Compare ACS vs RSNA
| 9.5 ACS | 10.0 RSNA | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | ||
| Buzzbox Score | 9.5 (Exceptional) | 10.0 (Exceptional) |
| Event Details | ||
| Dates | September 26-29, 2026 | November 29 - December 3, 2026 |
| Location | Washington, DC (Walter E. Washington Convention Center) | Chicago, IL (McCormick Place) |
| Scale | mega | mega |
| Audience | ||
| Attendees | 11,000 | 54,000 |
| Exhibitors | — | 650 |
| Purchasing authority | ~50% | ~45% |
| Effective buyers | 5,500 | 24,300 |
| Costs | ||
| $/sqft | $43.5 | — |
| 10×10 space | $4,350 | — |
| All-in estimate | $8,000 – $15,000 | $12,000 – $18,000 |
| Cost per buyer | $2.09 | $0.62 |
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 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 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.
Why skip RSNA
Wrong audience for non-imaging device companies. Booth costs are brutal for first-timers -- expect $80k minimum to be taken seriously.