Compare ACR Convergence vs ATS
| 10.0 ACR Convergence | 9.5 ATS | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | ||
| Buzzbox Score | 10.0 (Exceptional) | 9.5 (Exceptional) |
| Event Details | ||
| Dates | November 6-11, 2026 | May 15-20, 2026 (pre-conference May 15-16, exhibit hall May 17-19) |
| Location | Orlando, FL | Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, FL |
| Scale | mega | mega |
| Audience | ||
| Attendees | 14,000 | 10,500 |
| Exhibitors | — | — |
| Purchasing authority | ~45% | ~45% |
| Effective buyers | 6,300 | 4,725 |
| Costs | ||
| $/sqft | $50 | $50 |
| 10×10 space | $5,000 | $5,000 |
| All-in estimate | $9,000 – $18,000 | $10,000 – $18,000 |
| Cost per buyer | $2.14 | $2.96 |
Why exhibit at ACR Convergence
The world's largest rheumatology meeting, critical for biologics and autoimmune therapy companies. 14,000+ attendees include the rheumatologists who prescribe TNF inhibitors, JAK inhibitors, and other high-value biologics. If you are in the autoimmune therapy space, this is a mandatory exhibit. The clinical trial booth rate ($30/sqft) is an excellent option for pharma companies recruiting for RA, lupus, or vasculitis trials.
Why exhibit at ATS
The global meeting for pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine. 10,500 attendees -- larger than you'd expect for a subspecialty conference. Exceptional fit for ventilator manufacturers, pulmonary diagnostic equipment, respiratory devices, and sleep technology. Booth pricing is very reasonable at $5,000 for a 10x10.
Why skip ACR Convergence
Heavily pharma-dominated exhibit floor -- device companies may feel overshadowed by massive pharma booths. If your product is not rheumatology-specific (e.g., general orthopedic or pain management), AAOS or NASS are better fits. The 6-day meeting format means higher hotel and staffing costs.
Why skip ATS
If your product is not pulmonary/respiratory/sleep-specific, the audience is too niche. Also very research-heavy -- many attendees are academic researchers, not purchasing decision-makers. Buy cycles can be long.