Compare AAN vs AANS
| 8.6 AAN | 8.5 AANS | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | ||
| Buzzbox Score | 8.6 (Excellent) | 8.5 (Excellent) |
| Event Details | ||
| Dates | April 18-22, 2026 | May 1-4, 2026 |
| Location | McCormick Place West Building, Chicago, IL | Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, San Antonio, TX |
| Scale | mega | large |
| Audience | ||
| Attendees | 15,000 | 4,000 |
| Exhibitors | n/a | n/a |
| Purchasing authority, Buzzbox Media estimate | ~45% | ~60% |
| Effective buyers, Buzzbox Media estimate | 6,750 | 2,400 |
| Costs | ||
| $/sqft | n/a | $42 |
| 10×10 space | n/a | $4,200 |
| All-in, Buzzbox Media estimate | Est. $15,000-$30,000 | Est. $15,000-$25,000 |
| Cost per buyer, Buzzbox Media estimate | $3.33 | $8.33 |
Why exhibit at AAN
The world's largest neurology meeting with 15,000 attendees. If you sell neuro-diagnostic equipment, EEG/EMG systems, neuroimaging software, or neurology-focused pharma, this is the single largest concentrated audience. Four days of exhibit hall access with extended Monday hours.
Why exhibit at AANS
The premier gathering for neurosurgeons in North America. If you sell cranial navigation, spinal instrumentation, neuro-monitoring equipment, or surgical robotics, this is where the decision-makers practice and evaluate new technology. Concentrated, high-value audience of 4,000+ neurosurgeons.
Why skip AAN
Neurology is heavily pharma-dominated. Device companies can feel overshadowed by major pharma booths. If your product is surgical (not diagnostic/monitoring), AANS is the better fit. Also, neurologists are notoriously deliberate purchasers. Expect long sales cycles.
Why skip AANS
Very niche audience: if your device is not neurosurgery-specific, attendance is too small to justify the cost. General surgery, cardiology, and non-neuro imaging vendors are wasted here.
Long-term partners
INFAB (10+ years) • AAGL (8+ years) • True Digital Surgery