In sports the scoreboard is more than just a score keeper; it’s a communication hub, providing real time info to players, coaches and spectators. Beyond its purpose a good scoreboard adds to the game atmosphere, amplifying the energy and excitement by highlighting the key moments. Whether your a high school administrator looking to upgrade your gym, a community league organizer looking to increase engagement or a pro stadium manager looking for a high tech display system, knowing scoreboard costs is key to making the right choice.

This guide will walk you through the costs of different types of scoreboards from basketball to baseball to football to swimming to video displays. We’ll look at the factors that affect pricing such as pixel pitch, installation requirements and advanced features. By the end of this guide you’ll have the tools and info to choose the right scoreboard for your venue, budget and functionality.

Prices by Scoreboard Type

Scoreboards come in all shapes and sizes from simple manual boards to high tech interactive displays that provide a full multimedia experience. Below we break down the different types of scoreboards and their features to help you understand the costs and what you get with each.

Manual/Flip Scoreboards

Manual scoreboards are the most basic and cheapest option, consisting of panels or tiles that are flipped to update the scores and game info. They’re light weight, portable and perfect for small events or venues that don’t need complex features.

Key Features:

• Displays scores and game periods using flip panels or tiles.
• Easy to set up and move between locations.
• Made of plastic or metal so they can be used outdoors.

Applications:

• Community sports leagues, school field days or casual tournaments.
• Sports where timers, advanced stats or graphics are not needed.

Cost: $100–$1,000

Pros:

• Very affordable for schools or small leagues with limited budgets.
• No electricity or complex software required to operate, keeps costs down.
• Light weight and portable, easy to move and store.

Cons:

• Only displays numeric info, no animations or player stats.
• Manual operation can be slow especially in fast paced games where quick updates are needed.

Traditional Fixed-Digit Scoreboards

These scoreboards are a step up in technology, using illuminated bulbs to display numeric scores and basic game info. They’re used in high schools, gyms and community centers because of their balance of affordability and reliability.

Key Features:

• Displays scores, game time and periods with illuminated digits.
• Operates via physical control panel with buttons or switches for each digit.
• Single sport and multi sport configurations available.

Applications:

• Used in sports like basketball, volleyball and baseball at schools and small recreational facilities.
• Indoor or outdoor use, low maintenance.

Cost: $3,000–$37,000

Pros:

• Budget option for facilities that only need basic scoreboard functionality.
• Long lasting and reliable, bulbs can withstand heavy use.
• Easy to operate even for those with limited technical knowledge.

Cons:

• Can’t display animations, team logos or detailed game stats.
• Bulbs may need to be replaced occasionally, adds to long term maintenance costs.

Traditional LED Scoreboards

These scoreboards combine traditional fixed digit displays with LED technology, so you get more dynamic visuals like team logos, sponsor ads and simple animations. Better fan engagement while still a cost effective solution for mid level sports venues.

Key Features:

• Displays team names, sponsor logos and basic animations.
• Operates via digital control panel that can be accessed remotely via laptops or tablets.
• Built to last, weather resistant materials for indoor and outdoor use.

Applications:

• Mid level sports facilities, college gyms, community arenas and high school stadiums.
• Suitable for sports like basketball, volleyball and soccer where basic animations and branding are important.

Cost: $10,000–$70,000

Pros:

• More engaging visuals, better fan experience and team branding.
• Supports dynamic ads, opportunities for sponsorship and revenue generation.
• Multi sport design so can be used for different types of events.

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost than fixed digit scoreboards.
• Requires some technical knowledge for setup, troubleshooting and maintenance.

Full LED Video Displays

Full LED video displays are the ultimate scoreboard technology, high definition visuals, dynamic animations, live video playback and instant replays. Designed for large venues and professional sports, best in class viewing experience for the fans.

Key Features:

• High resolution screens that display scores, stats, replays and ads with crystal clear clarity.
• Seamless integration with camera feeds for live video and instant replays.
• Customizable layouts for scores, ads and team content.

Applications:

• Professional sports stadiums, large arenas and multi purpose venues.
• High profile events like major sports tournaments and concerts.

Cost: $50,000–$3,500,000

Pros:

• Best visual quality, ideal for large crowds and complex multimedia presentations.
• Substantial revenue opportunities through ads and sponsorship.
• Immerses fans with real-time updates and animations.

Cons:

• Very expensive to buy and maintain, suitable for high end venues only.
• Requires professional installation and software updates, adds to long term costs.

Interactive Scoreboards

Interactive scoreboards takes audience engagement to the next level by integrating live stats, instant replays, polls and advanced analytics. These boards have touchscreens and fans can interact with the game in real time.

Features:

• Real time updates, player statistics, instant replays and dynamic ads.
• Touchscreen functionality to engage fans with live polls, player stats and trivia.
• Analytics to provide sponsors with valuable data on fan engagement.

Applications:

• High tech stadiums that focus on interactive fan experience.
• Multi purpose venues that host different types of events and need to keep fans engaged.

Cost: Varies greatly depending on size, functionality and customization.

Pros:

• Engaging for modern fans who want more during the game.
• Provides analytics for sponsors to target ads.
• AR and other advanced tech.

Cons:

• High upfront and maintenance costs, especially with touchscreen.
• Requires staff training.

Prices By Sport

Basketball Scoreboard Cost

Basketball scoreboards are designed to match the sport’s pace where every second and every point counts. These scoreboards show critical info like game timers, shot clocks, team fouls, and timeouts so players and spectators are always up to date. Whether it’s for a high school gym or a pro arena, basketball scoreboards have solutions for every budget and requirement.

• Cost: $22,000–$35,000​

Features:

• Shot clocks above the baskets: Shot clocks are a required feature for basketball scoreboards as they keep track of the 24-second or 30-second possession time. Mounted near or above the baskets, they let players, referees and spectators know how much time is left to make a play. High quality shot clocks are synchronized with the main scoreboard for seamless updates.
• Quarter indicators, team scores and foul counts: Basketball scoreboards break down the game into quarters, showing the current quarter prominently. They also show each team’s score and individual foul counts so you can track player stats and strategize during the game. These are important for referees, coaches and fans.
• Center-hung displays with multiple viewing angles: For larger venues, center-hung displays provide visibility from all angles of the arena. These high end scoreboards combine LED with great visuals to engage the audience. They can also show live footage, ads and animations during the game.

Applications:

• High schools use fixed digit or traditional LED scoreboards: High school basketball games require scoreboards that are functional and affordable. Fixed digit and LED scoreboards are common choices for high schools as they provide time and score tracking without the need for customization.
• Pro arenas need center-hung LED video displays: Pro basketball games require high end scoreboards that deliver great visuals and an immersive experience. Center-hung displays are perfect for large arenas where visibility from every seat is key. These systems often have replay and sponsorship ads for additional revenue.

Baseball and Softball Scoreboard Cost

Baseball and softball scoreboards track detailed game stats like innings, strikes, balls and outs. Since these sports are not fast paced, incremental updates are critical. Scoreboards need to be accurate and easy to read. Whether it’s youth leagues or pro settings, scoreboards keep players and fans informed.

• Cost: $6,000–$9,000​

Features:

• Manual or electronic displays for specific game formats: Baseball and softball scoreboards come in manual flip or electronic styles. Manual scoreboards are affordable and easy to use but lack the precision and features of electronic scoreboards. Electronic scoreboards have automated updates, reduce errors and improve game flow.
• Inning-by-inning tracking and sponsor ads: Baseball games are broken into innings and advanced scoreboards show inning-by-inning scores and overall game stats. Many scoreboards also have space for sponsor logos or ads so you can generate revenue. This dual functionality makes them a valuable asset for leagues and facilities.

Applications:

• Little league games use manual boards for cost: For small or youth leagues manual boards are a cost-effective option. They are easy to install and use and perfect for facilities with limited resources or infrequent games.
• Pro games use LED boards with great visuals: In pro settings LED boards with high end displays enhance the fan experience. They can show replays, sponsor ads and team branding so they are part of the game day experience.

Football Scoreboard Cost

Football scoreboards are for outdoor use where large fields and varying weather conditions require rugged and high visibility solutions. With displays that track every aspect of the game including scores, game time and possession these boards are key to game flow and fan engagement.

• Cost: $25,000–$550,000

Features:

• Home/guest scores, game time, ball possession and downs: Football scoreboards track a lot of game metrics, scores and possession tracking to the number of downs. These features allow players and fans to follow the strategy of the game. Advanced models also show total yardage and player highlights.
• High brightness for day games and weather resistant materials: Outdoor football fields need scoreboards with high brightness levels to be visible in direct sunlight. Weather resistant construction means durability against rain, snow and extreme temperatures so these boards are a long term investment.
• Advanced models have video replays and animations: For pro and college games advanced scoreboards have LED video panels that can show live replays, animations and player introductions. These features increase fan engagement and make the game day experience more dynamic.

Applications:

• Community fields use smaller LED boards for budget: Local football leagues or community fields go with smaller LED boards for cost. They provide the basics without going over budget. These scoreboards are a good balance of functionality and cost.
• Pro stadiums need full LED video displays for full coverage: Pro football venues require top of the line scoreboards that can handle large crowds and provide a full visual experience. Full LED displays are standard, showing player stats to ads in high definition.

Swimming Scoreboard Cost

Swimming scoreboards are all about timing as competitive swimming is often decided by hundredths of a second. These boards show lap times, splits, rankings and results for athletes, coaches and spectators.

• Cost: $4,000–$90,000

Features:

• Integration with timing systems for pro events: Competitive swimming events require precise timing systems and modern scoreboards integrate with these systems. Touchpads in the pool trigger updates on the scoreboard so lap and finish times are accurate.
• Waterproof displays and video options: Swimming scoreboards are built to withstand the humid and wet environments of indoor and outdoor pools. Some advanced models have video capabilities to show live footage or event replays for increased fan engagement.

Applications:

• Competitive swimming meets aquatic centers and recreational pools: High end swimming facilities like those that host college or international meets invest in video enabled scoreboards. Recreational pools and local events use simpler waterproof numeric displays for cost.

Scoreboard Cost Factors

Several factors go into the cost of a scoreboard so make sure to consider these when buying:

• Size: Larger scoreboards require more material and engineering which increases cost. For example a scoreboard for a high school gym will cost much less than a giant video board for a football stadium. Size also affects visibility; larger venues need bigger boards so spectators can see the display from a distance.
• Resolution: High resolution displays provide sharper images and better fan engagement but cost more. For outdoor venues higher pixel density means the display will be clear in direct sunlight. Resolution is important for scoreboards that show video or animations as blurry images can ruin the fan experience.
• Customization: Adding features like team logos, sponsor branding or animated graphics increases the cost of the scoreboard. Customization is important for pro venues that want to brand themselves or attract advertisers but can also be a good investment for schools and community facilities to build team spirit.
• Installation: Installation varies by type and location. Outdoor scoreboards require more groundwork and weatherproofing which adds to labor and material cost. Indoor installations are simpler but ceiling mounted or center hung displays may add extra cost.
• Technology: Wireless control systems, touchscreens and video integration impact the cost. While these technologies increase functionality and reduce manual effort they also require ongoing maintenance and software updates.

Summary

Buying a scoreboard is key to enhancing the fan experience, game operations and overall atmosphere of your venue. The type of scoreboard you choose should match your venue’s size, budget and sport. From manual flip scoreboards for small venues to LED video displays for pro stadiums, each option has features that will take your games to the next level. Knowing the cost factors like size, resolution and technology will help you make the right choice for your facility.

So in the end the right scoreboard can also make you money through ads and sponsorships. Whether you’re running a high school gym or a pro stadium, choose the right scoreboard and players and spectators will have a dynamic and fun experience. Weigh your options, balance functionality with budget and work with a trusted partner and you can buy a scoreboard that will last for years to come.