VIVA 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, VIVA 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. VIVA draws 2,500 attendees with an estimated all-in 10×10 of $12,000–$25,000. 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.
| 8.5 VIVA | 10.0 RSNA | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | ||
| Buzzbox Score | 8.5 (Excellent) | 10.0 (Exceptional) |
| Event Details | ||
| Dates | October 3-7, 2026 | November 29 - December 3, 2026 |
| Location | Bellagio, Las Vegas, NV | Chicago, IL (McCormick Place) |
| Scale | mid | mega |
| Audience | ||
| Attendees | 2,500 | 54,000 |
| Exhibitors | — | 650 |
| Purchasing authority | ~65% | ~45% |
| Effective buyers | 1,625 | 24,300 |
| Costs | ||
| $/sqft | — | — |
| 10×10 space | — | — |
| All-in estimate | $12,000 – $25,000 | $12,000 – $18,000 |
| Cost per buyer | $11.38 | $0.62 |
Why exhibit at VIVA
VIVA is the only US show where interventional cardiologists, interventional radiologists, and vascular surgeons all attend together -- if your device crosses specialty boundaries, this is uniquely efficient. The Las Vegas hotel venue and multispecialty faculty create a high-networking environment ideal for KOL cultivation.
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 VIVA
Smaller than SVS VAM or TCT, so pure volume is limited. Las Vegas hotel venue (Bellagio) means premium exhibit costs. If your device is specialty-specific (e.g., only used by vascular surgeons), the multispecialty mix dilutes your target audience. Pricing is not publicly listed.
Why skip RSNA
Wrong audience for non-imaging device companies. Booth costs are brutal for first-timers -- expect $80k minimum to be taken seriously.