Enamel pins are great, but they only show one thing. A digital LED badge shows character art, animated GIFs, short videos or a QR code to your shop, and you can change it between panels. Here's how to choose one for your next con.
What to look for
Screen size and sharpness
Most wearable display badges have a round screen between 1.5 and 1.9 inches. Around 360 × 360 resolution is the sweet spot: sharp enough for fan art and readable from a few feet away.
Photos, GIFs and video
Every digital badge shows photos. Check whether it plays animated GIFs and video, and how long the clips can be. Some also play sound.
Battery life
Con days run 10–12 hours. Look for a badge rated to last a full day at moderate brightness, and bring a USB-C cable for the hotel.
How it attaches
Pins can snag costume fabric. Magnetic mounts hold through fabric without holes, and lanyards work for badge-holder setups. Badges that offer two or three options are the most flexible.
Screen lock
Crowded halls mean bumps. A screen lock keeps your display from switching by accident.
Which badge fits you
Best all-rounder: MoodPixel E92
The E92 has a 1.7" 360 × 360 touchscreen at 283 PPI, plays video up to 15 seconds, and charges magnetically. It's a good pick if you want one badge that does everything.
Best for video and sound: MoodPixel E05
The E05 has the largest MoodPixel screen at 1.85", plays 15-second clips with sound, and mounts magnetically, so it won't put holes in your cosplay. It also has a seven-color cheer light for evening events.
Best for lanyard wearers: MoodPixel Lanyard Edition
The Lanyard Edition comes with a pin and a lanyard, and is a natural fit if you already wear your con badge around your neck.
Best for light effects: Nikko
Nikko has a 1.8" HD screen, 14 full-screen light effects, and can be worn by magnet, pin or lanyard or set on a built-in stand at your artist alley table.
Ideas for using a badge at a con
- Show your character's art or an animated scene that matches your cosplay.
- Display your social handle or a QR code so photographers can tag you.
- Vendors: show a scan-to-shop QR code or your logo at eye level.
- Rotate through your favorite fan edits between panels.
Quick prep checklist
- Charge the badge fully the night before.
- Load your designs at home, not on con Wi-Fi.
- Lock the screen once your display is set.
- Pack a USB-C or magnetic charging cable.
Still deciding? Compare MoodPixel badges side by side or browse LED badges for conventions and cosplay.