What Do You Call It? Backlit Booth, Lightbox, or Backlit Display?

In the trade show world, you’ll hear a lot of terms thrown around to describe glowing, illuminated exhibit systems—“lightbox,” “backlit display,” “backlit booth,” even “LED exhibit wall.” But do they all mean the same thing? And which one should you use when researching or buying?

At BriteBooth, we’ve worked with thousands of exhibitors and marketers—and we’ve seen nearly every name you can imagine for these high-impact displays. In this post, we’ll clarify the most common terms, what they mean, and which styles they actually refer to.

1. Backlit Display

“Backlit display” is probably the most accurate and technical term. It refers to any exhibit element—typically a wall, counter, or panel—that is lit from behind using LEDs and covered in tension fabric graphics.

Common Uses:

• “We need a 10x10 backlit display for our upcoming show.”
• “Can I get a replacement graphic for my backlit display wall?”

Products at BriteBooth:

• SEGO FrameBright Displays
• Casonara Backlit Towers & Counters

2. Lightbox / Light Box

“Lightbox” (or “light box”) is a term borrowed from the signage and retail world. It usually refers to an illuminated frame with a graphic, used in both temporary exhibits and permanent settings. In trade shows, lightboxes are typically modular and SEG-based, using fabric instead of acrylic or vinyl.

Common Uses:

• “Can you design me a 20ft lightbox wall?”
• “I need a freestanding light box for my product display.”

At BriteBooth: We offer SEG fabric lightboxes under product lines like Brightline, Casonara, and SEGO.

3. Backlit Booth

This phrase is more casual and holistic. When someone says “backlit booth,” they’re usually referring to an entire exhibit that incorporates illuminated components—such as walls, counters, towers, and signage—all in one setup.

Common Uses:

• “We want a fully backlit booth that really grabs attention.”
• “Can I get a 10x20 backlit booth kit with a counter and tower?”

Best Product Kits:

• Complete Backlit Booth Kits from Casonara & SEGO

4. Other Common Terms You Might Hear

• LED Exhibit Wall: A technical description, but becoming more popular
• Illuminated Trade Show Display: Descriptive phrase that often refers to the same thing
• SEG Lightbox: Refers specifically to silicone-edge-graphic (SEG) framing used in most fabric lightboxes

Do the Terms Matter?

Technically, no. But using the right terms helps when searching online or communicating with vendors.

• If you search “backlit booth,” you’ll find full kits.
• If you search “lightbox counter,” you’ll find products like Casonara Counters.
• If you search “SEG lightbox wall,” you’ll likely land on modular displays like SEGO.

Need Help Finding the Right Display?

Whether you call it a backlit booth or a lightbox wall, we’re here to help you find the right system for your brand. Contact our team or browse our most popular backlit displays today.