AHA vs RSNA for Exhibitors
Side-by-side data and our editorial take on which conference is the right exhibit investment for your medical device.
If you exhibit medical devices, AHA and RSNA are likely both on your shortlist. Both serve overlapping clinical buyers, but the audience composition, booth economics, and exhibit floor experience differ in ways that materially affect ROI. AHA draws 17,000 attendees with an estimated all-in 10×10 of $12,000-$20,000. RSNA draws 54,000 attendees at $12,000-$18,000 all-in. Below is the side-by-side data plus our editorial take on which conference fits which kind of exhibitor.
| 10.0 AHA | 10.0 RSNA | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | ||
| Buzzbox Score | 10.0 (Exceptional) | 10.0 (Exceptional) |
| Event Details | ||
| Dates | November 6-9, 2026 | November 29 - December 3, 2026 |
| Location | McCormick Place Convention Center, Chicago, IL | Chicago, IL (McCormick Place) |
| Scale | mega | mega |
| Audience | ||
| Attendees | 17,000 | 54,000 |
| Exhibitors | 200 | 650 |
| Purchasing authority | ~45% | ~45% |
| Effective buyers | 7,650 | 24,300 |
| Costs | ||
| $/sqft | $48 | n/a |
| 10×10 space | $4,800 | n/a |
| All-in estimate | Est. $12,000-$20,000 | Est. $12,000-$18,000 |
| Cost per buyer | $2.09 | $0.62 |
Why exhibit at AHA
AHA is the broadest cardiology show in the US -- spanning interventional, EP, stroke, heart failure, vascular, and basic science. At $48/sqft with no island or corner surcharges, it is one of the most fairly priced mega shows in cardiology. Late-breaking trials and 5,000+ presentations generate enormous foot traffic.
Why exhibit at RSNA
Largest radiology gathering in the world. Essential for imaging equipment, contrast media, AI/digital health in radiology, and radiation protection vendors. Decision-makers come to see and touch new tech.
Why skip AHA
The audience is broad, which means it is less targeted than TCT (interventional) or HRS (EP). If you sell to a very specific cardiology sub-specialty, the dilution may hurt ROI. AHA is also heavily research/academic -- pure commercial exhibitors may find the buyer density lower than ACC.
Why skip RSNA
Wrong audience for non-imaging device companies. Booth costs are brutal for first-timers -- expect $80k minimum to be taken seriously.