The 10 Best Open Signs

Boasting the classic curb appeal of neon, minus that irritating flicker and constant hum, the LED-Factory Wavy (about $78) is an energy-efficient and eco-friendly alternative to the old standby. It comes in four bright, eye-catching color combinations and has three operating modes.

Simple, straightforward and inarguably affordable, the JennyGems Wooden Two-Sided (appx. $13) requires nothing more than a pair of hands to flip it over at the start and end of the workday, inviting visitors to "Come in" on the front, and reading "Sorry, we're closed" on the back.

The three-by-five-foot nylon banner by US Flag Factory (around $20) is fabricated from 200-denier, ripstop canvas in vivid red, white and blue panels — or the custom colors of your choice — sewn together and emblazoned with screen-printed lettering in the center.

Let visitors know exactly when to come by with the Premier POS Business Hours (about $99). Its injection-molded plastic enclosure features three-dimensional, colored acrylic lenses, and a programmable LED display that can be seen from as far away as 500 feet.

Bringing the iconic illuminated display into the new millennium, the MaxLit Ultra Bright (appx. $96) uses high-visibility LEDs to broadcast its message for all to see. Lightweight and controllable via an included remote, it comes with mounting chains and a five-foot-long power cord.

Available with interchangeable peel-and-stick times or in a programmable digital version, the Newon Lighted Display (about $109) makes it clear from hundreds of feet away whether you're on the job and ready to do business or closed for the day.

For a budget-friendly and uncomplicated solution, go for the AGPtek LED (appx. $22), which blinks enticingly in one mode to draw the gaze of passersby, or serves as a steady, reliable beacon on its static setting, offering full visibility 24 hours a day.

The VIP Vintage Style Wooden (around $20) has "Closed" painted in bold letters on the reverse side, so all you've got to do is turn it around when the workday begins, and remember to switch it back over at the close of business. It's vertically aligned and measures 12 x 5 x 3/4 inches.

The Ultima Jumbo (appx. $34) uses 100% LED lighting for long-lasting illumination that doesn't buzz, flicker erratically, overheat or run up your electricity bill. It comes with a hanging chain for easy installation and 4-1/2 feet of power cord to reach the nearest outlet.

Choose from a veritable rainbow of high-visibility color schemes with a LookOurWay Feather Flag (about $64), which will broadcast your message far and wide. Standing up to 12 feet tall, this vertical banner comes with an aluminum pole kit and ground spike for quick and easy setup.