Broadcast, Media & Entertainment Technology Β· April

NAB Show Exhibitor Playbook: Strategy, Budgets & Logistics

NAB Show is the global broadcast, media, and entertainment technology event. Hardware demos dominate β€” meaning power, network, and AV are first-class design problems. This is an exhibitor's reference for renting or building at NAB.

Show at a glance

City
Las Vegas
Venue
Las Vegas Convention Center (West Hall focus)
Attendees
65,000+
Exhibitors
1,300+

12-month planning timeline

  1. 9 months out
    July

    Lock booth size and demo hardware list.

  2. 6 months out
    October

    Award builder. Begin demo-power planning.

  3. 3 months out
    January

    Confirm AV/IT show services orders.

  4. 1 month out
    March

    Pre-stage and rehearse demos.

Booth budget by size

SizeRentalCustom
10Γ—10$7K–$16K+$20K–$42K+
10Γ—20$12K–$26K+$30K–$60K+
20Γ—20$20K–$38K+$50K–$90K+
20Γ—30$28K–$58K+$75K–$150K+
30Γ—30+$45K–$85K+$130K–$260K+

Ranges are starting points. Final costs vary based on design complexity, materials, AV and lighting, hanging signs, custom millwork, storage, refurb between shows, and show-specific services like drayage, rigging, and electrical. Premium builds for flagship shows routinely exceed the high end.

For a number tied to your actual show, scope, and goals, run a free ROI audit β€” we'll pinpoint waste and connect you with vetted builders for real estimates.

Sizing guidance

NAB rewards demo pods. 20Γ—20 supports 2–3 hardware demo stations. 30Γ—30+ enables theater presentations and partner integrations.

Logistics

West Hall is the broadcast hardware concentration. Demo-power requirements are typically under-ordered β€” always add 20–30% headroom on amperage.

Choosing an execution partner

Pick rental partners with West Hall NAB experience. Ask to see their NAB rental inventory in person β€” not just a catalog.

Plan your show

Related resources

Answers

Frequently asked questions

Should I rent or buy for NAB?

Most NAB exhibitors should rent. Broadcast hardware cycles annually; a rental booth that adapts year-to-year is more cost-effective than a custom asset that ages out.

How much demo power do I need at NAB?

Order at least 20–30% more amperage than your hardware spec sheets suggest. Live demos pull peak loads that exceed nameplate ratings.

Planning NAB Show?

Get a free written ROI audit before you sign vendor contracts.

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