ASCO 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, ASCO 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. ASCO draws 35,000 attendees with an estimated all-in 10×10 of $20,000–$35,000. 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.
| 9.6 ASCO | 10.0 RSNA | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | ||
| Buzzbox Score | 9.6 (Exceptional) | 10.0 (Exceptional) |
| Event Details | ||
| Dates | May 29 - June 2, 2026 (exhibits May 30 - June 1) | November 29 - December 3, 2026 |
| Location | McCormick Place, Chicago, IL | Chicago, IL (McCormick Place) |
| Scale | mega | mega |
| Audience | ||
| Attendees | 35,000 | 54,000 |
| Exhibitors | — | 650 |
| Purchasing authority | ~35% | ~45% |
| Effective buyers | 12,250 | 24,300 |
| Costs | ||
| $/sqft | $94 | — |
| 10×10 space | $9,400 | — |
| All-in estimate | $20,000 – $35,000 | $12,000 – $18,000 |
| Cost per buyer | $2.24 | $0.62 |
Why exhibit at ASCO
The single largest oncology meeting in the world with 35,000+ attendees. If you sell radiation therapy equipment, oncology diagnostics, precision medicine platforms, or cancer imaging solutions, this is where global oncology leaders converge. Late-breaking clinical trial data drives massive 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 ASCO
Overwhelmingly pharma-dominated -- the biggest booths and budgets belong to Pfizer, Roche, Merck, BMS, AstraZeneca. Device companies can feel invisible without $100k+ investment. Booth space at $94/sqft (inline) is among the most expensive in medical conferences.
Why skip RSNA
Wrong audience for non-imaging device companies. Booth costs are brutal for first-timers -- expect $80k minimum to be taken seriously.