Compare AACR vs ACS
| 9.1 AACR | 9.5 ACS | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | ||
| Buzzbox Score | 9.1 (Exceptional) | 9.5 (Exceptional) |
| Event Details | ||
| Dates | April 17-22, 2026 | September 26-29, 2026 |
| Location | San Diego Convention Center, San Diego, CA | Washington, DC (Walter E. Washington Convention Center) |
| Scale | mega | mega |
| Audience | ||
| Attendees | 23,000 | 11,000 |
| Exhibitors | 600 | n/a |
| Purchasing authority | ~20% | ~50% |
| Effective buyers | 4,600 | 5,500 |
| Costs | ||
| $/sqft | n/a | $44.5 |
| 10×10 space | n/a | $4,450 |
| All-in estimate | n/a | Est. $8,000-$15,000 |
| Cost per buyer | n/a | $2.09 |
Why exhibit at AACR
The world's largest cancer research conference: 23,000 attendees, 600 exhibitors, 141 countries. If you make diagnostic instruments, genomics/sequencing platforms, liquid biopsy tests, or research reagents, AACR is where the global cancer research community sees your technology. The 6-day format gives more time for meaningful booth conversations than typical 3-day shows.
Why exhibit at ACS
The largest general surgery meeting in North America. 80% surgeon audience gives unmatched access to the people who choose instruments, energy devices, and capital equipment for ORs nationwide. High-value face time with department chairs and residency directors.
Why skip AACR
AACR is a research conference, not a clinical buying show. Purchasing authority is low (~20%) because the audience is predominantly academic researchers and scientists, not practicing oncologists with capital budgets. If you need same-quarter device sales, ASCO or ASH is a better fit. The exhibit floor also competes with 730 speaker sessions for attendee attention.
Why skip ACS
If your device is specialty-specific (spine, urology, ENT), you'll be lost among 200 exhibitors targeting general surgeons. Smaller specialty meetings deliver more concentrated buyer access for niche products.
Long-term partners
INFAB (10+ years) • AAGL (8+ years) • True Digital Surgery