweight and stackable: Designed for easy transportation and event setups.

• Uniform sizing and compatibility: Modular panels that fit seamlessly even when mixed across batches.

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost: Engineered for durability and mobility, they come at a premium.

• Over-engineered for fixed use: Not necessary for installations that won’t be moved.

Best Use Cases:

• Concerts, exhibitions, stage events

• Roadshows and pop-up activations

• Rental businesses and event service providers

• Short-term indoor/outdoor LED setups

Budget Comparison

Feature	Metal Cabinet	Aluminum Die-Cast Cabinet	Rental Cabinet
Unit Cost	Lowest	Medium to High	High
Weight	Heaviest	Light	Light
Installation Effort	High	Medium	Low
Precision Fit	Basic	High	Very High
Maintenance Accessibility	Low	Moderate	High
Portability	Low	Moderate	Excellent

Which Cabinet Should You Choose?

• Choose Metal Cabinets if your priority is cost-efficiency and the screen is for permanent outdoor or semi-outdoor installations.

• Choose Aluminum Die-Cast if you need high accuracy, sleek finish, and better thermal management, especially for indoor or high-profile corporate displays.

• Choose Rental Cabinets if your screen will be frequently assembled, transported, or rented out, and you need maximum convenience and durability.

At DS Visual, we offer all three cabinet options with full consultation to ensure the cabinet type matches your project needs, location, and budget. Whether you're planning a long-term outdoor LED billboard or a flexible event setup, we help you build it the right way from the inside out.